October 2019

IC SA AND ETHIOPIA FIRST DAY WINNERS

It was a good start by the hosts, IC SA and visitors and first time entrants, Ethiopia on the first day of the IC Rod Laver Junior challenge qualifying event in Benoni.

The hosts had little difficulty in brushing aside Botswana as expected. Botswana came in as very late substitutes for Zimbabwe who unfortunately could not field a team. In the past they have always been a competitive force. IC SA lost a mere handful of games as the match turned out to be merely a gentle warm up for stiffer challenges ahead.

Ethiopia quickly adapted to the high altitude conditions where the ball flies through the air quicker and bounces higher off the hard court. Playing the TSA Development team they proved their greater experience in tournament play by being able to capitalize on their chances whilst the young Development players would have learnt that control of shot on important points is a pre requisite in closing out games and sets.

The Development teams Mpho Masambuka gained their only point when he recovered from the loss of the first set without gleaning a game, to come back and win the second 63 and the Pro tie break 10 4. He showed tremendous character in recovering from the early loss. The Development boys should have taken at least a set in their doubles but a spate of double faults when leading 65 and 40-15, cost them their serve and ultimately the match. But there were some plucky performances from these young development players who are products of Tennis SA Growthpoint development programme.

Full results from day 1.

IC SA beat Botswana 6 matches to 0.

BOYS SINGLES

Carl Roothman beat Seabo Shakshando 60 60

Mikaeel Woodman beat Arnold Bleskirk 60 61

GIRLS SINGLES

Christine Kruger beat Lily Poely 60 61

Naledi Manyubi beat Atlang Chongwe 60 60

BOYS DOUBLES

IC SA beat Botswana 60 60

GIRLS DOUBLES

IC SA BEAT BOTSWANA 61 60