Rho stops Depilo, Mikha on cusp of crown

STA. ROSA, Laguna, Philippines  – Hyun Ho Rho staged a dramatic comeback to claim the first semifinal berth in the ICTSI The Country Club Match Play Invitational, edging Rico Depilo on the 19th hole in a pulsating quarterfinal duel at the TCC course here on Thursday.

Facing a daunting three-hole deficit, the 18-year-old Rho birdied the par-4 No. 14 and capitalized on Depilo’s errors to win Nos. 16 and 17, leveling the match heading into the final hole.

Depilo managed to force an extra hole but faltered when his approach on the tricky par-4 No. 1 found water, handing Rho the hard-fought victory.

The other semis matchup will feature seasoned veteran Jay Bayron versus Albin Engino.

Meanwhile, Mikha Fortuna moved one step closer to claiming back-to-back titles in beating Marvi Monsalve, 3&1, in the semis of women’s play.

She heads into the championship match against Florence Bisera who secured her finals spot with a hard-fought 1-up victory over Daniella Uy in a tense semis duel.

“I feel the same as last year, but I’m not setting any expectations. If I win, then I win,” said Fortuna.