TRUE BRIT!
Determined Murray battles his way into the semi-finals
ANDY MURRAY grunted and moaned into the semi-finals of the Schroders Battle of the Brits last night – and will face current British No.1 Dan Evans.
The Scot was made to sweat in the sweltering National Tennis Centre against James Ward in his third match in three days after seven months out.
The former world No.1 was urged to add grunt to his serve by his coach Jamie Delgado – while his constant commentary of complaints were picked up by the courtside microphones. But Murray, who lost to Kyle Edmund on Wedneday, dug deep to win 6-3 7-5 to extend his latest comeback into the weekend.
“It was really tough,” he said. “I felt Wardie played well and we had a lot of long games. He fought really hard. Physically it was a pretty tough match.
“I am feeling my hip a little bit but it is not really affecting my movement.
“It was sore in November but I felt like I have moved the best that I have moved in the three matches today which is positive. But I am delighted I have got a rest day tomorrow because I am very tired.”
Double Wimbledon champion Murray was broken three times by British No.7 Ward – but each time he broke straight back and took his first match point with a stunning forehand winner down the line.
Delgado said: “The grunting is something we always remind Andy of, just for the simple reason that it helps him express himself a bit more.”
Delgado was heard swearing
– while Murray threw his racquet in frustration in the second set and said: “It is such awful movement. So, so poor.”
Evans, wearing kit from former Aston Villa sponsors Luke 1977, looked very tidy as he beat Cam Norrie 6-3 6-3.
The world No.28 will now face world No.129 Murray for the first time.
“It will be difficult,” Evans admitted. “There is always more to beating Andy than just tennis but anyone who makes the semi-finals can win the tournament.”
Paul Jubb won his first match against fellow reserve Ryan Peniston 6-2 6-7 10-6 and will play Norrie today to decide who faces Edmund in the other semi.