Qualify For Hylo Open Quarter Finals, Kevin/Marcus:: Physically Improved, We Play Comfortably

JAKARTA - The world's number one men's doubles, Kevin Sanjaya Sukamuljo/Marcus Fernaldi Gideon said that their improved physical condition helped them secure a place in the quarter-finals of the Hylo Open in Saarbrucken Germany, Thursday.

The pair nicknamed the Minions narrowly won 23-21, 21-18 over the Dutch men's doubles Ruben Jille/Ties Van Der Lecq after struggling for 46 minutes.

"Regarding physical fitness, we are good enough to compete. Today we played comfortably, really trying to enjoy every match. We don't want to be too burdensome when competing," Marcus said as quoted by Antara, Friday.

In their first meeting, Kevin/Marcus had to face pressure when Ruben/Ties could catch up in the middle of the match.

The 18-15 advantage was held by the Minions towards the end of the first game, in fact, Ruben/Ties could still equalize until the score was tied 21-21. Luckily Kevin/Marcus were able to secure two points which became the temporary winner of the opening game.

Likewise in the second game, the Minions still could not escape the shadow of their opponent because the advantage was held by Ruben/Ties with a score of 12-13.

The new Minions can breathe a sigh of relief after being able to score five points in a row until the score becomes 17-13.

"The opponent is also good. It is proven that the score is also tight. We also have to work hard to win," said Marcus.

For the last eight matches against Daniel Lundgaard/Mathias Thyrri of Denmark on Friday, Kevin/Marcus admits that they will be better prepared and correct the mistakes that still occur from today's match.

"Hopefully, it will get better for the next match," said Marcus.

"Still grateful to be able to win today. Even so, frankly, there are still many things that need to be improved so that our performance can be better prepared for tomorrow's match," concluded Kevin.