#NashCup

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Nash Cup Semi-Finals

5pm   [2] Katie Malliff (ENG; 38) vs [4] Grace Gear (ENG; 44) 

First match of the semis and we’re under way! Both players take their time figuring each other the pace quickly increases as the players trade points. Malliff pushes ahead by 2 after a few let calls and a couple helpful kicks, or lack thereof on the side walls. Kate seems to have some success going short and baiting gear to cover the front, while whipping it to the rear corners. A gap has opened however and Malliff jumps to a 10-4 lead. Gear answers with a stroke and unretrievable drop, but Malliff seals the game returning a drop shot cross court Gear cannot make it to.

Kate jumps to a quick 5-0 lead after a few quirky bounces and get depth to the back that was just too hard to dig out. Gear battles back with a ridiculous around the back shot and and some hard deceptive hitting to bring the players closer at 7-3. A couple shots fall to short for Gear, and Kate misdirects her for a couple quick points, which lead to a fast ending to a fast-paced game, 11-4 for Malliff!

A slightly physical rally starts the 3rd and Kate strikes first. Gear replies volleying a winner to the back, and Katie counters with an ungettable drop up front. Trading points it’s 2-2 and Gear seems to have found a rhythm to take the lead with some amazing retrievals, but Kate strikes back hard winning the 2 subsequent rallies quickly.  Stroke for Gear followed by a deadly boast that unfortunately pings the tin. Malliff scores in the back, Grace feathers in a drop and we are tight at 6-5. 2 quick points from Kate push it to 8-5, but a smart cross court catches Katie flat footed. The ball is hot and bounding at this point and Gear hits out, then Kate drops for a winner. Match ball time, but it’s tight to the wall and unreturnable. Maliff takes it 3-0!

6pm   [8] Mohamad Zakaria (EGY; 64) vs. Sanjay Jeeva (MAS; 67)

Game 1: Right-handed Zakaria (Zak) faced off against left-handed Jeeva. Zak won the serve and the first point after a 12-shot rally. A nice boast put Zak up 2-0. Jeeva earned a stroke, making it 2-1, but Zak soon extended his lead to 4-2. Both players engaged in smooth, fast rallies, playing conservatively. Zak outplayed Jeeva to reach 7-2. A stroke for Zak made it 8-3. Jeeva fought back to 9-5, then 9-6, but Zak secured his 10th point with a nice front right drop. Both players moved quickly, but Zak appeared to be just a little bit lighter and quicker, winning the game.

Game 2: Zak won again, 11-5. The game featured lots of lobs, and Zak clinched the game point with a lob that Jeeva couldn’t dig out.

Game 3: Zak took the ball early, driving the pace. Both players questioned some calls and used defensive lobs along both walls. Jeeva won a point with a nice volley drop shot, but Zak responded after an extended rally, going up 6-4. Zak then hit a beautiful backhand cross-court volley to extend his lead. He went up 10-4 on a stroke. After tinning one to give Jeeva a 5th point, Zak won the game with a delicate soft boast nick off a cannonading serve by Jeeva, finishing 11-4.

DK

7pm   [7] Torrie Malik (ENG; 54) vs [1] Georgia Adderley (SCO; 33)

Game 1 - Torrie Malik from England, and Georgia Adderley from Scotland are about to face off in what may be an epic battle of the Britons. They are hitting the ball in warm up harder than the average player. Whether they can keep up that pace remains to be seen. Georgia wins the spin. First point to Malik. 2nd on a tight corner ball. Georgia with a stroke and a drop ties the game at 2, and then a back corner drop puts her up 3-2. With a sneaky boast now up 4-2. Torrie make a nice drop to bring the game to 3-4. Game now tied with a nice drive along the right wall. Georgia nails Torrie the back of the leg with a cross court. Torrie lets a few expletives fly. The game resumes with Georgia quickly up 8-4. Torrie hits a tin and is down 9-4. Torrie increases pace and is rewarded with a point. Four quick points bring it yo 9 - 10. Torrie ties up 10 -10, and then tins to make 10-11. A nice drop ties the game. After a frantic point Torrie gets a game ball. Tied again. Torrie up 13-12 with a nice boast. Now 13-13. Stroke to Georgia give her a game ball, and after a short rally, Game 1 goes to Georgia..

Game 2 Recap:

The game started evenly with both players tied at 1-1 after two short rallies. Georgia took the lead at 3-2 with a boast, but Torrie quickly tied it up at 3-3 with a nice overhand backhand. Georgia then pulled ahead to 6-3 after a let was refused. Torrie fought back to narrow the gap to 5-6. However, Georgia responded with a nice drop to go up 7-5. A controversial let call by the referee after a collision at center court left Torrie upset, and she subsequently lost four quick points, ending the game at 11-5 in Georgia’s favor.

Game 3 Recap:

Torrie took an early lead at 2-1 after Georgia hit the tin, and extended it to 3-1 with an out-of-court ball. Georgia responded with a nice drop to make it 2-3. After hitting Torrie again, Georgia’s actions left Torrie visibly angry, causing her to hit a ball out of court. Regaining her composure, Torrie played a strong point to tie the game at 4-4. Georgia then hit out of court on the front wall, putting Torrie up 6-5. Georgia tied it again with a nice drive down the right wall. Following a tin by Torrie, Georgia moved ahead 7-6. Torrie made an unforced error, falling behind 6-9. She then pounded a cross-court shot to close the gap to one point. Despite missing a drop, Torrie recovered with a great volley, tying the game at 10-10. After a let ball, Torrie went up 11-10. Georgia hit the tin on a drop, giving Torrie the game at 12-10.

Game 4 Recap:

Torrie started strong with her trademark lob serve, taking an early lead at 1-0. She extended her lead to 2-1, and then to 5-2 with two tight shots along the wall. Georgia fought back with a reverse boast to tie the game at 5-5. Torrie then hit a high ball out of court, which was narrowly called out. Visibly angry, she pounded her next shot along the wall to win the point. The game was tied at 8-8 after Torrie eased her frustration by hitting the ball hard. Torrie earned a game ball at 10-8, but after tinning her first attempt, she secured the win on the next point, finishing the game at 11-9 and tying the match at 2 games ea

Game 5 Recap:

Torrie started strong with two quick points, taking an early 2-0 lead. Georgia responded with a nice drop, but Torrie countered with a drop of her own, making it 3-1. After another collision and a quick point, Torrie was up 4-2. A subsequent collision led to a ruling that Torrie objected to, bringing the score to 4-5 with a let call for Georgia. Both players fiercely contested the T, and after several short balls, the game was tied at 6-6. Torrie then pulled ahead to 7-6. Three quick driving backhands along the left wall put her up 8-6. A nice cross-court boast extended her lead to 9-6. Torrie then went up 10-6 and ultimately won the game 11-6, and let out a loud and prolonged victory yell.

8pm   [4] Leung Chi Hin Henry (HKG; 48) vs. [2] Curtis Malik (ENG; 40)

Now are locked in for our final semi of the night! Malik has perhaps faced a tougher road to this point, but Henry has persisted and pushed through to this point with steady, unwavering play! Curtis gets off to a quick start 4-0 and Leung replies to put a couple on the scoreboard. Another (relatively) quick 2 points brings us to 8-2 with Malik in control. Pushed to 10-3, one of the games longest rallies lead to a stoke for a 6 minute game, Malik leads 1-0

Curtis again starts fast and strong jumping out to a 4-0 lead. The rallies are lengthening but not much changes for Leung, who retrieves very well, but is rarely capitalizing. This leads to many retrievals which lead to a few points for Henry at 6-3 but Curtis recalibrates and forces a couple points onto his opponent and pushes us to 9-3. At game point, a couple quick counters from Leung get us to 10-5 but Malik quickly ends all thoughts of a comeback and end it 11-5

Another fast start from Malik, determined to end this out. After a quick 3-0 run, Leung responds to bring the game close, but Malik continues to push, while Leung seems to be forced to respond. We’re at 6-3 when Malik Displays 3 different deceptive holds to bring the crowd to cheers. A cross nick kill brings us to 8-3 and the momentum seems much in favour of the British player. The next point is won strictly by determination and retrieval with a final touch to put him up 9-3. Henry comes back for 2 but ultimately the match is sealed 11-5 in the 3rd. Very much a statement win for Malik who moves on to face Mohammed Zackarias in tomorrow’s final. WOW!

JR - Sent from my squash racket.

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Nash Cup Day TWO

Match Write Ups

Court 2 3pm Katie Malliff (ENG; 38) VS. Alex Haydon (AUS; 68)    

The opening matches provide our first look at the tournament’s second seed. On court 2 it’s Katie Malliff of England versus Alex Haydon of Australia. Both are first time NASH Cup participants. They share the opening points but Katie quickly finds a rhythm and builds a lead. Both have patient swings preferring accuracy to power, but this is allowing Katie to move Alex around.  She takes the opener 11-3.

3pm can be a challenging time to find writers and this one had to switch to the live broadcast (commentator) for the final two game. Alex opened the second game with far more power trying to change the narrative but Katie simply wouldn’t make errors. The rallies were often long, but Katie captured the majority of the points and the match 3-0.

