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Irish Open Day 4: Quarterfinals

Arthur — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 09:27:27 +0000

Cannon Kirk Homes Irish Open

30 August up to 4 September 2010

Pictures on www.facebook.com/squashstars

Day 4, Women’s Quarterfinals:

Ready and waiting.

[1] Madeline Perry (IRL) bt. [Q] Victoria Lust (ENG)
11/7, 11/5, 11/2 (25 mins)
[4] Laura Massaro (ENG) bt. [6] Sarah Kippax (ENG)
7/11, 11/2, 8/11, 11/3, 11/8 (60mins)
[7] Aisling Blake (IRL) bt. [3] Natalie Grinham (NED)
11/4, 11/4, 9/11, 11/3 (42 mins)
[5] Vanessa Atkinson (NED) bt. [2] Natalie Grainger (USA)
11/7, 11/6, 11/7 (23 mins)

BY Arthur Curran

Hello, Ireland!

[1] Madeline Perry (IRL) bt. [Q] Victoria Lust (ENG)

Victoria and Madeline

First up today saw No 1 seed and Irish favourite Madeline Perry against the young English player Victoria Lust, the only qualifier to make her way through to the quarter finals. Victoria is not yet used to playing against top ranked players, but she is certainly learning very quickly, and seems toimprove every time I see her play. Madeline showed her experience and skill to take a 10/4 lead in the first with Victoria, although fighting hard, seeming to find the pace a little too quick, but she did save 3 game balls before Madeline took the game 11/7.

In the second Victoria picked up the odd single point in between some short breaks from Madeline, and Madeline served out to take the game 11/5. With Victoria visibly tiring, Madeline worked hard into a 9/1 lead, Victoria managed to take two points at this stage but Madeline then served out to take the game 11/3 and the match 3 games to nil in 25 minutes.

Madeline, looking forward to the semis now!

[4] Laura Massaro (ENG) bt. [6] Sarah Kippax (ENG)
Second ladies match up was between two England team mates, #4 seed Laura Massaro and #6 seed Sarah Kippax, so this was expected to be quite a close encounter, which it proved to be. Laura seemed a little out of sorts in the first game and Sarah, 16 places below her in the rankings, took advantage of this, playing some great squash, and won the game 11/7.

Laura, returning Sarah's shot.

Laura to play Madeline tomorrow.

Laura came out much more determined in the second, and flew into a 7/0 lead, Sarah stopped the flow slightly with 2 points, but then Laura carried on to win the game 11/2. Laura moved out to an early 5/3 lead but Sarah slowly pulled back to 6/5, then 9/7, and finally took the game 11/8 to lead 2 – 1. In the fourth, from 3/3 Laura put in a great run of points to take the game 11/3 and level the match.

Laura scored the first point of the deciding game, before Sarah galloped in to a 6/1 lead, but with a beautiful crosscourt drop Laura stopped that gallop and went on a good run of her own to move into the lead 7/6. Although Sarah fought back to lead 8/7, with both players playing some lovely shots, Laura came back at the end with a run of 4 points to win the game 11/8 and the match 3 – 2 after just on an hour of very enjoyable squash.

[7] Aisling Blake (IRL) bt. [3] Natalie Grinham (NED)

Third quarter final saw local favourite and #7 seed Aisling Blake take on new mum #3 seed Natalie Grinham from Holland. The gallery was quite full for this one with plenty of support for their local player Aisling, and as the match progressed it got fuller and fuller. Natalie did appear to be a little out of sorts but Aisling was in scintillating form and played probably the best squash of her career.

To the delight of the crowd she took the first two games 11/4, 11/4 and club members seemed to be appearing from everywhere. Natalie was determined not to let her have all her own way however, starting to show some of her natural skills, taking a 6/2 lead, but Aisling pulled back to level at 6/6, then they stayed level to 9/9, and Natalie showed her strength to take the game 11/9. But that was to be the end of any possible comeback, Aisling with some beautiful stroke play went into a 7/0 lead, slowed only by giving Natalie two points with mistakes, one tin and one out of court, then at 10/2 match ball, with the crowd really buzzing, Natalie saved one match ball with a lovely cross court drop, but Aisling took the next point to win 11/7 and the match 3 – 0. The crowd went wild with applause, and deservedly so.

How about that then?? And it was not the luck of the Irish, Aisling played brilliantly and really deserved this win, which she describes as the best win of her career. She was so happy afterwards, with her parents there to congratulate her, and the whole club (her local club here at Fitzwilliam) was and still is buzzing. A great result not just for Aisling but for the

tournament itself, with her being a local girl. Natalie had no complaints and certainly no excuses, although not back to full fitness since having baby Kieran, she told me “ I was beaten by a better player on the day”.

Natalie, digging deep.

Aisling looking fitter than ever!

The Blake Family

[5] Vanessa Atkinson (NED) bt. [2] Natalie Grainger (USA)

Former World Champs, Vanessa Atkinson and Natalie Grainger

In the last quarter final match there was another albeit minor shock to the seedings when #5 seed Vanessa Atkinson from Holland played #2 seed Natalie Grainger of the USA. With Natalie sparkling only in patches, and not looking really back to full fitness after her 12 month long lay off with a foot injury, Vanessa took advantage playing some really good squash, and won the match 11/7, 11/6, 11/7 in just 23 minutes.

So here in Dublin, with an Irish player in each semi final there is the possibility of an all Irish Final. How good would that be for this tournament and for Irish Squash? But we will have to wait and see, because Laura and Vanessa will definitely have some say in the matter.

Irish Open Day 3: Round 1

Arthur — Wed, 01 Sep 2010 15:14:21 +0000

Cannon Kirk Homes Irish Open

30 August up to 4 September 2010

Pictures on www.facebook.com/squashstars

Day 3, Women’s Round 1:

It's all thumbs up for SquashStar Aisling.

(5) Vanessa Atkinson (NED) beat Lauren Siddall (ENG)
11/3, 11/3, 11/7 (23 mins)
(2) Natalie Grainger (USA) beat Sharon Wee (MAS)
11/4, 11/6, 11/6 (20 mins)
(Q) Victoria Lust (ENG) beat (8) Alana Miller (CAN)
11/8, 11/6, 11/8 (37 mins)
(3) Natalie Grinham (NED) beat Annelize Naude (NED)
11/8, 3/11, 11/5, 8/11, 11/5. (36 mins)
(7) Aisling Blake (IRE) beat (Q) Leonie Holt (ENG)
11/7, 11/6, 9/11, 11/6 (45 mins)
(1) Madeline Perry (IRE) beat (Q) Sina Wall
11/9, 11/4, 11/4 (25 mins)
(4) Laura Massaro (ENG) beat Alexandra Norman (CAN)
11/5, 11/2, 11/4 (25 mins)
(6) Sarah Kippax (ENG) beat (Q) Laura Hill (ENG)
10/12, 11/8, 11/7, 11/3 (44 mins)

BY Arthur Curran

Lauren and Vanessa

The first two matches in the women’s draw were over rather quickly, with first former World No 1 Vanessa Atkinson of Holland defeating her friend and Pontefract club mate Lauren Siddall quite comfortably 11/3, 11/3, 11/7 in 28 minutes, then another former World No1 Natalie Grainger defeating Sharon Wee of Malaysia 11/4, 11/6, 11/6 in the even shorter time of 20 minutes.

Nice hairdo, Alana!

The third match between No 8 seed Alana Miller, just named in Canada’s squad for the Commonwealth games, and qualifier Vicky Lust of England turned out to be much more of a battle. The first game was really a battle, both ladies playing very strongly, the score moved up slowly and evenly up to 8/8, then Lust eased away to serve out 11/8. The second started a little slower up to 3/3, but then Lust put in a charge to go to 8/3. Despite Miller taking two points back at this stage, and saving one match ball at 10/5, Lust hung on to win 11/6. In the third the lead changed hands several times with both players doing their best to take control, which Lust did in the end to win 11/8 and the match 3 – 0. A really good win for young Victoria against a player ranked 24 places higher in the world.

