DAVIS CUP 2012 - E-A Zone I - GBR v Slovakia - 10-12 Feb

[cazza99]

from Sept 2011


It was lovely to catch up with so many of you again in Glasgow over the weekend - and to meet some of you for the first time. :D

I thought you might like some idea of the possibilities that may await GB in the draw on Wednesday, in particular the chances of a home tie, a nearby away tie (e.g. Belgium or perhaps the Netherlands) or a tie somewhere with a bit of winter/spring sun.

Unlike E-A Zone Group II, which always has 16 teams, the size of Group I varies depending on how many European and African teams have qualified for the World Group. In 2012, as in 2011, there will only be 11 teams in Group 1.

Four of the teams will be seeded (see the R2 list below), so will automatically get byes in R1, and one of other teams will get a bye as well. Poland got the extra bye in 2011, so I think it must be assigned at random instead of going to the 5th highest ranked team in the group.


10-12 February - Round 1

Possible R1 ties for GB are:

- Finland at home
- Slovakia at home

- Denmark, venue decided by lot

- Netherlands away
- Portugal away
- Slovenia away

- bye (i.e. one of the 7 unseeded teams will get a bye in R1)


6-8 April - Round 2

Possible opponents if we win our R1 tie or we get the spare R1 bye are the seeded teams:

- (1) Israel away
- (2) South Africa away
- (3) Belgium, venue decided by lot
- (4) Romania away


14-16 Sep - World Group playoffs & relegation ties

If we win a R2 tie, we will be in the playoffs for a place in the 2013 World Group in September.

If we lose our first tie (whether it is in R1 or in R2 after a R1 bye), we will have to play a relegation tie in September.

If we win a R1 tie then lose in R2, we will be in Group 1 in 2013 as well and will not play in September at all.


Home tie probabilities

February: home 35.7%, away 50.0%, bye 14.3%

April, if we are in R2: home 12.5%, away 87.5%

September: virtually impossible to tell at the moment - we could play any of the other teams in Group 1 (venue possibilities as above), any of the teams that lose in World Group R1 or any of the teams who do well in Americas Group I or Asia/Oceania Group I!

In other words, home ties are not that likely - this has a lot to do with the fact that 11 of our last 14 ties have been home ties (something which sadly we rather wasted up until the last 15 months), ever since a run of 6 consecutive away ties in 2003-5 - the kind of run that could of course happen again, though hopefully not!

However, if we get a home tie at all in R1 or R2 next year, it is much more likely to be in February than in April.


Fed Cup

Another intriguing possibility (for those who like to go to home ties even if Andy is not involved) is that if our Fed Cup team managed to gain promotion from their version of Europe-Africa Group I (which is played on a round robin basis all in one week in a different country each year - this year it was held in Israel), we would have a playoff tie for promotion to World Group II (*) on 21-22 April (Fed Cup ties only last 2 days) - that might just be our first home Fed Cup tie since the early 1990s.

(*) In Fed Cup, there are two divisions of the World Group, each with 8 teams - this is because there are only 3 Fed Cup weekends in the calendar, so only enough for 3 rounds, compared to 4 weekends for DC.


Thanks steven :cheers: :cheers:


Thank you Steven :cheers: :cheers:


Steven, how do they decide whether it is a home or away tie?


Thanks Steven.


Thanks for all that info Steven! Can't wait to find out where the next tie will be :D

Alis, I think it depends where the last tie between the two countries was held - for instance, against Israel we were away in 2005 then at home in 2006 so would be away next time we play Israel.


Thanks Linda and James.


Thanks Steven for all the information.


Thank you Steven for all the information. Is the draw for the next round of Davis Cup matches tomorrow?



Thank you Steven for all the information. Is the draw for the next round of Davis Cup matches tomorrow?
Yes, the draw takes place at 12.30 PM UK time.


Thanks Steven.


Looking forward to the draw tomorrow and ta Steven :bounce:



Thank you Steven for all the information. Is the draw for the next round of Davis Cup matches tomorrow?

Yes, tomorrow (Wednesday) at 11.30 GMT, i.e. 12.30 UK time. There will be live commentary on http://www.daviscup.com/en/home.aspx - always riveting (not!), but the quickest way to find out who we've got, albeit usually not that quick and sometimes hard to understand! :roll:


Thanks Steven ........


GB v Slovakia HOME 10-12 Feb

Slovakian top 10

75 Beck, Karol
89 Klizan, Martin
152 Lacko, Lukas
236 Klec, Ivo
266 Cervenak, Pavol
303 Martin, Andrej
333 Mecir, Miloslav
352 Capkovic, Kamil
441 Kovalik, Jozef
470 Gombos, Norbert

doable if Andy plays


Well it is quite a tough draw but it is another home tie and a full strength team would certainly be capable of going further. The tie is just a few weeks after the Australian open. Wonder if a different venue will be considered this time, though Braehead will likely be in the running. If we win we would face Belgium.


Yes, Slovakia at home, with the winner to play Belgium, which would either be at home or probably at the closest away DC venue we (those of us in the south-east, at least) could ever hope for, since Brussels is even closer than Paris by Eurostar - who would get choice of ground will have been draw and should be confirmed on the DC site later today.

So, it couldn't have worked out any better as far as accessible ties go. Of course, this just increases the likelihood of a string of away ties further down the line, but who know which teams will be in the same groups as us in future, so let's just take the accessible ties while we can. :-)

GBR v SVK H2H: 0-1 - GB (Henman, MacLagan, Broad) lost 5-0 to Kroslak & Kucera on clay in Bratislava in April 1995. High time for revenge!

It won't be easy though - SVK's top singles players are Karol Beck WR 75 (though he hasn't played DC for them since failing a drugs test in their semi in 2005), Martin Kližan 89, Lukáš Lacko 152, Ivo Klec 236 & Pavol Červenák 266.

Their top doubles players are Michal Mertiňák DWR 31, Filip Polášek 37 & Igor Zelenay 61. Could be the odd close rubber in prospect!

If Muzz plays we would be slight favourites, but it would still be quite an achievement for Wardy to win a singles rubber or for our doubles pair to win. If Muzz does't play, it would require a heroic effort to win the tie, but I wouldn't say any of their players are completely unbeatable by any means, e.g. Wardy is 0-1 v Beck (Manchester Challenger 2008, 3 sets) and 1 (grass)-1(clay) v Klec.

I hope Andy can play, because given the luck with the venues this time, this could be our best chance of getting into the World Group playoffs in the near future.


Good to hear it's a home tie again, so most of us can go, though must admit I'd been rather fancying a trip to somewhere like Slovenia!

[cazza99]

from Sept 2011


Fortunate to get home tie but I too was preparing myself for a trip abroad :) Still, support should be fantastic as usual.


I hope Andy can play as there is Rotterdam and Dubai, both ATP 500 close to The DC. Fingers crossed. 8) 8)


Just got an email from the ITF which confirms that if we were to get through to play Belgium in R2, we would play that tie at home too.

Given the teams we could have faced, the chances of getting a home tie in R1 *and* a potential home tie in R2 were less than 1 in 20! So, just a little jammy.

I'm a little disappointed though, because we had just been making plans to combine a possible April DC trip to Brussels with trips to see friends in Brussels and Rotterdam!

Btw, if we lost to Slovakia in February, we would face an relegation playoff AWAY to the losers of ISR v POR in September.




I expect david1610 would be quite keen on Portugal in September!


Thanks for the information, Steven. I too was thinking that Brussels would be good to visit --several airlines fly from Edinburgh to Brussels. However, it's good that we have 2 home ties,possibly. Travel in UK could be dodgy in mid-Feb. so I might pass on that one.:(



Just got an email from the ITF which confirms that if we were to get through to play Belgium in R2, we would play that tie at home too.

