Tough going for Bermuda tennis boys

Bermuda’s U16 tennis representatives endured a tough day in the single’s event at the JITIC 2013 Tennis Tournament in the Dominican Republic.

Billy Boyle ended his run in the Main Draw in the second round when he ran into an old opponent in Jose Olivares of the Dominican Republic and lost 6-1, 6-2. Despite the overpowering scoreline, Boyle had some good exchanges and played well, but couldn’t overcome the height and power of his opponent.

In the Back Draw, Courtland Boyle lost in straight sets to Jorge Ortize Garcia of Peurto Rico. Garcia took the first set 4-0 and held off Courtland Boyle in the second to win 5-3.

Nicolas Lines was a bright spot for Bermuda, winning another tough game as he moves through the Back Draw. He dropped the first set 4-0 but came back to take the second 4-1. The third set tied at four apiece, resulting in a tie-break round, which Nick won 11-9 in dramatic fashion.

In doubles play, delayed by one day due to the rain, Courtland and Billy Boyle took on NabilMuhammed and Gian Luc Robinson of Trinidad and Tobago. This proved to be more work that the Bermudians planned. The doubles scoring format is two tie break sets, with no adds and a match tie break if the sets are split. Bermuda jumped out to a 3 games to 1 lead only to see it evaporate in no time at all, losing the first set 6-4. 

The second set was just as close but once Bermuda got the lead this time they managed to maintain it, winning 6-3. Another quick start saw the Bermuda duo up 4-1 in the 10-point match tie break. Unfortunately, things got a little shaky again and soon it was six points apiece. 

Bermuda again got a crucial break and then we were ahead 8-7. This was enough to shake off the nerves as Courtland and Billy Boyle claimed the match tie-break 10-7.