Thursday, September 21 2006 12:19 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

Kolkata: 'Swiss Miss' Martina Hingis gives a regal display to overcome a spirited late challenge from former Israeli cadet Tzipora Obziler and sail into the quarterfinal of the USD 175,000 WTA Sun feast Open here Wednesday (20 Sep, 2006).

World number 9 Hingis finishes with a 6-2 7-5 scoreline to set up a last eight clash with Thai girl Tamarine Tanasugarn who prevailed over USA's Abigail Spears 2-6 6-3 6-2 in another second round game at the Netaji indoor stadium.

The first set is tougher than what the scoreline suggests, but it is in the second that the Israeli really stretches the tournament top seed.

However, displaying the quality that marks out giants from pygmies, Hingis raises her game when it matters most to put it across her opponent to end the 85-minute face-off.

The 3,000-odd crowd, that has turned out to watch the centre court tussle, are treated to some electrifying shots from Hingis, who also regales with her swift movements and excellent court coverage.

The opening set sees Obziller coming close to breaking Hingis in the fourth game but the former world number one held serve in the end.