Final all square after Murray defeat

 

Originally published on: 26/02/10 12:59

Great Britain took an unexpected lead in the tie when 15-year-old Laura Robson claimed the biggest scalp of her fledgling career by beating Maria Jose Martinez Sanchez 6-1 7-6 (8/6).

Murray had looked on course to secure Great Britain’s first ever Hopman Cup title when he breezed through the opening set against Robredo, but Robredo fought back gamely to win as Murray self-destructed with 29 unforced errors, to take the tie into a live mixed doubles.

Murray had spearheaded Great Britain’s run to the final but it was his playing partner Robson, seven years his junior, who stole the limelight as she toppled a top-30 player for the first time in her fledgling career.

The Australian-born left-hander had not won a match in the group stages, but saved her best until last as she fired 28 winners to upset the world number 26.

The 403rd-ranked Robson was not expected to test Martinez Sanchez, who had been in top form this week having not dropped a single set, but the teenager unhinged the Spaniard’s trusted serve and volley game with some pinpoint passing strokes.

The Britons then looked to be on track for the title when Murray continued his impressive form by taking the first set against Robredo 6-1.

But from there the veteran Spaniard fought his way back into the match as Murray lost his way.

The Scot was broken in the 10th game of the second set to concede his first set at the tournament and never recovered after immediately losing his serve in the third set as his Spanish opponent started to run him around the court.

It was at the very least a lesson in humility for the 22-year-old after he had declared on Friday that he would not lose to his Spanish rival.

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