Williams sisters on collision course

 

Originally published on: 26/02/10 13:02

Defending champion Serena ended local hopeful Sam Stosur’s campaign 6-4 6-2 after sixth seed Venus recovered from a sluggish start to overcome Francesca Schiavone 3-6 6-2 6-1.

Serena stunned the home fans with a powerful serving display to completely outgun 13th seed Stosur, and said afterwards: “I can’t believe it – Sam beat me last time convincingly. I think my serve was pretty good.”

She added: “I had to come out strong because when you are playing someone like Sam you have to play this good.

“I especially had to do that in front of this crowd or I would have been going home.”

Sixth seed Venus was optimistic she could claim her first Australian Open title after her comeback win over Schiavone.

“She played really well in the first set. I have to give her credit, but I was able just to get some footing back in and start to execute the way I wanted to,” Venus said.

“I realised I was rushing a little too much and I just really needed to take my time. That worked.

“I’m ready to go and I feel very well. I’m hitting the ball pretty good.”

Venus faces a tricky match with 16th seed Li Na, who overcame fourth seed Caroline Wozniacki 6-4 6-3.

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