Annelize and Natalie

The fourth match up was between the two Dutch compatriots Annelize Naude and Natalie Grinham, in her first match since having baby Kieran (he is already the star of the tournament here, more about that later). Natalie looked very fit and took a good early lead 8/2, playing her usual lovely squash, but Annelize stayed in the game and pulled it back to 8/9, then Natalie took he next two points and the game 11/8. Annelize led 4/1 in the second, Natalie pulled back to level, Annelize took the next point but that was to be her last in this game, Natalie taking 7 straight points to win the game 11/5. In the fourth, Natalie looked not quite back to full match fitness and Annelize took advantage of this with some great squash and after a four point sequence to go 9/5 up, held on to win 11/8. 2 games each and a decider to play. Natalie came back with her usual bouncy style, led 5/2 and 9/4 then served out to win the game 11/5 and the match 3 – 2. A great match between two really nice women, and a good workout for Natalie, who told me she just needs to play more top level games, but unfortunately may not be able to before the World Open.

Aisling and Leonie.

Next on the ladies court was local player and local favourite Aisling Blake, seeded No 7 and WR 26, up against the English qualifier WR 155 Leonie Holt. Leonie, despite her much lower ranking, showed to be a really gutsy player as she did in qualifying, kept fairly close to Aisling on the score card, but Aisling with her lovely dainty drop shots and her Irish grit eased away to win the first two games 11/7 and 11/6. But Leonie was not to be outdone, and in a gruelling third game she managed to win 11/9. This really was a great effort from Leonie, considering the difference in their rankings, but despite keeping fairly close to Aisling in the fourth, experience showed through in the end with Aisling taking the game 11/6 and the match 3 – 1 in a long 45 minutes. This was probably the biggest match of Leonie’s career and her coach Chris Ryder, just managing time to watch her before he took to the court in the men’s competition, was really happy with her performance.

Sina and top seed, Madeline.

Now we come to the No 1 seed and favourite for this tournament, Irish player Madeline Perry, WR 6, who was up against a young up and coming qualifier from Germany, qualifier Sina Wall, WR 212 (yes that is correct), who had fought so well through the qualifying rounds. She carried on that fighting spirit her in the first game and whilst never heading Madeline, she kept very close to her in the scoring, just losing out 11/9. Then Madeline showed her experience and skills, easing through 11/4 and 11/4 in the next two games. But keep an eye out for this youngster from Germany, I think she could go far in the next few years. But at least that pleased the local supporters, with now 2 Irish ladies through to the next round.

Still a couple more matches to go, with No 4 seed Laura Massaro from England easing through fairly comfortably against the young Canadian player Alexandra Norman, who is ranked 50 places below her, 11/5, 11/2, 11/4, despite a knock in the eye which could come up fairly black tomorrow. If it does nobody can blame husband Danny for causing it!!

Last up were two English ladies, No 6 seed Sarah Kippax, recently married to England coach David Campion, and full time fire fighter and part time, but very experienced, squash player Laura Hill from Derbyshire in England. Laura started out like a house on fire (pardon the pun) taking a great 10/2 lead, and despite Sarah pulling back to level at 10/10 she served out to take the game 12/10. However, Sarah then showed her much more tournament experience, along with her great racquet skills, to take the next 3 games 11/8, 11/7 and 11/3.

And so we came to the end of a really exciting and entertaining day of Squash, with some great matches to look forward to later today.

The Berden family pictured with tournament star, little Kieran Berden.

Arthur Curran lives in Manchester, England and is an avid squash fan, traveling to places like Belfast, Madrid, Monte Carlo, New York, Connecticut, Dublin and Kuala Lumpur to watch major tournaments, as well as extensively in the UK, and have on several occasions reported tournaments for squashsite.co.uk. Although too old and too ill to be able to play the game he is fascinated by the athleticism and skill involved in the game and with the friendliness shown by all the players.

Irish Open Day 2: Qualifying Round 2 Reports

Arthur — Wed, 01 Sep 2010 01:26:08 +0000

Cannon Kirk Homes Irish Open
30 August up to 4 September 2010

Pictures on www.facebook.com/squashstars

BY Arthur Curran

Day 1, Women’s Qualifiers:

Sina Wall (GER) beat Maud Duplomb (FRA)
7/11, 12/10, 11/5, 11/6 (49 mins) Plays Madeline Perry.

Leonie Holt (ENG) beat Laura Pomportes (FRA)
11/9, 11/2, 11/7 (27 mins) Plays Aisling Blake.

Laura Hill (ENG) beat Samantha Cornett (CAN)
11/8, 11/9, 11/7 (28mins) Plays Sarah Kippax.

Victoria Lust (ENG) beat Lotte Eriksen (NOR)
11/4, 11/4, 11/5 (29 mins) Plays Alanna Miller.

Maud Duplomb (FRA) and Sina Wall (GER)

First ladies match was Maud Duplomb of France (world ranking 67) against Sina Wall of Germany (WR 85). The first game found both ladies playing very long and strong, and were very level up to 7/7, but then Maud played a few short shots and won the game 11/7 with three very good drop shots. The second game was very even again playing long up to 9/9, Maud took the first game ball at 10/9 but Sina then produced some lovely shots to take the game 12/10. Sina then stormed into a 9/3 lead in the third with Maud seeming to tire, and despite Maud taking another 3 points Sina won the game 11/5. Again in the fourth Maud seemed to be tiring and Sina took the game 11/6 and the match 3 – 1 in 49 minutes.

Laura Pomportes (FRA) and Leonie Holt (ENG)

Next up for the ladies were Laura Pomportes of France (WR 75) and Leonie Holt of England (WR 97). The first game up was a very even battle with both players taking point for point, but at 9/9 Leonie served out for the game at 11/9. Leonie proved much stronger and better in the second winning quite comfortably 11/2. The third was again very even up to 6/5 for Laura, but then Leonie again took charge taking six of the next seven points to take the game 11/7 and the match 3 – 0. A great win for Leonie against a player more than 20 places above her in the rankings, and her coach, PSA player Chris Ryder, who arrived here just in time to watch his charge, said afterwards “That was the best game I have ever seen her play”. And Leonie followed up with “ That was my best win ever”. Well done to her. That win now gives her a first round match against local player and local favourite Aisling Blake.

Samantha Cornett (CAN) and Laura Hill (ENG)

Up next was Samantha Cornett of Canada (WR 89) and Laura Hill of England (WR 117) and despite the ranking difference it was felt that Laura, the full time firefighter from Derbyshire in England, would be too strong for the young Canadian. And so it proved, although Samantha gave a really good showing for such a youngster, but lost out to the much more experienced Laura 11/8, 11/9, 11/7.

Last up for the ladies was Victoria Lust of England (WR 61) against Lotte Eriksen of Norway (WR 106), with a difference of 45 places in the rankings surely Victoria would prove much too strong for Lotte, and so it proved, with Victoria winning fairly comfortably 11/4, 11/4, 11/5 in 29 minutes. She now plays Alanna Miller in the main draw.

Some really good matches today, with the English ladies coming out on top with three players out of the four going through to the first round main draw.

Irish Open Day 1: Qualifying Round Reports

Arthur — Tue, 31 Aug 2010 03:37:33 +0000

Cannon Kirk Homes Irish Open
30 August up to 4 September 2010

Pictures on www.facebook.com/squashstars

BY Arthur Curran

Day 1, Women’s Qualifiers:

: The girls, with ready smiles.

