UTS1 Day 8 preview: Benoit Paire “The Rebel” vs David Goffin “The Wall”

Patience, meet passion. Today’s UTS clash of styles features the grinding, methodic game of “The Wall”, David Goffin, and the impulsive, careening craftsmanship of “The Rebel”, Benoit Paire.

Expect the unexpected from Paire, who will look to knock Goffin off his baseline with improvised tactics and rope-a-dope combos. Drop shots, net forays and that gonzo backhand of Paire’s will all be in play.

For Goffin, the devil will be in details. He’ll seek to weather The Rebel’s fire with an icy stare and soldier on with the game plan in mind. Namely, attack Paire’s weaker wing – the forehand – and probe The Rebel to see what gets under his skin.

If Paire has put his health issues behind him, this will be a winnable match. He’s split his six previous battles with Goffin, and here at UTS, where the cards call the shots, it has been The Rebel who has embraced the format the better. But if Paire is not willing to dig in with a stiff resolve, it’s unlikely that he’ll find a way to climb The Wall.