NASH CUP DAY 6 – MEN’S PSA FINAL
Dave Morrish reports

The final evening started off with an innovative “squash challenge”.

Milou Van Der Heijden and Cecelia Cortes played some of the better players in the club, with a challenge involved. For example, they had to touch all four walls before winning the rally, or play with a racquet that had only six vertical and horizontal strings.

The crowd loved it, the players loved it, and it was a great prelude to the men’s PSA final.

JOE LEE bt SHAWN DELIERRE : 11-3; 11-7; 11-7 (47 mins)
 

11-8, 6-11, 11-6, 5-5 rtd (66m)

[3] Shahier Razik

11-3, 11-7,
11-7 (47m)

[2] Shawn Delierre

11/7, 9/11, 12/10, 11/6 (101m)

[2] Shawn Delierre

17-Sep, Qualifying Finals:
        
Scott Arnold (Aus) 3-0 Albert Shoihet (Can)                      11-6, 11-8, 11-2 (29m)
Lewis Walters (Eng) 3-1 Tyler Hamilton (Can)           4-11, 11-6, 11-6, 11-4 (35m)
David Letourneau (Can) 3-1 Mike McCue (Can)      13-11, 9-11, 11-5, 11-4 (52m)
Declan James (Eng) 3-0 Tom Pashley (Eng)                     11-9, 13-11, 11-8 (39m)

16-Sep, Qualifying Round One:

Scott Arnold (Aus) 3-0 Colin Ramasra (Tri)                               11-2, 11-7, 11-5 (25m)
Albert Shoihet (Can) 3-2 Matthew Serediak (Can)  9-11, 7-11, 13-11, 11-5, 11-9 (69m)
Tyler Hamilton (Can) 3-0 Alex Noakes (Eng)                            11-8, 11-9, 11-6 (28m)
Lewis Walters (Eng) 3-0 Brad Hanebury (Can)                          11-2, 11-4, 11-2 (21m)
David Letourneau (Can) 3-0 Adrian Ostbye (Can)                    11-5, 11-9, 11-5 (23m)
Mike McCue (Can) 3-0 Eric Dingle (Can)                                   11-3, 11-2, 11-6 (26m)
Tom Pashley (Eng) 3-0 Adrian Dudzicki (Can)                           11-4, 11-2, 11-8 (27m)
Declan James (Eng) 3-1 James Van Staveran (Can)          11-9, 4-11, 11-4, 11-8 (34m)

 13-11, 11-8, 11-8 (29m)

[4] Alexandra Norman

 13-11, 11-3, 11-9 (27m)

[2] Maria Toor Pakay

11-4, 11-8, 11-6 (20m)

[2] Maria Toor Pakay

17-Sep, Qualifying Finals:

Sophie Mehta (Can) 3-0 Laura Savage (Can)                      11-6, 11-6, 11-7 (21m)
Enora Villard (Fra) 3-1 Holly Delavigne (Can)             11-1, 6-11, 11-3, 11-5 (24m)
Maddy O’Connor (Can) 3-0 Emma Molyneux (Can)              11-4, 11-4, 11-0 (11m)
Allyssa Mehta (Can) 3-0 Arden McKillop (Can)                    11-0, 11-4, 11-6 (16m)

 

NASH CUP DAY 6 – MEN’S PSA FINAL
Dave Morrish reports

The final evening started off with an innovative “squash challenge”. Milou Van Der Heijden and Cecelia Cortes played some of the better players in the club, with a challenge involved.

For example, they had to touch all four walls before winning the rally, or play with a racquet that had only six vertical and horizontal strings. The crowd loved it, the players loved it, and it was a great prelude to the men’s PSA final.


JOE LEE bt SHAWN DELIERRE : 11-3; 11-7; 11-7 (47 mins)

Head to head, Joe led Shawn 2-0 on the PSA tour, but the last meeting was in 2011. This match was another one that was very hard to call, having seen both players throughout the week. Joe has been solid throughout the week, but Shawn has been explosive.

Joe took first blood compliments of an error boast by Shawn, but Joe returned the compliment with the very next point. The next rally showed that both players were feeling their way.

It was long and ended up with a backhand volley drop winner from Shawn. Joe then made another error to give Shawn a 3-1 lead. The pace was high, and both players were seriously working the ball. Shawn then gifted Joe a point to make it 2-3.

So far in this game there have been 4 errors and 1 winner – clearly a nervous start for both. Joe then did what he does best – builds around a good length, forces the boast, plays a good straight drop, and then attacks the inevitable cross court with a punishing volley to the back.

The next rally was a long one (40+ shots) which Joe finished off with a backhand volley drop winner. Shawn followed this with an error to give Joe a 5-3 lead. 5-3 soon became 9-3 (a few errors from Shawn and some lovely winners from Joe). Joe went 10-3 up with a drop from a boast and then Shawn gave Joe the game with a tin.

Shawn came out strong in the second game like a wounded warrior and quickly won the first 2 points. Joe responded with 2 winners to bring it back to 2-2.

Joe is doing something that not many players have done against Shawn until now – he is dropping from Shawn’s working boast and reasserting the advantage – and this is good. A great length from Joe which results in a boast error from Shawn and Joe has a 3-2 lead.

The next rally ends with Shawn expecting a cross court, but Joe goes straight, 4-2 Joe. Winner Shawn, error Shawn, 5-3 Joe. They exchange beautiful drops in the front right, with Shawn having the final answer to bring it back to 4-5, but he follows it up with another error and its 6-4 Joe. Joe then makes 2 unforced errors, advantage gone, 6-6. They share winners to make it 7-7.

Joe then puts together 4 wonderful, well-constructed rallies which result in either winners or errors from Shawn, to win the game 11-7 and lead 2-0.

It was all Joe at the start of the third and he built up a 6-2 lead. Joe has definitely got the bit between his teeth, but I know from talking to him that he is not going to take this for granted.

He knows Shawn is dangerous and has a “never say die” attitude. Not trying to tempt fate (this comment was made before what happened next), Shawn pulled it back to 5-6. Joe settled down and went back to what he did best and went through to 10-6, match ball. Shawn managed to pull 1 back but Joe finished it off with a trademark cross court volley drop that left his opponent stranded.

In their speeches, both of the players acknowledged the hard work that had gone into the tournament, the phenomenal hospitality of the billets, the organization team (Jay and Dave), and how much they appreciated the crowd support.

A final message from the tournament host, Jay Nash:

“We made some changes for 2013 by doubling the purse (we increased the men’s purse by $5K and introduced a $5K WSA, and I couldn’t be happier with the way things have turned out. I don’t understand why all tournaments don’t include a WSA and a PSA event, as the interaction between the men and women enhanced our members experience immensely. We look forward to many more years of The Nash Cup.”

So we finally come to the end of a phenomenal week of squash. Everybody that has been a part of this tournament has enjoyed every moment of it. A huge thanks must go to Jay Nash for his meticulous planning and attention to detail that has definitely been acknowledged and appreciated by the players.

The tournament is not over yet though – there is an amateur event running alongside the pro event with 135 players in 11 different categories. Finals are tomorrow (fortunately I don’t have to report on these so I should get an early night)!

