Matched up against the more skilled OC -- KI had quite the battle on his hands! OC possesses without question the best two-handed backhand in TowerTennis! Couple this with one of the top serves, and a topspin forehand that he can direct anywhere he wants, and you have the makings of a shutout. KI's challenge under such circumstances was to win anything he could -- and he did!
OC found success targeting KI's backhand by hitting multiple shots deep to the right corner. Meanwhile, KI ripped a few smoking serves OC's way! One serve was a blistering ace that was so good KI broke out into dance (Like a NFL touchdown celebration)! Although these big KI serves gave him an edge, he didn't finish the point on OC's return. KI frequently, made himself vulnerable by hitting up on the ball. Although this has a neutral effect if the ball is deep. Anything landing between the net, and the service line will set the opponent up for a winning stroke.
OC's game was quite dominant, but there were several long rallies. Losing the 1st-set 6-0, KI faced a very real prospect of going down without a single victory. KI then mixes up a deep lob over a lunging OC to the left corner. Then follows with a drop-shot to prevent the shutout!
At triple match-point down, KI slams a service winner to stay alive -- But quickly succumbs to an OC forehand cross-court nailing the sideline. OC eliminates KI 6-0, 6-1.