Court 3 3pm Yahya Elnawasany (EGY; 39) VS. Tom Walsh (ENG; 66)

Yahya, a mechanical engineering student, 22 from Egypt. 

Tom from England.

Both in their second consecutive NASH Cup.

Game 1 - 11-9 for Yahya

Game 2 - 11-8 for Yahya

Game 3 - tied at 2-2. Tom goes up to 6-2 then stopped by a great overhead crack to the front right corner.  At 7-7 a stroke is awarded to Yahya. Then 9-7 for  Tom. A sneak hit down the left wall and it is 9-8. Tom is serving with 10-9 lead. Some confusion as to whether a ball was up or down. Then a nice drop by Tom and it is 11-10 in his favour followed by a mis-hit by Yahya and Tom wins 12-10. 

Game 4 - Yahya is up 3-1 while Tom makes great stretches to stay in the game. He is still serving at 5-1. A leg cramp sidelines Tom for a few moments. The game resumes and it is soon7-3 for Yahya. A stroke is awarded to Yahya and it is 8-4 for him. He continues with great overhead smashes to the low front corners and leads at 10-6.  The next point goes to Yahya who wins the game at 11-6 and also the match. 

R

Court 2 3:45 Mohamad Zakaria (EGY; 64) VS. Jeremias Azana (ARG; 76)

The opening men’s match continues on court one commanding most of the crowds attention, but from everything we’ve heard Zakaria is a player to watch. He’s under 19, so is playing with glasses and has been world junior champion. Jeremias came through a challenging game yesterday and will need to stay focused and find the weaknesses early. He does a good job as the first game starts jumping to a 3-2 lead. Lots of touch drop shots and lobs from both players as they try to get a feel for the others game plan. We’re 8 minutes in and only 6-4 Azana following a look lob and stroke call. The intensity of the rally has spiked higher and there are far more let requests…not all accepted by the official. Azana up 8-6. Zakaria backs into Azana and asks for let, but he’s turned down and it’s 10-8 Azana. 11-9 ends game 1.

The NASH Cup has seen some wonderful players over years and some believe Zakaria is next to ascend. 4 past NASH Cup players are currently in the world’s top 10. Diego Elias; Mostafa Asal; Joel Maken and Olivia Weaver. None of them won here.

Game two opens with some quick points for Azana. Both players are leaning on the kill shot for points as there are few balls they can’t get to. Length isn’t working; boasts aren’t working; it comes down to a straight drop. The match goes to 4-4. Zakaria seems to have figured out what the official will allow in the way of calls and is moving around the court well. His positioning is forcing Zana to cover more ground and that’s leading to missed shots. 7-4. If Zakaria sticks to this game plan he may take control of things 9-7. Azana tightens things up, but a massive kill shot form Zakaria into the front left off the serve ends game 2 11-9.

Both players take a little coaching between games and come on aggressively. The crowd is loving it. Zakaria jumps to a 2-0 lead. Azana is getting very little time in the front court as Zakaria keeps cutting the ball off and hitting hard. 6-0. A blistering overhead from the left wall to the front right corner; and then a sharp reverse boast from the back corner puts it 8-0. Both were so tight the crowd couldn’t tell if they were good or not. Azana executes a clean hold cross to get on the board 9-1. 11-2 ends game three. Zakaria has the momentum. Azana needs to find a new plan.

In the opening rally both players do what so many are told not to….they drop the drop shot. In the end Zakaria goes one more than Azana saw coming and it’s tight. 1-0. Tremendous rallies with what should have been 4-5 winners before something comes together. Azana counts on his speed, but Zakaria is getting to everything. 5-2. A no let and we are 6-3. It’s only game 2 on thr night and we are already behind as this one reaches the 50-minute mark. 8-5.  The crowd is nearly full as Zakaria pushes to maintain a lead. 9-8. A missed drop ends it 11-8.

Court 3 3:45 Marina Stefanoni (USA; 58) VS. Catalina Pelaez (COL; 81)

Catalina, married, a professional full-time squash player is 33 from Columbia.

Marina is from the US, 21 yrs old and a full-time professional squash player.

Game 1 - Marina wins the toss but loses the first point. Easy rallies follow and it is tied at 2-2. Marina takes control and the lead at 7-4. Her lead continues to 9-7 with a few errors from Catalina. It's tied at 11-11. Catalina wins the point. And the next one to win 13-11 ... a very close game. 

Game 2 - Its 4-0 for Marina, then 6-2 in her favour. Catalina's knee surgery doesn't appear to slow her down. But a few errors against her gives Marina a 11-3 win. 

Game 3 - Marina feels the momentum and leads quickly at 4-0. At 7-2 Marina continues to maintain control moving well around the court. Her accuracy leads to a 10-2 advantage but Cataline battles back for the next point before losing the game at 11-3. 

Game 4 - Again Marina takes an early lead at 6-1. It is broken by a sneaky�� cross-court by Catalina. At 7-3 Marina serves and follows up with shots Catalina can't get to and the score goes to 9-3. Then 10-3. Catalina battles back to 7 points before losing the match. Marina wins with a score of 11-7. 

Match to Marina - 3-1.

Court 2 4:30 Emilia Soini (FIN; 51) VS. Marta Dominguez (ESP; 61)

Court 3 4:30 Ryunosuke Tsukue (JPN; 58) VS. Sanjay Jeeva (MAS; 67)

Game 1 -  Ryu (Ryunosuke)   receives the serve. He tries to keep the left-handed Sanjay on the right wall but loses the first two points. It is soon a very snappy game with few balls getting past the opponent. Ryu takes the lead at 4-2 but it is soon tied at 4-4. Ryu maintains a lead of 7-5 with tighter shots and great court coverage. A collision interrupts the game at 9-6 for Ryu. Then 10-7 for Ryu. Stroke for Sanjay. Finally, Ryu wins the game at 11-8. 

Game 2 - Both players move very fast but Ryu seems to have quicker hands. Its 4-2 for Ryu. His forehand seems to be his strength as nothing gets by him on the right wall. At 5-5 they are both proving to be great "divers" as they stretch for shots. At 6-6 the rallies are getting longer. The battle continues at 8-8 when Sanjay makes a great low cross-court. Then he hits the bucket and loses the next point. (Bucket holds the towels). Now it is 9-9. Sanjay hits a nick and goes up 10-9.  No let given and it is 10-10. Ryu hits the tin. Twice. Sanja wins the game 12-10. 

Game 3 - Ryu shows quick hands to go up 3-0. After much jostling and after the PSA website goes down so we can't see the score, the game ends in Sanjay's favour at 11-7. 

Game 4  - 3-1 for Sanjay. He dominates with new speed. Then 6-1. He can't be stopped. Then 8-1 with more "splits" in the works. At 9-4 Ryu is showing signs of hope. Sanjay wins with 11-4 lead. 

Court 2 5:15 David Baillargeon (CAN; 42) VS. Salah Eltorgman (CAN; 88)

Alright battle of The Great White North!  Unseeded Western Student Salah Eltrogman and hometown favourite by default is taking on the 1 player in Canada David Baillargeon. Both are members of Squash Canada’s National Team.

Game 1 - David is very relaxed out there and controlling the tempo of the game with super tight lengths and volleying some incredible soft cross court winners. He jumps out to a quick 8-4 but Salah is a very imaginative player and creates so hard twist and turns for David creating a couple of errors. He fights back to make it close but David just keeps sticking to taking the ball early and he’s length is better giving him more opportunities to close out the first game 11-9.

Game 2– Well David really game out dominating this game. Flawless length, some impressive winners and just a dominant performance . Salah was done 9-3 and didn’t want to give up. He really started to show the racquet skills he possesses and was hitting some crazy tight winners that were so decisive and deceptive. But in the end David just proved to much and takes it 11-7.

Game 3- Salah has come out playing a foot further up the court and volleying everything. He was creating immense pressure and was really controlling this game taking a 7-2 lead. David makes some adjustments to counter this barrage of pace and winners and shows why he is # 1 in Canada as he runs the next 9 straight points to win 11-7 and the match 3-0.

RD

Court 3 5:15 Grace Gear (ENG; 44) VS. Asia Harris (ENG; 69)

Game 1 - Grace wins the toss and the first point. She soon goes up to 8-3 with better court coverage. The game ends at 11-4 for Grace. 

Game 2 -  Grace takes the early lead with 3-0 before losing a point. They tie at 3-3. Stroke to Grace who climbs to 6-4.  there is a lot of the competitors bumping into each other this set.  And Grace has won the second set 12-10.  

RS

Game 3

There were again an ongoing issue of running into each other and it was definitely an advantage for Grace as it I believe became a mental issue for Asia - her thinking many calls were unfair.  Grace went on to win this third game 11-9 - taking the match in 3 straight games.

PH

Court 2 6:30 Salma Eltayeb (EGY; 39) VS. Caroline Fouts (USA; 92)

 Caroline Fouts from the US won the match against fourth-seeded Salma Eltayeb with a final score of 3-1. Here's a quick recap of the match:

Game 1:

- Eltayeb started strong, leading 7-4 after some consistent play and a few unforced errors from Fouts.

