Lucie Safarova has defeated Francesca Schiavone in straight sets in round one of the Apia International in Sydney.
Safarova started strongly, breaking her opponent in the first game of the first set. Schiavone fought back immediately, showing good strength to break back.
The 26-year-old continued the trend to break again as Schiavone's serve let her down early in the set. Safarova eventually made it to 5-3, but Schiavone refused to back down and won her fourth game.
Nevertheless, Safarova was too good and secured the first set 6-4.
The second went with serve until Schiavone displayed her fighting spirit to secure a break for a 3-1 advantage. However, she was unable to build on that momentum as Safarova edged her way back in.
It was soon 4-4, but the Czech broke again for 5-4 before confirming her win 6-4 6-4.
Gary Peters
