Taufik shortens Chen Long on experience at French Super Series

Chinese youngster shuttler Chen Long played well in Friday's quarterfinals of Yonex French Super Series,but Indonesian veteran Taufic Hidayat had an upper hand, shortening the former on experience.

Chen took the lead for the first four points, but Taufic caught up quickly and left no more incaution. They kept in close chase to19-19 in the first set.

Though Chen returned an excellent drop shot and saved the score to 21-20, Taufic won a second game point, closing the first at 22-20.

The second set was difficult for Chen who lagged behind 3-2, and their gap became even larger before Taufic eliminated Chen 21-15.

"I played well, but experienced players like Taufic can control the match better, they have trump-card scoring skills," Chen said.

Taufic seemed serene after the match. When the former world champion and former Olympic champion was asked about his loss to Chen in June's Malaysian Open Grand Prix gold match, he simply explained he was then too tired and careless to win. "For me, loss is loss, but today I beat him."

On the same day, Chinese Bao Chunlai lost to Danish Peter Gade 15-21, 21-14, 13-21 in one hour's match. Gade received home court support and cheering, which somehow disturbed Bao's attempt to salvage his faults.

Taufik will fight against Gade on Saturday when Lin Dan and Chen Jin will play as rivals in the men's singles semifinals on Saturday.

Source: Xinhua