Dave Morrish

NASH CUP DAY 5: LADIES WSA FINAL + PSA SEMI FINALS
Dave Morrish reports

We were treated to just under 200 minutes of top class squash today. We started off with the men’s semis and left the ladies final till last.

In the PSA semis there were three possible combinations – an all English final, an all Canadian final or an English / Canadian final. I am not sure how the bookmakers work out their odds but I think the later would be the safer bet……. And that was the case!

First up we had Joe Lee and Shahier Razik. After yesterday’s performance, no one would have bet against Shahier, and at 5-5 in the 4th that was still the case. Sadly Shahier had to take a 3 minute injury break and was unable to continue.

Ben Coleman and Shawn Delierre followed and this was another hard call, purely because Ben had just played 2 of the best games of his life to reach the semis. He tested Shawn big time but the higher ranked Shawn prevailed 3-1 in 101 minutes.

And then to the first ever Nash Cup WSA finals between Milou Van Der Heijhden and Maria Toorpakai Wazir. This was an exciting game and the score does not really do it justice. Maria ended up winning 3-0 to become our first champion.


 

JOE LEE (ENG) vs SHAHIER RAZIK (CAN): 11-8; 6-11; 11-6; 5-5 rtd (66 mins)

Going into this match, Shahier had beaten Joe on their past five PSA meetings…… but the last one was in 2011!

Joe started well and took an early 2-0 lead with a volley boast winner and an error from Shahier, who responded with a winner and squeezed error from Joe, 2-2. The next rally was superb – 40 shots, with Joe finally playing his trade mark cross court kill that had perfect weight and width. Winners and errors exchanged hands and then Joe pulled away to lead 8-4.

I might add that none of these rallies were cheap or short! Shahier brought it back to 6-9 a little later and then 8-9 before Joe caressed a backhand cross court volley drop into the nick to lead 10-8. Joe took the game with an exquisite backhand drop into the nick.

I spoke to Delierre in between games and asked him what he thought. He said a lot would depend on the next game as Shahier gets more dangerous as the game goes on and his “engine” warms up”. Well he looked be talking sense as Shahier built a 7-3 lead. He was moving as well as ever and playing steady but positive error-free squash and Joe was making a high number (by his own standards) of unforced errors. 7-3 soon became 11-6. One game all!

Joe took the first point of the 3rd but the next rally (long) ended with a tin from Joe and then another. 2-1 Shahier. Shahier gives nothing – he makes you have to win points and this often drags his opponents into “forcing” shots, which Joe was starting to do. Joe re-grouped and built up a 4-2 advantage but a few rallies later (and a few errors from Joe) it was 5-5.

The next rally was one of the best of the match – Joe had Shahier all over the court, but his ability to absorb and recover are second to none and he finished the rally with a perfect cross court drive. He was now 6-5 up. Shahier made an uncharacteristic error to bring it back to 6-6, after which Joe put together four lovely rallies to lead 10-6. Another error from Shahier and Joe was 2-1 up.

The fourth was nip and tuck to 5-5 – very few lets, both players trying to play the ball. Something happened and shahier pulled up and asked for a 3 minute injury break. Sadly he was unable to continue after the break.

When I spoke to him afterwards he said he hadn’t played three hard games in months and it took its toll on his knee. Sad way to end a game, but Shahier can leave this tournament with his head high and the utmost respect from all who had witnessed his play. I for one thoroughly enjoyed watching him play. At 35 it is incredible to see the way he can still play at such a high level. One mustn’t take anything away from Joe though, he is playing some great squash.

Joe “ Felt like I played really well in patches but I lost my way at times and that’s partly because of the way Shahier plays. If I could have cut out the errors, I may have done more. He showed last nightthat he is much better than his ranking. I have played him before (five times) and although I had lost them all, it didn’t play on my mind – I actually felt the pressure was more on him!

"I have done so much work over the summer, both physically and technically, that I feel like a new player. I am in the final and have not spent too much time on court, so I am pleased. Looking forward to tomorrow – it’s a final, how can you not look forward to it! Played him twice before and won both but that means nothing. New day, new player. Its on the day”

Shahier “it was shaping up for a good match but unfortunately my left knee gave way on me in the fourth. I believe it was due to being out of action for five months. But I am very pleased to be competing again and look forward to the rest of the season. The Nash Cup is a unique and lively event, and very well run. Hope to be back next year”


SHAWN DELIERRE (CAN) vs BEN COLEMAN (ENG) 11-7; 9-11; 12-10; 11-6 (101m)

This was always going to be a long drawn out battle! Two very fit players with two good matches behind them!

Ben made the best start with patient rallying and “not forcing” the game to lead 2-1 but Shawn came back strong and dominated most of the middle part of the game with his ferocious pace and explosive speed around the court to take an 8-3 lead. Ben dug in and managed to pull it back to 6-8 but Delierre continued to dominate, stay in front and had the first game ball of the night at 10-7, which delivered the final punch to take the game 11-7.

The match continued I the same vain – long gruelling rallies, played at a high pace, combined with unbelievable retrieving from both players. Shawn moved to 9-6 before an error, two no lets and a conduct stroke (not sure why), suddenly made it 10-9 Ben. He only needed the one opportunity to take the game and did so with a winning drive to the back. One all, game on!

The third was long. Both players shared winners and errors, retrieved and fought, up to 8 all. Shawn pounced on a forehand cross court and killed it with a back hand straight volley winner to the back. He followed this up with a trickle boast winner to lead 10-8. A no let and a perfect length winner from Ben and it was 10-10. Big points at steak as a 2-1 lead awaits the winner of this game. Shawn “won” the nest two points rather than Ben losing them and took the 2-1 lead.

Just like yesterday, Shawn came out strong. He was actually moving as well and quickly now as he was at the start of the game, if not quicker! He stayed in front and built up a 9-5 lead. Ben managed to pull one back but Shawn reeled off the next two points to take the match 3-1.

Shawn “Happy with tonight. Felt Ben played beyond his ranking, and I told him so. Ben pushed me to the end. Even at 10-6 match ball I was not convinced that I would win.

"No one has given me an easy ride in this tournament to get to the final. I feel physically in the best shape of my life – I did a lot of work in the summer and playing in Columbia earlier gave me a tournament under my belt. Very thankful to have made it this far and right now I am enjoying the moment.

Ben “I can not complain about this tournament! I beat two people I have never beaten before and produced some of the best squash I have ever played. It was tough against Shawn tonight. I gave my all but it just wasn’t quite good enough. He played well and I am content with my performance.

"This tournament has given me a lot of confidence. The club have really taken care of the players and I would like to thank everyone involved in the tournament – great event guys!”



MARIA TOORPAKAI WAZIR (bt MILOU VAN DER HEIJDEN 13-11 11-3 11-9 (27m)

This was a special game as it was the first ever WSA Nash Cup event. It was nice to see the top two seeds reach the final (despite both beating Canadians in their respective semi finals!). Also, Maria brought her coach down for the final – none other than Mr Jonathan Power!