 - Both players explored different areas of the court, but Eltayeb managed to take the first game 11-9 in 9 minutes. 

Game 2:

- Fouts responded by gaining momentum, taking advantage of Eltayeb's movement and forcing errors

. - Fouts won the second game 11-8 after building a strong lead.

 **Game 3:**

 - After a tight start, Fouts' boasts and drop shots were effective, helping her secure a lead and eventually take the third game 11-8. 

 **Game 4:**

 - Fouts led most of the final game, though Eltayeb kept close with powerful cross-court shots and boasts

. - Fouts sealed the victory with an 11-8 win in the fourth game, securing the match 3-1.  

Fouts showed strong tactical play with effective boasts and drops, eventually overcoming Eltayeb in a well-fought match.

Court 3 6:30 Leung Chi Hin Henry (HKG; 48) VS. Kareem El Torkey (EGY)

-Leung Chi is from Hong Kong and Kareem is from Egypt.  I watched Kareem play yesterday in his match and found his agility on the court very good and exciting to watch.  Will be interesting to see if that ability continues into today’s game against Leung.

Game 1

I would say the first game seems to start with both players feeling each other out - testing each other with different shots.  And both players are responding very well to the other players tests.  The score at the beginning was 6-2 for Kareem and the skill level of his shots seems excellent at the start of the match outwitting Leung.

Leung seems to be hitting the tin a lot early in the match which is costing him points.  A hit on the tin just cost Kareem a point after a very long rally - just one of many long rallies in this game.  While the score is 9-6 at this point the long rallies speak to the fact of the players being equal at this point in the match.  Kareem winds the first game 11-6.

Game 2

This game starts with rallies that are quicker and shorter and the score is quickly tied 2-2.  A great shot has tied the game at 4-4 - both players are giving it their all.  After a very long rally with brilliant shots by both players the point to make the score 5-4 goes to Leung.  After two amazing soft shots low on the court Leung now has a two-point advantage at 6-4.  Kareem has made what I would call several unforced errors hitting the tin which has given Leung an 11-6 win in this game.   When he left the court Kareem slapped the wall in frustration on the way out after this game.  I usually find that anger can get into your head so it will be interesting to see how he reacts as the match goes onto game 3.

Game 3

An unforced error at the beginning of this game has Leung up 1-0 - is it Kareem’s frustration??  One thing I have noticed about Kareem's style is he often leaps up in the air a bit as he hits the ball. The score is now 4-4 and it appears to me that Kareem has settled down from his anger of losing the second game - but boy are these rallies long.  There is a lot of interference and lets going on in this game and I believe it is Leung getting into Kareem’s head a bit after the anger of losing the second game.  What a great rally!!!  The score is now 10-9 with Leung just winning this point.  The technique, agility and stamina in this game is unbelievable.  Kareem won this game 14-12 and his excitement was shown.  An excellent game by both players - some truly astounding shots.

Game 4

Well Leung was quickly up 3-0 at the start of this game.  The rallies are shorter in this game and the score is now 5-3 Leung.  Kareem hit a great nick to tie the game at 5-5.  And again, in this game there is a lot of interference going on and lets seemingly to Kareem’s advantage.  10-9 - match point for Kareem.  And Kareem’s hit off the tin just tied the game 10-10.  and with two errors on Kareem’s part - hitting the tin Leung takes the game 12-10.

Game 5

Well this game starts an hour into the two players beginning the match.  After some quick points to start the match the score is 7-2 for Leung.  One thing that I have noticed is that Leung rarely runs into Kareem - the lets and interference is because of Kareem not getting around Leung to return a shot.  And this is very evident in this game.  Kareem is constantly running into Leung. Several of the points in the last game of this match are because of points for interference.  Match point Leung.  and Kareem hits the tin to end the match losing 11-7.

PH

Court 2 7:15 Shahjahan Khan (USA; 50) VS. Joseph White (AUS; 84)       

 **Game 1:** 

The match begins with Joseph White serving aggressively, immediately putting Khan on the defensive. White quickly racks up three consecutive points, using tight, accurate drives on the left-hand side and employing swift changes in direction that catch Khan off guard.

 Khan responds by forcing an error from White, making it 1-3. However, long rallies follow, with White maintaining control and winning two additional points through well-placed shots that disrupt Khan's rhythm. Khan serves at 3-6 but loses the point after an intense, tight rally on the left side, where White finishes with a delicate drop shot. Khan tries to close the gap by forcing another error from White, bringing the score to 5-8. The pace and direction of play vary frequently, culminating in a lengthy rally. White questions a pickup call, but he is awarded the next point. Both players continue to showcase their skill with rapid exchanges, but White's resilience under pressure earns him the first game, 11-6, despite Khan's drop shot attempts. *

Game 1 Score: White 11 - Khan 6**

 **Game 2:**

 White starts serving from the right side, and Khan returns with a sharp drive down the line, setting a fast pace for the game. Both players demonstrate precision in their shots, but White applies pressure with a cross-court shot that forces Khan to hit the tin. White is awarded a stroke, but Khan evens the score at 2-2 with a powerful drive deep into the right side. A fast-paced rally at the front of the court tests both players, and White wins the point with an accurate drop shot on the right. White pulls ahead to 4-2, as both players target tight margins at the front of the court. 

Khan serves from the right but White easily returns. At 6-3, White serves again, and Khan attempts a cross-court lob but misses, hitting the tin. White extends his lead to 8-3 with a deep drive to the left side. 

The game is briefly interrupted when a camera at the back of the court is knocked off its mount, but after a brief delay, play resumes. Khan gains a point with a deep drive on the left side, and a long rally explores every corner of the court, leading to a 9-4 score in White's favor. In the 11th minute, 

White is awarded another stroke, bringing him to 10-5. Khan responds with a point, and both players battle through incredible pace variations. Khan claws his way back to even the score at 10-10. After a brief pause for towels, Khan makes a poor shot that results in a stroke for White, followed by another tin from Khan. White capitalizes and wins the second game 12-10. 

 **Game 2 Score: White 12 - Khan 10** 

 **Game 3:** 

Khan takes the first point after White's serve, but White quickly responds with a point and is awarded a stroke following Khan's failed drop shot attempt. White surges ahead, leading 5-2 after just three minutes. A let decision from the referee on Khan's movement on the left side leads to White being awarded a stroke due to Khan's interference in the middle of the court. White creates distance with a 7-4 lead. Khan, serving from the left side, forces an error from White, narrowing the score to 5-7. He follows up with a deep cross-court shot to the right, bringing it to 6-7. 

The pace remains relentless, with White maintaining a 9-6 lead after forcing Khan to hit the tin. White then strikes a perfect cross-court nick to bring up match ball at 10-8, but Khan keeps the match alive by making it 9-10 with an accurate drop shot on the left side after a long rally. 

 Facing a second match ball, the two engage in a fierce battle on the left side. Khan dives in an effort to retrieve the ball but ultimately concedes the point. Frustrated, Khan smashes the glass wall at the back of the court but quickly apologizes. 

White wins the third game 11-9, sealing the match 3-0. 

 **Game 3 Score: White 11 - Khan 9**  

**Final Score: White 3 - Khan 0**

 Joseph White’s sharp drives, consistent pressure, and ability to manage long rallies were key to his victory. Despite Khan’s efforts, particularly with his drop shots and pace changes, White’s composure and accuracy led him to a straight-game win.

FH

Court 3 7:15 Torrie Malik (ENG; 54) VS. Sara Cheng (HKG; 65)

Torrie of England v Sara of Hong Kong about to commence. Game on. This is about to be a very anticipated match up of the night. Both players evenly matched at 54th and 65th in the world. Sara serves and jumps out to an early 2-0 lead. Both players come out flying, trying to gain the advantage over their opponent and feel out each other’s game.  Sara’s patience is paying off early as she is controlling the tempo of these early-on rallies. Torries not backing down has tied up the score and is refusing to let sara take a significant lead. 7-6 Torrie with the first “yes” let decision of the night. The ref is really letting these two players play through. 8-6 Torrie. After a few long rallies and carefully timed holds, Torrie has come back from trailing a better part of the first half of the match to win it 11-6.

Torrie is beginning to show her experience on the court and is making the younger Chinese player move around the court at will. Sara isn’t giving up on the rallies and despite not controlling them stays in the fight. Torrie quickly responds to the Chinese players 2 quick points with a carefully timed and placed lob to the back right corner to regain the lead. 4-2 Torrie. 5-2 Torrie. The English player continues to dominate and not let the younger player any room to control any part of these rallies. If the T was a house, Torrie has moved in and is making it her home. 7-4 Torrie. 9-6 For the English player. Business end of this match and she’s about to seal the deal as she attacks the ball making a volley boast putting her within 1 point of game ball. A few minutes later a short ball confirms the win for the English player.

2-love for the English player going into game 3. Torrie comes out strong and takes an early 3-nothing lead against Sara. Can Sara battle back? Only time will tell. From where I’m sitting, it looks like it’s going to be quite the hike up hill if she’s going to take a game off the older, more experience English player. 6-3 after the English player almost pelts the Chinese player in the leg after digging out a perfectly placed lob from the Chinese player. 8-4 Torrie. 5-8 Sara… 6-8 sara!!! Can she come back?!?! It’s not looking likely as Torrie makes it 10-7 and finally takes the victory with a back nic to seal the deal. 3-0 Torrie Malik! Great match!

