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Murray scraps into semi-finals

04/09/2008

Andy Murray was made to work hard for a US Open quarter-final victory over Juan Martin del Potro, but eventually won through in four sets to his first-ever grand slam semi-final.

The Briton looked in good touch against his Argentinean opponent at Flushing Meadows, but some crucial errors - especially on his own serve - ensured Del Potro was able to stay in the match.

However, Murray turned on the style at the vital times and eventually closed out a 7-6 7-6 4-6 7-5 victory to set up a semi-final encounter with top seed Rafael Nadal.

Del Potro, the 17th seed, entered the match on good form and looking to avenge his controversial defeat to Murray at a Masters Series event back in May, when the Scot accused his opponent of insulting his mother, Judy, during proceedings.

In that match, Del Potro was forced to retire with an injury, and as the quarter-final progressed it seemed injury may take its toll on the young South American again as he looked to be struggling with a heavily-strapped knee.

However, this did not stop him producing some moments of brilliance as he just about stayed with a keyed-up Murray in the opening exchanges – at one point clawing back a 4-1 deficit in the first set to force a tiebreak.

Murray looked the more composed at the sharp end of the set though, and took a 1-0 lead courtesy of some brilliant shot-making from the back of the court – as well as some uncharacteristic volleying.

The 21-year-old Briton's drop-shot was also being used to great effect and he took the second set on a tiebreak as well.

But things did not go to plan in the third as Murray squandered a lead before losing 6-4 to take the match to a fourth set.

And things looked to be going awry for a frustrated Murray as Del Potro began to shake off his knee problems and seemed to be forcing his way back into the match.

Nevertheless, it was again the crucial points that settled it and Murray came up with the goods when it mattered – breaking his opponent's serve to go 6-5 in front.

He served out the match for an impressive victory that sees him into his first-ever grand slam semi-final, and with a realistic chance of challenging for honours given his blossoming form.