15th September, Kuala Lumpur: The very handy score of 1,986, set by the Philippine trio of Chester King, Paulo Valdez and Biboy Rivera on the first squad this morning, brought forth the expression 'that will do nicely'.

This is the sort of target the men bowling their second series will have to achieve as it looks as though the gold medal score will be in the region of 4,000. The record stands at 4,088, hit by Finland in 1999.

The trio bowled really consistently with games of 663, 641 and 682, with the best individual three-game series from Biboy Rivera with a fine 738.

Rivera said afterwards: "The lanes are not any different from the previous days. We were able to execute our shots well and be patient. Our coach told us that we don't have to pressure ourselves but he wanted us to be number one in the hunt for medals." In the final squad of the day, the Mexicans looked as though they would overtake the Filipinos, but they ran out of steam on the last game and fell short by just eight pins. Quite a good chance gone to waste. Benny Corona and Alejandro has the same series score of 642, but they were eclipsed by Daniel Falconi's 694.

The Mexicans are thoroughly enjoying their visit to Malaysia and have already been into KL and 'seen the sights'. Falconi is excited at the thought of returning for the Malaysian Open in March as he has been invited to compete by Dr. P.S. Nathan. One common comment from all the bowlers interviewed as squad or tournament leaders so far is that the lane condition seems to please most and, more importantly, that the condition is constant, squad after squad, day after day.

The men return to the lanes at 08:00 Tuesday morning for their second set of three games and late afternoon will see the conclusion of the trios event with the women's division.

For further information, please contact Media Director, Keith Hale at KEITHHALE679@aol.com , media@mtbc.org.myor via the World Championships Media Room Phone +60 37492 0902.