Court 2 8:00 Nicole Bunyan (CAN; 49) VS. Saran Nghiem (ENG; 67) 

The match between Nicole Bunyan and Saran Nghiem started with high intensity. Nicole took advantage of early errors and won the first game decisively 11-2, which may have come as a result of years of character building at the Nash Cup. 

Saran regrouped in the second game, showcasing a perfect nick on the front left. Tensions rose as Nicole requested a let after light contact, and an unfortunate call on a loose ball resulted in a stroke against her. However, Nicole fought back to tie the game at 8 all with a perfectly placed winner, though Saran edged out a close victory 11-9. 

In the third game, Saran dominated with sharp short shots and tight length, while Nicole struggled with let calls. Amid crowd distractions, Saran cruised to an 11-4 win, taking a 2-1 lead. 

Despite long, breathtaking rallies in the fourth game, Nicole faced a steep challenge. Saran’s commanding play led to an 11-4 win, securing a 3-1 match victory. Both athletes displayed impressive skill, but Saran’s consistency prevailed.

Submitted respectively and enthusiastically by J Beintema and ChatGPT

Court 3 8:00 Cesar Salazar (MEX; 53) VS. Finnlay Withington (ENG; 83)

We’re about to begin! Stands are full and the noise levels are beginning to rise. Game 1, first serve Finley to receive.  Cesar takes an early 2-1 lead over the English player.  Fun fact Ceasars previously highest world ranking was 25th back in 2015!  Cesar, the more experienced player, is starting to show why he was ranked so high back in the day. Comfortably controlling the rallies, making the younger English player work for every point. Massive rallies leave Ceasar moving up 7-4 over the Englishman.  8-5 Mexico! Business end of the match and Cesar continues pouring on the pressure. 10-6 Mexico. Game point, 4 game balls but the Englishman responds with a nic winner to try and break up the Mexicans momentum however it’s a little too late and Cesar quickly responds with a volley winner to take the first game.

Second game. Cesar immediately jumps to an early 2-0 lead. Finnlay isn’t backing down and scores to get back into it. Cesar continues to put pressure on the young Englishman by controlling the t and ultimately the rallies thus far in the match.

A nice hold sends the Mexican the wrong way, tying the game at 4-4. Finnlay scores again quickly, giving him his first lead of the game and the match tonight!  Despite Finnlay a best effort in the match so far, Cesar’s experience is proving to be too much for the younger Englishman to handle and Cesar quickly responds by scoring 6 easy points giving him 5 game balls early on in this second game. A mere seconds later Cesar attacks, takes the game and goes up 2-0 on the Englishman.

1-0 Finley! 2-0 Finnlay to start the third game of this match. A strong start for the English player. The Mexicans experience quickly dissolves the Englishman’s lead and ties up the game 4-4. If Finnlay’s going to make a push, it needs to be now! With his biggest lead of the night, 7-4, Finnlay looks strong going into the business end of this game! 9-4 Finnlay! Is it too soon to call the game Finnlay? Maybe not! The English man quickly converts a quick drop into 6 game balls and doesn’t take too long to only need two of them to take game 3! 2-1 Mexico going to the 4th!

Game 4 starts off with a “yes” to end the first rally leading into a nice little exchange of back and forth drops with too many unforced errors creeping in for the Englishman and just like that has fallen 4-1 to Cesar from Mexico. Finnlay’s not back down and is using his momentum from his 3-game win to stay in this game! 4-4! Anyone’s game 4 at this point. 7-4 for the younger player from England! Despite being a more experience player, the older Mexican player seems to be conceiving this 4th game saving his energy for a final game 5. I maybe spoke to soon as Cesar has battled his way back tying it at 8! 9-9! The Mexican doesn’t not want this going 5! With a controversial “yes let” for the Mexican at 9-9 he catches a break and crowd goes nuts! 10-9 Cesar! Finnlay goes off with a broken racket. Maybe a new racket will improve his odds? Not likely and after making a drop so close to the side wall, a piece of paper couldn’t find the day light, Cesar sends the younger, less experienced player packing! Game, match Cesar from Mexico

Court 2 8:45 Curtis Malik (ENG; 40) VS. Moustafa Elsirty (EGY; 75)

Let’s get to one of the most anticipated matches of the night and the first proper sightings of “GAAAARY!”, - a Nash Cup Annual tradition. 

The first game started as all do, with 2 players, and a serve. From then on, this match was anything but ordinary. El Sirty pushed out to a quick lead 3-0, after surviving in 5 the night prior. Curtis Malik, a crowd favourite was there with the support of multiple family members and copatriots. Once settled in Curtis attempted to counter the pace of El Sirty with measured precision, and battled back to bring it near at 5-6. Mustafa hit a stride and made a run of hard paced shots and retrievals to quickly end the first match. Quick of course, relative to the upcoming games to follow..

It’s very difficult to capture the energy and feel of games 2 through 5. Yes, spoiler, it went to 5. It was a continuous battle of physicality, power and flair vs disciplined and strategic movement and hitting. Curtis adjusted to the rhythm of the first game, yet it remained close at 4-2. From there a series of calls, great shots and retrievals, and powerful tins brought us to 8-4. What followed were back to back tins from ElSirty giving Malik game ball, who took little time to equalize the match score.  

The third followed a trend that would continue throughout the rest of the match. Trading points, back and forth, and many, MANY calls. Our hard working referees were absolutely tried and tested throughout the evening, and game 3 is when the asks really started coming into play.  In this game, intense rallies took over, with many hard and low cross courts, which both players managed to retrieve and reset. The players were tied at 5-5, then 7-7, later 9-9 and ultimately 11-11. Sirty sent a cross court deep into the rear corner to push ahead one for game ball, but Curtis patiently held a shot to draw a stroke and bring it to 12s. One forehand kill was followed by a stroke against El Sirty and Malik jumps ahead 2 games to 1.

Curtis came out so strong in the 4th, hoping to end the night of his Egyptian opponent with a 5-1 lead. A fire was lit, and Mustafa battled back to a score of 6-5 with heavy and hard accuracy. Shortly after, El Sirty slipped and wiped out in the back of the left corner and requested a physio timeout. Our great medical staff took the player aside, checked him out, and after a short break we resumed. In the interim, everyones favourite ‘Man of the Court’ the svelte Gary Sullivan took to the hardwood, armed only with a towel and immense charm, but motivated by the chants and cheers for his efforts.

El Sirty returned with a fresh shirt and outlook on the game, and again, traded points, between many referee calls, to save a match ball at 10-9 and push it to 10-10, then ultimately sealing a 5th game 12-10 after another No Let call.

Well folks, this is absolutely what we wanted. A tense battle, feats of extreme athleticism, and loud cheers for dudes with towels. The 5th started as the games before had - back and forth, calls one way, calls another way. Neither player managed to get more than 2 points ahead, and, yet again we were going into extra points, after many more calls. An eruption from the crowd came at 8-8 when Malik reverse boasted at the front to freeze his opponent. That was followed by a couple of unforced errors on both sides, and a few more calls for good measure. It got INTENSE. First a no let, followed by a let gave Elsirty match ball! Malik patiently retrieved and recovered and got a no let at the end of an intense rally to bring it to 10s. Malik then sneakily served to the body, which couldn’t have back wall nicked at a better time! The crowd absolutely erupted! Another intense rally followed, and Malik again rolled out a winner on the right side, mid nick. Now it was the Malik family’s turn to erupt, with perhaps the largest scream coming from Curtis’s sister Torrie. Epic was an understatement - this match truly had it all and left the crowd in awe!

- Chat JerPT

Court 3 8:45 Georgia Adderley (SCO; 33) VS. Nour Heikal (EGY; 71)

First Game:

        •       0-0: Top seeded Adderley starts strong with a confident serve, taking the first point with a sharp volley.

        •       3-2 Haikal: Haikal, playing fearlessly against the second seed, finds her rhythm with tight drops and accurate drives.

        •       5-3 Haikal: Haikal extends her lead, using her speed and precision to force Adderley into errors.

        •       6-6: Adderley fights back, pushing Haikal deep into the corners with her powerful drives.

        •       8-8: Both players exchange long rallies, showing excellent defensive skills.

        •       10-9 Haikal: Haikal earns game ball with a clever forehand drop.

        •       12-10 Adderley: Adderley saves game ball with a deep backhand and clinches the game with a precise straight drive into the back corner.

Second Game:

        •       3-1 Haikal: Haikal responds strongly in the second game, forcing Adderley to scramble with well-placed shots.

        •       5-3 Haikal: Haikal maintains her lead, applying pressure with sharp drops and tight volleys.

        •       7-5 Haikal: Adderley tries to fight back, but Haikal’s speed keeps her ahead.

        •       10-6 Haikal: Haikal reaches game ball after a well-executed backhand drive.

        •       11-6 Haikal: Adderley tries to save game ball, diving for a tight drop from Haikal, but she can’t make the recovery. Haikal levels the match at 1-1.

