CALM and controlled Kathryn Cordell retained her York Squash Association women's title after a thrilling final against Suzi Booth at Dunnington.

The number one seed saw off the number three-ranked played 9-4 9-7 9-6 in a 25-minute showdown that was characterised by a flurry of superb rallies.

Booth was particulary impressive in the second game, but Cordell's composure was to the fore to thwart the Dunnington player's brave challenge.

In the third and final game Booth returned well, but gradually Cordell cranked up the pressure to claim the title in impressive style.

However, Booth had the distinction of winning the most points off the champion throughout the tournament.

There was an upset in the seedings in the plate final.

Number two seed Fiona Howell edged out the top seed Helen Marsden 9-7 9-1 7-9 9-4.

Marsden let a 7-1 lead slip in the first game. Though she fought back to seize the third thanks to a change of serve, Howell regained control to take the fourth and with it the match.

Updated: 09:53 Saturday, February 18, 2006