Petrova gives Russia upper hand against US

PERTH, Jan 2 (Reuters) World number six Nadia Petrova gave Russia a 1-0 lead in their Hopman Cup match against the United States with a comfortable straight-sets victory over Ashley Harkleroad today.

Petrova, shocked in her first match in the mixed team competition by Australia's Alicia Molik, used her superior hitting from the back of the court to ease past world number 86 Harkleroad 6-3 6-0 in 67 minutes.

Dmitry Tursunov will play Mardy Fish in the men's singles tie before the potentially decisive mixed doubles rubber, with both teams needing a win to realistically have a chance of reaching Friday's final at the Burswood Dome.

Russia lost their opening Group A encounter 2-1 to the Australians while the U.S. went down 2-1 to France. The French play the host country in the second match later today.

REUTERS SAM HS0935