SquashZAG

Kent Open
Maidstone, England
By Alan Thatcher

Top seed Alan Clyne powered home to the $10,000 Kent Open title with a straight-games victory over surprise finalist Jonny Harford.  Clyne won 11-8, 11-3, 11-8 in 35 minutes, finishing strongly in the first and third games and totally dominating the second to win the inaugural PSA One Star tournament held at The Mote Squash Club in Maidstone, England.

The 23-year-old world No.62 from Edinburgh was in control throughout most of the match, using his incredible speed and court coverage to counter any attacking moves from the tall Englishman who had enjoyed a walkover into the final following the withdrawal through illness of No.3 seed John Rooney.

Clyne dominated the front half of the court and whenever Harford played anything loose or short, the Scotsman pounced on the ball and won a succession of points with his trademark killer drop shots.

Clyne's composure at the business end of games was obvious. From 6-6 in the first game he tightened up to win four points in a row and although Harford countered with two stunning winners, Clyne had no trouble in seeing out the game.

In hot, humid conditions, both players were literally dripping with sweat as the second game started and Harford was unable to withstand the ferocious barrage of front-court winners flowing from the Scotsman's racket.
The game was over in five minutes and the crowd were willing Harford to prolong the match.

He responded solidly and fought hard in the third game, but he was unable to build on his 8-5 lead as Clyne regained control to win six points in a row to claim the title.

A delighted Clyne said: "I was very pleased with the way I played all week. The courts here at The Mote are excellent and everyone at the club made us very welcome. It's always great to see new tournaments added to the calendar and  I am sure all the players will look forward to coming back next year."

Runner-up Harford was pleased to claim some valuable points to help his climb back up the PSA rankings following a hip operation. He said: "Alan played a fantastic game and I couldn't get near him today.He was absolutely awesome at the front of the court.

"I would like to thank The Mote Squash Club and the Kent SRA for giving me a local spot in qualifying. It has really helped me to get back into the game. I can only endorse what Alan said about the hospitality at this club and the players are all grateful for the way they have been looked after. It's been a great tournament."

(1) Alan Clyne (SCO) beat (Q) Jonathan Harford (ENG)
3 - 0    11-8, 11-3, 11-8    35 minutes