Murray Overcomes Carlsen in Auckland
It wasn't the most polished of performances, but Andy Murray was good enough to win through to the second round of the 2006 Heineken Open.
The 18-year-old Scottish star defeated Danish veteran Kenneth Carlsen
7-5, 6-2 and will now meet No. 5 seed Mario Ancic, who knocked out New Zealander Mark Nielsen 6-1, 6-2.
Murray, the world No62 raced out to a 4-0 lead before taking an unscheduled nap as his rising error rate allowed Carlsen to battle his way back and break Murray as he served for the set at 5-3. It was the third consecutive break of serve and after the match Murray had an interesting take on what was a bizarre first set.
In total there were a remarkable seven breaks of serve. "We were playing like women," said the young Scot.
In the second set Murray assumed control early by breaking the increasingly frustrated Carlsen for a 3-1 lead. The match was effectively over when at 4-2 and 30-30 Carlsen lunged for a forehand volley, injured his ankle and had to take an injury timeout.
The 2004 US Open junior champion showed why he's been earmarked for bigger things by playing with great variety. He served and volleyed, hit a number of deft drop shots and generally did whatever he wanted.
"The second set was better as I was playing a bit more aggressively than in the first set," said Murray.
During Carlsen's injury timeout he also showed off his impressive soccer juggling skills. "I used to play a little bit [but] I usually shank it when I do it in front of quite a few people," said Murray.
