Gaskin Just Loses Out in Australia
Australia’s seemingly ageless Mike Corren broke yet another record at the City of Perth International Challenge in Western Australia when he became the oldest man ever to win a title on the men’s Professional Squash Association World Tour.
The 39-year-old beat Irishman Arthur Gaskin in four games in the final of the PSA Challenger 5 event at the Terrace Squash Centre in Perth to claim his 44th Tour title.
Corren becomes the first 39-year-old to win a Tour title, and the oldest player since France’s former world champion Thierry Lincou won the Bluenose Classic in Canada in April last year – one month before his 36th birthday.
World No63 Corren won his first title in Hong Kong in 1996 and has been a regular winner ever since – his current title haul being 13 more than his nearest PSA rival, the new British Open champion Ramy Ashour!
The Adelaide-based veteran has struggled in his previous two tournaments in Darwin and Alice Springs – but, after surviving a first round scare against fellow countryman Andrew Fraser, looked increasingly in control in Perth and saw off the dangerous Irishman in four games 12-10, 5-11, 11-6, 11-7.
Corren could add more trophies to his collection at his next two tournaments in his home state of South Australia, where he is once again top seed in both the Toyota Barossa Valley Open and South Australian Open.
RESULTS: PSA Challenger 5 City of Perth International Challenge, Perth, Australia
1st round: [1] Mike Corren (AUS) bt Andrew Fraser (AUS) 9-11, 15-13, 8-11, 11-7, 11-4 [Q] Liam Gutcher (ENG) bt James Skiffington (NZL) 11-8, 9-11, 11-5, 11-7 Sanjay Singh (MAS) bt [Q] T J Rarere (AUS) 11-4, 11-3, 11-7 Rhys Dowling (AUS) bt [6] Micah Franklin (BER) 11-8, 11-5, 11-5 [Q] Addeen Idrakie (MAS) bt [5] Justin Beard (AUS) 4-11, 11-8, 11-7, 5-11, 11-6 Nosherwan Khan (PAK) bt [Q] Thoboki Mohohlo (RSA) 11-5, 12-10, 11-7 Jean-Pierre Brits (RSA) bt Thomas Calvert (AUS) 11-9, 11-5, 11-6 [4] Paul Coll (NZL) bt [Q] Tristan Eysele (ENG) 12-10, 11-9, 11-8 [3] Arthur Gaskin (IRL) bt Luke Sims (AUS) 11-3, 11-2, 8-11, 11-3 [Q] Kwon Hyeon-Jun (KOR) bt Adam Auckland (ENG) 6-11, 11-5, 7-11, 11-8, 12-10 Sunil Seth (AUS) bt [WC] Matthew Bridle (AUS) 11-4, 11-8, 11-5 [7] Robert Downer (ENG) bt Jack Jago (ENG) 11-9, 11-6, 4-11, 11-8 [8] Kim Are Killingberg (NOR) bt [Q] Rohan Toole (AUS) 11-7, 11-3, 11-5 Matias Tuomi (FIN) bt [Q] Jason Patmore (AUS) 11-8, 11-5, 11-4 Arthur Moineau (FRA) bt Tim Cowell (AUS) 11-9, 12-10, 11-9 Tom de Mulder (BEL) bt [LL] Neal Brooker (ENG) 11-4, 11-4, 11-1
2nd round: [1] Mike Corren (AUS) bt [Q] Liam Gutcher (ENG) 11-7, 11-8, 11-7 Sanjay Singh (MAS) bt Rhys Dowling (AUS) 11-7, 11-4, 11-4 Nosherwan Khan (PAK) bt [Q] Addeen Idrakie (MAS) 8-11, 11-6, 10-12, 11-9, 11-4 [4] Paul Coll (NZL) bt Jean-Pierre Brits (RSA) 14-12, 11-5, 11-5 [3] Arthur Gaskin (IRL) bt [Q] Kwon Hyeon-Jun (KOR) 11-5, 11-7, 7-11, 11-6 Sunil Seth (AUS) bt [7] Robert Downer (ENG) 10-12, 11-9, 11-4, 6-11, 11-8 Matias Tuomi (FIN) bt [8] Kim Are Killingberg (NOR) 11-4, 11-7, 8-11, 13-11 Arthur Moineau (FRA) bt Tom de Mulder (BEL) 11-8, 11-4, 12-10
Quarter-finals: [1] Mike Corren (AUS) bt Sanjay Singh (MAS) 12-10, 11-6, 5-11, 11-5 [4] Paul Coll (NZL) bt Nosherwan Khan (PAK) 11-7, 11-7, 11-5 [3] Arthur Gaskin (IRL) bt Sunil Seth (AUS) 11-5, 11-9, 11-5 Matias Tuomi (FIN) bt Arthur Moineau (FRA) 11-9, 3-11, 11-9, 11-7
Semi-finals: [1] Mike Corren (AUS) bt [4] Paul Coll (NZL) 7-11, 11-5, 12-10, 11-5 (54m) [3] Arthur Gaskin (IRL) bt Matias Tuomi (FIN) 11-5, 11-8, 11-9 (40m)
Final: [1] Mike Corren (AUS) bt [3] Arthur Gaskin (IRL) 12-10, 5-11, 11-6, 11-7 (57m)
Women’s & Men’s World Number Ones in Squash Olympic Presentation27 May 2013, St Petersburg, Russia: A Squash delegation that includes women’s world number one Nicol David and men’s world number one Ramy Ashour, today arrived in St Petersburg ahead of a crucial presentation to the International Olympic Committee (IOC) Executive Board, where the sport will make its case to join the 2020 Olympic Games Programme.
The IOC Executive Board is expected to reduce the current list of eight sports bidding to join the 2020 Games following presentations on 29 May.
World Squash Federation President N Ramachandran, who leads Squash’s presentation team, said: “This is a significant milestone in our quest to join the Olympic Programme and I am delighted that our presentation team includes the women’s and men’s world number ones and current World Champions. It is crucial that we show the IOC Executive Board that we have the absolute commitment of our leading players and having Nicol and Ramy with us says so much.
“An important theme of our presentation will be the scale and breadth of innovations that Squash has introduced over the last few years. These include all glass courts, professional sports presentation, referee video review and the latest broadcast techniques such as multiple camera angles, Super Slow Mo replay and our plans to introduce Super HD. Indeed, our innovation has probably been the most dramatic in the way Squash is now broadcast and presented.
“We will also be stressing the global reach of Squash. It is played in 185 countries by millions across the world, is growing in countries as diverse as Paraguay, India, Egypt and the United States – where we have almost one million players – and order books of court manufacturers are the fullest they have ever been.
“Squash also offers genuine medal opportunities to a growing number of countries and the prospect of new nations on the medal podium. Just look at the current Women’s top 20 which feature 11 countries, and the fact that all five continental confederations have produced both male and female world champions, as proof of this.”
Malaysia’s seven time world champion Nicol David, said: “I’m delighted to be here and play my part in what is an incredibly important moment for Squash. For so long I have dreamed of competing in the Olympic Games – so to be here, presenting to the IOC Executive Board, is a true honour. I just want to show how much competing in the Games would mean to me, as well as every single player on our tours. I’m also particularly proud of the strength and professionalism of our Women’s tour, and of female participation in the management of our sport.
