Tontowi/Liliyana, Fran/Shendy Compete For a Ticket To Quarter Final

Indonesia Open ‐ Created by

Tontowi Ahmad/Liliyana Natsir ended the first round smoothly.

Thursday (13/6), the BWF's 2nd rank pair to take a challenge from Fran
Kurniawan/Shendy Puspita Irawati in order to book a ticket to the quarter final.

Tontowi/Liliyana go to the next phase after defeating M. Pieler Kolding/Kamilla Rytter Juhl from England in a thrilling 3 set match.

The All England 2013 Champion won  20-22, 21-15, 21-17.

The pair fought hard to win the match. Being not focus and Juhl's bravery in optimizing the net made the pair work hard.

"We were speculating in the first set while we were on the court. The
wind caused instability. We were lacking anticipation, [we were]
overwhelmed. In the second set, we started to concentrate," Tontowi
described.

"The most important thing is getting familiar with the court. To whom
the wind took sides did really matter," Liliyana added.

The road to the Champion of Djarum Indonesia Open Super Series Premier
is now even wider. Both of them have to compete for ticket to the
quarter final on Thursday (13/6) together with Frans/Shendy.

Frans/Shendy are moving foward after overcoming Michael Fuchs/Brigit
Michels 22-24, 21-16, 21-11. The civil war will decide who has the
right to be in the quarter final.

"We often practice side by side. Usually, playing against compatriots
is more challenging," Liliyana stated.

Lilyana predicts that her match against Frans/Shendy will be tough.
Whoever has the determination and concentration will  decide the final
result.

Speaking about target, both of them expect to be the champion at home.
They also try not to think much about high expectations. Support from
the crowds can stimulate the spirit to win.

"Hopefully it will be smooth and be given an ease in tomorrow's
match," Liliyana said and agreed by Tontowi.