Player/manager James Connelly experienced the euphoria of reaching the men’s singles semi-finals, guaranteeing him at least the bronze, but top seed Scott Clayton had to face up to elimination. The pair were back on court on Wednesday afternoon, winning their men’s doubles quarter-final to secure the Island at least bronze.
Fifth seed Connelly beat Bermudan Neal Towlson in straight sets 6-1, 6-2, to set up Thursday’s semi-final clash against Guernseyman Dom McLuskey.
‘The first set was relatively straightforward and it was over in 30 minutes,’ said Connelly, who won individual bronze in Isle of Wight. ‘He came out all guns blazing, ended up trying to force it too much and missed a few shots. The second set was tight for the first five or six games, but I got the break I needed, held on and served it out. As a Bermudan, he had so much support and his coach was there helping him. That atmosphere spurred me on, and I knew if I came through, I would be guaranteed a medal.’