“The one big regret in my career is that I have never had the chance to compete in the Olympic Games. I’m 29 years old but I still think I could play at the very top level in 2020 and I would happily trade my seven world titles for the chance of Olympic Gold. My own country, Malaysia, has never won Gold at the Games and if I can stay healthy, and of course with the support of the IOC, perhaps I can try to make Olympic history for Malaysia in 2020.”
Egypt’s Ramy Ashour, added: “It’s fantastic for Nicol and me to be part of the presentation team and to represent the Men’s and Women’s professional Squash tours. Squash has had a profound impact on many thousands of Egyptians, and it enjoys a popularity surpassed only by soccer in my country. It is played not just in Cairo but right across Egypt, by all ages – in fact, Egypt are women’s and men’s world senior and junior team champions, and the sport has given Egyptians a sense of pride over the past few, difficult years.
“Squash reflects the essence of Olympic sport – it’s gladiatorial, physically demanding and mentally challenging. It’s a true sport, and already played in every major multi sport games – including the Asian, Commonwealth, Pan Am and World Games.
“I’m only 25 but in my time competing on the Men’s Tour and international events, I know that our sport has been on a journey. And I really do hope and pray that this journey leads me to the Olympic Games in 2020, where I can make my country proud and win Gold for Egypt.”
President Ramachandran concluded: “Squash would also be easy and low cost to integrate into the Olympic Games with just 64 athletes, and two competition courts that can be built in a few days. We could share a venue or it could take place in an iconic location, and our sport has a great track record of doing exactly that.
“In fact, just last week the British Open took place in a Premier League soccer stadium. Scoring is simple in Squash, matches are short and positions are decided on court, not by judges’ scores. We will be doing our best to bring all these elements to life in our presentation.”
The final decision on which sport will join the 2020 Olympic Programme will be made by the IOC membership at the IOC Session in Buenos Aires on 8 September 2013.
Laura Massaro has become the first Englishwoman to win the Allam British Open title in 22 years after a superb performance to defeat top seed Nicol David. 
The 29-year-old from Preston saw the perfect start to British Open campaign, beating unseeded Joey Chan in the opening round, followed by a tricky four-game tie against Dipika Pallikal of India. Massaro needed to another good performance to see off the challenge of Egyptian Omneya Abdel Kawy in the quarter-finals, before recovering from a game down to beat close rival Raneem El Weleily in yesterday’s semi.
All the signs were pointing to another title win for Nicol David, as the world champion from Malaysia looked strong in her early round matches against Joshana Chinappa and Sarah Kippax. In the quarters she dismissed Joelle King in straight games, and Alison Waters faired no better in the semi-final round as the seven-time world champion moved into the final yet to drop a game.
Massaro, who defeated the world No.1 on her home-turf in the KL Open in March, got off to the best possible start in the final of this $90,000 World Series event. She stormed to a five-point lead before David could register a response, and had her opponent retrieving into all four corners of the court.
Volleying well and picking her moment to attack short, the Englishwoman closed out the first game, but David game back in the second with all guns blazing. Her length extended, she caused problems for Massaro for the first time in the match, who struggled to gain time on the tee, pinned to the back of the court. A 7-1 lead was soon converted by the Malaysian to draw level, which set up a nail-biting third game.
Both players battled for the middle of court, hunting the volley to deny the other time. The scores remained close throughout the game until David snuck ahead in the last few points. Massaro salvaged three game balls however, and served to win the third game before winning the crucial point on a video review stroke.
With the home favourite back in front, David refocused but was unable to launch a similar counter attack as she had in the second game. Massaro, tactically astute all match, stayed with the higher seed during the early points, before pulling ahead to 7-3 with the crowd roaring their support. David’s error count increased uncharacteristically as she searched for the winning points, and wasted a vital point by serving out to gift Massaro championship ball.
The four-time British Open winner salvaged two points, but this was not to be her year as the packed audience celebrated witnessing the first home winner of the British Open since Lisa Opie in 1991. An excellent tactical effort from Massaro sees the Englishwoman clinch the third World Series title and the twelfth of her career.
Photographs to follow, upon emailed request.
Final:
[2] Laura Massaro (ENG) bt [1] Nicol David (MAS) 11-4, 3-11, 12-10, 11-8
Semi-finals:
[1] Nicol David (MAS) bt [4] Alison Waters (ENG) 11-5, 11-4, 11-5 (27m)
[2] Laura Massaro (ENG) bt [3] Raneem El Weleily (EGY) 8-11, 11-6, 11-8, 11-9 (48m)
Quarter-finals:
[1] Nicol David (MAS) bt [6] Joelle King (NZL) 13-11, 11-8, 11-1 (35m)
[4] Alison Waters (ENG) bt [12] Kasey Brown (AUS) 11-4, 11-3, 11-4 (25m)
[3] Raneem El Weleily (EGY) bt [8] Jenny Duncalf (ENG) 9-11, 11-6, 11-4, 11-5 (42m)
[2] Laura Massaro (ENG) bt [14] Omneya Abdel Kawy (EGY) 11-7, 11-6, 9-11, 11-8 (50m)
2nd round:
[1] Nicol David (MAS) bt Sarah Kippax (ENG) 11-2, 14-12, 11-2 (35m)
[6] Joelle King (NZL) bt [13] Annie Au (HKG) 11-5, 11-7, 11-5 (27m)
[4] Alison Waters (ENG) bt [16] Rachael Grinham (AUS) 11-2, 11-4, 8-11, 7-11, 11-4 (42m)
[12] Kasey Brown (AUS) bt Sarah-Jane Perry (ENG) 8-11, 9-11, 12-10, 11-7, 12-10 (61m)
[8] Jenny Duncalf (ENG) bt Nour El Tayeb (EGY) 14-12, 11-4, 11-4 (25m)
[3] Raneem El Weleily (EGY) bt [11] Madeline Perry (IRL) 11-7, 12-10, 11-5 (25m)
[14] Omneya Abdel Kawy (EGY) bt [5] Nour El Sherbini (EGY) 16-14, 11-7, 11-8 (29m)
[2] Laura Massaro (ENG) bt [15] Dipika Pallikal (IND) 6-11, 12-10, 11-9, 11-6 (45m)
1st round:
[1] Nicol David (MAS) bt [Q] Joshana Chinappa (IND) 11-4, 11-5, 11-4 (30m)
Sarah Kippax (ENG) bt [10] Natalie Grinham (NED) 9-11, 13-11, 11-6, 9-11, 11-7 (68m)
[6] Joelle King (NZL) bt [Q] Samantha Cornett (CAN) 11-8, 11-7, 11-8 (34m)
[13] Annie Au (HKG) bt Aisling Blake (IRL) 11-9, 8-11, 11-6, 11-6 (56m)
[4] Alison Waters (ENG) bt Emily Whitlock (ENG) 11-13, 11-7, 11-7, 11-9 (56m)
[16] Rachael Grinham (AUS) bt [Q] Nicolette Fernandes (GUY) 10-12, 1-11, 11-7, 11-9, 11-8 (58m)
Sarah-Jane Perry (ENG) bt [7] Low Wee Wern (MAS) 11-7, 13-11, 7-11, 11-9 (62m)
[12] Kasey Brown (AUS) bt [Q] Lauren Briggs (ENG) 11-6, 11-5, 11-7 (39m)
Nour El Tayeb (EGY) bt [9] Camille Serme (FRA) 10-12, 11-6, 11-7, 11-5 (49m)
[8] Jenny Duncalf (ENG) bt [Q] Latasha Khan (USA) 11-4, 11-2, 11-2 (24m)
[11] Madeline Perry (IRL) bt [Q] Emma Beddoes (ENG) 12-10, 11-8, 11-9 (44m)
[3] Raneem El Weleily (EGY) bt [Q] Delia Arnold (MAS) 8-11, 11-7, 11-3, 11-4 (39m)
[14] Omneya Abdel Kawy (EGY) bt Donna Urquhart (AUS) 11-9, 11-4, 11-4 (22m)
[5] Nour El Sherbini (EGY) bt [Q] Amanda Sobhy (USA) 12-10, 9-11, 14-12, 11-7 (47m)
[15] Dipika Pallikal (IND) bt Line Hansen (DEN) 13-11, 14-16, 11-6, 8-11, 11-4 (76m)
[2] Laura Massaro (ENG) bt Joey Chan (HKG) 14-12, 11-1, 11-6 (29m)
PSA World Series Allam British Open, Hull, England
Final: [1] Ramy Ashour (EGY) bt [4] Gregory Gaultier (FRA) 7-11, 11-4, 11-7, 11-8 (64m)
Today’s sensational climax of the 2013 Allam British Open Squash Championships, the fourth PSA World Series event of the year staged on an all-glass court erected on the pitch of soon-to-be English Premier League football club Hull City, saw Ramy Ashour make history by becoming the first Egyptian in 47 years to win the sport’s prestigious title.
