Canlas, Macalino move to semis in HK netfest

The Philippine tandem of Christian Canlas and Daniel Luis Macalino stretched their winning streak by reaching the semifinals of the 14-under team event in the CSL Rice Bowl Invitational Junior Tennis Championships in Hong Kong.

Adidas and Wilson player Canlas and Macalino, students of Ateneo de Manila, fashioned out a stirring win for the RP team, blanking Sri Lanka with Canlas stopping their rival’s top 14-under player, 7-5 6-3, in the opening day. The RP boys went on to post a 3-0 over Sri Lanka.

On the second day of action, the RP team won over HK Falcon (2-1). Macalino lost to Yat Sing Song, 2-6, 3-6, while Canlas defeated Rex Lo, 6-2, 6-2. In doubles, the RP outlasted the HK side, 6-2 6-7(6), 8-6.

The Philippines later routed Indonesia, 3-0, with Macalino beating Andreas Linuwih, 4-6, 6-4, 6-3, Canlas toppling Felix Halim, 6-3, 6-0.

The tournament is one of the major international events of the Hong Kong Tennis Association and has proved to be a breeding ground for outstanding young tennis talents from all over the world. This year alone, the event has attracted players from 10 countries.