Milou had got better as the tournament had progressed and she started out well against Maria. Maria was always going to play at a high pace so it was important for Milou to take space away from her opponent. She led 3-2, 5-3, 7-4 but Maria strung a couple of good points together to get back to 6-7.

It was now Milou’s turn to sting some good points together and she marched to 10-6 game ball with patient but positive squash. Maria then took it to Milou and played three winners and got a stroke to bring it back to 10-10. They shared points to 11-11 then Maria played 2 boasts to win the game – a volley boast and a trickle boast.

The second game was all Maria. The high pace won its fair share of winners but also forced a number of errors from Milou. 11-3 Maria.

The third was very keenly contested. Maria maintained her momentum and went 2-0 up. Despite a big fight back from Milou, Maria built on this to lead 5-2. That became 7-3 and 9-5. So close to the finishing line.

Did Milou have anything left to throw at her opponent? Answer – yes! She went from 5-9 to 9-9 in one hand and one had to ask why she hadn’t played this quality of squash throughout the match (simple answer is that Maria was not letting her). Maria stayed calm an won the next two points with a volley boast and a cross court drive winner to become the inaugural WSA Nash Cup Ladies Champion.

Maria ”when I win a tournament, I feel that I am moving forwards towards my goals. So winning today means a lot to me. I was nervous. I played well and that helped control my nerves.

"I love London Squash – the people are lovely and very enthusiastic about squash – they understand it! I would love to come back next year but a lot will depend on where I am with my ranking”

Milou “Obviously disappointed to lose. At 10-6 in the first, I got three “no lets” and this unsettled me. After the first she played much better.

"She is a very physical player. After going 2-0 down I was not going to just lie down without a fight but she did play better than me today.

"I am still happy with the tournament.

"London Squash is a great place. I don’t get to play in front of big crowds that often like there was today. I had a lovely billet (Jay nash and his family) and met some lovely people, and hope to be back next year.

NASH CUP DAY 4: LADIES SEMIS + MENS QUARTERS
Dave Morrish reports

The day started at lunch time with the ladies semis having their own stage. On paper there were some juicy match ups with all 4 players having put in good quarter final performances. Hopes were high for a Canadian finalist and they had a 50-50 chance with one in each final…… but it was not to be as the top 2 seeds, Milou Van Der Heijden from The Netherlands and Maria Toorpakai Wazir from Pakistan spoiled the party with some clinical squash against Alex Norman and Nikki Todd respectively.

Later in the evening, the men’s quarters took the stage. Any four of the matches could have gone either way and the crowd were treated to some amazing squash. First up were Joe Lee and Declan James which Joe took 3-0, but what a game!

Mohamed Abouelghar and Shahier Razik followed and we witnessed how experience can prevail over youth as Shahier pulled out a stunning 3-2 win against the young magician. As if that were not enough, crowd favourite Jan Koukal and Ben Coleman put on another 5 setter where Ben squeezed home in the 5th.

The last match went on at 10pm (an hour later than scheduled) featuring Shawn Delierre and Eddie Charlton. An hour and a half later, Delierre left the court the 3-1 victor.

WSA Semis



MILOU VAN DER HEIJDEN bt ALEANDRA NORMAN 13-11; 11-8; 11-8

I spoke to both players beforehand and got their thoughts:

Milou: “I feel lucky to even be playing in the semis after being 10-5 down in the 5th to Julia yesterday! I know I have to play different to the way I played yesterday as Alex plays chess on court (which is nice to see). It’s going to be har. My aim is not to leave her too many loose balls to hurt me with.I am really looking forward to it. Bit nervous but feel I have been given a life line and really should be on the plane home! Having said that, the win last night has given me confidence which I hope I can take into today’s game”

Alex: “Feel I have been steady and played my game till now. I have never played Milou before but it should be a great game. I feel the pressure is on her! I am going to work my length, be patient and captitalise on the loose balls. Looking forward to it!”

Well it was a great game and there was very little in it. Both players kept to their game plans (Alex playing good length and punishing the loose balls; Milou keeping the pace high and taking it early). Alex got the early advantage to lead 6-2. Both were moving well and the rallies were good and well constructed. Milou then put together a string of 5 great points to move in front 7-6. A cross court winner from Alex made it 7-7 but she followed this up with an error to give the advantage back to Milou 8-7.

Alex then played a perfect cross volley drop angle to bring it back to even stevens, 8-8. It was Miou’s turn to play a winner and an error – 9 all! A great rally followed where Milou worked Alex to all 4 corners of the court and finished the rally with a punishing backhand straight drive from the front which died. 10-9 game ball. Alex replied with a perfect deep cross court to make it 10 all and followed this up with a volley drop winner to have her first game ball at 11-10. A winning length from Milou brought it back to 11 all. An error from Alex and a winning drive from Milou gave her first blood 13-11.

The second and third games were both keenly contested and there was very little in it. They exchanged winners, errors and both retrieved some incredible shots but it was Milou who got the small advantage in each game , and she won 11-8, 11-8 and secure a place in the first ever WSA Nash Cup final.

I got both the players to interview each other after the match and this is what they had to say:

Milou “Very happy to be in the final! I played well today, had good focu, and after yesterday my expectations were low so I felt less pressure on myself which seemed to help me! Looking forward to a good match tomorrow”

Alex “Disappointed to have lost. I felt I played well at the start of each game but was a little inconsistent. Milou played a great game and had some fantastic kill shots! Wish her lots of luck in the final tomorrow”
.
MARIA TOORPAKAI WAZIR bt NIKKI TODD  11-4; 11-8; 11-6

Waiting for a place in the final were second seed Maria Toorpakai Wazir from Pakistan, and Nikki Todd of Canada. I also spoke to both players before their game.

Maria: “I am really happy with the way I have played so far. I know I need to be focused and play to my strengths (good length and a high pace) and keep the errors down (that’s a winning game!!). Only played Nikki in practise so know she is a good player. She is for sure going into this match with confidence after 2 great matches under her belt. Can’t wait!

Nikki: “Really pumped to have got this far. Feel like I have played well so far. I know I am going to have to be at my best today – it’s going to be a pretty physical game. I plan to slow it down, using the lob and keep the rallies long and hard to make everything a movement shot and gain more space between her and the ball. Would be nice to hit a few nicks too! Excited”

Well one player certainly stuck to their game plan in the first game, and that was Maria. She kept the pace high and forced Nikki into a high number of unforced errors. There were some great rallies which saw both players retrieving some amazing shots but it was Maria who took the first game 11-4.

Nikki started the second game like a demon possessed and raced to a 7-2 lead with punishing length, perfect cross courts and great retrieving, which in turn led to Maria making her fair share of errors. But then Nikki proceeded to self implode in the error department and lost her length. Maria was all over this and took the game 11-8.

The third started off with both players taking a small lead and then the other coming back. Good rallies, high pace and some great winners played by both. At 6 all, it looked like Nikki had found her rhythm and was very much in this game, but then Maria went up a gear and went through in one hand to take the game 11-6, and the match 3-0 to book her place in the final.

