Shabana, David in quarters

Spaniard Borja Golan, a surprise finalist at this year’s Internationaux de France in Paris, took yesterday a game from title holder Amr Shabana, but could not prevent the world number one from entering the quarter-finals of the 2008 Qatar Classic at the Khalifa Squash Complex.

On day two of the tournament, there were no major surprises in store as most of the seeds had an easy passage into the last eight stage in both the men’s and women’s sections.

The world number one who won 3-1, now faces 10th seed Peter Parker in the quarter-finals today.

Also making into the last eight stage in the men’s section, were current World Open champion Ramy Ashour from Egypt, fifth seed Thierry Lincou from France, seventh seed Nick Mathew from England, fourth seed David Palmer from Australia and last year’s runner-up Gregory Gautlier of France.

In the women’s event, title holder Nicol David from Malaysia faced no hiccups in her second round match against Engy Kheirallah, on her way into the quarter-finals, where she faces Alison Waters. Last year’s finalist Natalie Grainger of US too moved into last eight.

“I played much better today. I’m now looking forward to playing on the centre court. Playing on the glass court gives one a spectacular feeling. The crowd add to the excitement. Hopefully many Malaysians will come to cheer me on Wednesday,” said David, who won 11-5, 11-5, 11-2 against Engy Kheirallah of Egypt.

Egyptian Omneya Abdel Kawy, Laura Lenghthorn, Grinham sisters Natalie and Rachael and Madaline Perry all made it into the last eight stage in the ladies section.