Ljubicic stretched by Fish

0 Comments | AFP, October, 2007

VIENNA (AFP) — Defending champion Ivan Ljubicic maintained his unbeaten record in Vienna on Wednesday, but he was stretched to the limit before defeating American Mardy Fish 7-6 (7/4), 2-6, 7-6 (7/4) to reach the quarter-finals.

It was the first time in three years that the third-seeded Croat conceded a set, and that came after he had failed to take advantage of five break points early in the match.

Fish survived that threat, largely with some strong serving, and then went on to take the first set on a tie-break.

Ljubicic remained under siege early in the second set, fighting off two break points for 0-2, before a run of eight straight points allowed him to break for 3-2. A further break for 5-2 followed.

Both players had break point opportunities...