Andrew Schnell, Canadian national player who lost to Shawn Delierre in yesterday’s main draw, interviewed Nikki Todd. This is what she had to say:

Nikki “I played well but was struggling to find my length. In the first half of the second I was hitting great length and was holding the ball well, and that forced her into making some mistakes. I then started to force it too much and too soon, the game went away from me. I’m really happy with the tournament overall and made it further than I expected. I am just frustrated with my opponent as she was very physical and took her space significantly. Still I had a positive tournament and I look forwad to building on this result”

Eddie Charlton who is playing Shawn Delierre in tonight’s quarter final, interviewed Maria and decided to find out more about this interesting young girl from Pakistan:

Pakistan has a large number of legends from squash but currently doesn't have a male player inside the top 50, what do you put the decline down to?

“The countries situation doesn't help, all the level of our sports have gone down. The situation is very intense and we can't host any events there. The players can't travel as its difficult to get visa's. Players don't visit Pakistan anymore as they are fearful going there, the political situation doesn't help matters and all these factors have contributed to the decline.”

How much has your life changed since moving to Canada?

“I’m learning a lot both on and off court which is great. Im pain free I've been suffering from an injury and have worked closely with physics and doctors which has helped a lot. Ive travelled a lot before so the western culture wasn't too much of a shock but being around the people more has been good. The people here really get on with living their life which is nice.”

What does a typical training day consist of for you?

“I get there around 9.30am depending on how I feel. Everyday my training is different, I do a variety of sessions (cardio, solo etc.). I hit with Jonathan 2/3 times a week which is great, his style suits me and I feel like I can try and do the same tricks as he does. I understand his style and we work very well together. Before coming here I wasn't deceptive, that has been developed while working with Jonathan (Power).”

So onto the evening games

PSA Quarters

JOE LEE bt DECLAN JAMES: 11-5; 11-3; 11-7 (42 mins)

They hadn't met in a PSA before but had for sure played back in England at national squads. The first game started with some very competitive rallies but Joe’s length was the better of the 2. Other than a back wall nick serve winner from Joe, Dec dictated the outcome of the first few points- 3 errors, 2 winners and it was 4-2 Joe.

A great rally followed which Joe won with a forehand volley winner and followed this up with a volley drop from a boast! Joe kept the momentum till 7-3 then a rare error made it 7-4. An incredible rally followed where both players covered all 4 corners, which Dec won with a killing forehand drive. Joe turned the screw at this point and took the next 4 points to win the game 11-5. This game had absolutely everything possible.

The intensity remained high in the second. Winners and errors were exchanged to 2-2. Then a second error in a row from Joe (rare) made it 3-2 Dec. That was his last error and he ran straight through in one hand to win the game 11-3.

The third started like the other 2 games – intense and a high pace. Dec took an early 3-0 lead with 2 winners and an error from Joe. Joe then got on the score board with a boast from the back that caught Dec flat footed and won 2 of the next 3 points to make it 3-4.

 The next rally was probably the best of the game and Dec played his part in this with mind blowing retrieving – having got 3 almost impossible balls back in this rally, Joe played a BH volley that had just the right weight to die and deny Dec any chance of keeping the ball alive. Joe built a 7-4 lead only for Dec to get back to 6-7 but other than a winner, Joe ran out a deserved winner. Both players played their part in this amazing match.

SHAHIER RAZIK bt MOHAMED ABOUELGHAR  11-8; 2-11; 7-11; 11-6; 11-8 (59m)

I am going to give this one “match of the day” for two reasons – one, it was an amazing match and two, I didn’t think Shahier was able to win this one before the outset.

Mohamed is known for his shots, and boy, he has some! He was clearly feeling his way into the game in the first, but the experienced Shahier didn’t give him too much to play with and consequently there were a high number of errors from his younger opponent.

First game Shahier 11-8.

We then experience the kind of magic we would expect to see from someone like Ramy! Outright winners (dead nicks from all areas of the court including 4 boasts from the back that just rolled out. Despite a valiant effort from Shahier, he had no answer to this and Mohamed won the game 11-2.

Mohamed started the 3rd with confidence and continued to play a number of “crowd pleasing” winners. He was taking the ball so early and putting it away with such ease and confidence. Was this just a storm that Shahier had to weather, or a tsunami? Shahier wasn’t doing much wrong to be fair, his opponent was doing everything right! At 9-3 Mohammed went for 3 cross court nicks (that had previously been rolling) and all 3 went into the tin. 6-9 Mohamed. A winner from shahier and it was 7-9 but Mohamed won the next 2 points to take the game 11-7.

The storm was still raging but Shahier was weathering it. They traded points to 5-5. The next rally was long and ended in a let. Mohamed then hit 3 tins in a row to give Shahier 8-5 and a man of his experience does not let a lead like this slip, and he didn’t, he went on to win the game 11-8 and take it to a 5th.

The waters were now calm and the young Egyptian was no longer the dominant force that he had been. Shahier took an early 2-0 lead and built on this with consistent steady squash. His opponent continued to go for the winners but hit more errors than winners and Shahier took the game and the match 11-8.

Fair play to Shahier. Most people were betting against him after he went 2-1 down. If I were stuck on a ship in stormy weather I would want shahier on my ship any day! Great effort and a great match.

BEN COLEMAN bt JAN KOUKAL : 9-11; 11-8; 6-11; 11-6; 11-4 (87 mins)

Both had good wins last night so a great match was eagerly awaited by all. The beginning of the game was nip and tuck all the way to 6-6. Both were moving well, taking the ball in and working the back corners. Ben took an early 8-6 lead and then a little while later it was 9-9 at which point Ben hit 2 quick tins to give Jan the early advantage 11-9.

The second started in much the same fashion as the first with points being shared to 3-3. Ben again found the early advantage to lead 5-3 only to be pulled back to 5-5. Jan is one of the best “counter punchers” around. Ben is playing a different game to the one he played last night where he was patient and worked the openings, but Jan has a way of disrupting a players’ rhythm. Ben did not look comfortable out there tonight! Jan had a brutal game last night and the big question on everyone’s mind was has he got enough fuel in the tank to pull this one off. Ben held onto the advantage and closed out the game 11-8 to make it 1-1.

Jan dominated the 3rd. there was a point early on when he looked laboured in retrieving a ball that one could have thought that he was tired. Only a bluff as he flew around the court and took the game 11-6 to lead 2-1.

Ben was clearly on the back foot and needed to dig deep to stay in this match. He built a 3-1 lead, only for Jan to get it back to 3-3. 2 quick winners from Ben and its 5-3, then they share the next few points (albeit long and hard rallies). Ben goes from 7-5 to 9-5. Jan gets one back but Ben closes out the game 11-6.

Still hard to call this one, and confirmed as they play 4 gruelling rallies, sharing the points to make it 2-2. Ben then manages to put together 4 perfect points to go 6-2 up. The rallies continue to be tough up to 7-4 then Jan gets a no let followed by a conduct stroke for releasing his racket! 9-4. Jan looks dejected now and Ben takes the next 2 points and the match 11-4. Another great match.

SHAWN DELIERRE bt EDDIE CHARLTON: 11-9; 11-6; 10-12; 11-1 (90 mins)

This match got on court just after 10pm! No one was complaining though as they were loving the squash!

