Karolina Pliskova is into the third round of the Australian Open after a 7-5 6-2 win over Danielle Collins.
After losing to the American in straight sets at the Yarra Valley Classic last week, Karolina Pliskova some redemption in the Australian Open second round clash.
A straight sets win might tell the story of an easy victory but it was far from a convincing victory for the Czech Republican.
After earning the early break in the fifth game, a flurry of double faults handed the break back to Collins, who was just finding her rhythm in the match.
Unlike last week’s contest, Collins’ forehand was very erratic and uncontrollable at times, which saw Pliskova gain a lot of free points.
Another break for Pliskova meant she would serve for the opening set at 5-4 but again it was another mental lapse in concentration.
A double fault once again handing the break to the former semi-finalist for 5-5.
However Collins’ groundstrokes did not have the same impact with lots of errors and rushed decision-making.
Another break for Pliskova with this time there not being the same hesitation to close out the set as she took the opening set 7-5 in 50 minutes.
Although there was cautious play in the big moments, the Czech Republican’s serve was smart and effective.
The same couldn’t be said for Collins, who only served 49% of first serves in the opening set.
From that point of view the second set was much better from the American, however the lack of pace from these serves saw the 6th seed make a lot more powerful returns.
More unforced errors from Collins mixed with smart rallies from the former grand slam finalist saw Pliskova recover from 2-0 down and break three times in the second set as she wrapped up victory.
A comfortable win even if there is more work for Pliskova to do if she wants to be in contention for the Australian Open title.
Next for Pliskova will be 25th seed and quarantine practice partner, Karolina Muchova after her 6-4 6-1 win over Mona Barthel.
The last time the duo met was at Wimbledon in 2019 which saw Muchova win 4-6 7-5 13-11.