Maud Duplomb (FRA) beat Sandra Polak (AUT) 11/7, 11/3, 11/8. (20 mins)
Sina Wall (GER) beat Emily Whitlock (ENG) 11/5, 11/7, 11/7. (32 mins)
Laura Pomportes (FRA) beat Carrie Ramsay (ENG) 11/8, 11/8, 11/8. (31 mins)
Leonie Holt (ENG) beat Celia Allamargot (FRA) 7/11, 6/11, 11/7, 12/10, 11/6. (43mins)
Samantha Cornett (CAN) beat Zephanie Curgenven (ENG) 13/11, 11/5, 8/11, 9/11, 11/5. (37mins)
Laura Hill (ENG) beat Coline Aumard (FRA) 11/4, 11/8, 11/2 (18 mins)
Lotte Eriksen (NOR) beat Olga Ertlova (CZE) 11/4, 11/9, 11/9 (47 mins)
Victoria Lust (ENG) Bye.

The women’s matches, being played on an adjacent court to the men’s, caused a few problems for the writer, because there were quite a few stairs to negotiate between the two courts, but he soldiered on bravely. (Ed: That’s why we love you, Arthur!) There were good contingents representing England, with six players, and France with four, along with five other nationalities, and honours came out fairly even.

Maud, first to go through! Viva La France!

Whitlock vs Wall

First up was one of the French favourites Maud Duplomb, who held off a strong challenge from Austrian Sandra Polak to win 11/7, 11/3, 11/8 in 20 minutes. Next up was Emily Whitlock, the 16 year old from England against the rather more experienced Sina Wall of Germany, and despite Emily taking an early lead in each of her three games she was not strong enough to hold off the challenge, and Sina went on to win 11/5, 11/7, 11/7 in 32 minutes.

Next the first of the France/England clashes of which there were three. Young Carrie Ramsey from England, up against more experienced Laura Pomportes, fought very bravely, leading 8/5 in the first but Laura coming back in great style to take the game 11/8. The second game was very even up to 5/5, but then Laura zoomed ahead to 10/5, and despite Carrie saving 3 game balls, she took the second 11/8 again. In the third Carrie took a 7/4 lead but Laura took 7 of the next 8 points to win again 11/8, taking the match 3– 0 in 31 minutes.

France vs England

The third match was another France/England clash, and this turned out to be a sizzler. Celia Allamargot from France took a 5/2 lead against Leonie Holt of England in the first game, Leonie pulled back to 5/5, Celia then took 5 straight points to go 10/5. Although Leonie saved 2 game balls Celia took the next to win the game 11/7. In the second from 3/3 Celia stormed up to 9/3 and although Leonie pulled back three points Celia went on to win the game 11/6.

Was this to be another 3 – 0 to France over England? Well not if Leonie had anything to do with it, she was certainly not going down without a fight. Pulling back from 3/1 down in the third to lead 4/3 then 7/4, they traded point for point up to 11/7, game to Leonie. The small crowd, made up mainly of the other English and French players, were very noisy in their support for their own players, and they both fought valiantly, with long hard rallies and a few mistakes. Leonie took a 4/0 lead, Celia pulled back to lead 5/4, again Leonie pulled back to lead 7/5, Celia levelled at 7/7, then 8/8, 9/9 and 10/10, tie breaker. Leonie then took the next two points and the game 12/10. 2 games each, and both girls fighting really hard to win the match with some great rallies and fantastic shots. The decider was fairly even up to 5/5, Leonie then took 4 points in a row to lead 9/5, Celia pulled one back but Leonie took the next two to win the game 11/6 and the match 3 – 2. What a fantastic comeback and a fabulous match played as usual in a great spirit.

A very happy Leonie.

Zephanie Curgenven of England only got notification of her place in the qualifying round on Saturday whilst she was on holiday in her birthplace of Guernsey, travelled over to Ireland yesterday, Sunday, and went straight into action against a much more experienced Samantha Cornett from Canada. Both ladies started off very evenly, going up to 8/8, then Samantha took 2 points, 10/8game ball, but Zephanie took the next 3 points to lead 11/10 game ball, however Samantha took the next 3 and won the game 13/11. A very lively opening game to follow the previous match. In the second Samantha seemed the stronger, led 5/2 and although Zephanie took another three points Samantha served out to take the game 11/5 and a 2 – 0 lead. Samantha then took a 4/0 lead in the third and it looked all over for Zephanie, but she was determined to show that she had not come all the way here to be beaten easily. She took the next 6 points to lead 6/4, Samantha levelled to 6/6, 7/7 and 8/8 but Zephanie then served out to take the game 11/8 and stay in the match. She then took a 5/1 then a 7/3 lead in the fourth, Samantha pulled back to level 7/7, but after some great rallies and shots from both girls Zephanie took the game 11/9 and the match to a decider. Unfortunately Zephanie then ran out of steam after her fight back, and although she did not stop battling, Samantha took the decider 11/5 and the match 3 – 2. Another great match from the ladies.

The last two matches seemed a bit of an anti climax after these two, but Laura Hill, the fulltime fire fighter from England had a very convincing win over another French player, Coline Aumard, winning comfortably 3 – 0 in just 18 minutes. In the last match of the night for the ladies, Lotte Eriksen from Norway, who recently got her degree at Birmingham University and has now moved to Amsterdam to train under the major coaching force of Liz Irving, got a 3 – 0 victory over Olga Ertlova of the Czech Republic, although she had to battle to take the last two games 11/9 and 11/9. With Victoria Lust of England getting a bye because no reserves turned up, that was the women’s qualification first day complete.

Let’s look forward to some great matches tomorrow (Tuesday).

British Open Women’s Finale

Arthur — Tue, 15 Sep 2009 02:29:02 +0000

International SPORT Group British Open, Manchester England

10 – 14 September 2009

BY Arthur Curran

Day 6: The last battle

Rachael and Madeline in the finals!

Rachael Grinham (AUS) (2) vs. Madeline Perry (IRL) (5)
So now we come to the end of this long week awaiting this final between two of the oldest players on the circuit (and I know they will not mind me saying so).

Rachael makes her way onto court.

The head to head count between these two lovely ladies since October 2003 is 7 – 1 to Rachael, the only win Madeline managed was in the quarter finals of the KL Open in Feb 2006. They have not met in almost twelve months since Rachael won at the quarter final stage in Qatar in October 2008. The match, scheduled to start at 6.00 pm here in England, was delayed for reasons that may or may not come in the last section of this report*, but it visibly upset Rachael, because the writer was stood with her, and the match did not get started until 6.25 pm. However, this is how it went.

In the first game Rachael took an early lead 2-0, Madeline came back to 3-1, but then Rachael got into her rhythm playing some lovely strokes to take an 8-3 lead. Maddy pulled back two points but Rachael took the next two to have game ball at 10-5. Although Madeline saved the first one Rachael came back to take the next point and win the game 11-6.

They both seem to be wondering where the ball is.

Madeline receives some advice from friend Sarah Kippax.

In the second the start was very close up to 4-4, Rachael eased out to 6-4 and although Madeline took the next point Rachael finished the game quite comfortably 11-5, helped by at least one tin from Madeline. So it was 2 games to nil for Rachael. Madeline had been in this position before, against world number 1 Nicol David, and she cam back to win. Could Madeline do the same again?

The third game started very closely again but then Rachael took an early lead 6-2. Madeline pulled a couple of points back to 4-6, then Rachael went out to lead 9-4 with some lovely shots. Was this a match too far for Madeline? Nerves seemed to get to both players now, as Rachael tinned one stroke and Madeline won the next to go 6-9, Madeline then tinned the next to give Rachael the match ball at 10-6. Unbelievably Rachael then gave away four strokes on the trot with two tins, a shot right out of the court and one completely missed shot, thus taking the game to a tie break. Unfortunately for Madeline this was one step too far and Rachael served out to win the game 12-10 and the Championship for the fourth time in her career with a 3 games to nil match score in 40 minutes.

Rachael serves to Madeline in front of a packed back wall crowd and gallery.

This for me was a great end to the Ladies Tournament, this final, as were all the matches previously, was played in a brilliant spirit by two of the loveliest ladies on the circuit. The writer had the pleasure of a short chat with Madeline after the match, and although she was obviously upset at losing, she was so proud to represent Northern Ireland in the Final, the first time ever this had been achieved, and her parents were also so proud of her—and who could blame them?