Shawn came out like a lion who had not eaten for 3 days! He pounced on everything with such hunger that Eddie did not know what had hit him until he was 10-2 down. He then managed to steady it down and slowly but surely work his way back to 9-10. Shawn was looking like he had missed out on his kill and was getting frustrated but pulled out a winner to take it 11-9.

Shawn came out in the second in the same vain and built up an 10-3 lead. Eddie got it back to 6 before Shawn dispatched another winner to make it 2-0. Eddie looked like a deer in the headlights.

The third was a great game. Eddie finally worked out that he needed to keep the court more closed and be more patient. He knew that Shawn would get basically everything back so needed to work some openings and manoeuvre Shawn out of position. The rallies got longer, the number of lets increased, and Eddie stayed calm. Shawn built up a 4-1 and 5-2 lead only for Eddie to claw his way back to 5-5. Eddie won the next point and led for the first time in a game. Points were shared to 8-8. Eddie let 9-8 before 4 lets followed, and then a BH straight volley into the nick from Shawn made t 9-9. A lob out of court form Eddie gave Shawn a match point. Eddie responded with a perfect length to take it to a tie breaker. A not let for Shawn and a backhand drop into the nick from Eddie and he was back in the match.

Sadly for Eddie, compliments to Shawn, the 4th was one way traffic for Shawn and he ran away with it 11-1.

Great game, great night of squash, in fact, not forgetting the ladies earlier, a great DAY of squash!

Ladies final and men’s semis tomorrow, can’t wait!

NASH CUP DAY 3:
LADIES QUARTERS + MENS FIRST ROUND

Today was the best day of squash the Nash Cup has had in years!

12 matches were played on 2 courts, over 520 minutes of wonderful squash which included 2 titanic battles (one from the ladies draw and one from the mens), as well as some clinical performances from some very talented players.

Local favourite Jan Koukal who has been playing the Nash Cup for the past 5 years came through in 5 against Muhd Asyraf Azan from Malaysia whilst Egyptian Mohamed Abouelghar dazzled us all with some pure Egyptian magic.
 

MILOU VAN DER HEIJDEN bt JULIA LECOQ  8-11; 11-4; 8-11; 11-6; 12-10

What a match! Julia made the better start to the game and quickly built up a good lead with powerful hitting, taking the ball early and great movement. She held on to this lead to win the first. Milou used the break to gather her thoughts.

She got a better length and adjusted to the pace. Julia continued to take the game to Milou but at a cost – errors. Julia re-asserted her authority in the 3rd and the lower error rated made a huge difference. The 4th was a similar pattern to the 2nd in that Milou steadied up and Julia made errors.

The 5th was a summary of the first 4 games, with a hitch! They traded points to 5-5 at which point Julia found another gear and forced Milou into a string of errors. She raced from 5-5 to 10-5. At 10-5, Milou hit a ball back in her direction which I have seen many refs give a stroke for. The ref decided it was a let.

Milou then rattled off the next 7 points to clinch the match 12-10. One had to feel for Julia but credit to Milou for coming back. Fantastic match.

ALEX NORMAN bt HOLLY NOUGHTON 11-5; 11-4; 11-5

On paper, this could have been a close encounter, but Alex had other ideas! She did not let her younger opponent settle at all in this game. She mixed it up well, made very few errors and retrieved well.

Hollie by contrast was uptight and snatched at the ball, often leaving it open, and often hitting the tin! Would love to see these 2 play on another day, but it was Alex’s day and she played well.

NIKKI TODD bt ALYSSA MEHTA  11-6; 9-11; 11-3; 11-7

This was an eagerly awaited battle, not only by the players (they had trained over the summer together and the last 2 practise games both went to 5), but the crowd too. Both players took out seeds last night so were riding high in confidence.

Nikki got off to the better start, flying around the court and pounding the ball into all areas of the court. It took half a game for Aylssa to adjust to the pace by which time it was too late. First blood Nikki. The second game was a contrast of well constructed rallies by Alyssa and unforced errors from Nikki which eventually cost her the game.

Nikki re-grouped and controlled the match from this point on, cutting down the errors and upping the pace, and ran out a 3-1 winner. Alyssa has a great future and could well be contesting the semis or final here in a year or two!

MARIA TOORPAKAI WAZIR bt CECILIA CORTES: 11-4; 11-4; 11-5

Maria was dominant right from the start. She absorbed every punch Cecelia threw at her and counter punched well. Cecelia played well but she would probably agree that she lost to a stronger opponent.

Maria has not played a competitive game since January! I look forward to seeing her play next January!

 

MOHAMED ABOUELGHAR bt SCOTT ARNOLD 12-10; 11-5, 11-4

Mohamed started the game with 2 outright winners. Scott settled into the game and lengthened the rallies and kept the court closed with good length and volleyed well. They shared points to 10 all but Scott gifted his younger opponent the game with 2 errors.

Mohamed never looked back from this point on and reeled Scott in with some incredible racket work, as well as some phenomenal retrieving. Definitely a player to look out for, not just in this event, but over the next few years!

EDDIE CHARLTON bt LEWIS WALTERS 11-5; 11-6; 13-11

Lewis stayed with Eddie to 5-5 in both the first 2 games before Eddie closed them out with good error free, positive squash., which forced Lewis into taking a few risks which didn’t play off. The 3rd was a great game.

The rallies were longer, more accurate and had everything in the – pace, variation, retrieving, winners, you name it. Lewis held a couple of game balls but Eddie was definitely “steady Eddie” today!

SHAIER RAZIK bt DAVID LETOURNEAU: 6-11; 11-7; 11-6; 11-3

Dave started this game in a perfect fashion, making the court long and then firing in a short ball which Shahier was slow to respond to. It was clear to all that Shahier was getting better with every point. Dave took the first and tried to play the same way in the second. The only problem was that Shahier was now firing on all cylinders and if the short ball was slightly loose, it was inevitably punished.

Winning the second seemed to fuel Shahier’s confidence and at the same time, drain Daves’. The rallies were still competitive but Shahier’s experience on the tour showed through – the moment he saw an opening, he put the ball there with perfect weight of shot. Impressive performance.

DECLAN JAMES bt JOEL HINDS  9-11; 11-3; 11-7; 11-5

This was a very athletic affair! Both players are superb athletes and covered the court superbly. Joel raced to 8-2 in the 3rd and had he closed that game out early, this match could have been a different story. Instead Dec rallied hard and got it back to 9-9 before Joel eventually closed it out.

Dec maintained this momentum and raced through the 2nd. He got a 3-0 lead in the 3rd and this proved to be crucial as the exchanged points to 10-7 before Dec closed it out with a volley winner. The 4th was nip and tuck till 4-4 but Dec then reeled off 4 winners, including a cross court roller to lead 8-4. Joel managed to pull back a point but the mountain was too high at this point and Dec took it 11-4 to make it 2-2 on the PSA tour between the 2.

