Arcilla opens PCA title defense in style

MANILA, Philippines - Former RP No. 1 Johnny Arcilla overpowered veteran campaigner Rolly Anasta, 6-1, 6-1, to set in motion his title-retention campaign in the 29th Philippine Columbian Association Open at its indoor clay courts in Plaza Dilao, Paco, Manila yesterday.

The 28-year-old Arcilla didn’t leave anything to chance, mercilessly finishing off Anasta in an hour at the start of the prestigious local netfest.

“It’s a great start for me although I expect tough challenges in the next rounds,” said Arcilla, a five-time PCA Open champion.

Filipino-American Andrew Cooney walloped Jessie Lapore, 6-1, 6-0, to set up a second-round tiff with Arcilla.

“I didn’t get the chance to see him play. Perhaps my advantage in our match is my familiarity with the court and the weather,” said Arcilla.

Another Fil-Am Rickey Baylo and former Davis Cupper Patrick John Tierro likewsie opened their respective title aspirations with a bang in this meet backed by ACCEL, Dunlop, PVL, Whirlpool, Coca Cola, San Miguel, Lizardo Tennis Academy, Tennis Athletes Unlimited, Babolat, Wilson, The Philippine STAR, Prudential Life, Carlo Rossi, Bayan ng San Jose Occidental Mindoro, Alagang Cebuana Plus, Just Jewels, Le Soleil de Boracay, Phiten and Pera Padala.

Baylon survived qualifier Martin Ramos, 6-4, 7-5, to arrange a second-round encounter with Tierro who disposed of Ronald Dazo, 6-1, 6-1.

Other opening day winners were Elbert Anasta over Allan Antigua, 6-3, 6-1; Rolando Ruel Jr. over Rolee Joven, 6-1, 6-3; Antonio Sagansay over Russel Arcilla Jr., 6-3, 6-3; Ronald Joven over John Antiche, 6-3, 6-1; Ruel Arvin over Michael Basco, 6-2, 6-2; Jovan Divinagracio over Andre Banate, 6-1, 6-2; and Chris Cuarto over Ferdie de Guzman, 6-1, 6-2.

A total cash pot of P500,000 is up for grabs in the tourney with the men’s champion getting P100,000 and the women’s winner bagging P50,000.