MANILA — Alexandra Eala advanced to the quarterfinals of the Birmingham Open after dismantling Alina Charaeva, 6-2, 7-5, in the Round of 16 on Thursday night, continuing her strong campaign on the grass-court circuit.
The Filipina tennis ace controlled the match from the outset, combining efficient serving and aggressive baseline play to secure the straight-sets victory and move within two wins of a place in the tournament final.
Eala dominated in nearly every statistical category. She fired three aces and committed only one double fault while landing 80 percent of her first serves. She won 73 percent of points behind her first serve, compared to just 56 percent for Charaeva.
The 21-year-old also held the edge on second-serve points, winning 64 percent compared to her opponent’s 43 percent.
Eala capitalized on four of her nine break-point opportunities and limited Charaeva to just one break in three chances. Her effectiveness on return was equally evident as she amassed a 32-18 advantage in receiving points won.
The Filipina standout finished with a commanding 74-52 lead in total points won and a 13-7 edge in games. At one stage, she reeled off five consecutive games and an eight-point run that helped put the match firmly under her control.
The victory further underscored Eala’s growing comfort on grass as she booked a place in the last eight of the tournament, where she will continue her bid for a semifinal berth./PN
