Two gritty warriors of the game took to the Rod Laver Arena to settle who move on to the semi finals, a stage that both have reached here in Melbourne. And, as expected, it took over three hours until one competitor finally put the other to the sword, in this case, Andy Murray ousted David Ferrer 6-3, 6-7, 6-2, 6-3.
The match was filled with intense exchanges from the back of the court, with Murray’s extra zing on his shots proving the difference between the two. Murray broke in the fourth game and, despite having to save a couple of break back points at 5-3, served out the opening set.
The second set was a classic Murray-Ferrer affaire, one which brings back memories of that epic Miami final. The Spaniard started ripping through his shots and opened up a 3-0 advantage but Murray brought it back to tiebreak and it seemed that maybe Ferrer’s only hope had just vanished. But Ferrer showed grit and belief to take the breaker 7-5 and the fans knew that they most definitely had a match in front of them, something which we haven’t had in the quarter final stage of this year’s Australian Open.
The third set was evenly matched, with both players aware of the importance of taking a second set. Once again Murray pounced in the fourth game with a succession of brilliant shots: first a trademark running cross-court forehand and then a return deep at the feet of Ferrer. Right after this break of serve, play was interrupted as the rain started to fall down and, once more at this year’s event, the match was finished under the roof. Once again Ferrer had his chances to break back but Murray held on to claim the third set 6-2.
The Scot was feeling comfortable on court and making good use of the indoor conditions and completely dominated Ferrer in the fourth set, with the Spaniard, as always, showing a remarkable desire to run down every ball and never give up. But faith alone wasn’t enough to overcome the excellent variety and weight of shot of Andy Murray and the Scot finally lifted his arms in joy after just over three hours when he finally managed to get past his opponent. The relief on the face of a player who is well aware that defeating Ferrer always requires putting in good day’s shift. For the spectators, and the neutrals alike, it was a relieving breath of fresh air to see these two titans lock horns in what has been a far too predicatable second week at the Australian Open. The Brit awaits the one true final of the championships in the semi final; the winner of the clash between Milos Raonic and Gael Monfils. Another great opportunity for Murray to reach the final in Melbourne, where he’s already been four times and never had any joy. The expectant father who many have ruled out as they await him to get the call and fly back home is in the penultimate round and he means business.