JOE LEE bt NICK SACHVIE : 11-7; 11-2; 11-6

Number 1 seed versus the wild card! Nick Sachvie is a multi Canadian junior champion and a player Canada are looking to for the future. He did not disappoint! The rallies were long and thoughtful with both boys patiently working the ball. Both were hunting the volley and positively taking it in short.

Joe had the better length and was able to recover the ball with more interest when under pressure than his younger opponent. After Joe led 2-0 it looked like Nick would lie down but he didn’t. He slowed it down and made Joe win the points. Great performance from both players.

JAN KOUKAL (bt MUHD ASYRAF AZAN : 11-6; 5-11; 9-11; 11-8; 11-8

Match of the day! Jan is a huge crowd favourite having played this event for the past 5 years. In many ways they played a similar game, not afraid to work the ball, and both great movers around the court. Jan does have one extra quality though in that he is so calm. Never afraid to take it in and confident in his ability to recover if his opponent applied pressure from it.

All the rallies were long, explosive and exciting. At 9-9 in the 3rd, it was clear the crowd had a real game on their hands. Jan finished the game off by hitting a tin and hitting out on the lob. 2-1 Muhd. They shared points to 6-6 in the 4th before Jan took a small advantage of 8-6 and 9-7 before taking it 11-8. So to a 5th! Muhd built a 5-2 lead and it looked like Jan was down and out. The crowd were behind him and he went from 2-5 to 9-5, 7 points in a row, and managed to close it out 11-8. Popular victory from the Czech.

BEN COLEMAN bt LUCAS SERME : 11-8; 11-7; 11-3

I won’t mention the player, but I asked one of the English pros what they thought the outcome of this match would be: 3-0 or maybe 3-1 Serme! Well, I witnessed a near perfect game of squash from Ben. From the first point he played every shot with so much purpose. He moved superbly and made very few errors. The squash contained everything.

Both played patiently, volleyed, varied the pace, accurate into the front but Lucas did not have an answer today. Even Ben acknowledged this was probably the best squash he has ever played!

SHAWN DELIERRE bt ANDREW SCHNELL : 11-3; 11-9; 11-3

The last match of the night featured Canadian national champion, Shawn Delierre, and Canadian national team player, Andrew Schnell. Shawn started this game at an incredibly high pace which Andrew was clearly not used to. Not only was the pace high, but Shawn was flying around the court like a man possessed!

He duly won the first but the 2nd was a different story – Andrew had adjusted to the pace and was able to control the ball more. The rallies were longer, and shared to 9-9 but Shawn closed out this game with 2 winners. The 3rd was very one sided – Andrew made about 6 unforced errors – Shawn 3-0.

Dave Morrish

NASH CUP DAY 2:
LADIES FIRST ROUND MAIN DRAW + MENS 2ND ROUND QUALIFYING
Dave Morrish reports

Another great day of squash at the London Squash and Fitness Club, which saw a number of upsets. Young Alyssa Metha pulled off one of them in beating senior compatriot Alix Younger in 4 but the biggest upset of the night was local girl Nikki Todd taking out the number 3 seed Carrie Ramsey. Micaala Seth nearly caused another but went down in 5 to Julia Lecoq. The other seeds came through.

There were some great boys matches too. Up for grabs were 4 qualifying spots. Scott Arnold, Lewis Walters, Dave Letourneau and Declan James won their battles and a place in the first round.

MILOU VAN DER HEIJDEN (NED) vs SOPHIE METHA (CAN):
           11-3, 11-5, 11-4 (16 mins)

Milou showed why she is the number 1 seed in this event – she was very solid in all her play, varying the pace well and with excellent shot selection. Sophie tried hard to stay in the rallies but it was a David and Goliath affair. Sophie will have gained a lot of experience from this Nash Cup adventure and I am sure she will be back.

Milou “I felt good out there today. I was a bit nervous to start with bit once I settled down I felt I played well and am happy!”

Sophie “A really good learning experience! She was a great player. I have loved this and will for sure be back next year, a year older and wiser!)

HOLLY NOUGHTON (CAN) vs ENORA VILLARD (FRA):
             6-11, 11-8, 11-6, 11-5 (37 mins)

This was a great battle. Hollie looked to be nervous at the start and snatched a few of her shots. Enora looked comfortable and in control, and took the first game. Then the match began! Both players were looking to stay in front of the other, volleying well and moving well. Hollie focused more on her forehand side, holing the volley well and taking the ball in short when space was available. Both players covered the court well and played out some superb rallies. Hollie made the fewer errors in the end and managed to stay in front and close it out.

Hollie “It wasn’t a pretty game, but credit too Enora for making me feel uncomfortable. I didn’t feel I was able to use the front like I normally like to as anything loose was pounced on and put away. I had to revert to a longer game but my forehand short volley worked for me today. Really happy to come through a match like this”

Enora ”I started well but got tired and lost my length which allowed Hollie to put pressure on me. I am of course disappointed because I had my chances, but it was a great experience.)

ALEXANDRA NORMAN (CAN) vs GISELLE DELGADO (CHI):
             11-7, 11-4, 11-3 (22 mins)

The first game was competitive and Giselle stayed in it virtue of some great retrieving. As the game went on, Alex took more and more control, waiting for the loose ball and putting it away with finesse. Giselle fought to the end but at the end of the day, squash was the winner!

Alex “I felt a little nervous at the start but as the match went on, I got more confidence and felt more comfortable”

Giselle “this was my first WSA match so I was nervous before going on court! I had seen Alex play at the nationals so already had great respect for her. Overall I am happy with how I played, and wish Alex the best for the rest of the tournament”

JULIA LECOQ (FRA) vs MICAALA SETH (CAN):
             11-5, 10-12, 9-11, 11-7, 11-8 (51 mins)

This was an amazing match – a real see-saw event! Julia started the better and forced Micaala into a number of unforced errors or loose shots which she calmly put away. Julia had game balls in the second to take a 2-0 lead but Micaala’s trade mark is never say die and she worked her way back and won a tight game. The errors were less, the intensity of the game was higher, as was the quality. The third followed a similar pattern and Micaala found herself 2-1 up. Julia re-grouped and played a really solid fourth to take it to a decider. In the 5th, Julia managed to just stay in front and won the decider. A great match played in a great spirit.

Julia “I was very nervous as it was my first tournament of the season. It was a tough match and I am really happy to have come through and win”

Micaala “I’m pleased with how I played overall. I came out of the gate a little slow…. Maybe nerves. I had energy to the end and even pulled out a roll out nick! Julia played very steady and forced my errors. Wish her luck for the rest of the tournament”

ALYSSA METHA (CAN) vs ALIX YOUNGER (CAN):
             11-6, 11-6, 5-11, 11-9 (32 mins)

A closer first game than the score would suggest with both players using good pace to control the T. Errors eventually cost Alix the first game. The second continued to be a high pace affair. Alix was much more patient and cut her errors out, but Alyssa had the upper hand at the front of the court which was probably the telling factor. Alix stepped it up in the 3rd and took the space away from Alyssa, and started to throw in a gut-wrenching boast which caught Alyssa on the back foot. She continued to use this to good effect in the 4th but it was not quite enough for her younger opponent, and Alyssa got the first upset of the day.

