N.Z. Doesn’t Mind Being Underdog

Press, Volume CIII, Issue 30495, 17 July 1964, Page 17

N.Z. Doesn’t Mind Being Underdog

(N.Z.P.A.-Reuter—Copyright) MEXICO CITY, July IG. The non-playing captain of the New Zealand Davis Cup tennis team, Mr J. E. Robson, said today his players have acclimatised to Mexico City’s high altitude—and he does not mind being an underdog for this week-end’s matches with ’ Mexico, United Press International reported.

“I know that everybody here expects Osuna and Pala-

fox to provide the necessary three victories in the first two days,” Robson said.

“Mexico is aware it is the heavy favourite, and that is all right with me. Perhaps we can give them a big surprise.” Robson did not say so directly but he hinted that he hoped Mexico might be overconfident. Last week, Mexico’s team trainer, Mr M. Llamas, a former world-class player, freely predicted his teai" would win the first three points and be able to use its two'young second-line players, V. Zarazua and L. Moya, in the final singles. i The New Zealanders had

morning and afternoon practices yesterday, each lasting more than two hours. 1. S. Crookenden and L. A. -Gerrard. who will play both singles and doubles, worked first against a doubles team made up of Robson and A. Donnadieu, champion of the host Chapultepec Sports Centre.

Later, the New Zealanders concentrated on singles play, with Robson moving in to replace one or the other when the player showed fatigue or needed special coaching.

“Gerrard and Crookenden have adjusted perfectly to the climate.” Robson said. “They now show all' their normal strength and stamina, and they are in excellent physical condition.”