Carreras stars in Gibraltar’s first Island Games gold

And it was Gibraltar’s squad of Ewa Bielanowicz, Bianca Seromenho, Lindsay De Haro-Sene and Amanda Carreras who were celebrating come 1pm, on a baking hot afternoon at Sandpits Tennis Club.

The final was staged over two singles and one doubles match.

The gold medal clash went all the way through to the doubles, where De Haro-Sene and Carreras ran out winners 2-1 thanks to a straight set victory (6-4, 6-2).

A stunning performance in all three rounds from Carreras was the catalyst for the host island’s triumph.

She won all three singles matches in straight sets without dropping a single game – a faultless performance from Gibraltar’s own.

But despite appearing to cruise to glory, the 29-year-old remained both overjoyed and humble following her team’s success.

“I’m very proud,” Carreras said. “It was a tough doubles and my partner was quite nervous, but it was a good game and I’m happy to get the gold.”

Having featured twice at Wimbledon (2013, 2015), Carreras isn’t one to be fazed by the big stage.

“I am used to playing at quite a high level – these games are different but I had to keep my concentration high and I’m happy with the level I’ve been playing at this week.

“Lindsay’s not only my partner she’s my good friend so it was very nice to get the gold with her and with the team as well.”

It was the tennis quartet who set the ball rolling for Gibraltar in terms of gold medals, but they didn’t have to wait too long for their second.

10-07-19 PANORAMAdailyGIBRALTAR