Singapore Open: Wang Zhengming sends Kenichi Tago packing in Men’s Singles round-of-16
China’s young shuttler Wang Zhengming found his impressive form back as he reached into Men’s Singles top-eight stage after putting up stunning performance against the higher ranked Kenichi Tago of Japan in round-of-16 clash at the Li Ning Singapore Open
Super Series on Thursday, June 21, in Singapore.
The in-form Zhengming, who is currently positioned at number 18 in the world rankings, proved his supremacy as he overwhelmed the third seeded Tago who is World Number 8 at the moment.
The lower ranked Zhengming failed to prove his mettle in the opening set but powered his way back in the second game. He continued putting up impressing show in the deciding game and sent Tago packing in three games.
On the other hand, the higher ranked Tago started his run in a dominating manner but failed to maintain his upper hand over his un-seeded Chinese opponent and eventually lost the battle in rubber games in 71 minutes.
In the opening game, there was no difference in speed and perfection from both sides as they also kept the pace high until the mid-game interval when the score remained close.
After the break, they continued their elevated play until 17-17 when Zhengming failed to play positively and lost the game to his higher ranked rival with a 17-21 score on the board.
In the second game, Tago tried to establish an early lead as he played aggressive badminton but failed to take charge of rallies as his opponent was also playing at his best speed.
Until the interval, both shuttlers were again close on the score board.
However, it was Zhengming who took over the control from Tago and started to create gap on the board. He was impressive in his shot placement and managed to win the set with a 21-17 margin on the board.
In the deciding game, Zhengming proved his supremacy when he pushed Tago on back foot and took an 11-8 lead until the break.
After the interval, the Chinese continued his elevated performance and easily wrapped up the final game with a 21-16 margin on the board.
Zhengming won this interesting rubber-set fight in 71 minutes with a wonderful score of 17-21, 21-17 and 21-16.
Tags: