Murray untroubled by Brown
Originally published on 05/07/17 00:00
It was a clinical display from the world No.1 as he coped admirably with the threat posed by his German rival. The defending champion was rarely troubled and his passing-shots were impeccable for the duration of the 96 minute match.
Brown started the contest in the manner expected. The 32-year-old frequently used the dropshot and he careered into the forecourt at every opportunity. His spectacular volleys enamoured the capacity crowd on Centre Court however he struggled to remain competitive.
In the eighth game of the opener, Brown double-faulted to gift Murray a break and he never fully recovered. His game became ragged and as a consequence, he was thoroughly outplayed.
Murray, who will play Fabio Fognini next, said: “He [Dustin] started very well, coming up with some great drop-volleys and really going for the returns. Once I got the break in the first set I felt the momentum was with me and I started to see the shot he was trying to play a little bit quicker."
Rafael Nadal completed the schedule on Centre Court with a comprehensive 6-4 6-2 7-5 win over Donald Young.
It was a proactive display from the Spaniard and his willingness to advance into the forecourt paid dividends. The 31-year-old won 27 of 34 points at the net and the outcome was never in doubt from the moment he broke in the first game.
“I think I played a solid match,” said the former winner. “It's true that in the third I served a little bit worse, but in general terms, I am happy that I played well. I think I am doing the right things, and I feel I’m playing well.”
Aljaz Bedene, who defeated Ivo Karlovic in a marathon opening match, is into the third round after a 6-3 3-6 6-3 6-3 success over Damir D_umhur.
“It’s never easy to play a friend,” admitted the Brit after the match. “We were both nervous from the beginning. I started to play better in the third set, and then in the fourth I was in control. Before that, though, I made too many errors but I won in four sets so I’m pleased with that.”
Marin Cilic is also safely through after he defeated Florian Mayer 7-6(2) 6-4 7-5. The Croatian did not have it all his own way, though, and had to recover from a break down in the first set to overcome his crafty opponent.
Jo-Wilfried Tsonga, always dangerous on grass, downed Simone Bolelli for the concession of just eight games. Sam Querrey ousted Nikoloz Basilashvili in four sets and there were also wins for Gilles Muller, Karen Khachanov, Bautista-Agut and Paolo Lorenzi.
Stan Wawrinka’s conqueror, Daniil Medvedev, is out after a five set defeat to Ruben Bemelmans. The Russian was less than impressed with the officiating in the decider and he made his feelings known to the umpire.
Now get the WORLD’S BEST TENNIS MAGAZINE here
