Anasta stops Tierro for Philta crown

VICENTE Elbert Anasta displayed patience and staying power to outlast Patrick John Tierro, 7-5, 6-3, 7-6 (11-9), Sunday and claim the men’s singles title of the Olivarez-Philta Open presented by Palawan Pawnshop Express Pera Padala at Olivarez Sports Center in Sucat, Parañaque.

The 29-year-old Anasta, a Philippine Davis Cup team veteran who ousted favorite Francis Casey Alcantara in the semifinals, matched Tierro’s high-powered game in the best-of-five championship match. He wasted three match points before clinching top honors and P40,000.

Anasta, a 6-foot enlisted personnel in the Philippine Army, also showed that he’s in better shape than the 25-year-old former No. 1 who went home with P20,000.

Earlier Sunday, top-seed Clarice Patrimonio recovered in time to beat No. 2 Marinel Rudas, 3-6, 6-4, 6-4, for the ladies’ singles crown.

In juniors’ action, fourth seed Andrew Joshua Cano downed Eric Jed Olivarez, 4-6, 6-1, 6-4, to take the boys’ 16-under crown. No. 16 Godfrey Seno completed his long hard climb in the draw by whipping Gabriel Tiamson, 6-0, 6-0, for the 14-under title.