‘Solid’ Merriens reach semi-finals in Australia

Tuesday 19th April 2011, 2:29PM BST.

Ian Merrien claimed a big scalp in beating Kiwi Shannon McIlroy. (1125411)

IAN and Ali Merrien were again the centre of attention at the Warilla club in New South Wales yesterday when they progressed into the semi-finals of the men’s and women’s singles in the WBL World Cup.

And, while Ali’s imperious 10-3, 15-2 win over Hong Kong’s Tammy Tham in the women’s play-offs was perhaps to be expected, Ian’s 9-3, 5-4 victory over the hotly-tipped young Kiwi Shannon McIlroy was a real feather in his cap.

The Guernsey husband-and-wife duo face an even bigger challenge today when they take on top Scots Graeme Archer and Claire Johnston, who both finished the group stage at the top of their respective tables with only one defeat.

‘I have to say we both played solid games,’ said WBT world indoor singles champion Ali.