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Murray powers through to last 16


 

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

The fifth seed coasted through his opening two matches and while he was tested early by the world number 64, Murray’s 7-5 6-1 6-4 win was still fairly comfortable.

Murray’s victory meant he at least fulfilled his modest pre-tournament ambition of matching his best result in Australia, the fourth round, and he will meet the winner of the match between another Frenchman, Gael Monfils, and American John Isner.

The British number one began with a bang, serving three consecutive aces and then breaking his opponent’s first service game for the third match running to forge ahead 3-0.

But the Scot then hit a mid-set lull and Serra broke back, albeit after Murray pushed a simple volley wide to characterise a sloppy service game.

Murray seemingly dragged himself out of his malaise with a superb running forehand winner and followed it with two passing shots to reclaim his advantage at 5-3.

But again Serra broke back and a tie-break loomed likely until Murray broke for the third time, clinching the set when Serra pushed a low volley into the net.

The players then traded service games before Murray strung together the next five to take the second set in just 28 minutes.

Murray broke the 28-year-old Frenchman’s opening two service games of the third set to suck the life out of his challenge.

Only a medical break to treat a cut on Serra’s arm after he dived for a volley could slow Murray’s progress as he won through to the last 16 for the seventh consecutive grand slam.

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Tim Farthing, Tennishead Editorial Director & Owner, has been a huge tennis fan his whole life. He's a tennis journalist and entrepreneur as well as playing tennis to a national standard. He also helps manage his local club and volunteers for his local tennis organisation. He's a specialist in content about the administration of professional tennis and tennis coaching for all levels.