Petrova powers Russia into Hopman Cup final lead

PERTH, Australia, Jan 5 (Reuters) Nadia Petrova overwhelmed Anabel Medina Garrigues 6-0 6-4 to power Russia into a 1-0 lead over Spain in the Hopman Cup final in Perth today.

The world number six, who has improved in each match since her opening pool loss to Australia's Alicia Molik, gave the Spaniard no chance with her pinpoint groundstrokes, rattling off the first set in just 30 minutes.

A roar from the crowd boosted Medina Garrigues as she opened her account in the second set but the Russian broke again to take a 4-2 lead.

The Spaniard managed to level at 4-4, but Petrova secured two match points on her opponent's serve while leading 5-4 and sealed the win in an hour and four minutes at the second attempt when her opponent's lame forehand drifted wide.

Dmitry Tursunov takes on world number seven Tommy Robredo, who formed part of Spain's 2002 winning team, in the men's singles before the concluding mixed doubles.

Russia, the top seeds, are making their first appearance in the final while Spain are seeking a third title in the mixed team competition.

REUTERS AY VV1633