Arcilla grabs singles crown in Cebuana Lhuillier tennis

CEBU, Philippines - Johnny Arcilla remained as the 'king' of Cebuana Lhuillier Men’s Open Tennis after dominating the fifth edition yesterday at the Baseline tennis courts.

Arcilla and PJ Tierro also defended their doubles title without sweat.

Arcilla collected his fourth singles crown after defeating Armyman Vicente Elbert “Onyok” Anasta, who retired in the deciding set, 6-4, 4-6, 4-3.

At the start of the deciding set, chair umpire Marlon Gasing already sensed something is wrong with Anasta as he was already shaking his hand in between serves.

Anasta tried to hide the pain as he even zoomed to a 3-0 lead, but Arcilla kept his poise and composure.

Negative vibes on Arcilla’s side suddenly went away, the gloomy skies cleared and lady luck went on his side as he was able to cut down Anasta’s lead, one by one.

At 3-2, Anasta asked for a medic due to leg cramps and then got an emergency time out to change shorts.

After Arcilla’s fourth point, Anasta, on bended knees, surrendered.

Arcilla tried to check on his condition but was not allowed to do so right away by the umpire.

Anasta faltered, went flat on the clay court for about half an hour, while being given medical assistance.

“Nakabantay na ko nga lain na ang dinuwaan ni Onyok so nipadayon lang gyud ko. Maayo gani kay wala pud ko nag-cramps. Pasalamat lang gyud ko sa Ginoo ani nga blessing, para sa among balay, para tabang sa akong pamilya,” said the 32-year-old Arcilla. (FREEMAN)