Article published by Squash Australia www.squash.org.au

Two sets to love down, and barely able to breathe, Australia’s Lisa Camilleri has clawed her way back to win the Mackay Open 2013, her third Australian title in a row.

The win capped off an incredible last quarter of 2013 for the 30-year-old Queenslander, who spent six months away from the game battling injury, and has given her increased confidence she can make the Glasgow Commonwealth Games team.

“It’s amazing. I mean coming back from injury, and sort of struggling for the past six months..” Camilleri said.

“I was happy to be back playing, I just didn’t think I’d be back in this position again where I’d be winning again. I kind of put too much pressure on myself, but in the last month everything seems to have come together.”

Camilleri’s dream run began last month when she won the Queensland Open, and then followed up with victory in the Caboolture Open last weekend.

Her first two titles were a breeze, winning both in straight games. Today’s title was much harder, top seed Milou Van Der Heijden racing out to a two game lead.

“I was feeling really tired,” Camilleri said after her victory.

“In the third game I just decided to be a little bit more patient. By the fourth I noticed Milou was struggling a little bit. She had two five setters yesterday, so she had to be tired.

“Being a little bit older than these fellows, means I can mentally stay a little bit stronger and fight it out. It worked today.”

Camilleri eventually wore the Dutchwoman down 10-12, 11-13, 11-8, 11-8, 11-6.

Camilleri’s short-term goal is to make it to Glasgow next year. But she also wants to crack the world top 15, having made it to number 28 before her injury.