Tere-Apisah knocks crown off Vanuatu’s princess

 ABIGAIL Tere-Apisah knocked off Vanuatu’s tennis princess Lorainne Banimatak in straight sets (6-0, 6-3) in the women’s singles event yesterday.

This is the third win in as many matches for Tere-Apisah and the Papua New Guinea women’s tennis team which has elevated them to lead Group C. Apisah described the challenge against the Ni-Vanuatu as a game that she did not really enjoy playing. 

She said she put in a fresh effort in the first start but in the second start, she started well but did not like the style of play by her opponent. 

“She was really playing the type of game that I don’t like at first and I was not feeling comfortable playing (with her) but I kept my head as it was competition at the highest sporting level.

“I just inserted extra effort in the last set and fortunately, I won the second start and of course the match. Lorraine is a good player and she gave a good challenge but the only thing was that I didn’t like her style of play and at times I was nervous,” Tere-Apisah said. 

She said yesterday’s match was the last in their pool and they were just waiting for the final playoffs today in the women’s event.

“There are three teams in our group and we will all play each other, with the top country going into the playoffs,” she said. 

Vanuatu’s Banimatak said she experienced a tough game against the Papua New Guinean. 

“Even though it was my second Pacific Games, the way Abigail played was challenging for me.”