Third Game:

        •       2-2: The players trade points early, showing strong defensive and attacking skills.

        •       4-2 Adderley: Adderley starts to dominate, using her powerful, deep drives to pin Haikal to the back of the court.

        •       7-5 Adderley: Haikal fights to stay close, retrieving difficult shots, but Adderley’s power continues to control the pace.

        •       10-6 Adderley: Adderley powers through to game ball with aggressive volleys and accurate drives.

        •       11-8 Adderley: A cross-court nick secures the third game for Adderley, giving her a 2-1 lead.

Fourth Game:

        •       2-0 Adderley: Adderley comes out strong, taking an early lead with aggressive forehand drives.

        •       5-3 Adderley: Haikal tries to rally, but Adderley keeps her on the defensive with powerful volleys.

        •       7-5 Adderley: Haikal stays close, using her quick movement to pressure Adderley, but the second seed stays in control.

        •       9-5 Adderley: Adderley extends her lead, applying relentless pressure with deep, powerful shots.

        •       11-5 Adderley: Adderley closes out the match in style with a forehand winner into the back corner, securing the fourth game and the victory.

Final Score: Georgia Adderley (2) 3-1 Nour Haikal (12-10, 6-11, 11-8, 11-5)

[squashsiteblog]

Nash Cup 2024 : Day ONE Reports

Court 2 3pm    Elise Romba (FRA; 91) v Alex Haydon (AUS; 68)       

Elise and Alex and both in the NASH Cup for the first time and as first match has a smaller crowd than most. If history is any indication this will change very quickly as member and spectators arrive. There is history between these players. They last faced off in 2022 with Alex winning 3-0, but the last game went to 11-9.

Their games are similar as they work up and down the side walls with length looking for an opportunity to drop. Alex does a good job pushing Elise back, but Elise has a great ut away shot from the back and is able to pick up some quick point. Elise is in control of game one moving to 9-1 as Alex struggles to find a weakness. A nice tight boast moves it to 9-2. A long rally and a series of tight drops ends with Elise going 10-2. Alex starts to gain control of the tee but the first game is too far gone and goes to Elise 11-4.

Game two opens with a long rally and Alex gains the opening point. She’s hitting more lobs and trying to Elsie in the back of the court. It’s working Elise is hitting hard but struggling to get it past Alex who drops a winner to go up 3-0. What a difference in game and strategy. 7-0 Alex. Alex goes short; Elise wins the point….back to the lob. 7-2.  Steady rally and a dead nik out 10-4 Alex. She takes game two….this is a great start.

Small commentator break as we realize that towel buckets are still a thing and we gets them out on the courts. Alex continues her momentum in game three taking a commanding 6-3 lead. Elise is challenged to get in front and going for winers when she does, but it’s not turning the game. 9-4 Alex. On last one into the tin. Match is 2-1 Alex.

Elise is a lefty, but opens game three by keeping the ball on the right wall for over a dozen shots. She may be right about Alex’s strengths, but alex is still able to hit the tight winners in the front right and moves to a 3-0 lead. Both players can hit with power and there are few errors. Elise moves the ball around catching some tight angles and is now down 4-5. A tough not let moves us to 8-4 Alex. The call was right, Alex was clear of the swing before it got their, but a hit to any momentum for Elise. The match ends 11-5.

Court 3 3pm    Brett Schille (CAN; 190) v Tom Walsh (ENG; 66)

Court 2 3:45    Jeremias Azana (ARG; 76) v Perry Malik (ENG; 94)

Perry Malik is finally making his NASH Cup debut after narrowly missing out in 2022, while Jeremias Azana is playing in his second consecutive tournament. Both players started strong, but Malik quickly found his rhythm, moving Azana into all four corners with ease and taking control of the first game. Malik's dominance was clear early on, with a 6-0 lead, including two stunning reverse boasts that brought the crowd’s approval. Azana struggled to find his length and control the T, allowing Malik to take the first game comfortably at 11-4.

Azana regrouped in the second game, starting with a quick point, but Malik responded with a brilliant shot to even it up. Azana extended a long rally to force an error from Malik, keeping it competitive. At 3-3, Malik found his stride again with a classic backcourt nick, but Azana fought back, tying the game at 5-5. A thrilling rally saw Malik take the lead, but the two players remained neck and neck, exchanging points until 7-7. Azana’s patience and skill in a long rally gave him an 8-7 lead, and both players began to find more comfort on the court, resulting in extended rallies. Malik earned a matchball at 10-9, but Azana saved it after a spectacular dive. In a nail-biting rally, Malik finally closed out the second game 11-9, going up 2-0 in games.

Azana knew he needed a strong start in the third game to stay alive, and he did just that, taking an early 2-0 lead. Malik responded to take a 3-2 lead, but Azana’s tenacity earned him a 5-3 advantage after a few unforced errors from Malik. Azana maintained his momentum, pushing up the T and increasing the pace, ultimately converting at 11-5 to take the third game. He was now firmly back in the match.

In the fourth game, Malik regrouped after an early error and took two points to go up 2-1. However, Azana took control again, moving ahead 5-2. Malik fought back to level at 7-7, taking the next point for a narrow lead. A critical error by Malik tied the game at 8-8, but a beautiful cross-drop nick from Malik put him back ahead at 9-9. With another matchball at 10-9, the crowd was on edge. Azana saved it with a brilliant forehand kill, and after two lets due to traffic, Malik earned another matchball. Azana saved it again and eventually won the game 13-11 with a series of impressive shots, pushing the match to a fifth and deciding game.

The final game began with both players locked at 3-3. Azana, pushing up higher on the T, moved Malik around the court, taking a 5-3 lead. A controversial point at 4-3 where the crowd thought the ball hit Malik was awarded to him, tying the game at 5-5. Azana then produced a series of perfect drops to reclaim the lead at 6-5. A massive rally at 7-5 ended with a questionable no-let decision, giving Azana an 8-5 lead. Malik fought back to 9-7 with some gorgeous backhand volley drops, but Azana earned himself four matchballs at 10-7. Malik saved one matchball, and after a long 60-minute rally, Azana made an error, bringing the score to 8-10. Malik saved another matchball with a backhand volley kill, bringing the score to 10-10. Malik saved a total of four matchballs, but an unforced error gave Azana another chance. Azana finally converted, winning the fifth game 12-10 in an incredible display of squash.

Court 3 3:45    Catalina Pelaez (COL; 81) v Iman Shaheen (CAN; 136)   

Iman, 19 yrs old, from Ottawa has been here 3 previous times. 

Catalina, 33, from Columbia has been here at least 5 times already.

Catalina wins the toss and the first point. At 6-4 she is providing more speed and power than her opponent but Inan's shots are keeping her in the game. The final score is 11-6 for the Columbian.

Game 2 starts with the right-handed Catalina losing the first two points to the left-handed Inan. At 4-2 a stroke is awarded to Inan for another point. They tie at 7-7. With tighter shots, Catalina continues to dominate and win with a final score of 11-7. 

Game 3 shows Catalina up 4-0 before losing a point. Mistakes are few on either side but the power and speed of Catalina takes her to victory with an 11-5 final account. 

Court 2 4:30    Katerina Tycova (GER; 99) v  Marta Dominguez (ESP; 61)

Court 3 4:30    Matthew Lai (HKG; 84) v Sanjay Jeeva (MAS; 67)

Matthew, 25, from Hong Kong, first time to this event. 

Sanjay, 25, from Malasia (Kuala Lumpur) 2nd time here, chess champion who speaks 6 languages (grew up in Belgium). 

Game 1 - Sanjay wins the toss. Long rallies follow. Twelve minutes into the game and the score is 2-2. Sanjay slowly takes the upper hand, and the score is 8-4 in his favour. A minor collision stalls the game at 10-7 and the game is decided by a stroke in Sanjay's favour ... 11-7.

Game 2 - The right-handed Matthew wins the first point against the left-handed Malasian. The speed is fast with few shots getting past the opponent. Matthew appears to be a former badminton player considering the way he jumps so high for some of the returns. The game ends in his favour at 11-5. 

Game 3 - Both shirts are very wet. Neither player has shown any sign of slowing down. They tie at 4-4. Matthew's request for a stroke is denied and it is 6-4 for Sanjay who finally wins at 11-8. 

Game 4 - New shirts. Sanjay goes up 8-0 before his streak ends. .  He wins at 11-1.

Game 5 - Games are tied at 2 each. At 5-2 for Matthew, neither is giving any ground. Sanjay excels at diving and doing the splits. 6-3 for Matthew with nothing left on the table. Its 9-5 for Matthew as Sanjay hits one out. he battles back to 10-7, then 10-8, 10-9, then 10-10! Sanja wins at 11-10. What a comeback!

Court 2 5:15    Ben Smith (ENG; 69) v Salah Eltorgman (CAN; 88)

Court 3 5:15    Asia Harris (ENG; 69) v  Wai Yhann Au Yeong (SGP; 88)    

Asia Harris, 19, from England. Coached by Nick Matthew.

Wai Yhann Au Yeong 25, from Singapore, first time here.

