Annie On Course For Home Hong Kong Title by Howard Harding May 29, 2015 -
Local star Annie Au is on course to become the first home winner of the
Women's HKFC International 25 after seeing off Asian rival Joshana
Chinappa in today's semi-finals of the WSA International 25 squash
event at Hong Kong Football Club in Happy Valley, Hong Kong.
Left-hander Au, the top seed, defeated the fourth seed from India 9-11,
12-10, 11-6, 11-9 in 48 minutes to reach her first Tour final of the
year, but the 19th of her career.
"The last time we played was in the HK Open in 2013 and Joshana beat me
in five games, so I was expecting a very tough match," said Au later.
"The match could have gone either way, I was pretty lucky at crucial
times tonight, and especially happy with my concentration.
"I'm now going to watch the second semi-final before going home for
some rest and some good food, and to prepare for tomorrow. I'm very
pleased to have won today with Joshana playing so well in recent
months."
The 26-year-old world No.11 will now face surprise opponent Habiba
Mohamed, the sixth seed from Egypt who celebrated her 16th birthday
today.
The Alexandria teenager continued her giant-killing run in the event by
dismissing experienced No.3 seed Jenny Duncalf, the former world No.2
from England, in straight games.
Mohamed stunned second seed Rachael Grinham, the former world champion from Australia, in the opening round.
Mohamed, now in her fifth Tour final, will line up against Au for the first time in the final.
RESULTS: Women's HKFC International 25, Happy Valley, Hong Kong China
