Two-time CRC Open men's singles champion, Melvin Tong, was in irresistible form yesterday as he partnered teenager Karen Au-Yeung to defeat top-seeded John Hui and Jackie Fu in straight sets 7-6(3), 6-3 to capture his second career Mixed Doubles crown at the CRC Open 2002 following his last win in 1997 with Cindy Hah.

Hui and Fu had the chance to wrap up the opening set with Hui serving at 5-3 after they broke the inexperienced Au-Yeung, who was beset with repeated double faults and inopportune unforced errors.

But Tong came up big when it mattered and played some inspired tennis to break the Hui serve to eventually force a tiebreak after the scores were back on level terms. Tong again dominated the important points, coming up with winning overheads and volleys to claim the tiebreak, 7-3.

Tong continued with his solid play and demonstrated comprehensive, highly efficient court coverage as he carried his junior partner to establish a quick-fire 4-1 lead in the second set.

Hui and Fu, who had not dropped a set all week, were beginning to show frustration as they were plagued by mounting errors of their own. They were unable to withstand the escalating onslaught displayed by Tong as the No. 2 seeds served out comfortably for a 7-6(3), 6-3 victory.