Game 1 - Wai goes up 3-0 before her streak is broken. A delay of game while dust is swept from the floor by our very own Al Fayad who steps up when needed. Play resumes. At 9-6, Wai is gaining ground and wins at 11-7.

Game 2- At 5-2 Asia is showing a little stronger. Her reach is an advantage as  she gets to 8-4 and ultimately wins at 11-6.

Game 3 - Again the floor is swept after Asia's concern about sliding. At 6-4 for Wai, Asia makes a few errors to her disadvantage. At 8-8 they are tied. A drop-boast gives Asia a 11-9 win. 

Game 4 - The game starts with a couple of long rallies but Wai has definitely been on the offensive up 6-2 early in the match and in this game there have been a couple of lets allowed early.  wai in this game is definitely on th3e offensive wanting to force game 5 which has happened - Wai winds 11-6.

Game 5 - this has been a hard fought match so far and it will be interesting to see if stamina comes into play in Game 5.  Both players are fighting hard in this final set and the game is tied 2-2.  And with both players still fighting hard - now tied at 5-5.  Asia's reach/height advantage definitely seems to be an advantage for her in this game - now leading 8-5.  Late in the set with the score 9-7 there is a collision but both players show great sportsmanship.  And a win for Asia 11-7 and on the lasy play Wai loosing her shoe in the final point of the game.

Court 2 6:30    Amal Izhar (CAN; 237) VS. Caroline Fouts (USA; 92)

Court 3 6:30    Yannik Omlor (GER) VS. Kareem El Torkey (EGY)

Yannik from Germany was here in London about 2 or 3 years ago and competed in the Nash Cup

This is Kareem’s - age 21 - first visit to London.  He has taken a week off school to compete here and is returning to Egypt next week to return to school.

Game 1

This is my first time attending a squash competition and i must say not knowing much about squash the men’s matches are extremely fast with longer rallies and both players seem as they are quicker than the women’s match I just watched, on the court (not meaning to sound sexist)!  

After several long rallies the score is tied 4-4 and both players seemed evenly matched.  

Kareem made a great nick, and the score is now 10-5 for Kareem.  A great final shot by Kareem and the first game is won by him 11-7.

Game 2

The second game is moving along much quicker with shorter rallies and the score is now 6-4 for Yannik.  Quick rallies and a quick game - Yannik wins 11-5.

Game 3

With the game at 2-1 for Kareem the rallies are fabulous - with so much technique being shown by both players.  

Shots that drop right at the wall followed by the players smashing the ball and both players running full out, lunging with all their might to reach and return the other players’ shots. And it shows in the score - tied 3-3 with very long rallies.  I would say the crowd watching this game seems to be cheering for Kareem to succeed.

The rallies are so exciting - both players giving it their all - and the score is now 9-9.  What a rally - the technique shown is wonderful to watch.  And Yannik wins this set 11-9.

Game 4

Early in this game the score is quickly 4-0 for Kareem and the game is moving along quickly at this point.  Neither player is showing any signs of issues with their stamina.  Kareem is playing brilliantly this game and is quickly leading 9-0.  and Kareem wins 11-1.

Game 5

As game 5 starts I would say Kareem looks a little more composed and confident after his success in Game 4.  After great play by both players in this the deciding game the score is tied 2-2.  Kareem’s confidence now has him up 7-2.  And match point is here - Kareem has won 11-4.  In a final comment I would same Yannik started to look a little tired.

PH

Court 2 7:15    Joseph White (AUS; 84) VS. Taylor Carrick (CAN; 214)

Court 3 7:15    Sara Cheng (HKG; 65) VS. Lowri Roberts (WAL; 89)

Sara Cheng from Hong Kong is 24, new to London, and is studying to be a Building Surveyor. 

Lowri is from Wales, 26, and also enjoying her first entry to the Nash Cup. 

Game 1 - Lowri wins the toss and the first point. At 3-2 for Sara, a string breaks and Lowri has to call time-out. At 6-3 Lowri seems to have less difficulty controlling the front of the court, keeping Sara deep. They're tied at 7-7 with Lowri starting to make a few errors. They are tied again at 9-9 but the errors add up and the game finishes with  Sara leading 11-9.

Game 2 - They are quickly tied at 4-4, both moving well, now both making a few errors. The "tin" is not their friend. Lowri wins the game at 11-5 with both hoping for less errors in the next game. 

Game 3 - At 4-2 (Lowri) they both look like they are just getting warmed up. Its 4-4  when a collision sidelines Sara for a few minutes. Play resumes and there are a great many shots down the left wall from the two right-handed players. At 7-6 it has been Sara's turn to make the most mistakes. One more tin from Sara and the game ends at 11-6 for Lowri.

Game 4 - Starts with a long rally and Sara winning the point. The pace has picked up and the crowd is getting noisier. They don't know whether to cheer for Lauri or Lowri or Lorri! At 6-4 (Sara) the errors continue to take their toll. At 9-6 for Sara, Sara gets a stroke, followed by a winning shot in the next rally and wins the game 11-6. 

Game 5 - Its 2-2 in games and Sara is soon up 2-0 in this one. Tight shots and some tin from Lowri gives Sara a 6-2 lead. A stroke gives Sara a 9-3 lead. Sara wins with a 11-6 final score. 

Court 2 8:00    Alison Thomson (SCO; 84) VS. Saran Nghiem (ENG; 67)

Court 3 8:00    Diego Gobbi (BRA; 119) VS. Finnlay Withington (ENG; 83)

Game 1 - Finnlay takes the first 3 points. At 6-3, Finnlay is showing  slightly more deceptive shots and great speed. At 8-5 he continues to dominate with tight shots. Errors are few on both sides. But then it is tied at 10-10. Then 11-10 Finnlay. Then 11-11. Great rallies. Final score 13-11 for Finnlay. 

Game 2 - They start off evenly, tied at 2-2, 3-3, Nothing is not gettable as they both make great shots, tight to the line and low at the front. Finnlay slowly pulls ahead and finishes the game with an 11-5 win. 

Game 3 - opens with Diego pulling ahead with 3 straight points. Two mistakes and a stroke put Finnlay back in the lead at 4-3. They're tied at 5-5 again at 6-6 and again at 7-7. Diego pulls ahead to 10-7 and makes a low front nick to finish the game with a 11-7 win. 

Court 2 8:45    Nour Haikal (EGY; 71) VS. Sofia Mateos (ESP; 134)

Court 3 8:45    Moustafa Elsirty (EGY; 75) VS. Lwamba Chileshe (NZL; 97)

The final match of the night was pure electricity, as two rising stars squared off in a thrilling showdown that extended well past 9 PM. The anticipation in the air was palpable—the crowd buzzing, the players laser-focused, ready to deliver a match for the ages. On paper, Elsirty was the undeniable favorite. Rankings, past performances, and even the betting odds stacked in his favor as he faced Chileshe for the first time on the PSA tour. But what unfolded on court was far from predictable.

In the cool night air, both players—among the tallest in the draw—were eager to get things underway, skipping a lengthy warmup to dive straight into the action. Elsirty quickly surged ahead with a commanding 3-0 lead in the first game. By 7-2, it seemed like the script was following its expected course. But Chileshe, the scrappy New Zealander, wasn’t reading from that script. With razor-sharp retrievals and unshakable determination, he clawed his way back to 8-8, stunning the crowd and Elsirty alike. The players exchanged points, each rally more intense than the last. A controversial call at 11-10 in Chileshe’s favor tipped the balance, as he seized the first game 12-10 after a “No Let” call on game ball, leaving Elsirty visibly frustrated.

The drama was only beginning. Close calls and split decisions became a theme, with the crowd on edge as the second game unfolded. Elsirty, now determined to make a statement, unleashed a series of blistering cross-court nicks, leveling the score at 3-3. But an injury timeout following contact slowed the Egyptian down briefly. When play resumed, the two exchanged blows like heavyweight boxers, tying the score at 7-7. Then, a deft kill shot from Chileshe nudged him ahead 9-8, and the New Zealander pressed his advantage to close out the second game 11-8, taking a surprising 2-0 lead.

Elsirty, staring down the barrel of an upset, came out with guns blazing in the third. He quickly went up 2-0, but Chileshe matched his energy, evening the score at 4-4. The tension mounted as a contested call left Elsirty pleading for relief after contact to his non-racket hand. But the referee let play continue, and the match surged forward, point for point. At 10-9, Chileshe held match ball, ready to deliver the knockout punch. But Elsirty dug deep, saving match point with an explosive rally, and ultimately taking the game 13-11 in a stunning comeback. His roar of triumph shook the walls as the crowd erupted—game on.

The momentum shifted in the fourth, with Elsirty fully in command. Chileshe, rattled and making unforced errors, couldn’t find his rhythm as Elsirty steamrolled to an 11-4 win, forcing a decisive fifth game. The crowd, though fatigued, was on the edge of their seats, knowing the final chapter of this epic saga was about to unfold.

