Nick Matthew Starts Fight for Record Seventh BN Title by Scarlett Smith February 11, 2015
- England’s Nick Matthew has successfully started his campaign to win a
record seventh national title with a victory as the National Squash
Championships got underway in Manchester today.
17 year old qualifier Patrick Rooney from Merseyside had a dream tie
against the three time world champion and the youngster certainly made
the most of his chance on the all glass court at the National Squash
Centre.
“It was good to see a young player playing so well on the glass court,
he’s got a good head on his shoulders. The Nationals are a great
opportunity for younger players to make a name for themselves,” said
Matthew.
Despite a strong start from Rooney the Yorkshireman capitalised on his
experience and pace as he defeated the plucky teenager 11/5, 11/2, 11/2.
“Everyone saw the strength of British squash at the Commonwealth Games
so I need to stay on my toes. I love the venue and court so I’m
feeling good,” added Matthew.
Elsewhere Daryl Selby and James Willstrop both survived scares from
lower ranked opposition. Willstrop, who was making his first
appearance in Manchester since undergoing a knee operation, squeezed
past Devon’s Lyell Fuller 3-2 after a slow start.
“It was tough but I am fit to play, otherwise I wouldn't be here,” explained Willstrop.
Scotland’s number one Alan Clyne also made it through to the second
round after a close encounter against the resilient Ashley Davies, a
player ranked 125 places below the Scot.
The event run in conjunction with Manchester City Council also welcomes
over a thousand of Manchester’s school children to the National Squash
Centre as part of the event’s legacy programme. Children will have the
chance to experience live squash, meet the players and take part in
mini-squash activities.
The women’s event gets underway tomorrow with Laura Massaro and Alison Waters both in action.
Round one men’s results:
[1] Nick Matthew (Yorks) bt [Q] Patrick Rooney (Merseyside) 11/5, 11/2, 11/2 (31m)
[9/16] Declan James (Notts) bt Douglas Kempsall (Scotland) 11/6, 11/8, 11/6 (46m)
