N.Z. DAVIS CUP TEAM’S WIN

Press, Volume XCV, Issue 28260, 24 April 1957, Page 6

N.Z. DAVIS CUP TEAM’S WIN

5-0 Victory Over Lebanon (N.Z. Press Association—Copyright) BEIRUT, April 22. New Zealand, which had already taken a winning lead, completed a 5-0 victory over the Lebanon today in its first-round European Zone Davis Cup tie. In the second round it will meet Britain at Devonshire Park, Eastbourne, Sussex, on May 16, 17, and 18. In today’s final two singles matches, Jeff Robson beat Samir Khoury, 6-3, 6-2, 6-2, and Lewis Gerrard beat Roy Karaoglan, 6-1, 6-0, 6-2. Robson had obviously too much control for Khoury who, towards the end, was feeling the strain of the New Zealand player’s drive. Khoury, nevertheless, gave a good display, confirming the strong impression he has made on the visitors throughout the series. Gferrard, New Zealand’s junior, who is making his first appearance in Davis Cup games, played steadily and confidently, thoroughly earning his victory over Karaoglan. Yesterday’s doubles match, which confirmed the New Zealand success, was the best of the series and one of the hardest fought. Until near the end of the second set a Lebanese win seemed likely, but Attieh and Khoury lacked the staying power of the visitors. Strong Opposition The New Zealand team manager, Mr James Mercer, said: “I’m delighted with our success in winning every match. There were one or two occasions when things might easily have gone the other way. The Lebanese players have provided strong opposition, particularly in the doubles. “Khoury has been outstanding, and will have quite a future if given more opportunities for competition. “Robson has been the spearhead of our own team, and has shown himself easily adaptable to the conditions here, where we have played on en-tout-cas courts instead of grass.’’ Mr Mercer continued: “We have been overwhelmed by Lebanese hospitality and delighted at the impartiality of the spectators, which is not always the case in international contests. “The organisation here has been excellent, and the British Ambassador, Mr George Middleton, has been most helpful.”