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Shelby Madeiros inspires bounceback against Aruba

Victory secured: Shelby Madeiros and Zoë Fisher won their doubles match against Aruba (Photograph supplied)

Bermuda made amends for the 3-0 loss to Costa Rica on the opening day of the Billie Jean King Cup Americas group three tournament in Tacarigua, Trinidad & Tobago, by defeating Aruba 2-1 yesterday.

Shelby Madeiros was involved in two of the victories posted by Neal Towlson’s side. She defeated Mali Baroud 6-2, 6-2 in the first singles, before Nadhira Durham lost 6-3, 6-2 Jelsyvette Croes.

It was left to Madeiros and Zoë Fisher to win it for Bermuda in the doubles. The two combined to triumph 6-3, 6-1 over Croes and Danna Nunez.

Madeiros was pleased to be involved in Bermuda’s two wins, which she hopes will translate to more victories in the remaining assignments.

“It was an honour and privilege to be able to play in both matches,’’ Madeiros told The Royal Gazette.

“I was slowly but steadily gaining more confidence as both matches went on. I’m hoping we can carry this momentum into the rest of the week. It was super positive energy from all the girls, both on and off the court.”

Towlson commended the players for showing a lot of resilience to secure the win.

“The Bermuda team displayed remarkable skill and determination,’’ the coach said.

“The day kicked off with Shelby, who played a smart and tactical game to secure victory in the No 2 singles. Her steady nerves and focused play were key to her success.

“Following Shelby, Nadhira faced a tough opponent, who was very consistent and resilient. Despite Nadhira’s calm and steady performance, she was ultimately bested by the more experienced Aruba player in the singles match.

“The pressure was on as Shelby and Zoe took to the court for the doubles match, with the singles split between the two teams.

“From the very start, Shelby and Zoë dominated, preventing the Aruba girls from gaining any confidence in the game. Their excellent communication and teamwork led to a well-deserved victory.

“Overall, it was a fantastic effort by the Bermuda team. Special mention goes to Alexcie Burrows and Airez Gilbert-Simons, whose energetic support from the sidelines lifted the team’s spirits. I am extremely proud of all the players for their exceptional performances against Aruba.”

St Lucia are Bermuda’s next opponents in the round-robin format today, before the Bermudians square off against El Salvador tomorrow.

When the action concludes at the National Racquet Centre on Saturday, the top two teams from the pool stage will be fighting for promotion to group two, while those at the bottom head into a battle for survival.

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Published August 07, 2024 at 7:58 am (Updated August 07, 2024 at 7:34 am)

Shelby Madeiros inspires bounceback against Aruba

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