Despite having produced world champions, world number ones and currently five players in the PSA men’s world top ten, Egypt has not boasted a British Open champion since 1966 – when the legendary AA AbouTaleb won the trophy for the third year in a row in London.
Undefeated since losing the 2012 final in London exactly a year ago, Ashour was firm favourite to have his name inscribed on the trophy this year. But the top seed dropped his first game of the tournament as French rival Gregory Gaultier took an early lead in the final of the first staging of the event in Yorkshire since 1974.
Gaultier, the first French winner of the title in 2007, tried to continue where he had left off in the second – but was unable to take the ball as early as previously with Ashour become more patient on the attack.
As the Egyptian forced the Frenchman into making more errors, Ashour grew in confidence and finished the second on his first game ball to draw level.
Gaultier started the third with more aggression with 25-year-old Ashour making a few uncharacteristic errors. At 7-5 to Gaultier, it looked as if the match was swinging back in his favour – but a few patient rallies and errors from the world number three got Ashour back on track at 10-7 and again the Egyptian closed out the game at the first opportunity.
Ashour built up a 6-3 lead in the fourth as his opponent began to show signs of fatigue. But a series of unforced errors from the Cairo king saw Gaultier win four points in a row to lead the game for the first time.
Ashour regrouped to reclaim the lead and after both players put the ball out of the court in successive rallies, Ashour clinched his first match-ball with a deft forehand shot into the nick to win 7-11, 11-4, 11-7, 11-8 in 64 minutes.
After shaking his opponent’s hand and seeing Gaultier out of the court, Ashour leapt into the air in celebration before falling to the ground to kiss the floor – where he stayed for several minutes, clearly tearful with emotion.
When asked to express his feelings, several minutes later, the new champion said: “There’s a famous quote: the game is just a game – it’s what you play for that matters.
“I’ve been preparing for eight weeks for this tournament – but I’ve had lots of hard times over the last two weeks, so I’m really proud of myself for what I’ve achieved.
“Winning this prestigious title is one of the happiest moments of my life, if not the happiest,” continued the exuberant Ashour, now winner of his 41st PSA Tour match in a row, and his eighth successive title.
“I’ve experienced waking up in the morning every day with a heavy heart and a heavy spirit. There have been a lot of distractions. But I’ve learnt a lot from the last couple of weeks.
“Winning this title is really big for me. It’s something I will always remember,” the new British Open Champion concluded.
A disconsolate Gaultier said: “I’m very disappointed. I did what I could. I wanted to win so much.
“But Ramy played better today and he thoroughly deserved it.
“Hopefully next time I will come back stronger. I really want to win this title again,” concluded the 30-year-old from Aix-en-Provence.
The series of Masters Home Internationals took place over the last few weeks in:
Cardiff – 26/27 April – Men O50/70, Women O50
Dublin – 3/4 May – Men O45/65, Women O45/55
Nottinghan – 10/11 May – Men O40/60, Women O40
Glasgow – Mens O35/55, Women O55
For the teams and final placings open HERE
25 May 2013
RESULTS: PSA World Series Allam British Open, Hull, England
Semi-finals: [1] Ramy Ashour (EGY) bt [3] James Willstrop (ENG) 11-2, 11-9, 13-11 (37m) [4] Gregory Gaultier (FRA) bt [2] Nick Matthew (ENG) 9-11, 11-7, 11-3, 11-6 (70m)
English duo Nick Matthew and James Willstrop were unable to exploit home advantage today in their county of Yorkshire when they went down in the semi-finals of the Allam British Open Squash Championships, the fourth PSA World Series event of the year in Hull.
The historic event came to life at the KC Stadium as the capacity crowd in the stands of the Hull City football ground enjoyed dramatic semi-final clashes.
Second seed Matthew’s hopes of a historic fourth British Open title were dashed by fourth-seeded Frenchman Gregory Gaultier in a fiery encounter in the opening semi-final.
Defending champion Matthew went on the attack in the first game, playing hard and fast and trying to dominate his opponent. The 32-year-old from Sheffield quickly took the score to 4-0 and, looking to make light work of the Frenchman, moved the game on to 8-1.
But Gaultier (pictured in Hull action with Matthew) fought back, winning a massive seven points in a row to level the match. Nine-all followed – but home hero Matthew managed to take the last two points to open up a first game lead.
By the second game, however, the Frenchman was setting the pace of the match and had Matthew on the run. The world No3 from Aix-en-Provence dominated from the off, going 4-0 up quickly, before progressing to 7-2. Although Matthew clawed back a couple of points, the inevitable was soon realised with Gaultier drawing level.
Gaultier again dominated early in the third. Matthew fought back with some strong rallies but always missed out on the point. Gaultier reached game ball at 11-2 – and although Matthew pulled one point back, the game belonged to the Frenchman who won 11-3.
With the chance of a place in the final slipping away, Matthew fought tooth and nail to get back into the match. The two players matched each other point-for-point early in the game – but then Gaultier again started to edge away to make it 7-4. Matthew pulled back to 7-6 but from there on the Frenchman dominated.
A controversial video review at match ball looked to offer the Brit a lifeline but a rally later Matthew was sent crashing out of the championship, Gaultier winning 9-11, 11-7, 11-3, 11-6 in 70 minutes.
“I really wanted to do well at the British Open and was well prepared,” said the elated Frenchman later. “I was happy with how I played. I wanted to get back up the rankings and the only way to do that is to win matches.”
The win takes Gaultier into his 51st PSA Tour final – and sees the 30-year-old former world number one back in the British Open climax for the first time since becoming France’s first winner of the title in 2007.
The second semi-final was a repeat of last year’s at the London O2 Arena – with Pontefract’s Willstrop taking on Egypt’s world number one Ramy Ashour.
In a high-quality encounter, Ashour continued his formidable form, treating the crowd to an array of outrageous flicks, drops and nicks that literally made the capacity crowd audience whoop in awe.
