Devoy proves skill

Press, 1 May 1989, Page 30

Devoy proves skill

PA Hamilton Showing all the skill, sharpness and superior fitness which has seen her at the top of women's squash for the last six years, world No. 1 Susan Devoy had little difficulty in repelling the challenge of Donna Newton in the Waikato Open final, at Hamilton on Saturday. Devoy, playing in her first competition since returning from her annual overseas tournament schedule, which culminated in a sixth British Open victory, gave the large crowds at the Hamilton Squash Club a taste of her champion qualities by downing Newton in straight sets, 9-3, 9-0, 9-4 in just 24 minutes.

The win was especially satisfying for Devoy on two counts. Her mother and greatest supporter, Mrs Tui Devoy, celebrated a birthday yesterday, and the champion has a great affinity with the Hamilton Club.

“It is always good to come back to Hamilton and put a bit back into the club which has given me so much,” said a clearly contented Devoy after her win.

Devoy was virtually untroubled throughout the match after Newton put the first point on the board. Several unforced errors from Newton — a number of balls either hit out of court or

into the tin — cost her as Devoy took total control. However, Newton did earn the applause of the crowd when a stirring rally with the score at 7-2 went her way after Devoy put the ball in the tin.

Devoy wrapped up the first game in 13 minutes and sped through the second game in just four minutes, winning 9-0 and losing her serve on just four occasions.

The final game lasted seven minutes, Devoy taking a 6-0 lead and never looking threatened. She dominated from the start, hitting powerful, low drives to all corners of the court.