Jamaicans Chris Binnie and Lewis Walters fought hard but went down 1-3 to Americans Chris Gordon and Chris Hanson in the KPMG International Squash Series, which wrapped up Friday night at the Liguanea Club in New Kingston.
The series was dead even at 1-1 following the first night of action on Thursday. The US drew first blood when Walters barely lost an epic dual with Chris Gordon. In a battle that kept spectators on the edge of their seats, Gordon prevailed 7/11, 11/9, 11/8, 9/11, 14/12 to take the early lead.
However, Jamaican and Caribbean champ Chris Binnie shook off a first-game loss to beat Chris Hanson 7/11, 11/8, 13/11, 11/8 and bring Jamaica back into contention.
The USA got off the mark early on the second day of play when Hanson rebounded from the previous night’s loss to beat Walters 11/13, 11/5, 11/5, 11/5. Then Gordon sealed the deal for the Americans by beating Binnie 11/9, 15/13, 11/4.
Reflecting on the series win, Gordon said, “I was super happy with how I played tonight. Binnie has been playing exceptionally well lately, so it was a hard three games and it just so happens I won.”
Putting the loss in perspective, Binnie said, “It was a good match and I think if I had won that second game I could have turned things around, but I think everyone enjoyed the match and it was good to have this high level of squash in Jamaica so people can experience the excitement of the game and the sport can continue to grow.”
Tarun Handa, managing partner of title sponsors KPMG, said his company was pleased to have played a pivotal role in bringing professional squash to Jamaica for the first time in over 10 years.
“KPMG is a big supporter of squash in Jamaica and we were proud to align our brand with an event that allowed local fans and especially our up-and-coming junior players to see what it looks like when experienced, professional players go head to head on the court.”
The KPMG International Squash Series was also sponsored by Supreme Ventures, BCIC, NOA, Wisynco, Select Brands, Liguanea Club, Couples Swept Away, JoJo’s, Fontana Pharmacy, and Texaco.
Article source:
http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/sport/Jamaica-lose-1-3-to-US-in-KPMG-Squash-series_83314