And what a fifth game it was. Each point was a battle, with neither player willing to give an inch. Elsirty inched ahead 6-4, only for Chileshe to respond with a breathtaking cross-court winner, narrowing the gap to 6-5. But the Egyptian was relentless, pulling ahead 8-6. Then came the crucial moment—a controversial “No Let” call against Elsirty brought the score to 8-7, followed by another “No Let” against Chileshe after a freakish bounce off the wall. The tension was unbearable. At 9-7, Elsirty pounced, seizing the moment with a final surge, and sealing the match 11-7 with a triumphant racket drop and a victorious roar that echoed through the arena.

This match was an absolute rollercoaster—a test of heart, skill, and sheer willpower. It was a vivid reminder that in squash, nothing is over until the final point is won. Elsirty’s ability to fight back from the brink of defeat proved his mettle as a true contender, while Chileshe’s performance left no doubt that his rise is far from over. In the end, it was a masterclass in resilience and determination—an unforgettable night for everyone who witnessed it.

[squashsiteblog]

Nash Cup 2022 : Quarter-Finals

The new live commentary with video streaming has quickly become popular. Thank you to Jeff Wong and DAGI for making this happen, and thank you to all those who are writing in with comments (and the odd critique). It’s great to know people are watching an listening. Please remember to use #nashcup or @nashcup when posting. The social media traffic has been great.

The Semi-Finals are set. We’re down to 8 professionals and two nights of matches. Thank you to Mackevica; Thomas; Gobbi and Melo for travelling to Chatham today for an exhibition at the wonderful Maple City Squash Club. Tomorrow players will be headed to the Sarnia Riding Club.

Tonight’s matches were exceptional. London Squash had a full crowd and just about everyone walked away happy. We hope you will enjoy the summaries.

Thursday Matches:

3pm     Nathan Lake (ENG; 38) vs. Chris Gordon (USA; 73)

These tall players step onto the court and start with an extremely long rally with mid level power. The work up and down the walls, mixing in some crosses. Neither willing to make an opening error. This provides time to tell you this is Nathan’s 6th NASH Cup and Chris’s 1st. Nathan was first here in 2010 and the NASH Cup was his first official PSA event. Nathan picks up the first 2 points and Chris realizes that the slow game isn’t going to work. A closer from Chris and an error brings us to 3-1 Lake. We’ve shifted to touch now and both players are skilled. A dead nick for Nathan and it’s 4-2. Precision shots from both but Chris is making more errors putting Nathan up 8-5. An extremely physical set of final points giving us of hint of what is to come. Nathan hits a solid over the head drop to end it 11-7.

Game two starts with an all Lake show as he jumps to a clean 5-0 lead. Chris takes a moment with the towels to regroup and try and find some magic. An out of court and we’re 6-0. Gordon is extremely physical tapping Nathan’s back during rallies and taking aggressive positioning. It works against him on a hard rail shot resulting in a stroke and we’re 7-0. There has been one donut this week….very rare to see an 11-0 result. That won’t be the case here as Chris picks up a point.

These two have faced off twice before in PSA competition. Chris won 3-2 in 2012; and Nathan 3-0 in 2019. The rubber match is going heavily in Lake’s favour. He giving the physical as much as he’s taking it, but he’s also winning the positioning battle. 11-4. Lake up 2-0.

Game three and the game is unchanged with Nathan moving to a 2-0 lead. Nathan’s game was a little flat on the opening night but he’s found his comfort zone. Chris has been denied on a number of let calls and my bet is he’ll be reviewing the YouTube video in the weeks ahead. The referees are doing a great job, the game is physical and difficult to call…but no player is happy when things don’t go in their favour. Lake up 4-1. A brilliant corner boast brings us to 5-1. Chris can’t get momentum and it all ends on a “no let” call. Nathan was in the way, but there was no chance of Chris getting there. 11-5.

4pm     Zeina Zein (EGY; 89) vs. Marta Dominguez Fernandez (ESP; 72)

by Brad’s Brother

The first women's quarterfinal of the day is the young Egyptian, Zeina Zein who is coming off of an impressive victory against the #1 seed Ineta Mackevica. Zein will take on #8 seed Marta Dominguez Fernandez of Spain. Marta beat Nadeen Kotb of Egypt in 4 yesterday. Fernandez and Zein are both great movers, but I give the edge to the young Egyptian star with her impressive shot making, but you can never underestimate the value of experience. Let’s see if this reporter can finally get a prediction right. 

Jay Nash is nearby for the start of this match, so I have a few stats for you this time. Zein is 17 and she is ranked #89 and Fernandez is 21 and ranked #72. This is their first meeting on the PSA tour. From what I’ve seen so far this week I’m confident that Zein is a future top 10 player because she possesses all of the qualities required. 

The pace starts high in the first game. Fernandez is a bit older and bigger in stature and seems like she wants to make this a physical match. It seems like her strategy might be working so far as she starts off with a 5-2 lead. Is Zein going to play at the high pace or try and mix it up more? A great forehand volley drop and Zein gets back to 4-5. Fernandez is clearly overhitting when under pressure, let’s see if she will adjust as the match goes on. When she has time, she’s been quite accurate with her drives, but she’s got to adapt to the pressure better. Zein now up to an 8-6 lead. A stroke now ties it up at 8. I get a feeling this first game is huge for the confidence and momentum of this match. A questionable ‘let’ call keeps things tired at 8. Interesting tactic as Zein chose to serve from the left box on a handout but it pays off and now has game all. A perfect forehand drive and Zein takes the first 11-8. 

If I was in their corner, I’d be recommending Fernandez varies the pace more, especially when she’s under pressure. Zein has done little wrong, and I suspect she will start to open up the court a little more this game. Fernandez is a great mover to the front so Zein will have to pick opportunities wisely. Let’s see if Fernandez can make the adjustment and win this pivotal second game. 

Proving that accuracy is more critical than power, Fernandez has 2 perfectly measured shots to get out to a quick 2-0 lead. Zein with a couple of errors as well and now trails 4-2. Zein does nearly the full splits and wins a long point to tie things back up at 4. A great forehand counter drop gives Fernandez a slight edge at 7-6. At 7-7 Zein has 4 or 5 ridiculous gets in a row to take back the lead at 8-7. A couple of questionable calls back-to-back adds to the tension of the backend of this game. Zein you overcomes the calls to get a game ball but then the game ends on a ‘no let’ questionable call, game 2 to Zein 11-9 in 12 minutes. I have a hunch this match is a long way from over, but both players appear unhappy with the officiating now. They have to keep their focus and play the ball whenever they can to keep the refs out of it. Let’s see how they regroup from the calls. 

Zein comes out with 2 quick winners. Fernandez is in trouble while Zein is looking really confident going up 4-0. A couple of winners and 2 errors from Zein and Fernandez is back in it tied up at 4. Fernandez isn’t going to let this one get away without a fight. Both women are getting almost everything back right now, but it appears Fernandez is slightly winded. 8-7 Zein, can she close it out in 3? 10-7 match point. Fernandez saves 1, then a second thanks to a generous ‘no let’ call, but she couldn’t save a third as Zein takes it 11-9. What a fantastic match. Zein is the first semi finalist and will play the winner of Torrie Malik and Lucy Beecroft. Either one will have their hands full with the unseeded rising star. 

5pm     Daniel Mekbib (CZE;89) vs Edmon Lopez (ESP; 86)

We’re lacking a write up on this one, but expect that there is one out there. We will add once it is sent in.

The match was a strong one, but momentum shifted as Daniel took an injury in the second game

This was the players second meeting in PSA and the record is now 1-1.

6pm     Torrie Maiik (ENG; 86) vs. Lucy Beecroft (ENG; 57)

This all-British matchup of a PSA veteran, Beecroft, and the up and coming 18-year-old Malik is a showcase of England’s talent at the Nash Cup. In their previous match up between these two competitors Beecroft secured a 3-0 victory and looks to repeat. The initial Rally started slowly with some good length until Malik froze Beecroft with a nice trickle boast. Malik with a larger stature has the power to match and has been winning her initial point using force. Beecroft is countering nicely using her experience and touch to win points in the front of the court. Beecroft has started to take the lead in game one as the score is now 8-4. Malik’s eagerness has lead to a few early tins and put Beecroft in a commanding position to take the first game. Although Malik began to come back into the game one, Beecroft’s experience and quality in the front of the court secured her the first game victory.

Beecroft’s backhand drop is again the opening point of the third game. Seems she will continue to pursue this strategy until Malik shows she can counter it. Although Beecroft quickly jumped to a 5-0 lead and unforced tin has given Malik some life. A couple quality rallies in a row from Malik has brought her back into the game as the score is now 5-3 in favour of Beecroft. The score is now 9-7 as the two ladies trade blows coming down the stretch. The physicality of the game has increased with several lets and strokes given in the final few points. Beecroft was able to secure the victory, winning the third game 11-7, using her tried and true game plan of winning with quality shot into the front of the court.

7 pm    Andrew Douglas (USA; 84) vs. Curtis Malik (ENG; 75)

This match features two first time NASH Cup participants. Their ranks are close, and they have no history of matches with the PSA…so as we watch warm up it’s truly anyone’s game. Curtis is looking to avenge the loss his sister just took….and in the opening rallies it’s clear this is going to a game of patience. The rallies are long and there are few mistakes. Malik opens with an edge. He’s not making mistakes. Jumps to a 5-3 lead.

