THE NMI men’s tennis team outplayed Kiribati, 3-0, in the opening match Thursday of the Pacific Mini Games at the American Memorial Park tennis courts.
Robert Schorr was the first to score a win for the NMI by overpowering Kiribati’s Benjamin Kourabi 4-0, 4-0 in the Men’s Singles.
Schorr stood his ground throughout both sets. When Kourabi managed to successfully return, Schorr changed speed with lobs to create an opening for the quick finish.
Kourabi had control of the momentum during a few exchanges but he was eventually worn down by Schorr’s constant pressure.
“It feels great, especially having a bunch of people come out to watch and support — it’s the best,” Schorr said. “It’s amazing to be able to play here at home; there’s nothing about it that I would not enjoy.”
Asked what his game strategy was, he replied, “To make balls, and stay aggressive.”
Another sweep
Colin Sinclair provided the second win for the NMI by dominating Kiribati’s Aato Baori Torua 4-0, 4-0 in the second Men’s Singles match.
Sinclair showcased another brilliant performance with highlights from the service line. The power behind his serve caught Torua off-guard several times.
Torua tried to turn the tables and forced Sinclair to overcommit. However, Sinclair quickly regained his rhythm to seal victory.
“It’s great,” he said. “We’re off and running.”
He said he attempted to end the match as quickly as possible to shut down any chance of a sudden comeback on the part of his opponent. “You want to give your opponent the respect they deserve, but you also want to play your hardest,” Sinclair added.
The NMI’s third win came in the Men’s Doubles with the pair of Schorr and Colin Ramsey taking down Torua and Kourabi, 4-0, 4-2.
The NMI’s Colin Sinclair reaches out for the front hand return during the opening Pacific Mini Games tennis match Thursday against Kiribati at an American Memorial Park tennis court.
Robbie Schorr of the NMI connects the serve against Kiribati during the opening Pacific Mini Games tennis match Thursday against Kiribati at an American Memorial Park tennis court.