Jessica a step away from first PSA title

PETALING JAYA: Jessica Keng (pic) is ready to face an uphill battle in the women’s final of the RedOne Professional Squash Association (PSA) WSF Satellite.

Second-seeded Jessica booked her spot in the final after digging deep to outplay compatriot Chen Yu Jie 11-8, 4-11, 10-12, 11-2, 11-6 in the semi-finals at the Royal Sungei Ujong Club in Seremban, Negri Sembilan, yesterday.

The 20-year-old Jessica is one step closer to clinching her first PSA title, but she has a mountain to climb as she faces two-time champion and joint third-fourth seed Goh Zhi Xuan in the final today.

Zhi Xuan toppled top seed Erina Sano Herring of Japan 12-10, 11-9, 11-7 in another semi-final match.

Even though Jessica is seeded higher, she does not want to underestimate Zhi Xuan.

“I’ve played against her two years ago and it was tough,” said Jessica.

“Zhi Xuan is a formidable opponent, and I expect a challenging contest, so I will not take the match lightly.

“I will stick to my game plan, focus on my strengths and give my best effort on the court.

“It’s important for me to approach every match with determination and a strong mindset.”

Jessica received a bye in the first round before playing brilliantly to defeat V. Heshwiny Siva 11-8, 11-1, 11-2 in the quarter-finals to set up a meeting with Yu Jie in the last four.

Jessica dropped two sets due to a lapse in focus, but she recovered well to win the remaining two sets in the semis.

“I lost focus in the second and third sets which put me in a tough spot, so I took a moment to regroup and refocus,” said Jessica.

“The mental shift allowed me to regain control, make better decisions and execute my shots more effectively,”she added.

RESULTS

Malaysians unless stated

Men: Duncan Lee bt J. Praviin 11-7, 11-2, 11-3, Shamiel Haeyzad bt Tay Jun Qian 9-11, 11-2, 11-6, 8-11, 11-9.

Women: Goh Zhi Xuan bt Erina Sano Herring (Jpn) 12-10, 11-9, 11-7, Jessica Keng bt Chen Yu Jie 11-8, 4-11, 10-12, 11-2, 11-6.