Barker Robs Rodriguez Of Colombian Gold

England's Peter Barker successfully retained his title in the IX Abierto Colombian Open to deny local hero Miguel Angel Rodriguez the chance of an historic victory in the 2-star PSA Tour event in Bogotá, Colombia

Sixth seed Rodriguez become the first Colombian to reach the country's national open event final when he upset top-seeded Canadian Graham Ryding in the semi-finals.

However, second seed Barker was too strong for the 20-year-old from Bogotá, ranked 55 in the world, in the final.

The world No26 from Upminster in Essex, who reached the final without dropping a game, won 11-6, 11-10 (3-1), 11-7 to secure the eighth PSA Tour title of his career.

Barker took time out to compliment the organisers on the successful staging of the event: "The tournament has built on the success from last year and, on behalf of all the players, we are truly thankful," said Barker.

"The final was a lot tougher than the scores may suggest. Despite Miguel's previous exertions, he seemed fired up for it. The second game was crucial, I felt, with Miguel 10-8 up. I was prepared for a battle. Fortunately, I sneaked the game 13-11 and that left an uphill battle for Miguel. He started well in the third but I know he was tiring from yesterday's great win over Graham.

"I am extremely happy to win the Colombian Open again. It was special playing Miguel, the Colombian No1, in the final - and I admit it feels better than last year. I've been very impressed with the contingent of players down here in South America and the future of squash here looks very bright indeed," added the 22-year-old England international.

"See you next year!"

Final:
[2] Peter Barker (ENG) bt [6] Miguel Angel Rodriguez (COL) 11-6, 11-10 (3-1), 11-7