The Kettle Chips U-14 European tournament came to a close last weekend at the Vittoriosa Lawn Tennis Club (VLTC).

On a hot day, the boys’ singles final was contested by two promising players, both determined to collect maximum points and strengthen their position in the international category rankings.

Italian Edoardo Chiericoni battled past Jorge Plans, of Spain, winning in straight sets – 6-2 7-6.

Although the set scores suggest that it was a straightforward affair for Chiericoni, the result does not give a clear picture of what really happened on court.

The final was a tight affair with the two players blazing shots across court and fighting for each and every ball.

In the girls’ event, Alina Shcherbenina, a locally-based Russian player, made it to the final where she met Federica Sacco, of Italy.

The match was characterised by several breakpoints for the two contenders.

However, the excessive heat did not help with breaks taking longer than usual.

Finally, Sacco overcame Shcherbenina 7-6 6-1 to claim the Under-14 title.

On a positive note for the local organisers of the tournament, Francesca Curmi and Shcherbenina claimed the girls doubles title after beating Marguax Komano (France) and Charlotte Russel (Britain) 7-5 6-2.

Victor Rutter, VLTC official, thanked sponsors Kettle Chips for their backing of the tournament during the presentation of trophies to the winners and runners-up.