Given the teams we could have faced, the chances of getting a home tie in R1 *and* a potential home tie in R2 were less than 1 in 20! So, just a little jammy.

I'm a little disappointed though, because we had just been making plans to combine a possible April DC trip to Brussels with trips to see friends in Brussels and Rotterdam!

Btw, if we lost to Slovakia in February, we would face an relegation playoff AWAY to the losers of ISR v POR in September.


Thanks Steven, but would have loved to go a bit further afield in April. I'm NOT complaining though.


So chuffed it's another home tie and it's landed at the half term holiday so we're sorted .... just have to find some money from somewhere .... off to buy a lottery ticket for tonight!!!

Slightly disappointed it's a potential home tie in April because we WON'T be able to go due to farming duties .... we start lambing on 1st April and I have to be here - was gutted to see the dates of the April tie landed slap bang in the middle of the busiest 3 weeks of the year :( :( :(


Home ties have to be good news ! Much more likely that Andy will play too - not sure if that's good or bad but I think its the travelling that gets him sometimes



Thanks for the information, Steven. I too was thinking that Brussels would be good to visit --several airlines fly from Edinburgh to Brussels. However, it's good that we have 2 home ties,possibly. Travel in UK could be dodgy in mid-Feb. so I might pass on that one.:(

Actually, there is still a possibility of a tie AWAY to Belgium, but it would be in September and we don't want it to happen, because it'll mean we're in trouble!

The rules of DC mean that any team that loses its first match (even if it is in R2) goes into the relegation bracket.

So, if we lost to Slovakia and they then lost to Belgium, both of those teams would have won one match and we would go straight to a relegation playoff away to Israel or Portugal in September, as described in my earlier post.

BUT if Slovakia beat us and then beat Belgium as well, Belgium would join us in the relegation bracket and we would play them away on 14-16 September, with the losers of that tie then facing a relegation battle with the losers of ISR v POR, and if that was us, it would be an away tie on 19-21 October.


Since some of you are probably getting confused by now (confusion is something DC has a reputation for being good at, but it's not really as bad as it looks - in reality, they do a pretty good job of covering all the options in as few weekends as possible! :) ), let's set out all the possibilities once and for all:


10-12 Feb

GB play the Slovak Republic at HOME


6-8 Apr

Two possibilities:

a) no tie until Sep <if we lost to SVK in Feb>

b) GB play Belgium at HOME <if we beat SVK in Feb>


14-16 Sep

Various possibilities:

a) no tie (and no more in 2012) <if we lost to BEL in April>

We stay in Group 1 for 2013.

b) a World Group play-off tie <only if we have beaten both SVK and BEL>

We play in the World Group in 2013 if we win, stay in Group 1 for 2013 if we lose.

c) GB play Belgium AWAY <only if SVK have beaten both GBR and BEL>

We stay in Group 1 for 2013 if we win, face a relegation play-off in Oct if we lose.

d) GB play the loser of ISR v POR AWAY <only if SVK have beaten GBR then lost to BEL>

We stay in Group 1 for 2013 if we win, get relegated to Group 2 for 2013 if we lose.


19-21 Oct

GB play the loser of ISR v POR AWAY <only if SVK have beaten GBR in Feb then lost to BEL in Apr and GBR have then lost to BEL in September> (*)

We stay in Group 1 for 2013 if we win, get relegated to Group 2 for 2013 if we lose.

(*) N.B. This is the only scenario in which we would play a tie in October.

[cazza99]

from Sept 2011


Wow - third time of reading I've just about understood all that

Thanks Steven


Thanks Steven, I'm sure several of us were getting a bit confused!


Thanks Steven


no wonder people say the format needs looking at :cyclops: :cyclops: :cyclops:


Thanks Steven :)


Thanks for all the info Steven, who said DC was straighforward :lol!: Whilst an away trip in the spring might have been appealing for some of us, home support can be crucial and Andy is more likely to play in these circumstances. We can't guarantee playing in April of course as Slovakia will be tough but let's be hopefull!


Steven you are a genius. Thanks for all the info and it was lovely meeting you at Braehead. :D



Good to hear it's a home tie again, so most of us can go, though must admit I'd been rather fancying a trip to somewhere like Slovenia!
Well I'll say it now... if we end up playing Portugal in Portugal it will almost certainly be at the site of the Estoril tourney (clay in September!) and happy to be the local organizer of tickets, etc.
Portugal have had two players in the top 100 this year, and Fernando Gil had a good run at Monte Carlo until stopped by Andy (hoping memory correct) and would almost certainly choose clay rather than hard courts, so even with Andy it could well come down to the doubles.

Would be amazing to see Andy play in Portugal - had more or less come to the conclusion it was not going to happen unless he really decided one year to get more clay court prep. in a smaller 250 event. Oh well, can still dream!



Thanks Steven

no wonder people say the format needs looking at :cyclops: :cyclops: :cyclops:

I don't think it's as bad as it seems, in the sense that if you take it tie by tie (i.e. only look at the possibilities for the next round when the last round has finished), it's a lot easier to understand. It's only when we try to get ahead of ourselves by working out when and where we might end up playing so we can work out which weekends to keep free that it gets a bit tricky! :tongue:

The promotion side of the draw is as simple as it could possibly be. Ok, having World Group playoffs is more complicated than automatic promotion/relegation like they have in the lower groups, but I think changing half of the World Group each year would be excessive.

As for the relegation side, I think they get the number of teams moving up and down between groups each year about right, and everything else follows from the tricky but relatively sensible criteria they have to work to, i.e.

1) A very limited number of DC weekends, with preference going to some weekends over others. e.g. it would look a bit simpler if the possible relegation tie away to ISR/POR could only be played in October, but that weekend is likely to be far more inconvenient for most players than the normal DC weekend in September, so it makes sense to play it in September if both teams are known by then and only play it in October if there is no other option.

2) Each team in Group 2 upwards to get at least two ties each year but not to have to play more than three in a year unless they actually reach the DC Final.

3) Every team needs to win at least one real tie (i.e. byes don't count) to avoid relegation and you can't be relegated if you do win at least one tie.

Point 3) explains the bit that seems weirdest about next year, i.e. that if we lose to Slovakia, whether we then get one or two chances to avoid relegation would depend on whether Slovakia then beat Belgium.

If there weren't any byes in R1, this bit of apparent weirdness would not arise, but Group 1 has to be set up such that there will be some byes in R1 most years else there wouldn't be enough places in Group 1 in the unlikely (but not impossible) event that every World Group playoff tie had been lost by a Euro/African team the previous year.

When you think about it, it does also seem reasonably fair to treat us as the 'worst' team in our little section if we lose to Slovakia and they then lose to Belgium, but for us to have to play Belgium to see which is really the 'worst' team if Slovakia beat both of us.

So overall, given the restrictions they have to work to, I don't think the ITF do too bad a job of this, even if it does take a bit of effort to work out exactly what might happen at the start of each year. I would also much rather they did it like this than ran DC in a "World Cup" type format, i.e. all ties played in the same country over the course of a couple of weeks - the fact that Fed Cup Euro/Africa Group 1 is played like that is the reason why we haven't had a home Fed Cup tie since the early 1990s.


Thanks Steven - you couldn't set it out more clearly even for those challenged by their seniority like me!


Thanks Steven!

[cazza99]

from Sept 2011


[Thanks Steven for all the information--I don't know what we would do without you. :) You set everything out so clearly. I'm full of admiration!!!


More thanks Steven. I understand it now - thanks to you!! :D


Thanks Steven - I think I'll just take it a round at a time .... wonder when they'll decide where the February tie will take place ....


Probably the wrong place to post this question but is Andy playing in Bangkok and will there be any livestreams?


I was just about to ask the same question.


Andy is playing in Bangkok - there is a thread for it here
http://andymurray.forumotion.com/t125-bangkok-2011-atp250-26-9-2-10-main-thread-information-ptt-thailand-open#8377


Thanks for that


Thanks everyone, I'm glad it's made it all clear(er) for some of you - I do worry sometimes that I'm inadvertently making it sound more complicated than it is rather than less!

Taking it round by round like hfwardhouse is of course the least complicated and probably most sensible option, but I know I'm not the only one who can't resist trying to work out what might happen later in the year too. :D


Steven, need your help. Amanda Platell having a very vicious go at Andy has said that he has played 87 matches in the last 12 months which works out at one and a half games per week. Is it possible that you could verify this?


Please let us know if you receive an e-mail back from the lady(cough!)have you tried tweeting Steven might be quicker!!!.......Good Luck Maureen!! :D



Please let us know if you receive an e-mail back from the lady(cough!)have you tried tweeting Steven might be quicker!!!.......Good Luck Maureen!! :D
Cheers Lynne...will do. Will wait for Steven and see if he can help before I round on "the lady". :x :evil:


Yes, that's what I thought Maureen, better to go with all guns loaded!! :D


Just came on here trying to work out what you were trying to DM about!

Since the start of last October, Andy has played 91 matches in total (according to ITF, i.e. including DC and Hopman Cup but not pure exos like Kooyong):

72 singles matches (W 56 L 16)
17 men's doubles matches (W 11 L 6)
2 mixed doubles matches (W 0 L 2)

Those figures exclude the walkover win against Cilic at Queen's and the walkover loss against the Americans in Hopman Cup but include matches where his opponent retired after the match had started.

Of course, that's a lot more matches than most footballers play in a year and they only play 90 minutes at a time (I doubt many of Muzz's matches were that fast), with 10 other players on the pitch to share the load.

Having said that, I think all this talk of strikes is going a bit too far, though the media has of course blown Andy's comments about that way out of proportion.

I agree that the players do have a very good point and it would be great if they and the powers that be could get together and agree some improvements that might help extend the careers of everyone, not just the top players.

However, there is more than one side to the story and Rafa in particular seems very inconsistent and not very constructive in his arguments at the moment (i.e. all moaning and no solutions), though that may be because his English isn't quite good enough to express himself clearly about complex stuff like this and with luck he's a bit more coherent in private.

Having said that, this really isn't the thread to be discussing all this, so I might try and find the right thread for it, copy this post to it and delete it from here!


Thanks Steven. Amanda Platell claimed that this year 2011 Andy has played 87 matches which averages out at one and a half games per week. Before I send an e-mail to her wanted to know if a)what she has said is correct re matches in 2011 and b)if one and a half games per week is accurate. She is a particularly nasty journo who mocks mercilessly the Royals, Andy and other celebs. Please include every match Andy has played since Jan 1st as I really want to sock it to her. :x :evil: :twisted:


Glad you mentioned the footballers Steven. The top ones get ridiculous amounts of money whch they receive whether or not they play or however rubbish they are on a particular day. Neither do they have to spend a great deal of time travelling the world between different time zones and living in hotels. And they dont have to play seven matches in a over a period of two weeks in top tournaments.


And I read the other day that a top golf tournament pays a top prize of $10 million! I don't know if that's true, but even if it's a tenth of that it's a lot of money for a lot less effort than tennis.

I have never heard of Amanda Platell, and hopefully will never encounter her articles, wherever she publishes them.

[patmoren]

My attendance in february will very much depend on where it is held. February is a bad month for snow so the further north it goes the more difficult to attend!

[Joyce]

When will we know where Feb tie will be played? Where are the possible venues??
Cheers! Hope it's possible to travel there for the Sat / Sun!!

[davech]

I'd really like to try and make this tie, after missing the last one. :crying:

[hfwardhouse]

I think we may be MIA in February - tennis has cost me a small fortune this year .... and I don't think I'll be able to afford it :crying:

[Pam]

Apparently the tie is at Glasgow's Braehead Arena again.

[JAMES4578]

Braehead has been chosen once again to host the tie. I know some people would be hoping for an English venue this time but hope a good crowd can still attend. If we win and stage another home tie though I think a change should be high on the agenda. http://www.lta.org.uk/fans-major-events/Davis-Cup/News/2011/Braehead-Arena-chosen-for-Davis-Cup-by-BNP-Paribas-tie-/

[supergran]

Just read that the tie will be at Braehead once again. I'm fine with that as everything is so familiar by now.:big grin:

[Jane]

:yahoo:Great stuff - heard it on the radio:yahoo:

[xenon21]

Braehead has been chosen once again to host the tie. I know some people would be hoping for an English venue this time but hope a good crowd can still attend. If we win and stage another home tie though I think a change should be high on the agenda. http://www.lta.org.uk/fans-major-events/Davis-Cup/News/2011/Braehead-Arena-chosen-for-Davis-Cup-by-BNP-Paribas-tie-/

Our luck of having regular home ties is bound to come to an end soon! We could very easily not have another home tie for many years! Pity for those I guess who cannot make it to Scotland again (me included) but am happy for those who can and my scottish friends :)

[traveller7]

Wont beable to make it shame, was hoping it would be bit more further south this time, not even London just somewhere else. Still should be fun for those who can go.

[Fina]

I guess there are already 4 occasions where people can see Andy "a bit more further south" next year so it makes sense to hold it more northerly

[pabbers]

I guess there are already 4 occasions where people can see Andy "a bit more further south" next year so it makes sense to hold it more northerly

Hmmm except that those occasions are rather more of a lottery. At least you can be sure to see him at DC if he's fit and be sure of a ticket. Must consult the bank balance to see if I can afford Braehead again.

[Lizzim]

Hmmm except that those occasions are rather more of a lottery. At least you can be sure to see him at DC if he's fit and be sure of a ticket. Must consult the bank balance to see if I can afford Braehead again.

A lottery and expensive!
At Wimbledon you have to hope tor a ticket on the right court and right day.
Queens is a little easier but tickets are minimum £50 per day.
WTF bit of luck involved for day/session and again tickets are relatively expensive :(

[patmoren]

Easy to say for those that live north of the border, this is National Davis Cup not ATP tour or Slams.

[Hawkeye]

But if it's a simple case of having to play without Andy if it's played elsewhere then it's a no-brainer IMO.

[Linda]

Hawkeye, are you suggesting that Andy is saying he won't play if it's held anywhere else? If there were any truth in that, I would think it disgraceful. If I were the captain and a player said he wouldn't play unless it was held at a particular venue, I would tell him where to go, no matter how good he was. I really hope that isn't the reason.

[-J-]

hows is it bad that a player who has spent most of his adult life on the road exerts a little pressure to have ties played in his home town ?

[Hawkeye]

Gotta keep the talent happy.

[Mickey]

Andy has never said he won't play in DC if it's not in Scotland, but he is delighted when it is.

[Jennan]

Don't think Andy has even decided whether he'll play in the next tie.

[MurrayAOne]

Hawkeye, are you suggesting that Andy is saying he won't play if it's held anywhere else? If there were any truth in that, I would think it disgraceful. If I were the captain and a player said he wouldn't play unless it was held at a particular venue, I would tell him where to go, no matter how good he was. I really hope that isn't the reason.