It was less than 24 hours earlier that Willstrop had staged the comeback of the tournament to beat Australian Cameron Pilley in a tense five-game 107-minute clash.
With Willstrop clearly needing time to refocus, the first game was all Ashour as the Egyptian raced to a 8-0 lead – with every attacking shot he tried landing perfectly in the nick, much to the dismay of the local hero.
The Yorkshireman even joked with the world number one after an astonishing point saw the Egyptian casually take the ball from almost between his legs and land it in the nick. First game to the favourite after only six minutes.
In the second, the two went point for point to eight-all – the Englishman beginning to move Ashour away from the middle of the court, stretching the game out to his advantage. At crucial stages of the game, however, Ashour was patient to attack – showcasing not only his short game but finding the perfect length to take the second 11-9.
A large contingent from Willstrop’s home club, who had made the 40-minute journey down the M62 from Pontefract, did their best to lift the three-time British Open runner up.
But it wasn’t to be for the 29-year-old who, despite having three game balls in the third, eventually tinned Ashour’s first match-ball to see the Egyptian move into the final for the second year in a row.
The win saw Ashour extend his unbeaten Tour run – since losing last year’s final to Matthew – to a remarkable 40 matches!
When asked what it meant to him to be in the British Open final, Ashour said: “It means a lot – but the pressure is still on. Greg is more than on fire. He’s almost a rocket! I was watching and he’s playing brilliantly.
“I have to keep pushing myself and still remember that the tournament is still on, despite the very good match with James today. It might have taken a lot out of me but I’ll still push and I’ll still give it my all and I’m very proud to be in it.
“I had a feeling that James might be a little tired from yesterday, so had to get in and play shots before he did,” added Ashour, now in the 46th Tour final of his career. “Because if I get caught in his trap, I’m screwed basically! He’s a great player and a great character on and off court and it’s a great pleasure to play against him.
“The British Open is a prestigious tournament, and we should give thanks to Dr Allam for putting the event back on the map. It’s great to have it back because it was greatly missed.
“I’ll be more than happy if I can win it – but I have a big mountain to climb first.”
25 May 2013
RESULTS: PSA World Series Allam British Open, Hull, England
Quarter-finals: [1] Ramy Ashour (EGY) bt [8] Borja Golan (ESP) 11-7, 11-4, 11-7 (33m) [3] James Willstrop (ENG) bt Cameron Pilley (AUS) 9-11, 9-11, 14-12, 11-6, 11-2 (107m) [4] Gregory Gaultier (FRA) bt Tarek Momen (EGY) 11-8, 11-7, 15-13 (59m) [2] Nick Matthew (ENG) bt [5] Karim Darwish (EGY) 11-6, 11-2, 12-10 (40m)
At two games down and two points away from a major collapse, England’s James Willstrop credited the calming influence of his coaches – father Malcolm Willstrop and brother David Campion – for helping him through to the semi-finals of the Allam British Open Squash Championships after beating Australian rival Cameron Pilley in the longest match of the PSA World Series event in Hull in the English county of Yorkshire.
Adverse weather conditions meant a temporary venue change for the 2013 Allam British Open as play was moved from the outdoor all-glass showcourt at KC Stadium to nearby Hull & East Riding Squash Club – a club that title sponsor Dr Allam has also invested in with a brand new 100-seater showcourt opened just a few weeks ago, now centre stage for the quarter final matches.
It was all go for the event organisers who managed to swap everything over in time for a midday start on a day when several sporting events fell foul of the weather – including the Giro d’Italia and the Test match in Leeds.
The event’s biggest seeding upset seemed on the cards when world No15 Pilley was on the verge of recording a career-first win over English hope Willstrop, the world No4 from Yorkshire who has three British Open final appearances to his credit.
Willstrop later admitted that he was struggling to ‘concentrate mentally’ at the beginning of the match.
Unseeded Pilley – who had reached the quarter-finals after a major upset over sixth seed Mohamed Elshorbagy – played tight, accurate squash and his trademark powerful hitting caused the former world No1 all sorts of problems.
At 12-12 in the third game, the match swung in favour of Willstrop after several let balls – and the Yorkshireman finally converted game ball at 13-12, much to the delight of the vocal crowd.
Willstrop suddenly woke up after some firm words from his coaching team – and drew level before crushing the fatigued Pilley, who was starting to suffer from cramp, 11-2 in the fifth.
Struggling to catch his breath, the third seed expressed his gratitude to the team around him for pulling him through the 107-minute match. “At 2-0 down, I needed calm people – so thank you to them. I wanted to win it for them. I can’t tell you how hard it was,” explained the 29-year-old from Harrogate.
“The intensity of that squash is like brain ache – I have to concentrate so hard – but I’m really pleased to say I’m a semi-finalist,” added Willstrop.
Fellow Yorkshireman Nick Matthew also made it through to the last four. The three-time British Open champion from Sheffield has had a slight dip of form of late – but seems to be recapturing his hunger as he stormed through his quarter final encounter against fifth seed Karim Darwish.
The Egyptian is a class act: the pair have met eleven times previously, with Matthew only one win ahead of his opponent – but, with renewed fight and passion, the second seed was relentless in his attacking. Darwish seemed under constant pressure and the Egyptian lost the first game 11-6.
The second game was much of the same with Darwish seeming to tire from the world number two’s energy and precision.
The 31-year-old from Cairo mounted a comeback in the third – but there was no stopping title-holder Matthew who held his nerve to take the match 11-6, 11-2, 12-10.
A pleased Matthew told the crowd he was happy the squash was able to continue despite the weather. “We hear today about so many sport events that have been cancelled all over the country, but at least squash is able to go on. My heart goes to the people that bought tickets today and weren’t able to come due to the change of circumstances, but I hope we’ll be back on the glass court tomorrow.
“It took a lot of effort from a lot of people to make sure that we would be able to play, thanks very much to all of them for making it happen, and you know, there is always a little hiccup or two when somebody is trying to take the sport to the next level,” explained Matthew.
Matthew will be hoping to continue his form into Saturday’s semi-finals when he faces Frenchman Gregory Gaultier, who came through in three against the unseeded Egyptian Tarek Momen.
The former British Open champion from Aix-en-Provence was clearly fired up for his quarter final match – coming out the more aggressive of the two to take a 1/0 lead.
An entertaining second game saw both players taking the ball in short at every opportunity, which made for some incredible rallies with unbelievable pick-ups from two of the fastest players on the PSA World Tour.
A few fist pumps and great retrievals with a combination of fast paced hitting saw Gaultier go 2/0 up. Despite a closer third game the fourth seed managed to keep collected and close out the match 14/12.
“He’s quick to the front and moves you there so well that I managed to keep my body and mind focused all the way through,” said Gaultier – who added that he was looking forward to returning to the glass court and a passionate crowd.
Top seed Ramy Ashour looks to be the man to beat as he eased past Spain’s Borja Golan in just over half an hour. The Egyptian world number one was at his typical best – sublime movement mixed with extraordinary racket skills.
The 25-year-old from Cairo is now unbeaten since losing the 2012 British Open final – with 39 successive Tour wins to his credit.
“I can’t forget that I am on a winning streak as everybody keeps talking to me about it every three/five minutes,” said the event favourite. “So I thank them for the compliment when they are telling me that I did a good job.
