The first days play has brought mixed results for Wales. They drew England first with Adam Robinson opening the play against Darius Khight. Adam dominated Darius winning 3-0 (8, 6 and 7). This was a good start and hopes were high when, in the second game, Steven Jenkins played Paul Drinkhall. However, Pauls' power was too great for Steven even though Steven put up a brave fight in the 2nd and 3rd legs. Paul won 3-0 (4, 9 and 9).
Rhyan Jenkins was up next against Daniel Reed who has a lower overall ranking than Ryan. However, after taking the first leg easily, Ryan then lost the 2nd and 3rd legs as Daniel dug in for the long haul. Ryan took the 4th leg setting up the 5th for a showdown. The last leg was hard fought and should have been Ryan's but Daniel fought hard and took it. Daniel won 3-2 (-4, 5, 9, -8 and 13-11).
The last game was Adam Robinson against Paul Drinkhall. Wales needed a win in this to force a drawn match. It was looking promising after the first leg which Adam won. However, Paul was not giving in and played exceptionally well to take the next three legs. Paul won 3-1 (-7, 4, 10 and 7).
England won overall 3-1.
The 2nd match was against Latvia.
Latvia won the toss and put their no. 1, Matiss Burgis, on against Ryan. Matiss dominated play and used his speed to win 3-0 (6, 3 and 8). Next, Adam played V Agurjanovs. This time it was Adam who won easily, winning 3-0 (6, 3 and 6). Steven's turn to shine came in his match against S Vasiljevs. Steve was determined to do his part and 'played out of his skin'. The first leg was a close win for Steven but he dominated in the 2nd, The 3rd leg saw a reversal of fortune and Steven was down by 4 points at one time. However, he never gave up and finally took the 3rd, 11-9. Steven won 3-0 (10, 5 and 9). Wales were now 2-1 up and looking for a decisive win after the loss to England.
Adam played Matiss in the last game which was hard fought and came to a head when at 10-11 and Adam ready to strike a loose ball, Matiss reacted to the referee on another table putting his hand up for a let play. Adam took the point but Matiss insisted it was a let. The Match Referee was called but the break in play resulted in the Match Referee deciding in Matiss' favour. This injustice spurred Adam on and he won that leg 13-11. After that there was no stopping Adam and he took the next 2 legs easily, winning the game 3-0 (11, 5 and 3); and 3-1 to Wales.
Overall a day of mixed results. The team felt they should have beaten Wales and were disapointed by the loss. However, the win over Latvia was positive and they all felt better for that.
Tomorrow (Monday 14th September) Wales play Slovakia.