
Oracle Team USA skipper Jimmy Spithill faces an uphill struggle to repeat one of the great sporting comebacks in the America's Cup history.

Spithill and his crew overturned an 8-1 deficit four years ago in San Francisco Bay eventually winning 9-8 against challengers Emirates Team New Zealand. This year, Oracle Team USA's hopes are fading fast -- they trail 6-1.

Australian yachtsman Spithill has found himself under increasing pressure with some suggesting he should hand over the helm of the Oracle Team USA boat.

The American team have found themselves consistently trailing Emirates Team New Zealand in Bermuda to date.

But Spithill, a keen boxer in his spare time, is adamant the team won't give up. "We've been here before, we will fight all the way," the Australian says.

Oracle Team USA has undergone dramatic design changes, making adjustments to the rudders to improve the foiling -- but to no avail so far.

On the water, Spithill has been overshadowed by 26-year-old Kiwi Pete Burling who is skippering in the Emirates Team New Zealand.