THE DAVIS CUP

Hokitika Guardian, 31 December 1920, Page 4

THE DAVIS CUP

THE SINGLES.

AMERICANS AVIN BOTH

[by TELEGRAPH—BEII RRESB ASSOCIATIONI

AUCKLAND, cc 30,

Tho'vDiivis Cup matches were played in good weather, before a large attendance, including the Governor-General, the Prime Minister, and before the game commenced, the crowd stood bareheaded for a few seconds’ impressive tribute to Anthony Wilding. The two singles matches resulted in the Americans winning bpth. Tilden defeated Brookes, 10—8, 6—4, ]__6, 6 -4. This was a memorable contest.’ Brookes’ net play was brilliant, but his volleying availed nothing against the magnificent hard driving of Tilden. ■ The American' served with terrihe force,, and on numerous occasions left Brookes standing. _ Brookes led in the first set by »—-b and ho needed only one point to will the set, hut Tildpp succeeded- in winning the game. He then drew level. Brookes however, gainril Life lead again, but Tilden equalised, b|it eight all was called- ... Then tire Amppiean with irresistible serves ,ahd deep drives to the base line, won tb ppxt two games, and the set. Tilden seeiiiSed-- the next set tluougi preventing Brobkes from coming in to volley. r In the third so| y Tilden temporarily went off, and Brookes, easily gaining tho lead, the'American contented himself with letting tho set go. In the fourth set, Brookes led 3—o;

and ho caused the American some anxious moments. Tilden proved equal to tho occasion, and won the next five games. Brookes won the ninth game, but tho tenth and the match went to Tilden.

An instance of Brookes’ fine sportsmanship occurred in a critical stage in the fourth set when he deliberately hit tho ball out in order to compensate for a linesman’s wrong decision against I ilden.

Both players were heartily applauded by the crowd at tho end of the match. The other match was very disappointing. Johnston (America) easily beat Patterson (Austranlsia), by 6—3, 6—l, and 6—l. Patterson was completely at sea against Johnston’s forceful and cleverly directed attack. The Australian’s backhand play particularly failed badly. He got in some terrific serves, but he miss-hit numerous easy drives and volleys.

Johnston showed himself a master of courtcraft, and ho completely overwhelmed his opponent.