Before taking to the court for last night?s second semi-final, David Palmer said he wanted to earn the right to be the crowd favourite.

The Island resident said he couldn?t just expect home fans, still hoarse from backing Nick Kyme on Wednesday, to automatically support him.

But, judging by the foot-stamping that proceeded his edging out of perennial champion Jonathon Power and the standing ovation that followed, the audience know who they will backing in tonight?s final.

Palmer, a former world champion, and a man who described the tournament?s longest match as ?one of the best I have played?, will take on Englishman Lee Beachill tonight in what is set to be a mouth-watering final game to cap off an entertaining week of action.

But you have to wonder whether Palmer, who admits that he is not yet back to full fitness after a year of injury and illness, will have enough left in the tank to take on an English opponent who breezed through in three games against former giant-killer Nick Matthew.

But everyone will be praying the ?Bermudian? does have the fitness, because he certainly has the shots.

Taking on the maverick Power in a Pete Sampras against John McEnroe-style clash, the athletic and steady Palmer was forced to conjure up all his magic to deal with the magnificence and showmanship of an opponent who became increasingly frustrated as the humid evening wore on.

The game, which surpassed the 90 minutes Matthew took to knock out top seed Thierry Lincou in the main draw?s opening match on Wednesday, could have been over earlier had Power not pulled of an incredulous tactical manoeuvre to take the game into a deciding set.

Two-one down and at 14-14 all, it was Power?s choice whether to face a match ball, or play to a two point lead.

Just by choosing the single point, and taking the risk on Palmer?s serve, the Canadian gained a psychological advantage that was matched by a physical one as he played out an amazing rally that typified the game with drop shots, athleticism and courage aplenty.

Power triumphed that time, but it was Palmer who won the final game leaving Power to retire to his corner for a treatment on his leg and the Voice of Squash Robert Edwards not prepared to perform a post-match interval with him for fear of an outburst.

But Palmer, as relaxed afterwards as he appeared on court, particularly in the face of the antics of his opponent, was magnanimous in his victory.

?That was one of the best games I have played,? said Palmer, still attempting to catch his breath after 103 minutes of fast-paced action.

?And it was one of the cleanest matches I have played against Jonathan. Yes, I am very happy. It is always good to get through to the final.

?I hoped this week to earn the support of the crowd, this is a place that means a lot to me.?

Put in another performance like that Palmer, and they may even give you status.

If tonight?s final is half as good as the second semi, then Bermuda is in for a treat.