Madeline's mum and dad, with younger sister and elder brother.

Well that is all from me now Squash Stars fans, I do hope you have enjoyed my reports from Manchester and I look forward to keeping in touch with many of you through the Squash Stars website and facebook.

Goodbye and good squash to you all.

Arthur Curran.

*Editor’s note: Readers may find the unedited version of Arthur’s final article here.

The Men’s Final Result Summary:
Nick Mathew (ENG) (4) bt. James Willstrop (ENG) (10) 8/11, 11/8, 7/11, 11/3, 12/10 (123m)

Check out more photos here on our Facebook Fan Page

Luck of the Irish!

Arthur — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 02:34:51 +0000

International SPORT Group British Open, Manchester England

10 – 14 September 2009

BY Arthur Curran

Day 5: Women’s Semi Finals

Semi Final Buzz! Ireland & Australia takes on England!

Rachel and Jenny

Rachael Grinham (AUS) (2) vs. Jenny Duncalf (ENG) (4)

Rachael has been at the top of this sport for quite a number of years now, 3 times a winner of this British Open title, a former World Champion and World No. 1, with lots of big match experience. Jenny has come to the forefront only in the last couple of years or so, but is the current British National Champion and last year reached the final of this tournament losing only to the great Nicol David. Their record against each other over the last six and a half years in major tournaments shows six straight wins for Rachael between Feb 2003 and October 2007, but then Jenny won the next four between May 2008 and May 2009, including the final of the Sharm El Sheik Open last December, however Rachael won their last meeting, defeating Jenny in the quarter final of the Malaysian Open just last month. So we were obviously expecting a great close match, and this we did.

Jenny serves to Rachael—notice the full house crowd in the back wall stand and in the gallery.

The first game started off very tentatively as they both felt their way into the match, but Jenny opened a slight lead at 6-3, Rachael pulled back a couple but Jenny then went 7-5 ahead. But back came Rachael taking four straight points to take game ball at 10-7, although Jenny took the next point she finished the next rally with a shot into the tin to give Rachael the first game 11-8.

Get the ball, Jenny!

In the second Jenny took the first two points, Rachael then took four straight but Jenny pulled it back to level at 4-4. Rachael then put a lovely series of rallies together to lead 9-4, Jenny took one point but Rachael took the next to have game ball at 10-5. Jenny did save a couple of game balls but then a stroke call in favour of Rachael gave her the game 11-7.

Jenny seemed a little out of sorts for some reason, not playing to her usual standards and making several unforced errors, and Rachael took advantage of this to take a 5-1 lead. However Jenny is never a player to give up and came back with probably her best period of squash in the match taking eight straight points to lead 9-5, Rachael took the next two and Jenny the next one for game ball at 10-7, and although Rachael saved the first game ball Jenny took the next point to win the game 11-8.

In the fourth Rachael took an early 4-1 lead but Jenny fought back to level 4-4,then 5-5, Rachael eased out to 7-5 and Jenny took one to make it 6-8, but at the end of the next rally Jenny asked for a let which was not given by the referees. This visibly upset Jenny and she lost her concentration, allowing Rachael to finish off the game at 11-6, and win the match 3 games to 1. So Rachael became the first player through to the final hoping this could be the year for her to win it for the fourth time.

A smile from Rachael after her win.

Madeline serves.

Alison Waters (ENG) (3) vs. Madeline Perry (IRL) (5)
The Head-to-head record between these two players over the years is very similar to the earlier match, with Alison just edging the count 6 to 5. But Madeline being the ‘senior player’ beat Alison three times in the opening round of three major tournaments between November 03 and December 04, however Alison, being the up and coming young player beat Madeline in the quarter final at the Kuwait Open in March 05, but then Madeline put Alison out of the Monte Carlo Classic at the semi final stage in November 05. Twelve months later Alison gained revenge in the same tournament beating Madeline at the quarter final stage, and then followed up by winning again in Greenwich at the same quarter final stage. In August of 07 Madeline knocked Alison out of the Singapore Masters in round 1, on her way back from a very serious injury break, but then Alison got the upper hand by winning in the semi final of the Irish Open in Dublin in April 08 and again in the final of the same tournament in the final twelve months later. Their last serious meeting was in May of this year when Alison won 3 games to 1 in the European Team Championships. So now we come to this evening’s match—can Madeline even up the score after beating Nicol last night?—or can Alison edge that extra match in front? We will wait and see.

Alison dashes to the far corner to retrieve.

The first game started as is the usual case with both players sounding each other out, Madeline taking the first two points, Alison the next two, Madeline another two. Then Alison the next three to take a 7-5 lead. Madeline pulled back to level at 7-7, Alison took two points to lead 9-7 then Madeline took three points to lead 10-9 game ball, but Alison saved that one and went on to take the game 12-10.

Alison took an early lead 4-1 in the second, then 5-3. Madeline took the next two to level 5-5, but gave the initiative back to Alison with a ball into the tin and Alison took the next to lead 7-5. Alison then treated Madeline with two consecutive tins to level at 7-7. Madeline took the next but then with a tin from her leveled the score again at 8-8. A stroke to Madeline and another tin from Alison gave Madeline game ball at 10-8 then she served out to win the game 11/8.

The Irish eyes are smiling again from mum and dad.

Another fightback coming up? You betcha! Madeline took an early lead 4-2, Alison took three points to lead 5-4, then the score moved evenly to 7-7. A tin from Alison gave Madeline the initiative then with another tin at game ball from Alison, Madeline took the game 11-7 to lead 2 games to 1.

In the fourth Madeline took three points, Alison took three points, Madeline takes three points, 6-3 to Madeline, who then moved on to 9-5. Alison levelled up to 9-9 thanks to an atrocious out of court shot from Madeline on the last rally, but Madeline held her nerve at that point to serve out for the game at 11-9, and the match 3 to 2.

What another fabulous win from the lady from Northern Ireland. She now goes into the final against Rachael Grinham, two of the ‘elder’ ladies in the tournament, thus proving the old adage that there is nothing to beat age and experience, even in this sport. We look forward to a great final tonight.

Celebratory hug with mum and dad.

Women’s Semi Finals Result Summary:
Madeline Perry (IRE) (5) bt Alison Waters (ENG) (3) 10/12, 11/8, 11/7, 11/9 (63m)
Rachael Grinham (AUS) (2) bt. Jenny Duncalf (ENG) (4) 11/8, 11/7, 8/11, 11/6 (48m)

Men’s Semi Final Result Summary:
[4] Nick Matthew (ENG) beat [6] Peter Barker (ENG) 11/6, 11/5, 11/6. (48 mins).
[10] James Wilstrop (ENG) beat [3] Amr Shabana (EGY) 11/5, 11/6, 11/1. (33 mins).

This brings an all English Final in the men’s tournament with Wilstrop now facing Nick Matthew.

TOMORROW IN THE FINALS:
Nick Mathew (ENG) (4) vs. James Wilstrop (ENG) (10)
Madeline Perry (IRE) (5) vs. Rachael Grinham (AUS) (2)

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To the Glass Court for the Quarter Finals!

Arthur — Sat, 12 Sep 2009 15:57:34 +0000

International SPORT Group British Open, Manchester England

10 – 14 September 2009

BY Arthur Curran

Day 5: Women’s Quarter Finals

The Championship Poster

Here we are today at the National Squash Centre in Manchester for the quarter finals, with some great matches to look forward to.

