Illingworth Straight-Sets Delierre To Win $15,000 Northern Ontario Open
by Mike McCue
April 21, 2012 - Julian Illingworth claimed the third annual Northern Open PSA crown this afternoon with a straight-games victory over home hope Shawn Delierre. Julian had a mammoth 123 minute battle with Chris Simpson in the semis and there were questions as to how well he would recover before the final. Delierre was also stretched to five games but did not have his fitness sternly tested. The theme of the week - long rallies interspersed with explosions of offense- won out again today. Delierre is known for his lengthy matches, but Illingworth has a more attacking reputation. The American was hitting the ball cleaner than his previous match, especially to the front, which forced Shawn into outstretched lobs. The YMCA courts lend themselves to imprecision and long hitting, but Julian was still looking to initiate offense. The second game turned out to be crucial; Delierre held a 9-8 lead despite being down a game. Illingworth sensed the importance of the moment and strung together three excellent rallies. He remarked afterward that this was the key point of the match. It was always going to be a long way back for Shawn, and his legs finally wilted in the middle of the third. Julian jumped at this opportunity and quickly sealed the match. An undoubtedly satisfying win, particularly impressive after his efforts last night.
And so another great PSA event conclused in Sudbury. Companion event finals run tomorrow afternoon...but for now, the party!
Final:
(1) Julian Illingworth (USA) bt (3) Shawn Delierre (CAN) 11-7, 11-9, 11-6 (63m)
DRAW
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