Alex Eala begins US Open stint with straight-set win vs. American foe

Alex Eala opened her US Open stint with a straight-set win.

By Ivan Saldajeno

MANILA--Alex Eala began her climb in the US Open juniors division ladder on a high note early Wednesday (Philippine Time) after beating host country favorite Charlotte Owensby, 6-3, 6-3, in the second round of the girls' singles event at the Flushing Meadows in New York City.

Eala, seeded second in the tournament and got a first round bye, recovered from an early 0-2 hole in the first set by dominating the rest of the set.

She then took control of Set 2 to complete the straight-set finish.

Despite not scoring an ace, Eala was efficient in the service game, winning on 66 percent of her first serves and 64 percent in her second serves.

She also toned down on her errors, only committing one double fault against Owensby's six and 14 in total compared to her opponent's 25.

Eala will next face Michaela Laki of Greece in the third round.

Laki, seeded 15th in the US Open, turned back another American, Elizabeth Coleman, in straight sets, 6-0, 6-4, in another Round 2 action.

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