TABLE TENNIS: The Australian table tennis section has a tough road ahead in Rio, drawing significantly higher ranked players in the preliminary round.
Olympic debutant Dave Powell said that’s the nature of the competition and that he wouldn’t be deterred.
Powell, 25, of Croydon, will face off against Marcelo Aguirre (Paraguay) who, despite receiving a tripartite place in the draw from the International Olympic Committee to ensure maximum global representation, is a formidable opponent.
“The draw is unbelievably tough – that’s when happens when there are so few athletes permitted to play in the singles events,” Powell said.
“I’ve played against my opponent Aguirre many times before – he’s a fantastic player with a lot of experience. At the same time, I know I’ve prepared well and am at the top of my game.
“I’m going to give it my best shot and we’ll see what happens.”
Aguirre will be competing in his third Games so will bring a depth of experience to the match. He is ranked more than 50 places higher than Powell.
Still, the Aussie is determined.
“I’m feeling a mix between excitement and nerves,” Powell said.
“I’ve never been in this position before. It will be the most important match of my career, so I’m going to make the most of it.”
Powell’s teammates drew equally tough opponents for the preliminary round with Chris Yan facing Aleksandar Karakasevic of Serbia, who is ranked 88th in the world, almost 300 places higher, while Melissa Tapper (341) plays Brazilian Caroline Kumahara, ranked 120.
Veteran Jian Fang Lay, playing in her fifth games (128), will give Russian Maria Dolgikh, ranked 75, a tough run.
All four singles matches will be played on Saturday, 6 August, from 9am (AEST 10pm).
Candice Keller
olympics.com.au
