Evans Maripa was first up, with a convincing start, taking the first set 6-3 against Francisco Cayulef. In the second set the local wasn't able to keep up the pace and conceded the set 6-7. Refusing to be beaten, Maripa fought to dominate in the third set winning a close tie break with a final score of 6-3 6-7 7-5.

 

Team mate Sydwell Mathonsi suffered a 2-6 3-6 defeat at the hands of Robinson Mendez. A tough and disappointing defeat saw the team enter the doubles on uneven ground. From the onset, the locals dominated taking the first set 6-4. In the second set, Maripa and Mathonsi were on top form proving their superiority with a final score of 6-3.   

 

South Africa’s Team manager, Marius Masencamp said, "With the men having secured the third position we are celebrating the victory as this is a huge milestone for us".  Another high point was the junior's team that was entered into the World Team Cup for the first time. Their exposure to international players of this caliber will stand them in good stead. The junior's have managed a seventh place after beating Zimbabwe yesterday. Disappointingly, in the women’s division, Celia du Toit was forced to retire due to illness on the second day and has left her teammates to carry the flag which they have done so well. Much should also be said about Kgothatso Montjane top performance. The results of today are still outstanding. The quads will be playing tomorrow and the public is encouraged not to miss out. 

 

Holger Losch, Tournament Director said, "It has been a week of great tennis with excellent performances all round. Join us for a display of courage, determination, and guts, as play goes into the semifinals and finals this weekend."

 

The event has been made possible by its host, Wheelchair Tennis South Africa and sponsors, Airports Company South Africa, Department of Sport and Recreation South Africa, and City of Tshwane.  “This is the 27th World Team Cup and we are extremely excited to be a part of something so prestigious Losch added.

 

The World Team Cup runs until May 01, 2011 from 09h00 - dark daily at the University of Pretoria’s Sports Grounds, South Street, Tshwane.


Evans Maripa in the Men’s Division for Team SA