Andy played in Liverpool for DC and risked further injury to his wrist so I think it's pretty obvious that's not the reason.It's not only to Andy's advantage it's at home either. I'm gutted I can't get there but after seeing the amazing atmosphere at Glasgow I have absolutely no complaints. DC is so much all about that and Andy in front of his home crowd made all the difference. I think every player raised his game and that had a lot to do with it. Also, a captain does have to take into account his best player's schedule and hopefully achieve a fine balance between willing commitment, which Andy has shown, and availability; not to do so would be irresponsible. Now I must get off this soapbox it's a bit high.

[Linda]

Well, whatever the reasons, I'm still really disappointed at the decision. For it to be held there for a fourth time seems like they think the Davis Cup belongs to Glasgow. It feels like a snub to all the loyal English and Welsh fans. :sad:

[MurrayAOne]

Well we all feel differently and that's fair enough. Wherever it is...and I'm happy it's in Glasgow...GOOD LUCK TEAM GB!!!

[Madeline]

I don't feel snubbed - but then although English and living in England, Glasgow is a darn sight nearer to me than London!

[Linda]

Yes indeed, wherever it's held and whoever's playing, I'm always there to cheer on Team GB! :swingin: :swingin: :swingin:

[Fina]

Doesn't feel like a snub to me. Whatever Andy says or doesn't say, does or doesn't do, it seems there always has to be an issue. Sad but true. <sigh>

[jaysee]

Let's hope future home matches are moved to another venue for a good reason - we're back in the World group and Braehead isn't big enough! :thumbup:

[davech]

Good point! A lot more people are going to want to see Team GB play when they're in the World Group!

[Sallydaisy]

Just wondered if any of our Glaswegian members had spotted these buses?

This is how G.B. promote their Davis Cup matches! Why can't we do this for our Irish Davis Cup team? #getthewordout (https://twitter.com/#!/search?q=%23getthewordout) http://pic.twitter.com/6PtLUyJq (http://t.co/6PtLUyJq)


21 hours ago (https://twitter.com/#!/jamesmcgee01/status/156376612382842880) Favorite (https://twitter.com/#) Retweet (https://twitter.com/#) Reply (https://twitter.com/#)

Retweeted by @NeilHarmanTimes (https://twitter.com/#!/NeilHarmanTimes)



Time has flown hasn't it?
Just over 4 weeks to go and the amff'ers will be there (& here on the forum) cheering on the boys!

[patmoren]

Just wondered if any of our Glaswegian members had spotted these buses?


Time has flown hasn't it?
Just over 4 weeks to go and the amff'ers will be there (& here on the forum) cheering on the boys!
Can't wait.

[JAMES4578]

Yes I've seen them a few times!

[supergran]

I am so looking forward to the DC. And I really enjoy visiting Braehead. The buses look great...only what they deserve. Go GB Boys!!!:cheer::cheer::cheer:

[lankster2003]

Good point! A lot more people are going to want to see Team GB play when they're in the World Group!

Glory hunters lol

[lankster2003]

I would like to go to another venue in April if we beat Slovakia.

[Sallydaisy]

I would like to go to another venue in April if we beat Slovakia.
We might not have a choice; depending who we play it might be overseas somewhere.

[pabbers]

We might not have a choice; depending who we play it might be overseas somewhere.

Well that would be another venue............:getcoat:

[johnkiernan35]

Im going to the DC :D I might see some of you there :) Im going on the Sunday:yahoo: :) Hopefully AM will play
:big grin:

[patmoren]

You can't miss us John we wear bright blue Team Murray t shirts

[-J-]

You can't miss us John we wear bright blue Team Murray t shirtsand failling that just look for the heap of empty wine bottles

[pabbers]

and failling that just look for the heap of empty wine bottles

That'll only help him find SG...........:sofa: :surrender: :getcoat:

[supergran]

That'll only help him find SG...........:sofa: :surrender: :getcoat:Pot and kettle spring to mind!!:rolleyes::rolling::wino:

[pabbers]

Pot and kettle spring to mind!!:rolleyes::rolling::wino:

I hope you're not implying that I'm tooteetal!! *Hic* :big grin:

[Cathy66]

There's an article posted on FB today from the Daily Record that says Andy isn't playing DC. Do hope this isn't true.:sad:

[JAMES4578]

We should find out for sure soon, read before that Andy had to decide by Tuesday.

[LC the fan]

Small article in the Mail says that he is unlikely to play because of his niggling back but will decide in 48 hours.
Obviously I'm on Andy's side and he must put himself and his fitness first. Just a pity that, now we've got the commies all saying nice things about him, he's about to be branded as the traitor in the camp again

[Sallydaisy]

The DC team has to be announced 10 days before the tie starts i.e. latest tomorrow 1st February I believe. It'll be a shame if Andy cannot play especially having put in the work last year to get us to E-A Group I.

[david1610]

Isn't it the case that Andy will be deciding on whether his niggles should be sorted out or if they are OK to play DC?

[-J-]

BBC announced Andy is out on medical grounds

[AllyB]

BBC Sport Ticker saying that Andy won't be playing on "medical grounds"

[Sallydaisy]

:sad:

Well, we'll just have to get stuck in and cheer on Wardy, Evo, Fleming and Hutch.

[Jan]

this from the lta
http://www.lta.org.uk/fans-major-events/Davis-Cup/News/2012/Great-Britain-Davis-Cup-Team-Announced/

[Cathy66]

It's official. Murray not playing DC. team has been announced. james Ward, Dan Evans , Colin Flemming and Ross Hutchins. Great.

[RFS]

As Neil Harman says - makes this a pretty tricky tie now...

[JAMES4578]

Yes it certainly makes it more difficult, but hopefully the team will be up for the challenge! Tbh I was half prepared for this news and whilst disappointed not to see Andy in the circumstances it is the correct decision and Andy must look after his best interests in a demanding year. I'm sure he wil be back at DC at a later date! Hopefully we will all be supportive!

[JAMES4578]

Whilst it's special when Andy is there, I've also had a great time when it's been a weaker team and sure there can still be a good atmosphere! Just hope that nearly everyone who has purchased tickets turns up!

[Caro]

Oh no!! Gutted :crying::crying:

Totally understandable and I'm not at all cross with Andy but it's likely to mean we will be relegated back to group 2 having worked so hard to get up to group 1 :sad:

EDIT: I totally agree with you James, I always enjoy DC even when Andy not playing, I just hoped he would ......

[Caro]

Yes, totally supportive of Andy but nevertheless gutted he's not playing :crying::crying:

Not for myself (alhough of course i would have loved to see him play) but for the fact that the team worked so hard to get back to group 1. Not writing them off but it's gonna be mega tough ..... Gonna have to scream our lungs out peeps!!

[xenon21]

I am sure Andy must be feeling gutted about this himself! If he had been fit and not risking his back I am sure he would have played for sure! Get better soon Andy

Sorry to all of you who had been hoping to watch Andy play live

[cazza99]

Telegraph (http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/tennis/daviscup/9051330/Andy-Murray-set-to-miss-key-Davis-Cup-clash-with-Slovakia-after-gruelling-Australian-Open-campaign.html)- Andy Murray set to miss key Davis Cup clash with Slovakia after gruelling Australian Open campaign

BBC (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/tennis/16811960.stm) - Andy Murray to miss Davis Cup match with Slovakia

""I'm gutted to miss out on the Davis Cup having really enjoyed playing last year," said Murray.

"But, as it's only the start of an important season, which includes the Olympics in London, it's probably a sensible decision."

He added: "I've been told to take a few weeks off after picking up a few minor injuries in Australia.

"My focus in 2012 is on performing well in the Grand Slams and the Olympics. I look forward to playing in the next Davis Cup tie later in the year.""

[RFS]

But... the men's team does have to prove that they can do these ties without him.