Rachael serves

Rachael Grinham (AUS) (2) vs. Laura Lengthorn (ENG) (6)
First match up promised to be a cracker and of course we were not disappointed. Laura was well up for this match, taking an early lead 4-1, Rachael then pegged her back slightly to 3-4 but Laura then played some lovely shots to lead at 8-3. Although Rachel pulled a couple of points back Laura managed to serve out to take the first game 11-5. In the second Laura took a fairly comfortable lead 5-0, but then Rachael found her length and rhythm, and playing in her usual retrieve from anywhere style she moved well into an 8-6 lead. Laura then slowed Rachael’s points run down to take game ball at 10-9, but Rachael won the next point to level at 10-10. The tie breaker was well contested but Rachael finally took the game 14-12 and leveled the match at 1 game each. The third game was again closely fought in the early stages with Laura taking a slight lead 6-4, but Rachael then went on a scoring spree allowing Laura only one more point on her way to take the game 11-7. Again in the fourth Laura took a slight lead 3-2, Rachael again took five consecutive points to lead -/3 and she then stayed those four points clear to win the game 11-7 and the match 3 games to 1.

Jenny in action

Jenny Duncalf (ENG) (4) vs. Vanessa Atkinson (NED) (8)
Second quarter final was between the current British National Champion Jenny Duncalf, who was actually born in Holland, and several times Dutch National Champion Vanessa Atkinson, who was actually born in England. Jenny started off in a real hurry, racing out to a 7-0 lead, Vanessa then scored her only point of the game and Jenny served out to take the game 11-1. The second game was very much closer with both players virtually trading point for point all the way to 10-10, but then Vanessa took the tie break to win 12-10. In the third Jenny again found her momentum to take a 6-0 lead, Vanessa then, with the aid of two tins from Jenny, pulled back three points, Jenny then took the next three to lead 9-3, then Vanessa pulled back another three before Jenny served out to win 11-6. Vanessa took the first two points of the fourth game, but from then only took another two points whilst Jenny raced to an 11-4 game win and a 3 games to 1 match win.

Alison and Donna shake hands at he end of the match

Alison Waters (ENG) (3) vs. Donna Urquhart (AUS) (Q)
This third quarter final matched up No. 3 seed Alison Waters, world ranked No 6, with Australian girl Donna Urquhart, world ranked No 31, who had come through the qualifying rounds, and defeated No. 7 seed Isabelle Stoehr yesterday.

Donna started off full of confidence and with some great play she took an early lead of 4-1 then, with Alison only managing to take two points in between, she moved to a 10-3 lead, game ball, and with Alison saving 3 game balls to go to 6-10, Donna then took the next point to win the first game 11-6.

In the second Donna scored the first point, but then Alison took control to lead 5-1 then 8-2, and took the game 11-5. Alison then really stepped up the pace in the third, racing to a 7-0 lead, Donna pulled two points back but then only scored one more whilst Alison took the game 11-3. Donna dug in at the start of the fourth, keeping pace with Alison up to 5-5, then Alison eased ahead to 9-5, and despite Donna taking the next two points Alison took the next two to win the game 11-7 and the match 3 games to 1.

A good win for Alison, but take nothing away from Donna’s display throughout this tournament, her first ever here in England. She has won many new fans here in England with her grace and beauty both on and off court, including this writer, and now she is based here at Harrogate in England we will hopefully see more of her.

Nicol gets some advice between games from coach Liz Irving.

Nicol David (MAS) (1) vs. Madeline Perry (IRL) (5)
Our favourite Squash Star started well taking an early 3-0 lead, Madeline then pulled back to lead 4-3, Nicol took three points for a 6-4 lead and although Madeline took a further two points Nicol won the game well at 11-6.

In the second Madeline took an early lead 3-0, Nicol pulled back to 4-3, then it was point for point up to 7-6 in favour of Nicol. Madeline then took three straight points for a 9-7 lead, Nicol then pulling them back to lead 10-9, game ball. Madeline was not finished yet though, taking the next two points to have game point herself at 11-10. Nicol then took another two for game point at 12-11, and although Madeline saved the first game ball Nicol served out to win the game 14-12. What a match this was turning out to be.

In the third Nicol took out an early lead of 7-4, but Madeline slowed her down to level the score at 9-9. However Nicol got the first game ball at 10-9 with a tin from Madeline. But then Nicol reciprocated with an unusual tin herself to level at 10-10. Madeline then with another tin from herself gave Nicol another game point at 11-10 but saved that one with a great volley to level 11-11. This match was now really showing the fighting Irish spirit of Madeline as with a lovely drop shot she led 12-11, game ball, but then finished the next rally by putting the ball into the tin – 12-12. But still this match was not over. Another tin from Nicol gave Madeline game ball again, a great volley from deep in the back court from Nicol saved that one, but another lovely volley from Madeline gave her game ball again. She then served out to take the game 15-13.

Madeline then really started to come into the game now, looking much more comfortable around the court, taking an early lead of 5-2, then with one into the tin gave Nicol another point, then saving the next one with a lovely long range drop shot and moving comfortably into a 9-3 lead. Nicol did take the next two points but then showing signs of distress she finished the next two rallies by putting the ball into the tin to allow Madeline to take the game 11-5.

After a great fightback from Madeline it was now two games each. Nicol seemed very nervy at the start of the fifth and deciding game allowing Madeline to take an early 6-2 lead. Nicol pulled back three for 5-6, Madeline pulled back two for 8-5, Nicol took the next two for 7-8, Madeline took another two for a lead of 10-7, match ball, and although Nicol took another two points for 9-10, Madeline took the next point to win the game 11-9 and the match 3 games to 2. Although a shame for us squashstars fans with Nicol losing, it really was a great fightback from Madeline to get the best win of her career, after losing fourteen matches to Nicol, she finally managed to beat her—and did she show her delight!

Nicol posts on her twitter, “Just lost to Madeline Perry 3-2 earlier. She played well and I’ll take on what happened for the next time.”

So, unfortunately, no more squashstar players left in the tournament, but of course we will continue to bring you the results and reports right through to the final.

Women’s Quarter Final Results:
Rachel Grinham (AUS) (2) bt. Laura Massaro (ENG) (6) 5/11, 14/12, 11/7, 11/7 (53m)
Jenny Duncalf (ENG) (4) bt. Vanessa Atkinson (NED) (8) 11/1, 10/12, 11/6, 11/4 (39m)
Alison Waters (ENG) (3) bt. Donna Urquhart (AUS) (Q) 6/11, 11/5, 11/3, 11/7 (31m)
Madeline Perry (IRL) (5) bt. Nicol David (MAS) (1) 6/11, 12/14, 15/13, 11/5, 11/9(76m)

Update on the men’s quarter finals:
Peter Barker (ENG) (6) bt. Gregory Gaultier (FRA) (2) 11/7, 7/11,11/3, 7/11, 11/8 (76m)
Nick Matthew (ENG) (4) bt. Daryl Selby (ENG) 11/7, 11/5, 11/8 (48m)
Amr Shabana (EGY) (2) bt. David Palmer (AUS) (5) 11/8, 14/12, 4/11, 19/17 (86m)
James Wilstrop (ENG) (10) bt. Mohd Azlan Iskander (MAS) (12) 11/5, 11/6, 12/10 (47m)

Today’s (Sunday) semi finals are as follows:
Rachael Grinham (AUS) (2) vs. Jenny Duncalf (ENG) (4)
Alison Waters (ENG) (3) vs. Madeline Perry (IRL) (5)

Nick Matthew (ENG) (4) vs. Peter Barker (ENG) (6)
Amr Shabana (EGY) (3) vs. James Wilstrop (ENG) (10)

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The Girl’s First Round at the British Open

Arthur — Fri, 11 Sep 2009 17:41:28 +0000

International SPORT Group British Open, Manchester England

10 – 14 September 2009

BY Arthur Curran

Day 4: Women’s First Round

Upset of the day! Donna beats 7th seed—Isabelle Stoehr!

