IPTL: Manila Mavericks complete win over stuttering Indian Aces in Singapore

Indian Aces slumped to a second successive defeat in the International Premier Tennis League after suffering a 25-20 loss against Manila Mavericks.

Dominant victories in the doubles turned the match around for Manila and they held on for victory, despite a narrow defeat for Jo-Wilfried Tsonga in the closing men’s singles encounter.

Mark Philippoussis had made a winning start for the Mavericks as the big-serving Australian claimed a 6-4 win over Cedric Pioline in the ‘icons’ set.

But Ana Ivanovic hit back in the women’s singles, securing a convincing 6-2 victory over Kirsten Flipkens to leave the Aces in command.

Manila duo Flipkens and Daniel Nestor produced a determined response in the mixed doubles, securing a 6-2 win, while teammates Treat Huey and Tsonga matched this margin of victory in the men’s doubles.

Tsonga was edged out by Monfils 6-5 in the men’s singles, but had done enough to secure a much needed win for the Mavericks after Wednesday’s defeat by UAE Royals.

Philippoussis, who is unbeaten in the competition, told iptlworld.com: “I served three double faults in the first game, it’s tough. I found myself starting on the back foot.

"It’s Cedric’s first time here so it was tough for him to get his timing. I’m just happy to get a good start for the team.”