Someone here I'm sure will correct me - but did Dan last play under Lloyd's captaincy (and if I recall it was a bit of a disaster for him)?
I think this is as much a test for Leon's captaincy and motivation of those coming up through the ranks.. and we also have Colin that might double (arf!) for a single's player maybe in the last rubber?

[Cathy66]

I am cross I'm afraid to say.I suspected this after he lost the semi. he doesn't need the points now having qualified for the olympics. I can't help but feel a little sulking here. GB have got a major hill to climb. Probably end up back in group 2. Dan Evans for heavens sake. yes I enjoy the atmosphere too and will give my support but i do feel sorry for the team.x

[Cathy66]

Dan Evans!!!

[-J-]

couldn't care less where GB are in terms of DC or world rankings all Andy playing and getting the team up through the groups would do is help disguise the faillings of the lTA
besides tennis has been and will always be about individual success anything that givers Andy a greater chances of collecting another masters title in IW and or Miami is good news in my book

[RFS]

Dan Evans!!!

Or Good Evans... discuss in less than 15 words to win a fantastic prize...

[Jan]

he's just come through qualies at the ATP tournament in Zagreb

[-J-]

Or Good Evans... discuss in less than 15 words to win a fantastic prize...the LTA's reward for millions down the drain, least they have a nice media centre

[Steven]

But... the men's team does have to prove that they can do these ties without him.

Someone here I'm sure will correct me - but did Dan last play under Lloyd's captaincy (and if I recall it was a bit of a disaster for him)?
I think this is as much a test for Leon's captaincy and motivation of those coming up through the ranks.. and we also have Colin that might double (arf!) for a single's player maybe in the last rubber?

Dan played away to Lithuania, pushing Berankis closer than expected then losing the 5th rubber to Grigelis, which seemed like a disaster at the time and probably was (Dan thrashed him 4 & 0 in a Futures event a few months later), though Grigelis is now top 200, so was probably better than his ranking suggested at the time of that tie.

The Slovak team has already been announced on the Slovak Tennis Federation site at http://bit.ly/zeRu6D - no Slovak no. 2 Beck (as expected), so:

SINGLES

Lukáš Lacko WR 97
Martin Kližan WR 116

DOUBLES

Filip Polášek DWR 22
Michal Mertiňák DWR 60

Evo played Lacko (whom he could potentially meet if it came down to another 5th rubber) in early 2009, coincidentally also in Glasgow - he lost but it went to 3 sets.

Flembo beat Lacko for the loss of just 3 games in thesemis of the same tournament, so that suggests a useful backup option if it does go down to a 5th rubber. James hasn't played either Lacko or Kližan before.

In doubles, Colin is 4-1 v Polášek and 0-1 v Mertiňák, while Ross is 4-4 v Polášek and 1-2 v Mertiňák. The four doubles players have never all played in the same match but both Brits have won their last 4 matches against Polášek and they managed one of those wins together on the way to the St Petersburg ATP title.

I think it could be a very exciting tie if Wardy is up for DC again and Evo can bring over some of the form that has seen him beat no. 3 seed Dancevic, Škugor & Bohli to qualify for Zagreb ATP (the second time he has qualified for an ATP main tour event), where he will play GarcÃ*a-López in R1 tomorrow. I certainly hope we will do a lot better than the 0-5 drubbing Tim Henman and Miles MacLagan (plus Neil Broad in the doubles) suffered the only other time we played them in 1995!

Of course, if the Andy-less team were able to find a way to pull off the win, it would be a huge boost to all concerned and might increase the chances of someone picking up that vital 3rd point if they end up playing with Andy in bigger ties in the future.

P.S. 1988 Olympics gold medallist Miloslav 'the cat' MečÃ*ř is the Slovak captain. It will be interesting to see whether the Stirling Uni. mob decide to miaow or bark at him. ;-)

[cazza99]

stu_fraser Stuart Fraser

Leon Smith also here in Eilat. "100% behind Andy's decision", he says. And for those wondering if he will ever join Twitter: not likely!!

[supergran]

Was really upset when I read the news re Andy this morning but support his decision. Sorry for the team after magnificent efforts but they have to play without Andy and play well!! I wish them good luck and no doubt we will be raising the roof in support!! Go GB!!!

[RFS]

the LTA's reward for millions down the drain, least they have a nice media centre

Fantastic! Knew I could count on you... and after last night when we had a breaking news exercise and I STRUGGLED to make 250 words exactly... you give hope to the aspiring hack! :-))

[traveller7]

I think this is the best decision for Andy physically as we would all rather he was 100% for the GS etc mentally I think he could done with it, it seemed to do him the world of good being in Scotland playing the DC after his wimby loss and think although this loss wasnt as bad I think it would of possibly taken the edge of it. Still good decision.

[Sallydaisy]

Fingers, toes and everything else crossed folks .....
It seems Wardy has picked up an injury too!!!

:stretcher:

From Steven on Twitter:

Kazan Ch: Bemelmans is now due to play a lucky loser, so racketless James must have w/drawn. That's a long way to go not to get to play :-(

James is actually shown as withdrawing with a left knee injury, which looks a bit ominous. RT @patmoren (https://twitter.com/#%21/patmoren): @GBtennis (https://twitter.com/#%21/GBtennis) That really is unfair!

[Raven]

I am cross I'm afraid to say.I suspected this after he lost the semi. he doesn't need the points now having qualified for the olympics. I can't help but feel a little sulking here. GB have got a major hill to climb. Probably end up back in group 2. Dan Evans for heavens sake. yes I enjoy the atmosphere too and will give my support but i do feel sorry for the team.x

4 out of 5 top-5 players are not playing DC this time around. It should tell something about the timing of DC, imo. Not an easy business to deal I know, but top-players' withdrawals are to expect.
My gut feeling has been he wouldn't play since the moment he said in his presser about his back-nerve-thing. No sense putting such a long a season at risk if he's not 100% okay to play. And despite my selfish wish to watch him again asap, I think it's the smart thing to do.

Besides... the other players have nothing to lose now being Slovak Republic the favourite to win, so it should be a nice opportunity to see what their level is. And even should they lose, GB would still have the playoff to play to remain in Group 1.

[Fina]

Just heard the news :crying: :crying: :crying:

Andy :hug:

[Sallydaisy]

Wardy on twitter:


JamesWardtennis (https://twitter.com/#!/JamesWardtennis) James Ward
Had to withdraw today- have had a shin problem and to play without correct trainers wud be silly just before davis cup!! Gutted!!
1 minute ago (https://twitter.com/#!/JamesWardtennis/status/164422993873879041) Favorite (https://twitter.com/#) Retweet (https://twitter.com/#) Reply (https://twitter.com/#)



For those who don't know he arrived in Kazan (Russia) to play a Challenger event but his luggage didn't join him. So, he's there w/out his suitcase/bag of clothes/kit and is also missing his racquet bag - Turkish Airlines are in big trouble!!!

No rackets or clothes don't help either!! Nightmare week for me....nobody travel on turkish airlines!! Now the trip home from russia...fun!!

[Steven]

Just corrected my earlier post but I'll mention it here too because it was quite a big error! (too many AO late nights have fried my brain ...)

In the Glasgow Futures event in 2009 where Evo lost to Lacko in 3 sets, I mentioned that Colin had played him in the same tournament but got the result the wrong way round - Colin actually thrashed Lacko for the lost of just 3 games in the semis there. That was back in the days when Colin played singles more often, which complicates things a bit ... but if it does come down to a 5th rubber v Lacko (and bearing in mind the issues around the Vilnius 5th rubber too), the pick is going to be very interesting indeed.

