Gonzalez gunning to extend golden run

MELBOURNE, Jan 26 (Reuters) Fernando Gonzalez believes he is in excellent shape to play the match of his life in the Australian Open final against Roger Federer today.

The Chilean demolished Germany's Tommy Haas 6-1 6-3 6-1 in the semi-final today, dropping one fewer game than the defending champion and top seed did in his spectacular victory over Andy Roddick yesterday.

''I'm enjoying my tennis and I've been playing in the last four matches at a very high level,'' Gonzalez told a news conference after hitting 42 winners and making only three unforced errors against Haas. ''It will be a tough match, he is the number one by far and he is the favourite,'' Gonzalez added.

''But I am playing much better now. I am going to try and do the same things that I have been doing. I feel on my forehand side I can do whatever I want.'' Gonzalez has scythed through the bottom of the draw, beating former world number one and home favourite Lleyton Hewitt, fifth seed James Blake and second seed Rafael Nadal on the way to his first grand slam final.

''I haven't played long matches and I am feeling really fit and strong now,'' the 26-year-old said.

''I am playing the most important match of my life against the best player for many years. He has to lose some time and I am going to try and do that on Sunday. It's very exciting for me.'' World number one Federer has not lost to Gonzalez in nine matches.

''I have never beaten Roger but in tennis you always have a new opportunity and I have a nice opportunity now,'' he said.

''I am going to try my best. It is a fantastic crowd and I have the Chilean supporters which is very important for me.'' REUTERS DH HS1806