Russia Take Crucial Lead

Russia took a crucial lead in the Davis Cup Final after a strong and solid display in the doubles from Marat Safin and Dmitry Tursunov. Safin was brought into the side instead of Youzhny, and helped make amends for his straight sets singles defeat to David Nalbandian a day earlier.

The Russian team took advantage of Nalbandian's serve, and held their own service games without too much trouble. It was a stark contrast from yesterday, where Nalbandian had been flawless against Safin. He was the weaker link in the Argentine team today, and with Safin and Tursunov serving so commandingly, Calleri was unable to keep the Argentine side together.

Russia lead 2-1 going into Sunday's reverse singles, and the lead could well prove to be too big a hurdle for Argentina to climb. At present the line up is scheduled to be Davydenko v Nalbandian and if needed Safin v Chela. However, don't be surprised if there are changes to this line up. Tursunov could well be brought in for Russia to play either for Davydenko or Safin. Russia clearly hold the upperhand, with a 5th rubber combination favouring them in many respects.

Sports Magician will return tomorrow to detail the conclusion of the 2006 Davis Cup Final. Feel free to add your comments on how you see the reverse singles turning out and who may be involved in them.