Jono Hurley will start favourite for the men's title when the Wairarapa closed singles tennis championships are played at the Masterton Tennis Centre tomorrow night, but only just. The big serving Hurley will be looking to outpower his opponent Baden Stevenson and past history suggests that will be the case. But whileHurley has the better record overall the last time the two met in a Wellington inter-club match just prior to Christmas it was actually Stevenson who came out on top. So he will be lacking nothing on the score of confidence as a result of that success. The two players have contrasting styles with the more aggressive Hurley sure to be better suited if it becomes a match of short rallies and Stevenson, as befits his more patient approach, thriving if long rallies are the order of the day. Hurley had his power game working to good effect in his semi-final with Geoff Janse, something illustrated by the comfortable 6-1, 6-2 scoreline, But Stevenson was made to work overtime by the experienced Russell Broughton before winning 6-2, 3-6, 6-3. The women's title will see current Wairarapa No.1 Katie Wyeth playing former Central Districts representative Leanne Sweeney. Sweeney's appearances on both the club and representative scene have been spasmodic over the past couple of seasons and therefore Wyeth should have the edge in fitness. However, Sweeney has the tactical nous to help counter any disadvantage there, and another close battle is anticipated.