The crowd at London Squash is now full as will be clear to those watching the live feed. Some spectators have taken to listening to the commentary on their air pods, and I think it may have actually made this place a little quieter. London Squash is NOT a quiet crowd. Douglas has a patient and consistent shot and waits for his opportunities. He finds them and brings it back to 6-6.

London Squash is nearly 60 years old and an incredible bar / squash club. Members have begun to arrive and watch on the televisions with a beer in hand as standing room is getting tight. Not sure how worried they are about seeing as it was the beer they were after.

I’m not sure either player will adjust much as we enter game two. Douglas jumps to a 3-0 lead. Malik has had two “no lets” against him as Douglas sticks to the long shots and goes up 6-1. Malik is getting some winners but a back and forth game will now favour Douglas and hit patience remains. 7-3….but then three quick winners and we’re 7-6. Malik has found his happy place and it crushing it an inch over the tin achieving dead nicks. Malik actually manages to hit Douglas off the front wall; very rare to see; and we’re 10-7 Malik. After 2 nights of very few 3-0 finishes it was a bit shocking to see the quarter finals start with 4 of them…..this may be another 2-0 Malik

The third match starts similar to the second as Douglas moves to a 2-0 lead with steady play and deep shots. Malik might be letting the ball heat up before he starts going for winners. These are long rallies, and it won’t take long. 4-0 Douglas. Douglas has started moving forward in the court and is hitting some driving winners. 6-3. Mailik is relentless but hits the red line to allow for 7-4. A few costly errors bring the game back to 7-7. This is familiar territory and Douglas needs to get his groove back. The rallies get longer and we’re 8-8. Curtis doesn’t want to make a mistake, and Douglas goes for few winners. Suddenly he finds one and it’s Douglas up 9-8 on a clean drop into the corner. Malik was trapped. A bad corner kick-out and Douglas draws a stroke going up 10-8. A 40+ shot rally and a kill from Malik, 10-9. These courts are true and it’s almost as if Douglas is looking for a flat bounce. He finally gets one, but a let is called. The next rally ends in drive with another let request, but not to be. We have a game 4.

The evening schedule may be about to fall behind for the first time. This two-minute break is just long enough for some (not all) to grab a beer and get back to their seats. Our photographer Rael Weinburg did a great job capturing the family meeting between games.

Curtis jumps out in front this time. It will be interesting to see what he can do with a lead. 3-1. Lob; drop; drive; cross; drop….Malik is mixing the winners with longer shots and it’s working. He gets the tight bounces and moves up to 6-3. Malik jumps to 9-3 and this match is finals quality. The crowd loves it. An error/tin allows Douglas a glimmer of hope as we move to 9-5. The shot was lazy and Malik knew it. Anther lost rally and a tin and were 9-7. Malik may have lost his mojo…but crushes the next serve down and then draws a stroke. Malik 11-7 in the 4th.

8pm     Georgia Adderley (SCO; 59) vs. Marina Stefanoni (USA; 61)

The writer put in charge of this match left it a bit sparce. Less than 10 words to be exact and the match deserved so much more. I had the pleasure of doing the live commentary and it’s worth a watch on YouTube. Georgia and Marina were extremely well matched with the first 3 games going to 9-9. The first two went to Georgia with Marina winning 12-10 in the third.

Both players favoured the left wall and 20+ shots was not unusual. The rallies were long and the winners well deserved. Georgia has a blistering forehand drop and Marina can get to just about anything. Such a great game to watch.

Like the first three game four was tight with the lead going back and forth. Neither player showed significant fatigue, and both stuck to their game plans. In the end Georgia pulled out an 11-8 victory and advances to the Semi Finals.

9pm     Leandro Romiglio (ARG; 69) vs. Henry Leung (HKG; 58)

This matchup has all the ingredients of a classic – the defensive, stable Henry Leung against the flamboyant, mercurial Leandro Romiglio. Romiglio wins the warmup which almost always predicts the winner, we’ll see. You can tell this is their first meeting, with both players exploring every centimetre of the court for the first few rallies to look for weakness. Henry edges out front mid way through the first, as Leandro balances out his slick winners with even more errors. Nothing in it, really. Hearing lots of “I think this is going to go five” from the well-hydrated audience. After 18 electrifying minutes Henry takes the first 11-8.

The second game starts even faster than the first, with Leandro continuing to push the ridiculous pace and Henry trying to weather the storm with quick hands. This is fun to watch. But can they sustain this speed? Leandro is flying around the court hitting spectacular winners everywhere and gets out to a 7-1 lead. Henry seems a bit shell shocked; might be save your energy for the next game territory. And in a 7 minute blur, we’re at 1-1.

Early in the third there’s a lot of contact, with several close calls resulting in no lets off of tight length. Tough work for the refs when both players are so fast. Perhaps the lightning pace of the first 2 games having an effect here. The front left corner of the court gets a lot of action with some tight exchanges, we’re at 6-5 Henry. Again, there’s a confrontation in the front left corner with either player refusing to budge off their line, 6-6. As the game opens up Leandro uses more flicks and deception, but this is handled by the steadfast defence of Henry. TOWEL BREAK. It feels like there hasn’t been a separation of more than 2 points, and at 9-8 Henry, Leandro’s face grazes Henry’s follow through and he proceeds to juggle the ball to nullify his growing frustration. 12-10 Leung.

There’s a commotion behind the bleachers between the 3rd and 4th games, either food has arrived or DVM is here. Nothing different at the start of the 4th , Leandro makes a few errors going for drop winners while Henry is content to counter and move the ball around. At 4-1 Henry, Leandro gets activated and employs a winning pattern – front left corner drop, wait for the counter, then smash it hard and low down the left wall. Excited by his own success Leandro ties it at 4-4. There’s few short balls coming in the middle of the 4th with the rallies settling into high pace accurate length. Average rally length is about 30 shots – do less, boys. Henry steels himself to finish this strong before his serve at 8-7, and the rally ends in a controversial but key stroke call bringing us to 9-7. A similar situation followed with the roles reversed and Leandro only gets a let – this is getting contentious! Leandro somehow strings together a series of outrageous winners to bring us to the first 5 game match of the Nash Cup.

This is the match of the tournament so far for sure. The Argentinian looks more tired but he’s proven his ability to unsettle the Hong Kong-er? The conditioning of both players results in the first few rallies looking identical to the last few games. Whoever plays the winner is feeling pretty good right now. Unexpectedly, Leung looks more shaky at the beginning making some uncharacteristic errors, Leandro takes a quick 4-1 lead. “It’s over!”, says Dave Coate confidently. This is how Henry planned it though, almost equalizing at 4-5. TOWEL BREAK. 6-6 after another no-let call against Leandro. There are not many outright winners at this point, most points are being won on calls and errors. 9-8 Leung, but a monster rally brings out an error from him, 9-9! Another error from the Leung racquet brings us to the first match ball for Leandro. Squandered with a tin! Headed to a tiebreak folks. Second match ball, for Leung this time 11-10. He eventually converts in an EPIC match that had everything. 12-10 Leung. 82 Minutes!!

10pm   Ambre Allinchx (SUI; 95) vs. Haley Mendez (USA; 54)

Haley Mendez returns for her 3rd NASH Cup and is now the draws top seed. Ambre is here for the first time and has taken out higher ranked opponents to reach the quarter finals The styles are similar, but Mendez’s experience may be the end. Mendez jumps to a 3-0 lead before putting one out. Ambre forces the next two and we’re 3-3.

Despite best efforts this match is starting late and these ladies have been very patient. A half hour isn’t a huge deal, but a 10:30pm start is unusual on tour. We had 8 matches to get in and wanted all on the main court. The process of running on the hour has worked for a number of years, but the pre-tournament thoughts of PSA’s Elliott Selby have come back to roost (he suggested we might want to run a match on court 1.

Things go back and forth, but Mendez has an edge and jumps to 10-6. Quick games may favour Mendez and a perfect drop cleans up the first at 11-7. 9 minutes for the opener as these players attempt to get us back on schedule. I’m not sure why as they are the final match.

Ambre picks up the opener in game two, but this really is a back and forth game with each player searching for control. 3-3 happens fast and Mendez then gains a lead. An error by Ambre and Mendez is up 5-3. A tin from Mendez and it’s 5-4. Mendez takes a towel break and then serves one out. 6-5 Mendez. This is a longer game than the first as both players have decided that the left wall is a “safe place” for shots. Three straight drives down the left. Ambre gets two, but clearly expects a cross and it’s 9-5 Mendez. As we reach game ball Ambre has a great drop to pick up a sixth point, but Haley has patience and points to work with. Ambre picks up a 7th. Mendez still patient. Ambre goes to 8 on a strong cross. Finally a weak center shot and Hayley capitalizes with great length. 2-0 Mendez.

Clearly one opening point in the second game wasn’t enough, so this time Ambre starts with a 3-0 lead. The ladies are hitting great length and it comes down to something loose presenting itself. Mendez gets back to 3-2. Like the first game Mendez slowly builds a lead and finds herself with an 11-8 win. The third continues in the same way. Ambre is strong, but can’t battle for the additional points  Mendez in three with an 11-5 win.