Perry fights for place in final
Friday, 3 September 2010 23:10Ireland's Madeline Perry fought her way into the final of the Cannon Kirk Homes Irish Squash Open, beating England's Laura Massaro.
Perry, in pursuit of a fourth title at the event, came from a game behind to level the match at 1-1. The third game proved more controversial, with many points being decided by the referee's call.
Massaro had three chances to win the third game, but finally lost 13/11. The fourth game was equally close, as Massaro saved three match balls before Perry came through 11/9.
Ireland's number two Aisling Blake had a tougher opponent in former world champion and world number one Vanessa Atkinson of the Netherlands.
Atkinson's clinical approach forced Blake to defend for long periods. Blake came close to winning the third game, and later saved two match points with spectacular shots before losing 12/10.
In the men's draw, number one seed Mohd Azlan Iskandar of Malaysia, will face qualifier Baria Golan of Spain in the final.
Former world number 10 Golan had to come through the qualifying draw to get into the tournament proper but he has reached his first final on return from injury.
Saturday 4 September
Ladies' Final (2pm)
1* Madeline Perry (IRL) vs 5* Vanessa Atkinson (NED)
Men's Final (3pm)
1* Mohd Azlan Iskandar (MAS) vs Borja Golan (ESP)
