By Niall Clarke
- Andy Murray defeats Thomaz Bellucci in straight sets
- The Brit came through 6-3, 6-2, 7-5
- He will play Kevin Anderson in round four
NEW YORK, USA- Andy Murray sealed his place in the fourth round of the US Open after dispatching of Thomaz Bellucci in straight sets.
After needing four sets to defeat Nick Kyrgios and five to defeat Adrian Mannarino, this was a less pulsating contest as the British number one eased through 6-3, 6-2, 7-5 in two hours and 11 minutes.
For a few minutes it looked like we were heading for another rollercoaster ride on Arthur Ashe as Murray dropped his second service game. But he hit back immediately and from there it was one way traffic.
The Brit pushed for a service break at 3-2, earning four break point opportunities that were all saved. He would not have to wait much longer though with the Brazilian reeling. Murray broke at 4-3 before holding serve to earn the first set 6-3.
The momentum was firmly with the 2012 champion and a Bellucci double fault gifted him an early second set advantage. A second break of serve put the second beyond doubt and Murray served it out to go two sets up (better than two sets down like last time out).
The third set was more competitive but Murray was never in trouble. The third seed would go on to break at the tail end of the set before serving out the match for his first straight sets wins of the tournament.
The cooler conditions were a welcome feeling for Murray after dealing with the humidity in his opening two matches. This time he got the job done in much simpler fashion as a result.
Murray will now face Kevin Anderson in the fourth round, who is coming in to this match in a rich vein of form after winning Winston Salem last week.
The 14th seed was also a straight sets victor. He dispatched Dominic Thiem 6-3, 7-6(3), 7-6(3).
Murray’s victory rounded off a fantastic day from a British perspective as Johanna Konta also booked her place in the second week. You can read how she got on here.
Andy Murray will play Kevin Anderson on Monday. You can follow his progress via the Britwatch
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