The worst result by Wang SX in this SS Finals, 7-21 / 11-21. Li XR absence creates disaster for CHN WS.
Wang Shixian in a losing streak, five consecutive defeats in less than two months, first to Akane Y at the CHN Open, then Liu Xin at the HK Open, followed by Saina, Bae YJ (for the first time in 12 meetings) and now Sung JH, the latter three all in two straight sets in this tournament.
Akane's position is enviable, as the underdog, she can play freely and fearlessly, with the burden of expectation more on Tai TY. But I believe TTY won't make the same mistake as Intanon, simply because she is fitter, so despite Akane's retrieving ability , TTY may not be outrunned as she piles on the pressure, Still, it should be a close fight though I think TTY has the edge.
IMHO, at this stage, both these young ladies and Saina are the top three favourites for the title, not in any order, with either Sung JH, the likelier one, or Bae YJ chasing the pack.
TTY will have to pace her attack well and not burn too much energy in G1 and try her level best to take it in two sets. I think a three-setter should again favour the younger one, Akane , the outstanding relentless runner and grinder with superb court coverage.
TTY's crafty play works to her favour over the less experienced and younger Akane at the moment, and TTY duly snatches G1, 21-19.
Yamaguchi just too good. She's not even playing her best. I don't think she minds losing this match. Leads 9-4 in second set anyway.
It's funny how MF and GC are going on about there is not going to be any CHN players in the final as well as the previous two SS tourneys without even mentioning why LXR is absent in all three.
The winner of this clash only stands to gain a slight, perhaps significant, psychological advantage over the opponent should they meet again later. They must be hoping the draw doesn't result in them meeting too soon in the semifinals instead of the final.
