FAMILY CIRCLE CUP > CHARLESTON USA > CLAY > TIER 1 > 2ND ROUND

Despite letting the 2nd set slip from her hands, Marion eventually sealed a good fighting victory over Casey Dellacqua in 3 sets - apprehending an unenviable run of form.

1ST SET
The opening set was nip and tuck, with Marion opening brightly, then allowing double faults to enter towards the end of the set.

Marion broke Dellacqua on several occassions, yet each time her opponent broke back. Eventually with her fourth break of the Dellacqua serve Marion won the set 7-5.

2ND SET
The 2nd set saw Marion recover from an early break to storm to a 4-1 lead. But quite inexplicably, Dellacqua came back to take the set 6-4.

Marion had break points in the 2nd set, that if converted, would have seen Marion close the match in straight sets.. But alas, a deciding set beckoned.

3RD SET
Marion reaffirmed her intent in the 3rd set by winning several games to Love. She simply blew Dellacqua away in the decider.

Just 2 points away from a bagel Dellacqua eeked-out a service hold, for 5-1 Bartoli. However the game didnt signal another inexplicable comeback, just face-saving consolation, as Marion served out boldly with another Love game.

THROW OUT THE FORM BOOK
Browsing a tennis forum, I looked at a poll which showed that 26 members to 14 predicted a Dellacqua win. A few of them may be pinching themselves now. :)

Polls, stats, rules, form, take it all a with a large pinch when it comes to Marion... B)

It is very satisfying to see Marion get a victory, especially on a surface which rarely yields much success for her (except for last year).

Next round Marion possibly plays in-form Vera Zvonereva.

Well done Marion.

edit 22:17 041608