Murray must seize initiative against Federer: Newcombe

Melbourne, Jan.31 (ANI): Former Grand Slam great John Newcombe has said British tennis star Andy Murray will have a moment to take the intiative against 15-Grand Slam winner Roger Federer in today's Australian Open final.

In an article for Fox Sports, Newcombe said: "The smart money says back the man who has won 15 grand slam titles and beat his Australian Open final oppenent in the 2008 US Open decider. But I'm going out on a limb, picking Andy Murray to overcome world No.1 Roger Federer in a close-fought contest."

He believes that Federer has peaked too soon, while Murray has judged his run perfectly, playing at about 85 per cent of his ability and occasionally reaching top gear.

"My feeling is that Federer will play with patches of brilliance in the final, the match will go to five sets, and Murray's consistent level will grab the title in the end. The danger for Murray will be if he gets a chance to win and then falls into a defensive pattern of play . If this happens, Federer will climb all over him. If I am correct, there will be a moment in the match for Murray to seize the initiative," Newcombe said.

Murray has to prove that he is mentally strong enough to take on Federer.

"A loss to Federer in a grand slam final is certainly no disgrace. But if Murray does create the opportunity to win, and doesn't seize it, another half-dozen slams could sail by before he gets another chance," he concludes. (ANI)