Loveridge claims notable scalps on way to the final

ALICE LOVERIDGE has achieved a notable runner-up finish in the Tipton Grand Prix.

The 17-year-old Sarnian had a tough group in the women's singles, comprising Janey Gibson and Nicole Hall.

Loveridge beat Gibson comfortably 3-0 but had a close match with Hall, one of the top Welsh juniors. Loveridge was 2-1 down before fighting back to take the last set 11-6, winning the match 3-2 and coming through the group on top.

In the final, she played Japanese player Yuko Tsuji, who has won almost all of the Grands Prix this season. Tsuji proved too much for the Sarnian and Loveridge lost 11-7, 11-9, 14-12.