Monday 23 September 2013

Tokyo day 3: All eyes on Errani

Schedule of play:

http://www.wtatennis.com/schedule/tournamentId/536/title/toray-pan-pacific-open

Match focus:

Sara Errani vs. Svetlana Kuznetsova


Being painfully honest after her loss in US Open, Errani will try to buck up against the ever dangerous Kuznetsova. This is a tough one for the Italian as the Russian does everything better than her. The only thing Sara does better is fight. Errani will need to summon all her legs and fighting spirit to keep the hard hitting Russian at bay. If she can cling on with the Russian, Svetlana will give way. However, looking at how vulnerable Sara is now, I wouldn't bet on it.

Pick: Kuznetsova in 2 sets

Victoria Azarenka vs. Venus Williams


As much as I would like Venus Williams to do well, she is going to routed by Azarenka. The American's game doesn't have the firepower as before to subdue the Belarussian. Also, Azarenka's game has improved leaps and bounds since Venus' last victory over her. The crowd will be behind Venus, but the result will be never in doubt.

Pick: Azarenka in 2 sets

Flavia Pennetta vs. Caroline Wozniacki


Wozniacki's woeful season still has her at number 8, despite not performing well in any of the Grand Slams. She will face resurgent Pennetta, who she owns a commanding 5-1 heads to heads. These 2 players always have nice match ups, so I don't expect anything different here. Pennetta's return to form will threaten the Dane's steady game, as the Italian will be taking the initiative. Judging from her dominant display in the first round, Flavia has a chance here.

Pick: Pennetta in 2 tight sets

Sure win bets: Jelena Jankovic, Dominika Cibulkova, Simona Halep
Upset alert: Samantha Stosur, Sorana Cirstea, Kirsten Flipkens

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