Results from first session:
Rachel Grinham (AUS) (2) bt. Dominique Lloyd-Walter (ENG) 9/11, 12/10, 11/5, 4/11, 11/8 (64m)
Laura Massaro (ENG) (6) bt. Samantha Teran (MEX) 10/12, 7/11, 11/8, 11/4, 11/6 (60m)
Jenny Duncalf (ENG) (4) bt. Sarah Kippax (ENG) 11/5, 11/7, 6/11, 11/2 (41m)
Vanessa Atkinson (NED) (8) bt. Tania Bailey (ENG) 8/11, 11/3, 11/2, 11/8 (37m)

Rachel & Dominique

Rachel Grinham (AUS) vs. Dominique Lloyd-Walter (ENG)
The first game started with both players playing tentatively, feeling their way into the game, Dominique took an early lead 4-2, Rachel then took 6 of the next seven points to lead 8-5, Dom took the next three to level at 8-8 and though Rachel took the next point, Dominique served out the game to win 11-9. In the second game Rachel took an early lead 6-2, Dominique levelled up to 6-6, Rachel took the next two points to lead 8-7 then Dom took four points to get game ball at 10-8. However, Rachel saved four game balls to take the game 12-10. Although Dominique took an early lead 4-2 in the third, Rachel turned on the power allowing Dominique only one more point before taking the game 11-5. In the fourth it was Dominique who turned on the power allowing Rachel only the odd point here and there on the way to taking the game 11-4—two games each! The fifth began with Rachel taking an early lead 5-2, Dominique then levelled to 5-5 before Rachel pulled out to lead 9-5. Dominique then closed to 8-9 but this was not quite enough as Rachel served out to win the game 11-8 and the match 3 games to 2. A great game of squash to start the day with.

Samantha & Laura

Laura Massaro (ENG) vs. Samantha Teran (MEX)
What an absolutely enthralling match! In the first, Laura opened out a 3-1 lead, Samantha dug in and took a 5-3 lead, Laura pulled back to 5-5 and then took five of the next seven points to lead 10-7, game ball. But our SquashStars ambassador was not to be outdone. Sam took five points in a row to win the first game 12-10. In the second Laura took a 2-0 lead, but tigress Samantha really dug deep with some fantastic squash to open a 7-3 lead and although Laura closed up to 7-8, Sam eased in front again to serve out the game at 11-7. Were we in for our first upset of the evening? Early opening in the third went to 3-3, then Laura powered out to an 8-3 lead, Samantha took the next two points but Laura took the next two to lead 10-5, game ball, Samantha saved three game balls but Laura eventually took the game 11-8. The fourth game started slowly up to 2-2, but then Laura really showed her fighting spirit, allowing Samantha only two more point and taking the game 11-4. Two games all and a decider to play!! Samantha took an early 4-2 lead, Laura pulled it back to lead 6-4, Sam levelled at 6-6 but then Laura finished much the stronger to take the game 11-6 and the match 3 games to 2. What another fantastic game of squash we had been treated to. Samantha was so very close to causing a real upset, but she was still smiling at the end—what a great ambassador for SquashStars!

Sarah & Jenny

Jenny Duncalf (ENG) vs. Sarah Kippax (ENG)
Jenny started off like a house on fire, taking an early 4-1 lead then only allowing Sarah to score four more poits took the first game 11-5. Again Jenny took a 4-0 lead in the second, but Sarah managed to pull back to 5-5 and then 7-7, but then Jenny showed her experience to serve out to 11-7. The third game started very evenly up to 4-4 but then Sarah really came into the game allowing Jenny only two more points took the third game 11-6. However this must have taken a lot out of Sarah as Jenny powered through the fourth game to win 11-2 and the match 3 games to 1.

Vanessa & Tania

Vanessa Atkinson (NED) vs. Tania Bailey (ENG)
This was Tania’s first match back after a 4 month lay-off after surgery on her hip, but in the first game you would not know that as she took a 7-2 lead, Vanessa pulled back to 8-6 but then Tania went on to win 11-8. However lack of matches then showed on Tania as Vanessa stormed through the next two games 11-3 and 11-2. In the fourth Vanessa took an early lead of 5-3, then 8-4, but despite Tania pulling as close as 8-9, Vanessa served out to win the game 11-8 and the match 3 games to 1. Good win for Vanessa, but we hope that Tania can soon get back to her old form after her operation.

First Round Second session results:
Donna Urquhart (AUS) (Q) bt. Isabelle Stoehr (FRA) (7) 11/7, 11/9, 8/11, 7/11, 11/7 (43m)
Alison Waters (ENG) (3) bt. Jaclyn Hawkes (NZL) 11/6, 11/9, 11/6 (31m)
Madeline Perry (IRE) (5) bt. Line Hansen (DEN) (Q) 11/9, 11/5, 11/2 (30m)
Nicol David (1) bt. Lauren Briggs (ENG) 11/5, 11/4, 11/6 (25m)

Isabelle & Donna

Donna Urquhart (AUS) vs. Isabelle Stoehr (FRA)
After the first two games we felt there had to be an upset on the cards eventually, and this is where it was to happen. The first game started as is usual very evenly up to 6-6, but then Donna, who had played superbly through the qualifying rounds, took control and went to 10-6. Although Isabelle saved the first game point she could do nothing about the second, and Donna took the game 11-7. The second was again very even with the lead changing hands several times up to 9-9, then Donna served out to win 11-9. In the third Donna took an early lead of 4-3, Isabelle fought back to lead 7-4, Donna leveled up at 7-7 but then Isabelle finished the stronger to take the game 11-8. The fourth started evenly again up to 4-4, Isabelle then pulled away to lead 9-4 and eventually won the game 11-7. A fifth and final decider! Isabelle took an early lead 4-1 and then 7-5, but Donna found an inner strength and served out to take the game 11-7 and the match 3 games to 2. What a fantastic result for young Donna, and when I managed to track her down later I found her out in the garden in tears. She was so overwhelmed, and told me this was a result she had been playing for for ages and could not believe she had done it. The best result of her career so far, and personally I do not think it will be the last—this youngster is going to go far!

Jaclyn & Alison

Alison Waters (ENG) vs. Jaclyn Hawkes (NZL)
This was a match some supporters thought could finish very close, given the form that Jaclyn has shown recently. However, she found Alison in a completely non-forgiving touch of form, and although she battled very bravely, especially in the second game, Alison proved much the stronger to win 11-6, 11-9 and 11-6.

Line & Madeline

Madeline Perry (IRE) vs. Line Hansen (DEN)
This was another match that brought together a qualifier against a seeded player, and Line played very strongly in the first game, staying very close up to 8-9, saving one game ball at 10-8 but then losing out at 11-9 to Madeline. In the second Line eased out to a 4-1 lead, but then Madeline turned on the gas allowing Line only one more point on her way to win the game 11-5. Madeline then came out looking for a quick win, storming into an 8-0 lead, then Line took a couple of points but Madeline finished emphatically to win 11-2, and the match 3 games to nil.

Nicol & Lauren

Nicol David (MAS) vs. Lauren Briggs (ENG)
This was the match most people had waited for all day, to see the World Champion and No. 1 in action. Lauren felt a little unlucky, gaining entry into the main draw with the withdrawal of Natalie Grainger, but then being drawn against Nicol in the re-draw. However she was determined to give of her best, which she certainly did, but Nicol, our Squash Stars ambassador proved far too strong to win in three straight games.

So we now move from The Northern Club in Didsbury to the quarter finals tomorrow at the National Squash Centre with some great matches to look forward to.

