SF: Nouran superbly clinical against Fayrouz

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[1] Nouran Gohar (EGY) 3-0 [6] Fayrouz Aboelkheir (EGY)  11-9, 11-4, 11-5 (35m)

Those two played at the worlds in Chicago days ago, and it was a tough 3/1 victory for Nouran, on the back of 4 other victories, maybe a bit easier.

So the Terminator was ready for battle, but still, it’s a very relaxed and composed Fayrouz that took control of the opener, 3/0, 6/3. Tough rallies but not too long, still, Fayrouz in control, finding some lovely four corners, volleying as much as usual.

Still, Nouran slowly got back in front and levelled the score, 7/7. Fayrouz still in charge, 9/7, but it’s 4 points in a row for Nouran 11/9, 11m.

A few good start from Fayrouz in the 2nd again, 4/1. But that’s it for the Alexandria girl for the rest of the game, 10 points in a row for Nouran, in complete control, 10m game, 11/4.

The 3rd game sees again a good start from the youngster, 3/1, but again a string of point from the world number 1, 8 points, who closes the game and match, 10m, 11/5.

Nouran is looking very, very solid this week, despite the pressure – and the tiredness that comes from coming straight back from Chicago…

Nouran : “I want to show my appreciation for Fayrouz – she’s a great talent and a very dangerous opponent. I love the fact that I can see improvement in her movement, whether it’s going to the ball or clearing.

“It’s amazing to see and the last two matches were very clean, she got very close to me in the last match and I had to do my homework and come ready as if I’m playing in the final of a big tournament. All credit to her and it’s good to see for the future of the game.

“On my side I had to tweak things, think about it and the rest day yesterday helped me big time. I love to see the younger generation coming at me – it keeps me on my toes and makes me try to improve.

“Even though I’m World No.1 that doesn’t mean anything; it just means I need to work even harder and that’s what I was trying to do. Very happy with the performance and the mentality, but one more push for tomorrow for a big one.”