Gonzales, Martin lead faves’ march

CENON Gonzales and Jake Martin disposed of their foes yesterday and led the advance of seeded players to the second round of the fifth PSC-Philta national age-group tennis tournament at Rizal Memorial Tennis Center.

The third-seeded Gonzales overwhelmed Noah Ramos, 6-1, 6-0, while No. 7 Martin routed Joseph Gadon, 6-1, 6-2, in the boys 16-under category.

Also making progress in the 18-under class were Emmanuel Fuellas who defeated Miguel del Rosario, 6-3, 6-4; Manuel Balce III who eliminated Ricarte Santos, 6-0, 6-1; Aidyll Ignacio who beat Jeremiah Macias, 6-2, 3-6 (10-7); Romnee Kyle Joseph who drubbed Michael Tan, 6-2, 6-1; Paolo So, who trounced Marraphael Teng, 5-7, 7-6 (7-5), (10-5); and Mark Chapa, who beat Kurt Molina, 7-6 (7-5), 6-2.

Gonzales will next face the winner between Jose San Buenaventura and Eric Ogawa who were still playing at press time, while Martin battles either Kurt Molina or Javier de Jesus.

Balce actually scored a double victory after beating Miguel del Rosario, 6-3, 6-0, in the 16-under category.

The tournament, sponsored by the Philippine Sports Commission and backed by Asiatraders, Corp. for the Dunlop Fort All Court Balls, will determine the players’ yearend rankings.