Tuesday, January 08, 2008 Lagman falters in 14-Under; loses to Talatayod, 6-2, 6-2
CEBU’S tennis sensation Jacob Lagman ended his gallant bid in the 19th Andrada Cup with a runnerup finish yesterday at the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex tennis courts.
Nine months after Lagman ousted Dheo Talatayod in a come-from-behind win in the Palarong Pambansa, it was Talatayod’s turn to avenge the loss yesterday.
Talatayod won over Lagman, 6-2, 6-3, and now stands a win ahead of Lagman in there head-to-head battle at 5-4.
“That has been the trend for these two players. They take turns winning over the other,” said Jacob’s mother Julie.
Yesterday’s match however, lacked the excitement brought about when the two players meet. In the Palaro, which follows a straight eight format, Lagman managed to overhaul a 1-7 deficit to eventually win, 8-7.
This is Lagman’s first competition in the Boys 14 division and Talatayod’s last year in this category.
“This is just the first of many matches that these two will be having for the next 12 months. Hopefully the next ones will be for Jacob,” said Julie.
Standings
Lagman is trying to build his way up the standings and needs to win as many Philta-rated competitions in order to rack up points.
In the Boys 12, Lagman had no difficulty dominating the division for two years as he was clearly above par compared to the other players in that age group.
Still, losing last Sunday’s title was not a disappointment for Lagman as it had given him enough points to give him a boost in the national rankings of the age division.
Rated
The Andrada Cup is only one of very few competitions that is rated Group II by the Philippine Tennis Association. Group 11 competitions gives winners higher points compared to others.
Lagman will be coming home in time for the start of the classes at St. Benedict Learning Centre. The graduating sixth grader will be taking a respite from competitions for a while to focus on his studies before once more gearing up for tougher competitions during the summer season, when tennis competitions are abound. (MCB)