Rachel Grinham (AUS) (2) vs. Laura Massaro (ENG) (6)
Jenny Duncalf (ENG) (4) vs. Vanessa Atkinson (NED) (8)
Donna Urquhart (AUS) (Q) vs. Alison Waters (ENG) (3)
Nicol David (MAS) (1) vs. Madeline Perry (IRE) (5)

Men’s Second Round Results:
James Willstrop (ENG) (10) bt. Karim Darwish (EGY) (1) 5/11, 4/2, retired (22m)
Azlan Iskandar (MAS) (12) bt. Thierry Lincou (FRA) (7) 11/13, 11/4, 5/11, 14/12, 11/5 (91m)
Amr Shabana (EGY) (3) bt. Alister Walker (ENG) (11) 7/11, 11/4, 11/5, 11/7 (48m)
David Palmer (AUS) (5) bt. Wael El Hindi (EGY) (9) 11/6, 1/11, 8/11, 11/7, 11/5 (74m)
Daryl Selby (ENG) bt. Adrian Grant (ENG) (8) 11/8, 11/8, 8/11, 11/7, 11/5 (74m)
Nick Matthew (ENG) (4) bt. Cameron Pilley (AUS) (15) 11/3, 11/3, 11/6 (30m)
Peter Barker (ENG) (6) bt. Ong Beng Hee (MAS) (16) 11/7, 11/7, 11/8 (66m)
Gregory Gaultier (FRA) (2) bt. Kashif Shuja (NZL) (Q) 11/5, 11/7, 11/1 (25m)

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Third Day Excitement

Arthur — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 19:12:37 +0000

International SPORT Group British Open, Manchester England

10 – 14 September 2009

BY Arthur Curran

Day Three at The Northern Club, Manchester

Entrance of the Northern Club, Didsbury, Manchester.

Dom & Alan

Dominique Lloyd-Walter (ENG) vs. Alana Miller (CAN)
With a 22 place difference in world rankings between these two ladies, the match was a lot closer than the rankings showed. Both players started off tentatively, easing the score to 5-4 in Dominique’s favour, but then Dom’s greater experience started to show through when she eased ahead to win the first, 11-5. The second game started very much the same with the score easing up to 5-5, then although Alana picked up the odd few points, Dominique again proved stronger to take the second, 11-8. In the third Dom started strongly taking the score up to 5-1, Alana then pulled level at 5-5. Dominique surged ahead to get to match ball at 10-5, and although Alana saved three match balls Dominique won the fourth one to win 11-8, and the match ends—3 games to nil.

Line & Fiona

Line Hansen (DEN) vs. Fiona Moverley (ENG)
After her fine win yesterday against Joshna Chinappa, Fiona was looking forward to this match even though Line is ranked 25 places above her. The first game started very evenly, the score going steadily up to 6-6, but then Line eased out to take the game 11-5. The second started close again but this time Fiona eased ahead to 6-4, then Line took four points to lead 8-4. Fiona took the next three points to lead 9-8 then Line took the next three to win the game 11-9—2 nil to Line. However, this match was far from over. In the third Fiona eased to 4-2, kept the two points clear to 7-5, but then with both girls playing some great squash, Fiona got to game ball first at 10-9, Line saved the first one to level at 10-10, but Fiona took the tie break to win the game 13-11. In the fourth, Fiona pulled out to a 5-2 lead, Line took six points on the trot to lead 8-5, Fiona pulled two back to 7-8, Line took the next two to get to match ball at 10-7, Fiona saved three match balls to level 10-10, but then Line took the last two points to win the game 12-10 and the match ends—3 games to 1. What a great match for the spectators!

Sarah & Aisling

Sarah Kippax (ENG) vs. Aisling Blake (IRE)
According to the rankings this should be the closest game today, with Sarah at #24 and Aisling at #27, and so it proved to be in the end. The first started fairly even with Sarah easing out to a 9-5 lead, Aisling took three points to close to 8-9, but Sarah took the next two to win the game 11-8. The game-deciding point producing a no-let call from the referee clearly upset Aisling, and when she was given a conduct warning for bad language on court at the start of the second game it clearly upset her game, allowing Sarah to take a huge 7-0 lead. However Aisling, well supported vocally by a large Amsterdam based contingent, got herself together and managed to pull back to 8-10, although she saved one game ball Sarah took the next to win the game 11-9 again. In the third Aisling came out fully charged after going down early at 3-2, raced through the rest of the game to win 11-3—with every point being cheered loudly by the large crowd. In the fourth Aisling started out even stronger, racing to a 7-2 lead with some great squash and even though Sarah pulled back to 6-8, Aisling took the next three points to win 11-6. Two games all and into a deciding fifth. Either the comeback had taken too much out of Aisling or Sarah found a second wind—the latter sailed through the final game allowing Aisling only a couple of points to win 11-2—taking the match 3 games to 2. This was one great entertaining squash in probably the best match of the day!

Donna & Engy

Donna Urquhart (AUS) vs. Engy Kheirallah (EGY)
With Engy ranked at #23 and moving downwards, and Donna at #31 moving upwards these should have been a fairly close match but it did not prove to be. Although Engy led 9-6 in the first Donna had a straight run of five points to take the game 11-9. The second game was much closer with Donna maintaining a slight lead throughout to go to 10-8. Engy saved the first game ball but not the next and Donna took the game 11-9 again. The third started closely too, up to 4-4, but then Donna took control to get match ball at 10-5 and although Engy saved the first she could not save the second and Donna won 11-6, taking the match 3 games to nil for what was a very good win for her and gaining a place in the first round of the main draw tomorrow.

Summary of results:
Dominique Lloyd-Walter (ENG) bt. Alana Miller* (CAN) 11/5, 11/8, 11/8 (30m)
Line Hansen* (DEN) bt. Fiona Moverley (ENG) 11/6, 11/9, 11/13, 12/10 (40m)
Sarah Kippax (ENG) bt. Aisling Blake (IRE) 11/8, 11/9, 3/11, 6/11, 11/2 (52m)
Donna Urquhart (AUS) bt. Engy Kheirallah (EGY) 11/9, 11/9, 11/6 (33m)

In the first round of the main draw tomorrow:
1st Half
• Nicol David* (MAS) (1) vs. Lauren Briggs (ENG)
• Madeline Perry (IRL) (5) vs. Line Hansen* (DEN)
• Alison Waters (ENG) (3) vs. Jaclyn Hawkes (NZL)
• Isabelle Stoehr (FRA) (7) vs. Donna Urquhart (AUS)

2nd Half
• Tania Bailey (ENG) vs. Vanessa Atkinson (NED) (8)
• Sarah Kippax (ENG) vs. Jenny Duncalf (ENG) (4)
• Samantha Teran* (MEX) vs Laura Massaro (ENG) (6)
• Dominique Lloyd-Walter (ENG) vs Rachael Grinham (AUS) (2)

*Squash Stars’ Ambassadors

To view more photos from this tournament, click here to go to our Facebook Fanpage album.

Men’s First round results:
Karim Darwish (EGY) (1) bt. Jonathan Kemp (ENG) 11/7, 11/6, 11/1
James Willstrop (ENG) (10) bt. Campbell Grayson (NZL) (Q) 11/4, 11/5, 11/7 (39m)
Thierry Lincou (FRA) (7) bt. Martin Knight (NZL) (Q) (7) 11/7, 11/2, 11/7 (31m)
Azlan Iskander (MAS) (12) bt. Yasir Butt (PAK) (Q) 13/11, 11/8, 9/11, 11/4 (58m)
Amr Shabana (EGY) (3) bt. Jens Schoor (GER) 11/4, 11/4, 11/5 (31m)
Alister Walker (ENG) (11) bt. Renan Lavigne (Q) 11/5, 7/11, 11/6, 9/11, 12/10 (95m)
David Palmer (AUS) (5) bt. Tom Richards (ENG) 11/6, 11/6, 11/5 (37m)
Wael El Hindi (EGY) (9) bt. Joey Barrington (ENG) 5/11, 12/10, 11/7, 12/10 (82m)
Daryl Selby (ENG) bt. Aamir Atlas Khan (PAK) (14) 11/1, 9/4, ret’d (20m)
Cameron Pilley (AUS) (15) bt. Farhan Mehboob (PAK) 13/11, 11/3, 11/9 (45m)
Nick Matthew (ENG) (4) bt. Chris Simpson (ENG) (Q) 12/10, 11/2, 11/5 (42m)
Ong Beng Hee (MAS) (16) bt. Davide Bianchetti (ITA) 11/8, 11/7, 7/11, 5/11, 11/3 (64m)
Peter Barker (ENG) (6) bt. Stephane Galifi (FRA) (Q) 11/9, 4/11, 11/5, 11/2 (49m)
Kashif Shuja (IND) (Q) bt. Mohamed El Shorbagy (EGY) (13) 11/7, 13/11, 9/11, 2/11, 11/7(57m)
Gregory Gaultier (FRA) (2) bt. Saurav Ghosal (IND) 11/7, 11/6, 11/5 (39m)

Day Two at the British Open

Arthur — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 04:14:41 +0000

International SPORT Group British Open, Manchester England
10 – 14 September 2009

BY Arthur Curran

Day Two Report
Today (Wednesday), we see the first round of qualifying for the women’s championship, with 16 players vying for four places in the first round of the main draw.

