Deceived by Flattery?

[RonWatson]

I've come across the phrase 'flatter(ed) to deceive' recently, and am having the hardest time grasping its concept. A quick Google search shows that a) it's a popular sporting term, b) can describe a strong squad that fails to live up to its hype (...squad have shown promise in flashes, but have flattered to deceive), or c) a description of a winning team (Holders France flattered to deceive with a momentous 2-1 win over England.) Anyone? Thanks in advance....

[Octavius]

The two things go naturally together - the lying tongue and the deceitful hand, meaning that nothing is to be looked for from any of their promises, since it was only to deceive that they flattered with their mouth and gave with the hand.

[Quizmonster]

The first century BC Roman writer, Publius Cyrus, noted in one of his maxims: "When fortune flatters, she does it to betray." He basically meant that when things are going well for you, you imagine Lady Luck is on your side. However, you should have a care, because at any moment she's just as likely to let you down.

Saying that a team "flattered to deceive" is just another way of expressing the same thought...great things were expected but only dross actually emerged.

[aRonWatson]

Thanks, both. Quizmonster, I'll add my appreciation to the many others who's questions you've adequately and eloquently responded too. Marsh's OED "To inspire with hope, usually on insufficient grounds" works best for me.