Squash: David books clash with arch-rival Massaro

World’s top two squash players to battle it out in British Open final.

KINGSTON UPON HULL:

Nicol David and Laura Massaro gave the British Open the dream final widely hoped for when the legendary Malaysian and the surprising Englishwoman survived minor scares in their respective semi-finals on Saturday.

Malaysia’s top-seeded David, who has been world number one for almost eight years, overcame Alison Waters, the British national champion, 8-11, 11-5, 11-4, 11-2, after recovering from an edgy start to score points with an increasing and pleasing variety.

“I was able to take her out of her comfort area,” said a pleased-looking David.

“Then I was able to take control. I was really pleased to finish it with a mix of variety.”

Second-seeded Massaro, who has succeeded David as World and British Open champion, had a difficult beginning too, but found ways to slow down the hustling creativity of Raneem El Weleily, the third-seeded Egyptian, in a 6-11, 11-8, 11-4, 11-7 victory.

Massaro, who has never had the pressure of defending a big title before a home crowd before, began the game tensely but was able to keep her cool and frustrate her opponent to defeat.

“I feel like Raneem gets to be frustrated with me,” said Massaro.

“I feel like I frustrated her here and she’s trying to get out of being frustrated.

“But there’s not a lot I can do about it,” added Massaro rendering an explanation for mixing up the pace of the game.

Either or both women could be right, but whoever achieves the more relaxed mindset is likely to be the winner.

Published in The Express Tribune, May 18^th, 2014.

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