Sieber hangs tough against scrappy Lim

MANILA, Philippines - Fancied Marc Sieber used his power and experience to repulse teener Alberto Lim Jr., 6-3, 7-5, and reach the quarterfinal round of the men’s singles in the PCA (Philippine Columbian Association) Open tennis championships presented by Cebuana Lhuillier at PCA clay-shell courts in Plaza Dilao, Paco yesterday.

After a pair of shutout wins, the 24-year-old Sieber found the going tough against the game Lim, who came off an inspiring victory in the Phinma juniors international championships two weeks ago.

Lim, 13, matched the 2010 champion’s speed and power but failed to completely stun the Fil-German, who held on in the second set to prevail.

“It’s good to see young players showing their talents and confidence on the court,’’ said Sieber, ranked 516th in the world who has signified his intention to join the national team next year.

Sieber faces another young talent in his semis bid as last year’s finalist Jurence Zosimo Mendoza wore down former champion Joseph Victorino, 7-6 (7-2), 1-0 ret., in the other Last 16 match.

The 16-year-old Mendoza, who recently won in Thailand, was always a step ahead of the 2002 titlist and former Philippine No. 1 player who lost steam after the grueling tiebreak.

Fil-Am Treat Huey, seeded seventh here, also gained a Last 8 spot with a 6-3, 6-2 victory over Ronard Joven in the tournament sponsored by Cebuana Lhuillier, Kia, Dunlop, Head, Babolat, Whirlpool, PCSO and PVL Restaurants.

Huey, world ranked 39th in doubles and spearhead of the Phl Davis Cup team, will take on former Cupper and fourth seed Elbert Anasta, who stopped US NCAA stalwart and former Australian Open junior doubles titlist Francis Casey Alcantara, 7-5, 4-6, 7-5.

Six-time champion Johnny Arcilla also moved on by thumping Fil-Italian Marc Reyes, 6-2, 6-2, for a quarters clash with former Phl No. 1 and Davis Cupper Patrick John Tierro, who booted out Roel Capampangan, 6-4, 6-0.

Jeson Patrombon rallied from a set down to beat Kyle Dandan, 4-6, 6-4, 6-4, to likewise advance to the quarters.