Murray, Robson edge Britain closer to Hopman final

PERTH - World number four Andy Murray and tennis ingenue Laura Robson nudged Britain closer to a possible spot in the final of the Hopman Cup mixed team event Wednesday thanks to a 2-1 defeat of Germany.

The victory was ensured by the young pair with an outstanding mixed doubles performance, in which Robson at age 15 showed the form which looks to take her into a promising career on the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA).

The Britons are to face a key showdown Friday for a place in Saturday’s title match should Russia sweep underdog Kazakhstan in a later session Wednesday in Group B.

Murray and Robson secured victory over Sabine Lisicki and Philipp Kohlschreiber 6-3, 6-2 with eight aces in a contest lasting an hour and a quarter.

“I played much better today, but there is still a lot to work on for the future,” said Robson, Australian-born with relatives in Western Australia who have been cheering her on in the Burswood Dome.

“But being 15 is not an excuse (for losing her singles to Lisicki in straight sets). I had some chances serving for the first set, but she played better in the end.

“It’s been a good week so far.”

Murray pulled Britain back into contention in the tie as he defeated Philipp Kohlschreiber 6-4, 6-1 for a one-all scoreline after Robson lost to Lisicki 7-6 (7-5), 6-3.

“I was happy to have gotten it done quickly,” said the 22-year-old Scot.

Murray, winner of six of his 14 career titles in 2009, admitted to some minor discomfort after making the mistake of training outdoors without a shirt in the unforgiving Aussie summer sun.

“My back is on fire,” he confessed. “I got so burnt, the sun is a lot stronger here than it was in Miami (the scene of his December training).”

Murray easily dominated the 27th-ranked Kohlschreiber in their first meeting, producing 17 aces and breaking on four of six occasions.

“I served well and didn’t give him many chances,” said the Scot. “I was able to capitalise on his second serve. And I played pretty well at the net today.”

Lisicki, 20, rallied in a comeback over Robson. “The first matches of year are never easy,” said the number 22. “I’m glad I won both of them. We lost mixed but it was good match.”

Kohlschreiber said “He kicked my ass today pretty badly. Murray played fantastic, I couldn’t hold the level with him.

“I’m not quite happy with my game,” said the winner of six doubles crowns. “I’m looking for the right shot selection.

“I need to work bit harder in coming days and hopefully get in good form for Melbourne.”