For the first time since 2006, Israel lost in the first round of Group I, falling to an unassailable 3-0 deficit in Romania on Saturday before also dropping both of Sunday’s meaningless rubbers.
By ALLON SINAIIsraeli tennis star Bar Botzer(photo credit: ITA/COURTESY)
Despite Israel’s 5-0 thrashing at the hands of Romania in the first round of Davis Cup Europe/ Africa Zone Group I, captain Eyal Ran wants to continue to coach the team and guide it through its rebuilding process.For the first time since 2006, Israel lost in the first round of Group I, falling to an unassailable 3-0 deficit in Romania on Saturday before also dropping both of Sunday’s meaningless rubbers.Adrian Ungur, ranked No. 159 in the world, beat Edan Leshem (1,222) 6-4, 6-2 before Marius Copil (168) defeated Bar Botzer (893) 7-6, 6-3.The blue-and-white, which is in danger of dropping to Group II for the first time since 2001, will host Slovenia in the first round playoff of Group I in July, with the winner to maintain its status, while the loser will play a tie against relegation.“We need to learn from our mistakes because we are facing a very important tie against Slovenia in July,” said Ran. “As long as I feel that I can contribute to the players and the team, and as long as I feel that we can compete at the highest level, I certainly want to continue as captain.”
