Fed Cup Semi-finals: The Italian Job
Posted by gauloises1 on April 26, 2010
Italy 5 – Czech Republic 0
Can anyone stop this Italian team? I’m completely serious. Flavia Pennetta wasn’t even at her best this weekend; she struggled mightily against Lucie Hradecka on Saturday, well down in both sets before coming back to win in straights, 64 75. Luckily she has support from Francesca Schiavone, who popped up to beat Lucie Safarova 60 62 and put Italy well ahead.
The Czech Republic pinned its hopes on Lucie Safarova’s 2-0 record against Pennetta, but unfortunately she injured herself during the warm-up and had to be replaced by Petra Kvitova, who was unable to stop Italy sealing the deal 3-0. Cue the celebrations.
The US and Russia are locked in a deciding fifth rubber right this now, but whoever wins will host Italy at home. And will have their work seriously cut out for them.
