By James Reid

Billy Harris admitted he was beaten by the better man as he fell at the semi-final stage of the LTA’s Rothesay Open in Nottingham.

Harris was defeated 6-4 6-4 by compatriot Charles Broom to miss out on a place in the final in his home city.

Defeat brought to an end an impressive run, that saw the 29-year-old get past 17-year-old Brazilian Joao Fonseca and Kazakh Mikhail Kukushkin.

Harris’ performances have earned him a wildcard to the cinch Championships at The Queen’s Club next week, where he will take on world No.31 Tomas Martin Etcheverry in the first round.

The 29-year-old admitted he was not good enough on the day in Nottingham but must now switch his focus to next week’s match in London.

“Charlie played well,” he reflected. “I just never found my rhythm. I didn’t serve very well and overall he just played better so fair play to him.

“I played a couple of good matches, I am definitely looking forward to playing Queen’s. Just got to rest up now and get ready for the first round at Queen’s.”

Victory for Broom earned him a place in the final against fellow Brit Jacob Fearnley, with both men having fought their way through qualifying to reach the final two.

Broom also beat British No. 3 Dan Evans on his way to the final and revealed his victory against Harris was hard-earned.

“It was a great match,” said Broom. “I have played Billy numerous times and I know he is extremely talented. I think our games match up quite evenly, we both serve well and hit backhands pretty solidly.

“I knew it was going to be tough from the start. To get the first was great, to go down an early break in the second wasn’t great but I bounced back well and came through it in the end.”

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