“Then I put it out of my mind, and concentrate on what’s important – today’s match!”
Semi-final line-up: [1] Ramy Ashour (EGY) v [3] James Willstrop (ENG) [2] Nick Matthew (ENG) v [4] Gregory Gaultier (FRA)
24 May 2013
RESULTS: PSA World Series Allam British Open, Hull, England
2nd round (top half of draw): [1] Ramy Ashour (EGY) bt [Q] Chris Simpson (ENG) 11-2, 11-4, 11-9 (22m) [8] Borja Golan (ESP) bt [Q] Karim Abdel Gawad (EGY) 9-11, 11-9, 11-8, 11-4 (55m) Cameron Pilley (AUS) bt [6] Mohamed Elshorbagy (EGY) 13-15, 4-11, 11-9, 11-6, 13-11 (74m) [3] James Willstrop (ENG) bt Simon Rosner (GER) 11-9, 11-1, 11-6 (41m)
In a day beset by weather conditions which finally led to the transfer of the last second round match in the Allam British Open Squash Championships in Hull onto a conventional indoor court, Australian Cameron Pilley pulled off the comeback of the tournament to upset sixth-seeded Egyptian Mohamed Elshorbagy to become the second unseeded player to reach the quarter-finals of the PSA World Series event at the KC Stadium in the English county of Yorkshire.
Elshorbagy, the world No5 and a semi-finalist in last year’s event, was the favourite heading into their last 16 round match – and could not have expected what was to come.
A tight opener saw the two exchanging points up until 12-12 when a sudden downpour caused the crowd surrounding the open air court erected on the turf of the soon-to-be Premier League Hull City football club to head to the back of the stand – with a surprised Pilley shouting “where’s everyone going?” much to the amusement of the crowd.
Pilley was the first to crack and the Egyptian took the first 15-13 – swiftly followed by a comfortable second 11-4.
“What came next was a truly epic and gritty comeback from the Aussie at 9-3 down, with even members of the crowd leaving for refreshment and overheard saying ‘this one’s all over’,” said event spokesperson Scarlett Smith. “How wrong they turned out to be.”
Pilley went on an incredible run winning the next eight points to secure the third 11-9 – then the fourth 11-6 to set up a thrilling decider.
A no let decision on match ball for Elshorbagy at 10-9 gave Pilley the tie-break and some frantic rallying ensued with both looking understandably edgy.
After saving a further match ball, Pilley reached his first match ball 12-11 – which he duly converted after a long rally when the Egyptian’s shot hit the tin.
“You’ve got to have faith in yourself – I had it under control the whole time,” joked Pilley minutes after the 13-15, 4-11, 11-9, 11-6, 13-11 victory which takes him into the quarter-finals of the historic championship for the first time in his fifth attempt.
“There was no purpose in my game early on – it was awful,” admitted the tall 30-year-old from New South Wales. “I relaxed a little bit and tried to straighten up a bit and try and volley more than him.
“He’s beaten me the last few times, so I’m pleased to get through.”
Pilley will now face English hope James Willstrop, the world No4 from Yorkshire who has reached the event’s final on three occasions, each time finishing as runner-up.
In the last match of the day against world No12 Simon Rosner, the German was leading 6-5 when rain stopped play and it was decided that the match should be moved to an indoor court at Hull and East Riding Squash Club.
The third-seeded Yorkshireman was clearly fired up and adjusted to the warmer and drier conditions much more quickly than his opponent, taking just 41 playing minutes to close out the match 11-9, 11-1, 11-6.
The win moves the former world number one a step closer to a repeat of last year’s epic semi-final against Ramy Ashour, the reigning world number one from Egypt who despatched English qualifier Chris Simpson 11-2, 11-4, 11-9 in just 22 minutes.
Ashour will now face eighth seed Borja Golan after the top-ranked Spaniard recovered from a game down to beat Egyptian qualifier Karim Abdel Gawad 9-11, 11-9, 11-8, 11-4 in 55 minutes.
“We only play two or three tournaments outside a year so it does take a bit of getting used to,” commented the Spaniard after reaching the quarter-finals for the first time since making his British Open debut in 2004.
Quarter-final line-up: [1] Ramy Ashour (EGY) v [8] Borja Golan (ESP) [3] James Willstrop (ENG) v Cameron Pilley (AUS) [4] Gregory Gaultier (FRA) v Tarek Momen (EGY) [2] Nick Matthew (ENG) v [5] Karim Darwish (EGY)
Top Seeds Reach British Open SummitThe top two seeds will contest the final of the Allam British Open 2013 as Nicol David and Laura Massaromoved past their semi-final opposition at the KC Stadium in Hull.
World No.1 David played first as play returned to the Hull City venue after rain disrupted quarter-finals day on Friday. She faced fourth seed Alison Waters, and had it all to do after the Englishwoman took the opening 4-points of the match.
Last year’s British Open champion came back strongly however, lightening quick and hitting a good length to shut her opponent out completely. Waters began to rely on hitting outright winners to stay in the game, but under increasing pressure her error count rose to David’s advantage.
Similar scorelines in all three games saw the Malaysian through to the final, but the home crowd were given the opportunity to celebrate as second seeded Yorkshire-woman Laura Massaro defeated close rival Raneem El Weleily to set-up a mouth-watering final prospect.
Massaro took a while to get into a working rhythm as El Weleily began the contest with her typically attacking style. Patience paid off though, having lost the opening game she controlled the following two, working line and length to deny the Egyptian the opportunity to attack.
El Weleily changed her strategy in the fourth, refusing to hunt the attacking shot and content to play Massaro’s game and wait of her chance to win points. It resulted in a closer game, but momentum was with the home favourite who was determined to see out the contest and reach her fourth successive final of a World Series event.
Final:
[1] Nicol David (MAS) v [2] Laura Massaro (ENG)
Semi-finals:
[1] Nicol David (MAS) bt [4] Alison Waters (ENG) 11-5, 11-4, 11-5 (27m)
[2] Laura Massaro (ENG) bt [3] Raneem El Weleily (EGY) 8-11, 11-6, 11-8, 11-9 (48m)
Nicol David remains on course to retain her Allam British Open title, and her first of 2013 after beating sixth seed Joelle King in the quarter-finals.
The world No.1 from Malaysia was evenly matched in the opening game at the Hull and East Riding Squash Club, after adverse weather conditions called a halt to play at the KC Stadium. Only a tiebreak separated the pair, but David had the edge over her opponent and maintained her narrow advantage to take the second game. King’s counter-attacking efforts began to take their toll however, and she was unable to put up much of a fight in the third, with David closing out the win.
The seven-time world champion will now face Englishwoman Alison Waters after the fourth seed’s impressive victory over Australia’s Kasey Brown. Brown was unable to match the efficiency displayed by the home hopeful who dominated the match and allowed the twelfth seed no chance to get into her stride.
Raneem El Weleily maintained her good form in the event by dispatching eighth seed Jenny Duncalf. The Englishwoman took a closely fought lead against the No.3 seed, but El Weleily recovered well and launched an aggressive attacking effort to storm to victory and into the next round.