[lankster2003]

I think we would be doing great to a 5th rubber considering the selections. Fingers crossed

[RoastLamb]

Cathy, I think it's absolutely fine if you're disappointed with Andy not being there. I would be too. As I said on FB I paid a lot of money to go to Wimbledon on the first Monday expecting to see Rafa so you can imagine my horror and disappointment at getting Federer instead. I know just how you feel. Don't let others get you even more down. Hugs. xxx

PS There are some lovely kind people on here. Linda, for example, let me borrow her centre court ticket to see some of Andy's match. Something I will never forget.

[Mandiemoo]

I absolutely feel for those of you who are going to the Davis cup. It would be naive to think that most people who are going, especially those who are Andy fans & members of this forum were not going to see Andy. For many, it is the best chance of seeing Andy live.

It's a bit like your favourite band or singer playing in a festival & then pulling out at the last minute. It's so disappointing in those first few days when you find out. But you still go as you've paid for your ticket/hotel etc & although you are a bit miffed at not seeing Band A or Singer B, you make the best of it & have a good time.

That doesn't make you a negative person to my mind. I went in September last year & it was a great weekend. I enjoyed the doubles immensly & James Ward was a battler. Socialising with the forum members was fun too & I hope those going have a good time.

[patmoren]

Still looking forward to Glasgow. The rest of team GB need our support even more without Andy to make things easier. Come on GB think positive.

[SamP]

I've still got tickets for sunday, hopefully the tie is still alive, don't see why not.

As long as Wardy is fit we have a decent chance I think, Evans took a set of Guilermo-Lopez today, thats not a bad effort at all.

[JAMES4578]

Yes, thought that was a great effort from Dan, even if he was well beaten in the decider. Hopefully that will inspire him for DC! Trust James will have recovered by next week. Sure we'll give them a rousing welcome!

[patmoren]

They say imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, the Fed Cup girls (Heather) have a good chant "You say Great, I say Britain, Great Britain, Great Britain" Could be useful for Glasgow!

[Caro]

I personally am still very much looking forward to the DC. Whover is playing, for me, DC has a special atmosphere and is the only time forum members get to go to tennis all together. I appreciate that people are upset that Andy is not playing, I am too (see my earlier posts) but we have to accept it and get on with it, we are all grown ups. I know people may have spent money they would not have spent if they had known Andy wasn't going to play but this is the same with any tournament, as RL found out on her trip to Wimby all the way from Canada. I can't see the point in getting angry about it. And I certainly don't think Andy is sulking!

I am, and have been for a very long time, an avid DC supporter so unlike some others on here (not a critism by the way, just fact), DC matters very much to me. I think it is a crying shame that it seems to have been relegated in importance. It used to be along side the grand slams in importance. I certainly don't blame the players as the tour is so tough these days. I just wish the powers that be could do something with the scheduling which would mean everyone could play DC. I firmly believe Andy wants to play as do Fed, Rafa and Nole (Look at what winning the DC meant to Nole and to Rafa), but they have to prioritise these days, especially as this is an Olympic year.

Shame ......

[david1610]

Mmmm.... from the ATP site:
Slovakian Lukas Lacko booked a place in his first ATP World Tour semi-final on Friday after he beat seventh seed Robin Haase of the Netherlands 6-4, 6-4 in 70 minutes at the PBZ Zagreb Indoors.

Lacko, 24, is full of confidence after reaching the Australian Open third round (l. to Nadal) as a qualifier last month. The World No. 97 played in five quarter-finals in 2010 (at Chennai, Zagreb, Memphis, Halle and Atlanta).

[patmoren]

Lacko has improved considerably in singles over the last year

[JAMES4578]

yes, Lacko could well be tough! Hopefully in particular Ward can rise to the occassion! We'll be hoping Colin/Ross get a point in the doubles even if it could be tricky in that match.

[Sallydaisy]

I've still got tickets for sunday, hopefully the tie is still alive, don't see why not.

As long as Wardy is fit we have a decent chance I think, Evans took a set of Guilermo-Lopez today, thats not a bad effort at all.

Sam - if you see any of us please come over and say hello.
It's a great chance for forum members to meet up!

[cazza99]

stu_fraser Stuart Fraser

Tried to explain to fellow journos how GB could have an extra tie in October. Would have been easier explaining quantum physics. #DavisCup

[cazza99]

According to the Radio Times, Eurosport start their coverage of GB vs Sovakia on

Friday at 2.45 pm
Saturday at 12.45 pm
Sunday at 12.45 pm

They are also covering Argentina vs Span and USA vs Switzerland before and after.

[hfwardhouse]

If anyone happens upon the livescores thread - for those of us who'll be in transit and unable to watch .... and who'll be visiting relatives who might not allow me to watch :shocked: .... I'd be awfully grateful :)

[patmoren]

Will try and text live Jane!

[Katie]

Hope everyone who's going to the tie has a great time! :)

[xenon21]

Ooooh, hopefully I will be able to watch the tie if Eurosport have coverage!

[-J-]

Ooooh, hopefully I will be able to watch the tie if Eurosport have coverage!ye little bonus for us who got it for aus open

[cazza99]

I've been trying to work out where they are - maybe similar place to last year. Got this tweet from Lizzim

Lizzim18 Lizzi Martin

View from our seat http://yfrog.com/nzahbogj

[cazza99]

LTA (http://www.lta.org.uk/fans-major-events/Davis-Cup/GB-v-SVK---As-it-Happens/GB-v-Slovak-Republic-As-it-Happens/160911---Friday---Davis-Cup---Live-updates-As-it-Happens/) - Davis Cup as it happens

BBC (http://www.lta.org.uk/fans-major-events/Davis-Cup/GB-v-SVK---As-it-Happens/) - As it happens

[Bardot]

Bouncy couldn't help himself......."Andy was in Edinburgh last night so you think he could have come and played 2 easy matches here". He qualified this by saying it wasn't a criticism just expressing disappointment.

[Jan]

stream (courtesy of british tennis forum)
http://www.firstrowsports.eu/watch/106749/1/watch-evans-vs-lacko-%28great-britain---slovak-republic%29.html

[cazza99]

From the LTA as it happens

"But never mind the Davis Cup rivalry, there seems to be some competition here in the crowd - both Stirling Uni and Glasgow Uni are in the house and both are contesting to make the most noise. Grab your ear-plugs boys and girls."

[Alis]

I just wonder how much airtime the commies will give over the weekend to the discussion on Andy not being there - the subject pretty well dominated the lead up. That and, of course, the comment that the Stirling Uni guys must have been drinking before breakfast to make so much noise! Get real guys - this is Glasgow not Wimbledon or Queens!

[harriet]

well done dan, retrieved the break, on serve again in second set

[johnkiernan35]

Lets go GB Lets go!!! \0/ \0/

[harriet]

wow, go dan, he'll serve for second set!

[johnkiernan35]

wow Dan serving for the second set now :)) 6-5 to Dan

[harriet]

nae bother, finished with an ace

[karanga]

Well done Dan. :clap: Keep fighting.

LET'S GO GB LET'S GO. :yahoo: :yahoo: :yahoo:

[Jan]

great from Dan so far :cheer:

[Golden Lady]

Good for Dan, playing a great match!

[Linda]

Wow! This is amazing. And to think that this rubber is the one I thought we were least likely to win!

[SamP]

Just as I get home and hurriedly put the TV on, he's broken. Funny that.

I have tickets to Sunday, don't get any refunds if its 3-0 I here, or perhaps in any situation. Don't think my dad will want to drive from Newcastle to Glasgow to watch two dead rubbers. But hey....WAY WAY WAY ahead.

[harriet]

and again, dan breaks and will serve for the match

[Jan]

:sofa:

[Linda]

What is it they are calling him in the 'let's go' chant?

