QF: Torrie solid but Kaitlyn dangerous at the end….

[3] Torrie Malik (ENG) 3-0 Kaitlyn Watts (NZL) 11-3, 11-6, 11-8 (31m)

I think that New Zealander Kaitlyn was a bit “shocked” as Torrie described it in the first two games. The pace, the weight in the ball, and the accuracy at the back coming from the English racquet were a bit overwhelming at first.

But as the match progressed, I felt that the Kiwi started to relax a bit, stepped up to the court, and managed to put more pressure on Torrie. I loved the way Kaitlyn kept throwing herself left and right – like Paul Coll, must be something in the NZ water – and giving her 300% throughout.

I hope to see her again soon on the Tour; she is a real addition, I feel. As for Torrie, she will be relieved that she was moving much better today, less nervous and more settled throughout…

Torrie

Yes, I think she was a bit shocked at the start of the match but after that, she really gave it a big push, she had nothing to lose and she got a bit more energetic, started to understand my game a little bit more.

She is a very good player, she is quick, but maybe my game was a bit too strong for her, she couldn’t cope with the pace I was imposing maybe.

Also, yes, my length was much better than yesterday, I was moving better, and I felt better. I had also more energy. I’m much happier than yesterday for sure.

Progressively, I’m getting better, I’m looking forward to tomorrow, Zeina. Obviously she is an Egyptian, so she is a very aggressive player. I need to watch her game again tonight but I think I’ll try and make her move around the court a lot, stretching her out as much as possible… And keeping the pace up…

I’ve never played her before, so I’m really looking forward to it, and it’s a good opportunity.

photos @Fersen Sherkann