The Egyptian will face English rival Laura Massaro, following the local Yorkshire-woman’s four game defeat of Omneya Abdel Kawy. Having defeated fifth seed Nour El Sherbini in last night’s second round, Kawy was in promising form but Massaro was clever in her deconstruction of the Egyptian’s game. At 2-0 she looked good value for her lead, but Kawy refused to give up and managed to end the third game on her terms. The world No.2 bounced back immediately however and ended the contest in four to reach her fourth successive World Series semi-final.
Semi-finals:
1pm – [1] Nicol David (MAS) v [4] Alison Waters (ENG)
Follow on – [2] Laura Massaro (ENG) v [3] Raneem El Weleily (EGY)
Quarter-finals:
[1] Nicol David (MAS) bt [6] Joelle King (NZL) 13-11, 11-8, 11-1
[4] Alison Waters (ENG) bt [12] Kasey Brown (AUS) 11-4, 11-3, 11-4
[3] Raneem El Weleily (EGY) bt [8] Jenny Duncalf (ENG) 9-11, 11-6, 11-4, 11-5
[2] Laura Massaro (ENG) bt [14] Omneya Abdel Kawy (EGY) 11-7, 11-6, 9-11, 11-8
Madeline Perry bows out of British Open
It was a tough day for Madeline Perry as world number 3, Raneem El Weleily, who looked in great form as she dispatched the experienced Irishwoman in straight games. The Egyptian No.3 seed wasted no time in setting about her usual attacking game, and Perry was happy to take her opportunities too as they both racked up some quick points. El Weleily’s lower error rate gave her a slight advantage to take the first game, but Perry made a real battle of game two to force a tiebreak. In the end though there was nothing she could to do as the world No.3 put the game to bed, followed by a dominant third to end the contest.
Round two results:
[3] Raneem El Weleily (EGY) bt [11] Madeline Perry (IRL) 11-7, 12-10, 11-5 (25m)
[8] Jenny Duncalf (ENG) bt Nour El Tayeb (EGY) 14-12, 11-4, 11-4 (25m)
[14] Omneya Abdel Kawy (EGY) bt [5] Nour El Sherbini (EGY) 14-12, 11-7, 11-8 (29m)
[2] Laura Massaro (ENG) bt [15] Dipika Pallikal (IND) 6-11, 12-10, 11-9, 11-6 (45m)
Other Match Reports
Jenny Duncalf survived a worrying first game scare to confirm her place in the quarter-finals of the Allam British Open 2013.
In the second day of a split round two draw, the world No.8 needed to be alert against a quick and gutsy, who seemed to be enjoying the grand World Series stage.
El Tayeb, ranked No.23 in the WSA world rankings was able to match her opponent in the early stages, and saved three game balls to force the first game to a tiebreak. Duncalf tightened her attacking shots to the front to combat the speed of the Egyptian, and gladly closed the game out 14-12.
The loss seemed to dishearten the 20-year-old form Cairo, who gave away five successive points in the second game to sure up Duncalf’s position. This gave the Englishwoman the confidence to attack higher up the court and she ended the contest with a further two quick games. “It doesn’t matter if we play in the Sahara desert or in the middle of the snow,” Duncalf told SquashSite after the match, “it’s still the British Open, and if you are a good squash player, you’ll play well on any court.”
Raneem El Weleily who beat Madeline Perry and will now play Jenny Duncalf said “It’s the first time I played with sleeves on,” on the cold court temperature, “so definitely not my favourite conditions. But it’s a good court, and I like it, but no, it’s not as easy as it looks, plus it’s a very risky game so you need a plan B!
Despite surprising last year’s British Open onlookers by reaching the final at 16-years of age, Nour El Sherbini failed to match per past form as she succumbed to a straight games loss to compatriot Omneya Abdel Kawy. Sherbini, seeded fifth for the event, lost out narrowly in the first game as both players made their way through a far from flawless performance. The cold court made attacking shots all the more dangerous, but the Egyptians scored points and gave them away in equal measure as little else separated them at the tiebreak. The more experienced Kawy was able to do enough to claim the opening game however, and some more tactical play saw the former world No.4 run out 3-0 winner against the higher seed.
“I think the difference today came from the pressure she felt, because she is the highest ranked player, and that she got into the final last year,” said Kawy. “But also, maybe the way I played surprised her, I thought she was going to play a lot more shots at the front, but she didn’t.”
Kawy will face local Laura Massaro in tomorrow’s quarter-final round, following the second seeds four-game win over Dipika Pallikal. It was the Indian player who started in better form, attacking quickly in the cool conditions, with Massaro struggling to retrieve.
The Englishwoman was able to move her opponent off the tee more in the second game and claimed a narrow tiebreak game to draw level, before taking an equally close third. The home hopeful had more breathing room in the fourth game as Pallikal’s error count rose, and she sped to match point with a comfortable cushion. Pallikal took a nasty slip in the final rally, colliding head-first with the side-wall but the match was Massaro’s and the world No.2, along with Duncalf and Alison Waters who progressed on Wednesday, remain on course for British success.
“It’s such tough conditions on there I just had to concentrate on each point,” said the Englishwoman. “It might have seemed a bit excessive but I needed to keep on geeing myself up and that was the only way to do it.”
The quarter-finals will be aired on SquashTVfrom midday on Friday, with the event continuing over the weekend.
Quarter-finals:
12:00 [1] Nicol David (MAS) v [6] Joelle King (NZL)
14:00 [4] Alison Waters (ENG) v [12] Kasey Brown (AUS)
18:00 [3] Raneem El Weleily (EGY) v [8] Jenny Duncalf (ENG)
19:45 [14] Omneya Abdel Kawy (EGY) v [2] Laura Massaro (ENG)
Madeline Perry - never in danger of losing today
Aisling & Madeline at British Open Round One
The first day of the Allam British Open main draw held a number of surprise results as the world’s elite battle for supremacy in squash’s oldest event.
Ireland has 2 players playing in this most prestigious of competitions. Aisling Blake played Hong Kong’s Annie Au in Round 1 but unfortunately Aisling lost in 4 games in 56 mins – 11-9, 8-11, 11-6, 11-6. A close game that could have gone either way.
Our other representative Madeline Perry, who has had a great last 4 weeks, with 2 WSA titles in succession either side of a team silver medal for Ireland in the European Championships in Amsterdam. Madeline dispatched the young up and coming English qualifier Emma Beddoes in straight games, 12-10, 11-8, 11-9 in 44mins. She now plays the number 3 seed Raneem El Weleily (EGY), which will be a tough challange for Madeline but one which she will not shirk!
Unseeded English duo Sarah-Jane Perry and Sarah Kippax caused big upsets in front of a home crowd at the Pontefract Club in West Yorkshire, England, whilst Egyptian Nour El Tayeb also claimed an unfancied win.
Having risen 42 places in the WSA World Tour rankings since this event last year, Sarah-Jane Perry has taken giant leaps in improving her game. This has been reflected in three WSA titles claimed so far in 2013, and the 23-year-old put in a performance of the highest quality to defeat No.7 seed Low Wee Wern.
The powerful Englishwoman took a strong lead early on, whilst her Malaysian opponent was slow in rising to the occasion. A tiebreak second game showed signs of a struggle from Wee Wern and despite narrowly losing out 13-11, she returned to court to take the third game. Still acclimatising to the Tour as a Top20 player, the world No18 adjusted her game to combat the Malaysian’s fight-back, and held firm to deny Wee Wern a fourth game victory and record the best result of her career to date.
