Once again, Marat couldn't keep it simple. He couldn't just roll over and let Israel easily take the tie by winning the dubs match. No. He had to make it an emotional rollercoaster that ended with him not coming out on top. Because this is what Marat does.
Ram and Ehrlich were up two sets and serving for the match at 5-4. Jonny gets broken and Marat and Consumption proceed to take the next two sets and force a fifth, which, of course, Israel would win 64.
Congrats to Israel for making their first World Group semifinal. As for Russia, maybe it's appropriate that the year Marat retires, they get outclassed by the hungry up and comers.
Drink up!