Jamaica took an early 2-0 lead in the best-of-five David Cup World Group Two qualifier against Estonia at the Eric Bell National Tennis Centre on Saturday.
Rowland “Randy” Phillips and Blaise Bicknell gave the hosts the lead after victories in the singles contest. Phillips, the number two-ranked Jamaican, easily brushed aside the Estonia number one-ranked Kristjan Tamm 6-1, 6-1 in just over an hour.
Phillips of the 59th-ranked Jamaica took just 36 minutes to wrap up the first set and was slightly quicker in the second set, which lasted two minutes shorter on the resurfaced court.
Phillips was pleased with his effort, even if a little surprised victory came as easily.
“I did not expect such a massive victory because I know he is a very good player, but maybe it wasn’t his best tennis… I am just happy for the win,” Phillips said.
The second game was more competitive as Bicknell, Jamaica’s number one ranked player, had to come from a set down to claim victory, 4-6, 6-4, 6-0 over Kenneth Raisma.
The match, which lasted one hour and 46 minutes, has put Jamaica on the brink of victory ahead of Sunday’s doubles and reverse singles, if required.
Play resumes at 1:00 p.m. on Sunday with Phillips and Bicknell taking on Raisma and Jurgen Zopp.
The first team to get three wins takes the tie.