[Jan]

mp

[Linda]

Woo hoo! :cheer: :cheer: :cheer: :yahoo:

[Linda]

Just saw our lot cheering! :cheer:

[Golden Lady]

:cheer::cheer::cheer:

Well done to Dan, what a win for him!!!

[Jan]

Wow

[rondun]

Attaboy.

How bad has Bouncy been about Andy's absence?

[-J-]

now that's a surprise well done :clap::clap:

[cazza99]

:yahoo: :yahoo: well done Dan :yahoo: :yahoo:

[-J-]

driveing back from vet trying to get updates on 5live but they where useless just a brief andy isnt playing so dan playing and oh he is 2 -0 up :grrr:

[harriet]

this is why andy dropped out. dan would not have played if andy were in the team, and just see how well dan has risen to the occasion

[-J-]

what was dans score, anyone please ?

[harriet]

6-3, 7-5, 7-5, just like that. second and third sets dan broke lacko's serve at 5-5, and served it out both times

[Linda]

6-3, 7-5, 7-5

[-J-]

6-3, 7-5, 7-5, just like that. second and third sets dan broke lacko's serve at 5-5, and served it out both timesgood stuff thanks

[-J-]

6-3, 7-5, 7-5no thanks button, almost reported you :rolling:

[harriet]

read the match on LTA site, (http://www.lta.org.uk/fans-major-events/Davis-Cup/GB-v-SVK---As-it-Happens/)

[Linda]

Another view of our lot! Looking bored at the moment :rolling:

[-J-]

could do with queens wardy today

[harriet]

is polasek playing now? he''s half the dubs team, where's klizan?

[-J-]

sounds like super g made it back from the bar

[-J-]

thought it was kilzan

[Alis]

this is why andy dropped out. dan would not have played if andy were in the team, and just see how well dan has risen to the occasion

Absolutely agree Harriet. Dan just played the match of his career - who knows what that will do for his confidence. If Andy had been there it wouldn't have happened - I wonder how the commies will get out of that one!

[harriet]

eurosport put up the name polasek initially, but now switched to klizan. never seen either myself, so going with the flow

[-J-]

is it just me that thinks the sterling mob are a bunch of self indulgent buffoons ?

[harriet]

coming down to earth now, klizan can serve for first set now, 5-2
which he does, 6-2. ward to serve first this set, hope leon can keep him focussed

[-J-]

could do with the win here would have put uis in such a strong position going into the doubles

[-J-]

phew big hold

[SamP]

is it just me that thinks the sterling mob are a bunch of self indulgent buffoons ?

They aren't really chants as much as lame songs? I can't say i'd be inspired by them. C'MAANs work well enough for me. In saying that, i'm sure they've had a pint or 7.

Ward looking a bit flat, seems like Klizan has James' game sorted.

[-J-]

wardy really struggling

[-J-]

better hold

[harriet]

one set all, broke klizan on the 4-5 stage. second set 6 -4

[-J-]

Isner won?:confused:;)

[harriet]

yup, isner beat fedX 4-6, 6-3, 7-6, 6-2

[-J-]

Gonna be a long night

[harriet]

james dropped his serve, so klizan to serve for third set now
and 2-1 for slovakia now. shame as james was pressing hard for the break, had ad points in earlier games, didn't manage to nail it

[Jan]

and he serves it out. What can James do now?????????

[-J-]

and he serves it out. What can James do now?????????Win the next 2 sets :)

[Jan]

let's hope he can!

[Linda]

I bet our lot were hoping to be in the bar by now. They'll have to send out for emergency alcohol supplies.

Vamos James! :swingin:

[Jan]

come on James!!!!!!!!!

[harriet]

-4-1, james got the break

[harriet]

well, ward got broken back, on serve again, klizan 3-4

[Linda]

Wardy does like to do it the hard way :sad: We all know he's a fighter, he doesn't have to prove it again! He could have taken the easier route this time!

[harriet]

steady progress klizan now to serve at 5-6

[harriet]

tie break

[Linda]

tb :sofa:

[Linda]

Changed back to my Ross & Colin avatar ready for tomorrow!

[Linda]

:crying::crying::crying:

[-J-]

Muppet

[hfwardhouse]

So disappointed after Evo's win :sad:

[Linda]

I can't believe James lost that match. I thought that was the most winnable one of the whole tie :sad:

So, if there'd been an FTM, I'd have got both matches wrong so far!

[harriet]

alas, lost the tb , and thus the match.
live on sunday, roll on the dubs tomorrow - guess the crowd noise will be ear splitting

[hfwardhouse]

I think we all would've Linda - never thought for a minute that Evo would beat Lacko and as for Wardy losing - well I just hadn't considered it - mind you I didn't realise Klizan was such a good player!

[hfwardhouse]

alas, lost the tb , and thus the match.
live on sunday, roll on the dubs tomorrow - guess the crowd noise will be ear splitting

Well I'll be there so that'll help!

[Katie]

Disappointed that James lost - I thought that would be a winnable match for him. But so pleased with Dan's win - this win could give him a lot of confidence.

[Madeline]

I wonder how much of Dan's win was helped by his captain? I could imagine Dan getting on much better with Leon than with the somewhat pompous John Lloyd. Brilliant from him anyway, and what a disappointment that James did not play as well as he can.

[-J-]

I wonder how much of Dan's win was helped by his captain? I could imagine Dan getting on much better with Leon than with the somewhat pompous John Lloyd. Brilliant from him anyway, and what a disappointment that James did not play as well as he can.somewhat somewhat :shocked:

[Jan]

disappointing from James. But still all to play for. Good luck to Colin and Ross for tomorrow!
Come on GB!!

[Katie]

I wonder how much of Dan's win was helped by his captain? I could imagine Dan getting on much better with Leon than with the somewhat pompous John Lloyd. Brilliant from him anyway, and what a disappointment that James did not play as well as he can.

Yes I was thinking that when I was watching the match. Leon seems so positive and is really encouraging to his players - big contrast with John Lloyd that's for sure!

[rondun]

s'ok - Bouncy made up for the lack of lloydy negativity by stirring the **** on Andy again :cauldron:

[hfwardhouse]

s'ok - Bouncy made up for the lack of lloydy negativity by stirring the **** on Andy again :cauldron:

:grrr: .... just as well I'm going to be there today to sort him out then :angry: :furious:

Mind you ... SG may well have nobbled him by the time I get there ;)

[patmoren]

Looking forward to the dubs today, expecting a compeitive match with Colin and Ross winning. Oh for a crystal ball to ease the stress!!

[cazza99]

Just realised that in the Radio Times they are showing WTA tennis on Sunday afternoon. I hope they will reschedule and show the GB vs Slovakia.

[xenon21]

What a win from Dan! Have to admit that I didn't expect that! Disappointed Wardy lost as he lost concentration and momentum when serving for the 4th!

Hope Cross do the job today!

[Mickey]

If I remember correctly James Ward lost his first singles match at one of DC's and that seemed to cure his nerves and he came out and won his next match. Hope the doubles go well as our boys are playing very well together. Leon Smith a great Captain, gives out the right vibes.

[Linda]

KitKat! :cheer:

[Linda]

1st set in the bag! :cheer:

[Jan]

brilliant! only have have an eye on this as trying to get other stuff done too.

[Linda]

And they take the second set too! :cheer:

[Jan]

hmm double break down in the 3rd :sad:

[harriet]

2 sets in the bag, but about to be bageled in the dubs

[rondun]

Right boys, back on plan - wrap this up before the rugby starts

[Linda]

GB have the break! :cheer:

[Jan]

yes!!!!!

