SquashTalk>News >Monte Carlo Womens Classic [last update was 17-dec-00 ]

Geaves overcomes 0-2 deficit to beat Brind and take the Monte Carlo WISPA Classic.

12.17.00 by Howard Harding

photos: Prince Albert with the finalists (photo courtesy Andrew Shelley) Fiona Geaves (Squashtalk file photos, © 2000 Ron Beck)

'MATURE' GEAVES CLINCHES MONTE CARLO TITLE
England's Fiona Geaves fought back from 2-0 and 5-6 down to claim the $17,000 Women's Monte Carlo Squash Classic title for the first time after beating compatriot Stephanie Brind 6-9 1-9 9-7 9-2 9-3 in the 61-minute final in Monaco.

It was the world No10 from Gloucester's first WISPA World Tour title success for more than two years - and achieved just ten days after her 33rd birthday. Furthermore, the final victory, watched enthusiastically by His Serene Highness Prince Albert of Monaco, was against a lower-ranked opponent who was selected ahead of her by England for last month's World Team Championships.

"I didn't think that I would win when I was 2-0 down - I haven't felt that tired in a match for ages, but fortunately Steph made enough mistakes to help me through at the end," said the new Monte Carlo champion. "I beat Steph last week, so the match was there to be won. The year couldn't have finished any better for this mature player!" added Geaves.

RESULTS: Women's Monte Carlo Classic, Monaco Final: [3] Fiona Geaves (ENG) bt [4] Stephanie Brind (ENG) 6-9 1-9 9-7 9-2 9-3

• Golestan Radwan: Egypt
• Debra Tessier, at large
• Tomas Barva, Czech Republic
• Daniel Tambelini, Brazil
• Kim Tunney: Midwest USA
• Andre Maur: Atlanta USA
• Paul Ansdell: Massachusetts USA
  

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