RAIN may have limited the amount of quality matches that took place at Calderstones Park last week but those who saw the women’s final were treated to an exhibition.
Ashley Harkleroad and Caroline Wozniacki may have been pushed down the order to allow David Ferrer and Vincent Spadea the best of Centre Court conditions but they made light of a heavy surface to thrill a near capacity crowd with some wonderful play.
Though Harkleroad, who had been beaten in the group stages by Blackburn’s Liz Thomas, only just qualified for the final she made the most of the opportunity in beating last year’s winner Wozniacki 7-6 (7-1) 3-6 10-8.
The American will head to Wimbledon in fine form and she insisted that a week in Liverpool is ideal preparation for the showpiece tournament.
“I don’t mind the rain too much as it’s relaxing and means I don’t have to practice,” said Harkleroad.
“The week started a little rough. I came from playing in Croatia on clay to here and maybe I underestimated my first opponent.
“But I squeaked it out. I squeaked into the finals and then I squeaked out the win against Caroline.
“I’m happy. I like this tournament and I would like to come back here next year.
“I’m not a big fan of playing on grass but I’d rather come here and work on my game where there is less pressure instead of playing in a tournament.
“Caroline played really well. She’s got a good attitude and if she gets a bit stronger, she might do well. It’s all in the mind.”
Wozniacki, so impressive during the group stages, supplemented her Calderstones gains 12 months ago when she won the junior Wimbledon title and is hoping for a similar showing next week.
“This is very good preparation for me and for sure I will be back next year,” said the 16-year-old. “I like playing on grass and though the conditions were difficult, it was a good game.”