[karanga]

Come on GB. :yahoo: :yahoo: :yahoo:

[cazza99]

Come on guys :mexican: :mexican:

[harriet]

and they make it, take the fourth set 6-3

[Linda]

Woo hoo! :cheer: :cheer: :yahoo:

[Jan]

:cheer::cheer::cheer::cheer:
brilliant Colin and Ross

[karanga]

Well done boys. :swingin: :cheer: :cheer:

[Maza1987]

well done
now if james or dan could just get one win between them tomorrow.

[rondun]

Attaboys.

Haha Bouncy making a right twat of yourself, trying to show how much you know about the team but getting Leon's wife mixed up with Colins:doh:

[Alis]

Well done boys - great win!!!!

[harriet]

this is the beeb' (http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/tennis/16997739)s take, uses an court interview quote

[RoastLamb]

Well done GB!!! :clap: :clap: :clap:

[cazza99]

Well done guys :yahoo: :yahoo:

[patmoren]

Great achievement for team GB, need to make another gigantic effort to win one of the singles tomoorow I hope the crowd is as good.

[ljs]

Congrats to team GB :cheer:

[hfwardhouse]

Attaboys.

Haha Bouncy making a right twat of yourself, trying to show how much you know about the team but getting Leon's wife mixed up with Colins:doh:

Not like Bouncy ;) - we did have a go at him before the match started .... SG, Patmoren, myself and Minnie ..... "If you can't say anything nice about Andy, don't say anything at all" :rolling: ... He was NOT impressed ;) ....

[cazza99]

Not like Bouncy ;) - we did have a go at him before the match started .... SG, Patmoren, myself and Minnie ..... "If you can't say anything nice about Andy, don't say anything at all" :rolling: ... He was NOT impressed ;) ....

:rolling: did you go up to him and speak directly or shout out loud publically?

[hfwardhouse]

It was before 12 so arena was quite empty and he was walking past us .... so shouted out publically would be the answer to that one - his face was a picture .... and he took exception to SG telling him not to call her "love" and flipped a v sign at her :shocked: - horrible man!

[cazza99]

He called SG "love"?????? Wonder what has been going on there then - say no more. ;)

[hfwardhouse]

Think it was just him trying to get back in the good books and making matters worse :rolling:

[SamP]

Looking forward to tomorrow, should be very tense though. Hope we have good seats, think we're sitting behind the umpire...

[david1610]

Looking forward to tomorrow, should be very tense ...
Do you mean the Davis Cup Tie or "Bouncy meets the fans"? :)

[JAMES4578]

Certainly was exciting today and Cross delighted usll with some terrific play, other than a lapse it the 3rd. just hope Ward can get the job done tomorrow but he will certainly need to step it up and have feeling Lacko will be up a gear! Should it ho to a deciding rubber could be edgy for Evans as it may be difficult to repeat Fiday's display.

[Alis]

When they showed the schedule of DC ties for the year on the TV Bouncy said - '.... you can see why Andy doesn't want to play all of them, they are very time consuming...' (of words to that effect). Well done SG&Co - you obviously made him think!!

[greatunclebulgaria]

why does that man have to be such an idiot at times!

was listening to him talk about his Davis Cup experience's and thought aww bless as if anyone missed it

he was hitting the ball like a football in the week leading to the tie really looking forward to it bbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuu uuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuttttttttttttttttttttttttttt tttt

he totally fluffed it during the match nerves got to him


so why the hell can't he just be human/complementary once the match starts?

[cazza99]

I see you are still taking after Laura Robson GB :lol:

"I like big butts"

[xenon21]

:clap: Jane and co for your comments to Bouncy!

[Oscar]

:clap: Jane and co for your comments to Bouncy!

Hear, hear! Took me a time to work out who Bouncy was but it was obvious when I read the posts. How come he's wangled his way onto Eurosport now?

Good luck GB for the Singles matches to day - you CAN do it!

[Madeline]

Ah, yes, Bouncy. "Former British #1" sounds so much better than his actual record - career high 80, number of weeks in top 100 (i.e. mostly between 80 and 100) ten. TEN weeks. How he has the cheek to criticise Andy at all infuriates me. [/rant]

[rondun]

and he took exception to SG telling him not to call her "love" and flipped a v sign at her :shocked: - horrible man!The mans an idiot, can't believe he did that - didn't he have a go at somebody else who dared to criticise him in a restaurant at a previous DC?

Somebody should print this out (http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c130/rondun/amcom/dartboardsg.jpg) and give it to SG!

[-J-]

The mans an idiot, can't believe he did that - didn't he have a go at somebody else who dared to criticise him in a restaurant at a previous DC?

Somebody should print this out (http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c130/rondun/amcom/dartboardsg.jpg) and give it to SG!
think there was an altercation
http://i735.photobucket.com/albums/ww358/jaydu007/andybat.png

[cazza99]

They just showed some of our forum guys on Eurosport and the commentators were commenting on the dresscode. This was a minute or two before the James Ward match started while the players were still on their chairs.

[rondun]

Glad to see some things survived the clearances!
Good to see the lions rampant flying in Braehead ... or the Welsh Dragons as Bouncy calls them! :doh:

Can't believe he's got over 5000 followers on twitter - what's wrong with some people!
And I don't know who's responsible for this (http://www.facebook.com/pages/Dear-BBC-please-sack-Andrew-Castle-for-being-a-twonk/121838891237478), but I like it.

[-J-]

on serve 3-2, can wardy redeem him self?

[-J-]

crucial 10th game coming up

[harriet]

well done james, stern game for 6-5, lacko has a devastating straight down the line backhand which is doing some damage.

[harriet]

tie break

[-J-]

TB it is then

[-J-]

saved a SP 6-6

[-J-]

11-9 Lacko

[cazza99]

Set Lacko :(

But well done Wardy - he is playing well :)

[harriet]

terrific tb, LOOONG rallies, james hitting long too often, but finally netted one.
first set lost, both playing well

[harriet]

going pear shaped here, lacko a break up already, ward now at 0-3

[Jan]

let's hope Dan Evans is inspired!

[silver]

Poor Dan. Once again put in the position of saving the team as our supposed Number Two cant hack it. Hope Dan doesnt get all the blame if he loses.

[Jan]

Dan certainly shouldn't get the blame - if we do lose 3-2, he will have won our only singles rubber.

[silver]

On second thoughts, probably Andy will get the blame if we lose the tie

[Alis]

On second thoughts, probably Andy will get the blame if we lose the tie

Without doubt!!!

[harriet]

my attention switching to the rugby, the gormless versus the slithy coves?

[-J-]

Im actually feeling good about dans chances, never had high hopes for ward be glad wen his match is done AND CAN GET ON WITH THE IMPORTANT STUFF

[Jan]

Come on Dan - show us what you're made of. Now is the time to step up to the mark for your country!!

[harriet]

your wish is granted

[karanga]

Disappointing from James but he was playing the #67.

Deciding rubber :no worries: :yahoo: :yahoo: :yahoo:

[-J-]

disappointing from james but he was playing the #67.

Deciding rubber :no worries: :yahoo: :yahoo: :yahoo:true, but was his excuse friday?

[cazza99]

Dan did not have so much pressure on Friday as he was not expected to win. There is more pressure now. Hope he holds it together. Come on Dan :cheer: :cheer:

[david1610]

Got a live stream. First time ever.
C'mon GB!

[david1610]

Phew! Good start! 1-0
Well the opponent is not ranked at a level where it is impossible and the situation and crowd should be worth a few points. Just hope if he gets any chances he can take them!
C'mon GB!
Breaks! Andy would be proud of that cross court pass!
Now consolidate. C'mon GB!

[Jan]

come on Dan :cheer:

ooh 3 bp's!

[Alis]

2-0 - keep it going Dan!!!!