Squash On Fire Open Semi-Finals: Crouin Wins European Clash With Pajares

France’s World No.10 Victor Crouin was in sublime form to overcome the challenge of Spaniard Iker Pajares Bernabeu, to advance to a sixth final of the season.

Nothing could separate the two Europeans in the early exchanges, with some high-tempo rallies delighting the crowd at Squash On Fire. The pace continued through the face game, and it was unrelenting as the first went to a tie-break. The Frenchman had to save a game ball to make it to the tie-break, before taking the first 12-10.

Crouin then showed why he has risen up the rankings to be a part of the top ten in recent times. His squash was almost perfect in the second game, with a run of six straight points killing any momentum that Pajares may have built up.

After doubling his lead, the World No.10 continued his form into the third game, winning the first four points to hold a commanding lead. The Spaniard fought back to parity, but Crouin was able to take the last few points in the third to secure a straight games victory, and to move through to a sixth final this season.

“Very proud to make a sixth final! I’m always reminded of the statistics and how well I have done this season and it always gives me a boost of confidence!” Crouin admitted.

“It really tells how consistent I have been throughout the season, but I want to go one more step, to win the title. I am not satisfied yet, I will just recover and refocus for tomorrow!

“It was a very enjoyable match with Iker. We both were in the four corners of the court. It was free-flowing throughout the match and it is always better when we play this kind of squash.”

Result:
[1] Victor Crouin (FRA) bt [8] Iker Pajares Bernabeu (ESP) 3-0: 12-10, 11-4, 11-6 (44m)