Irons falls in Rip Curl Pro semis

BELLS BEACH, Australia — Joel Parkinson, last year’s runner-up, posted the only perfect 10 of the tournament in the semi finals to eliminate defending two times Rip Curl Pro champion Andy Irons on Thursday. Parkinson also earned the highest overall tally with 19.5 points.

Irons had earlier collected the highest overall tally during round three, but against Parkinson, the Kauaian was unable to stop his opponent. Irons led momentarily during the exchange before Parkinson locked in his perfect ride to storm ahead, Irons opting to return to the shore six minutes early.