Tennis: Philippines wrap up Davis Cup tie

The Philippines took an unassailable 3-0 lead over New Zealand today in their Asia/Oceania Davis Cup group two tie being played at the Parnell Tennis Club.

The visitors' top combination of Cecil Mamiit and Eric Taino beat Dan King-Turner and Simon Rea 5-7 7-6 7-6 6-2.

New Zealand got off to a good start, breaking Mamitt's serve immediately in the first game and again later in the set to win 7-5.

King-Turner and Rea led 4-2 in the second set after again breaking Mamiit's serve in the first game.

But the Filipinos held serve and then broke Rea's serve to equalise at 4-4.

The set went with serve into the tiebreak which the Philippines won 7-2.

The third set also went to a tiebreak. New Zealand led 4-2 but lost momentum to lose 4-7.

The class of the Philippines players showed in the final set as they easily wrapped it up 6-2.

"We had our opportunities out there and our guys couldn't take them," non-playing New Zealand captain James Greenhalgh said.

"If we are to compete against quality opposition, our guys need to be out on the circuit all the time."

The defeat means New Zealand remain in Group 2 while the Philippines have a final to play against either Indonesia or Kuwait later in the year.

The reverse singles will be played tomorrow morning.

Doubles result: Cecil Mamiit/Eric Taino (Philippines) bt Dan King-Turner/Simon Rea (NZ) 5-7 7-6 7-6 6-2.

- NZPA