LAURA Massaro pulled of another major upset to beat world number one Nicol David in the semi finals of the Singapore Squash Open – the second time she has beaten the Malaysian superstar in six months.

The 27-year-old from Chorley, came from two sets down to win 9-11, 7-11, 11-8, 11-8, 11-5 in a gruelling 85 minute contest.

The world number seven, who lives in Hoghton, previously beat David in the Cleveland Raquet Classic back in February which ended her 14 month winning run.

It was a result the former Albany High School had described as ‘the best of her career’.

Victory in Singapore was equally as spectacular and unexpected as David – the world number one for the past five years – had won the competition every year since it started four years ago.

“It was emotional moment for me coming from two sets down against the world number one and beating her,” said Massaro, who plays for East Lancs Squash Club.

Massaro will now face world number four Madeline Perry from Northern Ireland in the final – a player she beat in the semi finals in Cleveland.

Defeated David praised Massaro’s fighting qualities after it appeared the world number was on course for a routine victory.

Despite being two sets down, Massaro refused to give up and put Nicol under pressure, chasing down every ball.

“Massaro has beaten me before and it has given her a physiological boost,” said David.

“But she played well an she player smart. And when she is playing well, the pressure was on me.

“I made some crucial errors but that’s to be expected when you are under pressure and I was only playing well in patches.

“I am disappointed with my defeat but I will get over it.”

It has been a memorable year for Massaro who was crowned British champion for the first time in February when she beat Jenny Duncalfe in the final.