Lazaro pulls off upset vs Anasta

MANILA, Philippines - Seventh seed Leander Lazaro pulled the rug from under No. 3 Elbert Anasta, 2-6, 7-6 (2), 7-5, to arrange a semifinal showdown with seven-time champion Johnny Arcilla yesterday in the 32nd Philippine Columbian Association Open at the PCA covered courts.

“I worked hard for each point and persevered,” the 20-year-old Lazaro, enjoying his best performance in a major tourney, said in Filipino. “I knew if it reached a deciding set, I had a chance to win.”

Lazaro’s giant-killing ways will be severely tested today as he goes up against Arcilla, who won via default over quarterfinal rival Kim Saraza.

No. 2 PJ Tierro and No. 4 Marc Reyes will figure in the other semis duel, advancing at the expense of  No. 6 Ronard Joven, 6-4, 6-2, and Arvin Ruel, 6-1, 6-3, respectively.