Her first World Series second round appearance will be against No.12 seed Kasey Brown, following the Australian’s straight games dismissal of qualifier Lauren Briggs.
Following Nour El Tayeb’s four-game defeat of No.9 seed Camille Serme, the Egyptian will have her eye on another scalp in round two as she faces eighth seed Jenny Duncalf. Duncalf will have other ideas however, after defeating Latasha Khan of the USA, and looking for her second career appearance in the British Open final, having finished runner-up in 2008.
Qualifier Sarah Kippax also impressed home audiences with a marathon win against No.10 seed Natalie Grinham. Kippax lost out in a narrow opening game to the experienced Dutch international, but scrapped to an even closer 13-11 tiebreak win in the second. Back level, she set about taking the lead from the former world No.3 but after claiming a quicker third game, was pegged back in the fourth. Another determined effort from the 30-year-old Englishwoman however, saw the unseeded player progressing in 68-minutes to face world champion Nicol David in round two.
David’s British Open title defence got off to the best of starts as the Malaysian beat Indian qualifier Joshana Chinappa in straight games. Her main threats to the title, second and third seeds Laura Massaro and Raneem El Weleily were also showing promising early form, with local Yorkshire-born Massaro defeating Joey Chan in straight games, whilst El Weleily of Egypt overcame qualifier Delia Arnold 3-1.
Massaro will face Dipika Pallikal in round two, following the Indian international’s 75-minute marathon win over Line Hansen of Denmark, and El Weleily will play in-form Irishwoman Madeline Perry.
Fourth and fifth seeds Alison Waters and Nour El Sherbini saw successes against their respective opponents in round one. Waters of England came from a game down to defeat promising teenager and compatriot Emily Whitlock, while 17-year-old Sherbini took two tiebreak games to defeat Harvard student Amanda Sobhy 3-1.
Waters will now face four-time British Open champion Rachael Grinham in round two, though the Australian won’t have too long to recover from her five-game battle with Nicolette Fernandes. Sherbini will face Egyptian compatriot Omneya Abdel Kawy following the No14 seed’s three-game win over Donna Urquhart. Sixth seed Joelle King was also comfortable on route through to the next round after beating qualifier Samantha Cornett of Canada. The Kiwi will play Annie Au of Hong Kong, following the No.13 seed’s 3-1 win over Aisling Blake.
Winners of today’s round one matches will move to the KC Stadium in Hull for a televised schedule on SquashTV for the rest of the week. The $90,000 World Series event will hold round two split over Wednesday and Thursday with the quarter-finals on Friday, and the semis and final taking place on Saturday and Sunday.
Photographs available courtesy of SquashSite: here
Tuesday’s Second Round Fixtures:
12:00 Sarah-Jane Perry (ENG) vs [12] Kasey Brown (AUS)
14:00 [16] Rachael Grinham (AUS) vs [4] Alison Waters (ENG)
18:00 [6] Joelle King (NZL) vs [13] Annie Au (HKG)
20:00 [1] Nicol David (MAS) vs Sarah Kippax (ENG)
Wednesday’s Second Round Fixtures:
[8] Jenny Duncalf (ENG) v Nour El Tayeb (EGY)
[3] Raneem El Weleily (EGY) v [11] Madeline Perry (IRL)
[5] Nour El Sherbini (EGY) v [14] Omneya Abdel Kawy (EGY)
[2] Laura Massaro (ENG) v [15] Dipika Pallikal (IND)
1st round:
[1] Nicol David (MAS) bt [Q] Joshana Chinappa (IND) 11-4, 11-5, 11-4 (30m)
Sarah Kippax (ENG) bt [10] Natalie Grinham (NED) 9-11, 13-11, 11-6, 9-11, 11-7 (68m)
[6] Joelle King (NZL) bt [Q] Samantha Cornett (CAN) 11-8, 11-7, 11-8
[13] Annie Au (HKG) bt Aisling Blake (IRL) 11-9, 8-11, 11-6, 11-6 (56m)
[4] Alison Waters (ENG) bt Emily Whitlock (ENG) 11-13, 11-8, 11-7, 11-9 (56m)
[16] Rachael Grinham (AUS) bt [Q] Nicolette Fernandes (GUY) 10-12, 1-11, 11-7, 11-9, 11-8 (58m)
Sarah-Jane Perry (ENG) bt [7] Low Wee Wern (MAS) 11-7, 13-11, 7-11, 11-9
[12] Kasey Brown (AUS) bt [Q] Lauren Briggs (ENG) 11-6, 11-5, 11-7 (39m)
Nour El Tayeb (EGY) bt [9] Camille Serme (FRA) 10-12, 11-6, 11-7, 11-5 (49m)
[8] Jenny Duncalf (ENG) bt [Q] Latasha Khan (USA) 11-4, 11-4, 11-2 (24m)
[11] Madeline Perry (IRL) v [Q] Emma Beddoes (ENG) 12-10, 11-8, 11-9 (44m)
[3] Raneem El Weleily (EGY) v [Q] Delia Arnold (MAS) 8-11, 11-7, 11-3, 11-4 (39m)
[14] Omneya Abdel Kawy (EGY) v Donna Urquhart (AUS) 11-9, 11-4, 11-4 (22m)
[5] Nour El Sherbini (EGY) v [Q] Amanda Sobhy (USA) 12-10, 9-11, 14-12, 11-7 (47m)
[15] Dipika Pallikal (IND) v Line Hansen (DEN) 14-16, 11-6, 8-11, 11-4 (76m)
[2] Laura Massaro (ENG) v Joey Chan (HKG) 14-12, 11-1, 11-6 (29m)
Irish O35 Team
Venue: Scotstoun Sports Campus – Glasgow
Date: May the 17th & 18th
Team left to right: Clive Morgan, John Hurley, Neil Brannigan, Keith Moran, Ronan Peyton, and Dara O’Flynn
Friday 17th
Ireland V England
England traditionally strong in this event have never lost the title since its inception so this was going to be a difficult opening match, the order of play was 5,3,1,4,2 Neil was first on and despite giving everything he went down 3.0 to the English captain who showed great touch and control. Ronan Peyton was next up and always willingly had a tough 3 games losing out to the combative English number 3. Keith who just turned 35 this year stepped up from the seniors making his first master start and had a good domestic season was eager to bring his form into the weekend had a real tussle with Jamie Goodrich. As with all English players the pace was extremely high with allot of pressure applied, Keith found the early exchanges difficult but to his credit he slowly worked his way into the match, the deciding game was the fourth and after some terrific battling he got himself into a commanding lead looking to level the match at 2.2, however Jamie managed to claw himself back demonstrating why he is the current number 1 in both the O35’s & O40’s and took the game winning 3.1. Following Keith and another making his master’s debut was Clive Morgan who was simply bursting with enthusiasm (and out of his Irish shirt!) gave maximum effort and commitment but fell short losing 3.0 to the steady Englishman. The oldest member of the team and certainly not the wisest was last on court where I played the squash coach based out of London, the match went to 5 and despite winning a tight fourth set I was unable to press home the advantage losing 3.2.
