AO WC Playoff #2

The second round of the Men's AO Wild Card Play-off was played on a hot windy day. Greg and his opponent 21 year-old New South Welshman Dane Propoggia, currently ranked 666 were first match on court had possibly had the least wind on the day. Greg and Propoggia came through the NSW tennis juniors together so know each other well, with Greg having won all three of their past encounters, the last almost three years ago.

Dane Propoggia

With Greg serving first both players held their opening games confidently, Greg making unforced errors on his fore-hand early on. Propoggia forced Greg to deuce in the 3rd game but Greg was able to use his big serve to hold for 2-1, games going with serve to 4-3. Greg then had two break-point opportunites at 15-40 on Propoggia's serve but was unable to take advantage, Propoggia fighting back and holding serve. At 6-6 the tie-break saw Greg get an early mini-break but Propoggia hit right back levelling at 2-2. Greg then upped the ante winning the next 5 points to wrap up the tie-break 7-2 and the 1st set 7-6.

Jonesie watching his forehand


After both players held serve in the 2nd set, Greg forced Propoggia to break-point and broke his serve, for a 2-1 lead, consolidating by holding his own serve to lead 3-1. Greg kept the pressure on Propoggia, breaking his serve again to go to a 4-1, then 5-1 lead, going on to win the set 6-1, to advance to the semi-finals with a solid 7-6, 6-2 win.
Watch highlights of the match >
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mLrbpc26n_4&feature=player_profilepage#t=132s