First match of the day—Becky and Dominique

Dominique Lloyd-Walter (ENG) vs. Becky Botwright (ENG)
First match up was between two English ladies, Dominique Lloyd-Walter (ranked #19 in the world rankings) and local girl Becky Botwright, ranked #153, because she has not been playing on the tournament circuit for quite some time, being employed full time by English Squash and Racketball coaching young children in the local schools. In the first game, it was difficult to tell that she had not played seriously for some time, as she stormed through the game in her typical run anywhere style and won 11-4. However Dominique, looking much leaner and fitter than in the past, got into her stride and made her experience tell, taking the next three games 11-5, 11-6, 11-5, to win the match 3 games to 1.

Lauren & Alana

Alana Miller (CAN) vs. Lauren Siddall (ENG)
Second match up looked on paper to be a much closer one, with Squash Star Alana Miller (Canada), #41, against Lauren Siddall from Pontefract, England #39. However it was plain from the start that Lauren was in some difficulty moving around the court, and after Alana took the first game 11-3 and was 7-0 up in the second, Lauren had to withdraw because of a leg injury, which she sustained a couple of days ago in training.

Line & Emma

Line Hansen (DEN) vs. Emma Beddoes (ENG)
Third match up saw #26 Squash Star Line Hansen from Denmark against England’s Emma Beddoes, #36, and the difference in rankings showed in the first game when Line sailed into a 7-3 lead then went on to take the game 11-4. However Emma fought back very bravely to take the second game 11-8, after surviving two game balls. Then Line showed her Danish fighting spirit, and despite Emma showing some really good touches, but Line took the next two games 11-6, 11-6, to win the match 3 games to 1.

Joshna and Fiona

Fiona Moverley (ENG) vs. Joshna Chinappa (IND)

Next match up, rankings wise, should have been fairly comfortable for Joshna Chinappa from India, #35, with plenty of tournament experience, against England’s Fiona Moverley, only recently gone full time and ranked #51. However, Fiona made it quite clear that her new fitness regime was paying off, as despite Joshna taking an early 8-4 lead, she fought back to get to game ball first, then Joshna tied at 10-10, but Fiona took the next two points to take the first game 12-10. In the second game, with some wonderful squash being played, Joshna sailed into a 10-2 lead, game ball, Fiona pulled back with great resilience to level at 10-10, but this time Joshna took the advantage to take the game 12-10 —1 game all. The next two games were both very close up to 7-7 and then 8-8, but Fiona kept her cool to win them both, 11-7 and 11-9, and the match 3 games to 1. She later described this as the best win of her career to date, and is now really looking forward to her match tomorrow against Line Hansen.

Lauren & Aisling

Aisling Blake (IRE) vs. Lauren Selby (ENG)
As we moved into the second half of the first round, the difference is rankings started to show, with first Squash Star Aisling Blake from Ireland, #27, taking just 25 minutes to defeat England’s Lauren Selby, #58, 11-6, 11-4, 11-5!

Kylie & Sarah

Sarah Kippax (ENG) vs. Kylie Lindsay (NZL)
After Aisling’s quick win, Sarah Kippax of England, ranked #24, took just one minute longer to defeat Kylie Lindsay of New Zealand, #47, 11-8, 11-4, 11-9. Sarah will be up against Squash Star Aisling Blake tomorrow.

Donna & Laura

Donna Urquhart (AUS) vs. Laura Hill (ENG)
The next game between Australian Donna Urquhart, #31, now based in Harrogate in England, and Derbyshire based firefighter Laura Hill, #44, was a little closer contested, with the first game very close up to 7-7, but then Donna eased out to take the game 11-8. The second game was close still, very even all the way through to 10-10, then each player taking one point each in turn, the game eventually went to Donna 15-13. Laura took a lot of heart from this game as she stormed through the third game to win 11-4, but then she lost momentum, Donna came back strongly to win the fourth 11-1, and the match 3 games to 1.

Deon & Engy

Engy Kheirallah (EGY) vs. Deon Saffery (WAL)
The last match between #23 Engy Kheirallah of Egypt and Deon Saffery of Wales, #52, was even tighter, with all games being very close throughout. Engy edged the first game 11-8, then Deon, despite Engy facing three game balls against her to go to 10-10, eased in to take the second 12-10. The next two games were again very close to near the end, but Engy managed to take them both 11-7 and 11-9 to go through to the next round.

Results are as follows:
Dominique Lloyd-Walter (ENG) bt. Becky Botwright (ENG) 4/11, 11/5, 11/6, 11/5 (45m)
Alana Miller* (CAN) bt. Lauren Siddall (ENG) 11/3, 7/0 ret’d (11m)
Line Hansen* (DEN) bt. Emma Beddoes (ENG) 11/4, 8/11, 11/6, 11/6 (43m)
Fiona Moverley (ENG) bt. Joshna Chinappa (IND) 12/10, 10/12, 11/7, 11/9 (35m)
Aisling Blake* (IRE) bt. Lauren Selby (ENG) 11/6, 11/4, 11/5 (25m)
Sarah Kippax (ENG) bt. Kylie Lindsay (NZL) 11/8, 11/4, 11/9 (26m)
Donna Urquhart (AUS) bt. Laura Hill (ENG) 11/8, 15/13, 4/11, 11/1. (33m)
Engy Kheirallah (EGY) bt. Deon Saffery (WAL) 11/8, 10/12, 11/7, 11/9 (50m)

It was a great afternoon of squash from all the ladies involved, and here are the matches to look forward to tomorrow (Thursday, 10 September 2009):
Alana Miller* (CAN) vs. Dominique Lloyd-Walter (ENG)
Line Hansen* (DEN)vs. Fiona Moverley (ENG)
Aisling Blake* (IRE) vs. Sarah Kippax (ENG)
Engy Kheirallah (EGY) vs. Donna Urquhart (AUS).

*Squash Stars’ Ambassadors

For more pictures of the day, please click here to go to our Facebook Fanpage album.

Results of today’s men’s matches, 2nd qualifying round:
Renan Lavigne (FRA) bt. Robbie Temple (ENG) 6/11, 11/8, 11/5, 11/5 (48m)
Martin Knight (NZL) bt. Amr Swelim (EGY) 11/6, 7/11, 11/4, 5/11, 12/10 (96m)
Yasir Butt (PAK) bt. Chris Ryder (ENG) 12/10, 4/11, 11/8, 8/11, 11/8 (71m)
Chris Simpson (ENG) bt. Steve Coppinger (RSA) 2/11, 11/4, 11/5, 11/9 (55m)
Campbell Grayshon (NZL) bt. Aaron Francomb (AUS) 9/11, 8/11, 11/5, 11/7, 11/9 (132m)
Kashif Shuja (NZL) bt. Mansoor Zaman (PAK) 11/9, 6/11, 11/9, 11/5 (40m)
Simon Rosner (GER) bt. Alan Clyne (SCO) 9/11, 11/9, 11/9, 3/11, 11/9 (78m)
Stephane Galifi (FRA) bt. Mohd Ali Anwar Reda (EGY) 18/16, 5/11, 11/4, 11/9 (74m)