Alyssa “Felt I played really well. She put so much pressure on me with that boast! This match could have gone either way so I am really happy to have won. Nothing to lose tomorrow so I am going to go out there and enjoy it”

Alix “Alyssa played very well and put me under a lot of pressure. Today was not my day but I do wish her good luck with the next round”

NIKKI TODD (CAN) vs CARRIE RAMSEY (ENG):
             11-3, 11-4, 10-12, 11-8 (39 mins)

Both started off playing loose, with a lot of errors but it was Nikki who moved into a different gear first and Carrie continued to make errors. It was suddenly 2-0 to Nikki. Carrie came into the 3rd a different player and soon established a 7-2 lead. Nikki is a “prairie girl” and they breed them tough out there- she dug seep and got it back to 8 all and then led 10-8, match point. Nikki then caught Carrie in the head with her racket, on (she thought) her backswing, expecting a stroke, only to be given a let. Carrie needed 3 minutes to recover from the knock and reeled off the next 4 points, and a life line. Nikki raced to a 5-1 lead in the 4th, only for Carrie to take a 6-5 lead. Nikki then reeled off 5 points in a row to go 10-6. Carrie clawed 2 back but Nikki closed it out. Nikki showed maturity in this match and played with good pace and moved well. Carrie made too many errors on the whole. I am sure Carrie would love to re-play this match another time.

Nikki “Sam (Cornett) was sitting outside with cookies so I figured I needed to win to have some! Jokes apart, I am so happy to have won this. I felt I played well.”

Carrie “I am pretty devastated right now. I have been working so hard on my length and it was not there for me today. Nikki played well – don’t want to take anything away from her. Got a headache!”

CECILIA CORTES (USA) vs JAYCEE SPAGRUD (CAN):
            12-10, 11-7, 3-11, 11-6 (35 mins)

This was a great battle, where Cece controlled the T for the first couple games. The tides turned in the third when Cece slowed a bit, getting onto the ball slower and leaving the ball looser for Jaycee to take control of the T. Jaycee took the third, and looked confident at the start of the fourth. It started with long, hard rallies. But patient play from Cece and unforced errors coupled with loose length from Jaycee at the tail end of long rallies helped the American pull ahead, and the lead was too much, despite Jaycee digging deep at the end. Cece will be ready for the next round, getting a good match under her belt, and Jaycee can take a lot away from the loss.

Cecilia “Pretty happy to get through this. It was tough. I could easily have been 2-0 down. Very enjoyable game”

Jaycee “If only I could have taken that first, it could have been a different story. She played well. Would love to play her again”

MARIA TOORPAKAI WAZIR (PAK) vs MADDIE O’CONNOR (CAN):
              11-4, 11-1, 11-4 (19 mins)

Maria began the match with an aggressive winner and never let up. Relentless attacking, which included several drops from the back court, together with her power, fuelled by her wrist, kept Maddie under constant pressure. Maddie played well and retrieved some great balls, but was extended too many times to make an impact. It’s hard to imagine that this is Maria’s first competitive match since January!

Maria “I was a bit nervous after a long lay off and knowing I was playing one of the top juniors in Canada. Great start to the tournament”

Maddie “I had fun and I will be back next year – out for blood!”

SCOTT ARNOLD (AUS) vs ALBERT SHOIHET (CAN):
              11-6, 11-8, 11-2 (29 mins)

Albert decided to set the tone of the match with a cross court volley nick off the serve! A minute later it was 3-1 Scott as Scott kept the ball deep and wide and forced Albert into forcing the rallies. This was pretty much the pattern of the match. Albert dictated a lot of the play but made most of the errors. Scott was solid – great length, good retrieving and put the ball into good spaces. Albert should still take away a lot of positives.

Scott “I knew he was going to be tricky after watching him play Matt last night. Very talented lad. I felt I closed down the court pretty well so he didn’t have time and space to play his shots. Felt good today and looking forward to tomorrow”

Albert “He was strong and had an amazing length which didn’t give me too much to play with. I probably went for more than I should have. All in all I have had a good tournament”

LEWIS WALTERS (ENG) vs TYLER HAMILTON (CAN):
              4-11, 11-6, 11-6, 11-4 (35 mins)

Tyler came out strong, playing tight length and forcing Lewis into playing some loose balls which Tyler capitalised on. This gave Tyler confidence and he started the second in a similar fashion but then Lewis found his length and movement. There was some breathtaking retrieving and the pendulum slowly swung in Lewis’ favour. Once Lewis got control of the match, he didn’t let go.

Walters “He played so well in the first and caught me by surprise. I started to find my way in the second and gained more and more confidence as the game went on”

Hamilton “Started so well! He got better as the game went on and took control. Played well and enjoyed it”

DAVID LETOURNEAU (CAN) vs MIKE McCUE (CAN):
                 13-11, 9-11, 11-5, 11-4 (52 mins)

Dave started off the match strong, controlling the rallies and forcing Mike to scramble. Mike played some incredible defense to stay in match. The first 2 could have gone either way as the score would suggest. Dave kept his composure and found his rhythm to control the full court and close out the match in the last 2 games. Mike might have created more pressure in the last 2 games had he been braver in taking the ball in short when Dave left it loose!

Dave “Great game. Mike played well and the first 2 could have gone either way. I felt I weathered the storm well in those first 2 games. I managed to work the ball in short well when the loose ball came my way. Looking forward to another tough one tomorrow - playing Razik!”

Mike “It was a good game of squash. I could have been 2-0 up instead of 2-1 down and the momentum may have made a huge difference. Happy with my game at the moment. Dave played well”

DECLAN JAMES (ENG) vs TOM PASHLEY (ENG):
                 11-9, 13-11, 11-8 (39 mins)

This was a fantastic game and the 3-0 score in no way reflects the quality of this game. The pace was high, both players covered the court incredibly well and there were some great winners played. Dec just managed to stay in front at the end of each game and that was the telling factor. A great match to end the night.

Dec “We both played well. I played with a lot of pace and felt I was volleying well. I haven’t felt this confident in myself in ages and this helped me stay in front”

Tom “disappointed but also happy. I feel strong and was in there till the end. Maybe next time!”

NASH CUP DAY 1:

LADIES QUALIFYING FINALS + MENS 1ST ROUND QUALIFYING
Dave Morrish reports

Matches kicked off at 4pm with both men and women playing side by side.

Some great matches tonight! Albert Shoihet from the local Western University (best in Canada) pulled off the biggest upset of the evening by beating Canadian national player Matt Seridiak in a mammoth 5-set battle. It’s going to get harder as the week goes on. The crowd was well entertained with many great matches and lots of locals to support.

SOPHIE METHA (CAN) v LAURA SAVAGE (CAN): 11-6, 11-6, 11-7 (21 mins)
                                                    Plays Milou Van Der Heijden (Ned)

15 year old Sophie was fresh from helping Canada to 5th place in the recent World Junior Championships in Poland, and you could see the hunger in her play. She was steady and explosive and forced Laura into a number of unforced errors. Laura did steady up in the 3rd and the errors were reciprocated but she won the big points and ran out a deserved winner.

