THE DAVIS CUP.

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume L, Issue 12145, 28 November 1908, Page 5

THE DAVIS CUP.

BROOKES v. ALEXANDER

A GREAT MATCH

BROOKES WINS ON THE FIFTH

SET.

(United Press Association.—Copyright.)

Received November 27, 11.9 p.m

MELBOURNE, November 27

Splendid weather, and drying winds ief i tho courts for to-day's contest in good condition, though they played a trifle slow. A great crowd assembled to view the opening match, when Brookes (Australia) played Alexander (America).

In tho first set Brookes soon established a strong lead by taking the first four games. Alexander then warmed tf> his work, and playing magnificently, ho soon placed a different complexion on the game. By splendid placing, masterly returns and irresistible smashing, he put up seven games, while the Australian secured only one, the set going to Alexander 7—5.

The second set will long be remembered by afj <vho had the good fortune to witness it., and it was perhaps the most keenly contested of any ever playe<V in Melbourne. The players took game for game until the score was seven all, when the next two games wont to Brookes, who thus took the set 9—7. In tho third set, Brookes, if anything, showed an improved, while Alexander's play went to pieces, the American placing service after service into the net, the set going to Brookes 6—2.

The fourth set saw Alexander at his best, and playing magnificently the American won this set 6—4.

Tho fifth and deciding set was also keenly contested, but finally fell to Brookes 7—5.

. Brookes beat Alexander 5—7, 9—7, 6—2, 4—6, 6—3.