Originally published on: 26/02/10 12:50
Baltacha was well on top when, having won the first set, she took a 4-1 lead in the second – but O’Brien battled back to take the match into a decider.
The 26-year-old regained her composure, though, to claim victory in two hours and 16 minutes.
She told the LTA website: “Katie played a very good match and pushed me all the way. I’m delighted I managed to come through and win it. I’ve got such a great opportunity now I’m in the top 100 for the first time – I couldn’t have asked for a better week.”
Both Baltacha and O’Brien should join British number one Anne Keothavong in the top 100 when the new WTA rankings are released on Monday.
