KARACHI, March 14: Defending champions Data Steel lived up to their reputation by storming into the final of the 36th National bridge championship after taking an assailable 106-39 International Match Points lead over Candyland in the semi-final at the Aslam Memorial Hall.

Spearheaded by Rashid-ul-Ghazi, Tariq Rasheed Khan's team Data Steel, entered the semi-final with 10 victory points carryover, dominated in three segments except for third segment.

Data Steel started in style by winning the first two segments 29-11 and 31-4 but lost to Candyland 13-18.

They assured their place in the final by winning the fourth segment 23-6.

Data Steel collected 106 IMPs to Candyland's 39 IMPs.

There was tense tussle for the second spot in the final between Rawalpind-based Sabre and Karachi-based Solox.

Solox entered the pre-final with 15 VPs carryover advantage against Sabres.—APP