Sophie: “This was my first WSA experience and it was amazing. I am very happy right now”
Laura: “Felt I played well, but she was too precise and I haven’t played at that pace and level for a long time. Wish her luck in the main draw”

ENORA VILLARD (FRA) v HOLLY DELAVIGNE (CAN): 11-1, 6-11, 11-3, 11-5 (24m)                                            Plays Hollie Noughton (Can)

Both girls played a similar game of looking to take the ball early and use pace but Enora was that bit steadier and had more finesse at the front. To Holly’s credit, she cut down on her error rate in the second. Maybe nerves set in with Enora, being her first ever WSA event, as she played an unusual amount of unforced errors which saw Holly take the second. Enora steadied up in the 3rd and 4th to clinch the match. Great effort from both girls.

Enora: “it was an up and down game! She was super fit! I am happy to win and get to the main round of my first ever WSA”

Holly: “it was great to play someone from another country and I couldn’t have asked for a better venue to do so. She is a strong player and I hope she does well in the main draw”

MADDIE O’CONNOR (CAN) v DEANNA HAMILTON (CAN): 11-4, 11-4, 11-0 (11 m)                                             Plays Maria Toorpakai Wazir (Pak)

Maddie took control of this game right from the start and did not allow Deanna into the game. She hit a solid length and was pretty much error free throughout the match.

Maddie: “Deanna and I had some great rallies! It was an awesome experience playing in a WSA tournament!”

Deanna: “I felt like a dead cat! So much pressure playing an event like this. She was too good!”

ALYSSA METHA (CAN) v ARDEN McKILLOP (CAN): 11-0, 11-4, 11-6 (16 mi
                                                       Plays Alix Younger (Can)

Arden is a 13 year old Ontario provincial champion with a great future and Alyssa, part of the victorious Canadian team that came 5th in the worlds, gave her a demonstration of where she wants to get to! A good game, but Alyssa was in control throughout the match.

Alyssa: “Tough playing someone you know so well! She has a good future. I am of course happy to qualify!”

Arden: “I loved every minute of this. Hopefully I will get to play this event more often and get better each year”.

MEN

SCOTT ARNOLD (AUS) vs COLIN RAMASRA (TRI): 11-2, 11-7, 11-5 (25 mins)

Scott Arnold took control early jumping out to a 7-0 lead. He was working straight length and avoiding costly mistakes. Second & third game was much like the first, mostly length & volleying loose balls to stretch Ramasara around the court.

Arnold showed his experience with a 11-2, 11-7,11-5 victory in 25 minutes.

Colin: “happy to be back in London (ex Western university), but playing the number one qualifying seed was tough".

Scott: “relieved since it was my first win at the Nash Cup in five years!”

ALBERT SHOIHET (CAN) vs MATTHEW SERIDIAK (CAN): 9-11, 7-11, 13-11, 11-5, 11-9 (69 mins)

Match of the night! Albert had good leads in both the first and second but errors, coupled with steady play from Matt denied him both. He snuck the 3rd after being match point down and won a commanding 4th. The difference was playing a few extra balls to the back with hold rather than taking it in short at every opportunity which Albert is famously guilty for! The 5th was a see saw affair. Matt had leads of 5-2, 7-4 and 8-5 but it was Albert who clinched the match, and probably one of the best wins of his life, 11-9 in the 5th.

Albert: “It was a match that tested me in many ways… it required a lot of will at the end. Matt is a true class act on court”

Matt: “Wasn’t my day. Albert played really well. He stayed away from the tin and kept the ball away from the middle better than me. Disappointed, especially after having a match ball but wish him the best in the next round”.

TYLER HAMILTON (CAN) vs ALEX NOAKES (ENG): 11-8, 11-9, 11-6 (28 mins)

This was Alex’s first PSA event and he competed well. Tyler was just that bit steadier than his younger protégée and played the big points well. Good game.

Tyler: “Felt good tonight. Felt as though my experience showed through. Alex is a talented player and I thoroughly enjoyed the match”.

Alex: “Great experience. Tyler played better than me today and he deserved the win”.

LEWIS WALTERS (ENG) vs BRAD HANEBURY (CAN): 11-2, 11-4, 11-2 (21 mins)

Lewis controlled this game from start to finish. Brad competed but ended up going for shots which inevitably opened up the court. Very entertaining game – Lewis expressed himself well and showed how talented he is.

Lewis: “Pretty relaxed and calm. Felt good and went for a few shots early on that came on, so kept going for them. Enjoyable!”

Brad: “need to get a beer – it’s very important to stay hydrated!”

DAVID LETOURNEAU (CAN) vs ADRIAN OSTBYE (CAN): 11-5,11-9,11-5 (23 mins)

David was looking sharp from the beginning. Adrian came out playing a fast paced game and trying to move David around with cross courts. David played steady taking the ball early and hitting some incredible soft and deceptive mid court boasts. As the match went on David’s ball movement and control was too much for Adrian and he took the match 3-0.

David: “It was fun – nice to play Adrian as he was fair. Reminded me of when I was first starting out, he knows how to play, has the skills, just got a little tired”.

Adrian: “I still get nervous in big matches. Don’t know why. Dave played well and was the better player tonight”.

MIKE McCUE (CAN) vs ERIC DINGLE (CAN): 11-3, 11-2, 11-6 (26 mins)

Mike went out the blocks like Usain Bolt! Won the first 11-3 and the next 11-2. Mike raced to a 6-1 lead in the 3rd at which point Eric was playing catch up. Mike eventually closed out the 3rd 11-6.

Mike: “took a solid start, moved well and kept the error rate down. Very happy!”
Eric: “I didn’t really execute that well tonight and Mike didn’t make too many errors. He played really well”.

TOM PASHLEY (ENG) vs ADRIAN DUDZIKI (CAN): 11-4, 11-2, 11-8 (27 mins)

Tom’s length and ball control were the difference tonight. Adrian tried to force the pace from the outset but lacked accuracy and patience at times. Tom’s fluidity and technical ability were extremely impressive and tomorrow’s match is sure to be interesting!

Tom: “Funny, this time last year, I played Adrian at the same stage and lost 3-0. Very happy to win tonight and felt I played very well”.

Adrian: “Disappointed but credit to Tom, he did play well. Would love to turn the clocks back one year!”

DECLAN JAMES vs JAMES VAN STAVEREN (CAN): 11-9, 4-11, 11-4, 11-8 (34 mins)

Fantastic match between two players with very similar styles. The experience of Declan being on the circuit for the last four years showed in the big points. Both players moved well, hit superb length and used their opportunities when the court was open. This was a game played by two gentlemen and a real credit to squash.

Declan: “Tough first game which I managed to sneak. Bit too relaxed in the second and he pounced on me 11-4. Eddie (Charlton) told me to inject more pace, which I did, and it allowed me to take away the middle of the court from him, where he was dangerous. Got a good lead in the fourth but he came back well. Very skillful player and a pleasure to play”.

James: “Can’t complain! Great game! Pretty happy with the way that I played. I felt like we played a similar game, but he just played it better than me”.