Overall score: 5.0 England
Saturday 18th
Ireland V Scotland
Appreciating that England were favourites for the title we were now in a battle for second place, we got off to the perfect start with John Hurley coming in fresh and rearing to go won his match 3.0. John mixed up his style of power and precision with some great squash and had too much for his Scottish counterpart. Ronan had the task of getting past Owen Hadden who also plays masters Davis cup tennis for Scotland was too hot for Ronan, his racket skills and delicate drops and flicks made for a difficult match for Ronan to establish any rhythm going down 3.0. With the matches level at 1.1, Keith went on to play Simon Boughton, another squash coach this time from Edinburgh who’s playing 1 at both O40’s and O35’s and it not difficult to see why, Simon played controlled squash from the first point mixing up deft drops and some beautiful lengths that seems to die slowly into the back walls making Keith work extremely hard in every rally. He worn Keith down and took the match 3.0, at this point we needed some inspiration and up stepped Clive Morgan, never a man to shirk a challenge he played brilliant squash, mixing raw aggression and consistency to win 3.0 to level the tie at 2.2. Last on I found myself the first game down and trailing 7.2 in the second before grinding my way back to 7.7, at that stage all I could hear was Clive bellowing at me to keep going but sadly my opponent took the game and went onto win 3.0 which was disappointing given all the hard work the Munster men had done to get us into that position.
Over Score: 3.2 Scotland
Saturday 18th
Ireland V Wales
After a quick turnaround the last fixture was against the Welsh, they had beaten the Scots 3.2 the previously night and were solid down the line however their number 1 would be absent for this match. We had pride on the line as some of us were yet to register a win so the lads were challenged to win each match and as the Scots were playing the England we still had an outside chance of second place overall if results went our way. Neil was first up to get play started and he played some of his best squash in the early games but could not keep pace with the Welsh number 5.
Ronan was next up and was playing the crafty Welsh number 3, he was determined not to go away from the weekend empty handed and dug in dig to get his first win 3.1. It was hard fought levelling the fixture at 1.1, so it was John back on court looking to keep his unbeaten record and again playing some of his best squash won a competitive 3.0 putting us ahead 2.1. Since we had to change the playing format to facilitate the short turnaround I was next on and like Ronan managed to get my first win of the weekend 3.0. We needed at least another win to put us into contention for second place so Keith was next on and following a pep talk from Clive he went in full bloodied and fully committed to secure a win. This was a cracking game of squash with both players evenly matched; it went to 5 with each player unwilling to yield and constantly asking questions of each other’s abilities and commitment. It came down to who wanted it more and with a very happy Keith pulling through it gave us a comprehensive victory.
Overall Score: 4.1 Ireland
Final Standing:
Summary
It was a great weekend of squash and an honour playing with this bunch of lads, some of the notable highlights which made it in the Saturday speeches included Clive’s Limericks broad definition let’s and strokes and of course his presidential presence, Keith’s waist coat and his win, Hurley’s 100% record and the O55’s Cork lads homage to him, Brano’s support for the Irish tops and Peyton’s confusion when ordering a coffee I’ll have a flash white so!
Hope to see you all next year.
Irish O35 Team
Venue: Scotstoun Sports Campus – Glasgow
Date: May the 17th & 18th
Team left to right: Clive Morgan, John Hurley, Neil Brannigan, Keith Moran, Ronan Peyton, and Dara O’Flynn
Friday 17th
Ireland V England
England traditionally strong in this event have never lost the title since its inception so this was going to be a difficult opening match, the order of play was 5,3,1,4,2 Neil was first on and despite giving everything he went down 3.0 to the English captain who showed great touch and control. Ronan Peyton was next up and always willingly had a tough 3 games losing out to the combative English number 3. Keith who just turned 35 this year stepped up from the seniors making his first master start and had a good domestic season was eager to bring his form into the weekend had a real tussle with Jamie Goodrich. As with all English players the pace was extremely high with allot of pressure applied, Keith found the early exchanges difficult but to his credit he slowly worked his way into the match, the deciding game was the fourth and after some terrific battling he got himself into a commanding lead looking to level the match at 2.2, however Jamie managed to claw himself back demonstrating why he is the current number 1 in both the O35’s & O40’s and took the game winning 3.1. Following Keith and another making his master’s debut was Clive Morgan who was simply bursting with enthusiasm (and out of his Irish shirt!) gave maximum effort and commitment but fell short losing 3.0 to the steady Englishman. The oldest member of the team and certainly not the wisest was last on court where I played the squash coach based out of London, the match went to 5 and despite winning a tight fourth set I was unable to press home the advantage losing 3.2.
Overall score: 5.0 England
Saturday 18th
Ireland V Scotland
Appreciating that England were favourites for the title we were now in a battle for second place, we got off to the perfect start with John Hurley coming in fresh and rearing to go won his match 3.0. John mixed up his style of power and precision with some great squash and had too much for his Scottish counterpart. Ronan had the task of getting past Owen Hadden who also plays masters Davis cup tennis for Scotland was too hot for Ronan, his racket skills and delicate drops and flicks made for a difficult match for Ronan to establish any rhythm going down 3.0. With the matches level at 1.1, Keith went on to play Simon Boughton, another squash coach this time from Edinburgh who’s playing 1 at both O40’s and O35’s and it not difficult to see why, Simon played controlled squash from the first point mixing up deft drops and some beautiful lengths that seems to die slowly into the back walls making Keith work extremely hard in every rally. He worn Keith down and took the match 3.0, at this point we needed some inspiration and up stepped Clive Morgan, never a man to shirk a challenge he played brilliant squash, mixing raw aggression and consistency to win 3.0 to level the tie at 2.2. Last on I found myself the first game down and trailing 7.2 in the second before grinding my way back to 7.7, at that stage all I could hear was Clive bellowing at me to keep going but sadly my opponent took the game and went onto win 3.0 which was disappointing given all the hard work the Munster men had done to get us into that position.
Over Score: 3.2 Scotland
Saturday 18th
Ireland V Wales
After a quick turnaround the last fixture was against the Welsh, they had beaten the Scots 3.2 the previously night and were solid down the line however their number 1 would be absent for this match. We had pride on the line as some of us were yet to register a win so the lads were challenged to win each match and as the Scots were playing the England we still had an outside chance of second place overall if results went our way. Neil was first up to get play started and he played some of his best squash in the early games but could not keep pace with the Welsh number 5.
Ronan was next up and was playing the crafty Welsh number 3, he was determined not to go away from the weekend empty handed and dug in dig to get his first win 3.1. It was hard fought levelling the fixture at 1.1, so it was John back on court looking to keep his unbeaten record and again playing some of his best squash won a competitive 3.0 putting us ahead 2.1. Since we had to change the playing format to facilitate the short turnaround I was next on and like Ronan managed to get my first win of the weekend 3.0. We needed at least another win to put us into contention for second place so Keith was next on and following a pep talk from Clive he went in full bloodied and fully committed to secure a win. This was a cracking game of squash with both players evenly matched; it went to 5 with each player unwilling to yield and constantly asking questions of each other’s abilities and commitment. It came down to who wanted it more and with a very happy Keith pulling through it gave us a comprehensive victory.
Overall Score: 4.1 Ireland
Final Standing:
Summary
It was a great weekend of squash and an honour playing with this bunch of lads, some of the notable highlights which made it in the Saturday speeches included Clive’s Limericks broad definition let’s and strokes and of course his presidential presence, Keith’s waist coat and his win, Hurley’s 100% record and the O55’s Cork lads homage to him, Brano’s support for the Irish tops and Peyton’s confusion when ordering a coffee I’ll have a flash white so!
Hope to see you all next year.
