Rome 2013 SF: Errani v. Azarenka

[tented]

Who wins?

 

[Sundaymorningguy]

I am going to go with Errani in 3. I am going to say there will be a lot of crowd participation in this one. Vika definitely was tested by Sam.

 

[Correspondent Kiu]

VERSUS

Vika is now battle tested, she also enjoys a 5-1 record against Sara, Vika has not lost to Sara since 2008, Vika has won 4 in a row in straight sets.

Vika in straights.

 

[tented]

Vika is now battle tested, she also enjoys a 5-1 record against Sara, Vika has not lost to Sara since 2008, Vika has won 4 in a row in straight sets.

Vika in straights.

That sums it up perfectly.

 

[Moxie]

I'm going with the local favorite in 3. Errani is crafty on the dirt, and Vika can get rattled. Look for the crowd to be a factor.

 

[Sundaymorningguy]

I think the crowd gets into this one they haven't had a female this close since 1985. They will be excited. Hopefully, Errani does get through so Serena (should she make it through) can have practice dealing with an obnoxious crowd before the French.

 

[Moxie]

Sundaymorningguy is right - the Italians and the Italian press are very excited for Sara. It could help Sara, if she doesn't feel too pressured.

I have a translation of an interview Errani, if you're interested:

http://www.tennisfrontier.com/blogs/moxies-translations/sharapova-retires-errani-in-the-semi-finals-v-azarenka-from-gazzetta-dello-sport/

 

[MargaretMcAleer]

Azarenka in 2 sets.....though I wasnt inpressed with her 1st or 2nd serves in her match against Stosur.it was shaky.

 

[Correspondent Kiu]

Well, it's raining in Rome. Hopefully it won't dampen the crowd's spirit.
Match is delayed.

 

[toshiroh]

Errani just does not have the weapons. It's one thing to run everything down, but when you can't send it back with any pace, it's useless... which is why Vika is destroying her

 

[Correspondent Kiu]

If the rain delay didn't dampen the crowd's spirit, that bagel Sara got in the first set sure must have.

 

[Sundaymorningguy]

Errani is putting up a nice fight! She may just get the crowd in this one.