A "Neat" Drinking Match

"Titan, when I don't drink, I stink!" quipped Joe 'Gimpy Knees' Cruz as the team mates left the field of battle. 'GK' had acceded to be the TennisTitan's partner at the YTC as a last minute substitute setting the stage for an epic battle in the second set against Bill 'Energizer Bunny Legs' Tully and trusty cohort 'Big Al' Diodati. The afternoon had not started well for the TT/'GK' tandem as they were routed (1-6) in the opener. 'Big Al' was again his remarkable self, controlling the alley and slipping his cross court return by his rum imbibing adversary with regularity. The bagel was barely avoided with a sixth game victory in a multi-deuce game setting the stage for the finale. Fortifying himself with several swigs from his favorite flask, the 'Puerto Rican Flash' became the 'conquering conquistador' of days gone by. The 'nettlesome nitwit' continued his consistent play in the second contest forestalling another rout led by the ever present 'EBL' always patrolling both ends of the far baseline. As 'Big Al's level dropped 'Gimpy Knees' elevated his game beyond his own high mental state. 'GK'/TT's double break, four games to one lead disappeared in a freakin' flash and the stage was set for the 'chortler's choke.' At 4-4, EBL's service was ultimately broken at the third deuce through timely Titan lobs and the Puerto Rican's pounding returns. The 'conquering conquistador' stepped it up on his own service in the 10th game to bring home a (6-4) victory as time ran out. As the group gathered at net 'Big Al' remarked, "Joe, you know that flask will be outlawed next week." 'EBL' asked, "do you always drink that rum straight like that?" 'Gimpy Knees' hiccuped and replied, "Hell no! That's where I get my top spin. Only Titan hits flat and straight."