Squash: Nicol stands in way of Parke's progress

SIMON PARKE, who returned to the top level of one of the most demanding sports in the world after chemotherapy three years ago, followed his capture of last week's US Open title by reaching the semi-finals of the British Open for the first time in Aberdeen yesterday.

The Englishman, who thought testicular cancer might end his career, thinks he can take the title after winning in straight games against the fourth- seeded British national champion, Paul Johnson.

After his 15-3, 15-6, 15-7, Parke said: "I am playing the best of my career. I feel in control and I am not making so many mistakes."

His next opponent is the title holder and world champion, Scotland's Peter Nicol. The local hero has an opportunity to avenge his defeat by Parke in Boston after winning his quarter-final, 15-7, 15-11, 5-17, 15- 5, against Anthony Hill of Australia.

Earlier, Cassie Campion, the top-seeded world champion, reached the women's final for the first time when she beat her fellow England international Linda Charman, 9-4, 9-0, 9-1. Campion called it one of the best performances of her career.