Just one win away from title match

On a roll: Malaysia’s S. Sivasangari thrashed Hollie Naughton 3-0 to reach the semi-finals of the Carol Weymuller Open.

PETALING JAYA: National No. 1 squash player S. Sivasangari is just one win away from reaching the final of the Carol Weymuller Open in New York.

The 23-year-old Sivasangari, who is based in the United States, stun a higher ranked Hollie Naughton of Canada in the quarter-finals on Friday.

Sivasangari who is ranked 22nd had a surprisingly easy 11-5, 11-4, 11-4 win over the Canadian, who is 17th Professional Squash Association (PSA) rankings.

When asked about her match against Naughton, the Malaysian said everything felt good on the court.

“I think I played well today to win 3-0. I felt really good on the court. Hollie is a good player and great fighter too,” said Sivasangari.

“So, I think I did well to stick to my game plan throughout the whole match. Just keeping the balls to the corners and using different paces throughout the whole game.”

Sivasangari will face Egypt’s world No. 26 Farida Mohamed in the semi-finals in their first meeting of the PSA circuit.

“I’ve never played Farida before but it’s going to be another tough match tomorrow. I just want to stay positive and play my best and hopefully get the win.”

A stellar outing would surely boost Sivasangari’s confidence as she prepares for the J. P. Morgan Tournament of Champions, from May 1 to 7 also in New York.