Australian Open Predictions: Murray to outwit Berdych

Australian Open Predictions: Day Ten and Eleven, Geoff

Semi final time in the Australian Open, which should be more evenly contested that the four straight set quarter finals that we have seen over the last few days. Our Australian Open predictions thus far have left the standing poised brilliantly heading into the last three matches.

Djokovic confirmed to everyone that he was still the man to beat, dispatching Raonic with a lot more ease than many expected. Wawrinka was equally impressive in dispatching Nishikori, showing some of the excellent form that took him all the way to the title last year.

We are left with a semi final line-up made up of four men who are all in searingly good form, where you could make a case for the title to head in any direction.

Australian Open Predictions So Far:

average out of 32 – later rounds worth more

Geoff – 23, 26, 16, 24, 28, 24, 32, 32, 16, 16 = 23.7

Nate – 24, 26, 20, 26, 24, 20, 32, 32, 16, 16 = 23.6

Brandon – 25, 25, 18, 24, 20, 16, 24, 32, 16, 32 = 23.2

Geoff Nichols’ Semi Final Predictions

1st Half, Djokovic’s Half

Djokovic (1) d. Wawrinka (4)

At this same stage last year, Wawrinka made his breakthrough in the majors and beat Djokovic 9-7 in the fifth to seal an epic victory. It was a landmark moment for Wawrinka, who will have those fond memories to fire himself up and give himself belief that he can win, which is essential.

Djokovic will be seeking revenge, as whilst this defeat was a full year ago, the stranglehold he had at the Australian Open was massive. He was locked in against Raonic, but I think he can get frustrated against Wawrinka and these lapses will be pounced upon. For me, it must be Djokovic in 5, but you can expect another long one.

2nd Half, Federer’s Half

Murray (6) d. Berdych (7)

People are saying that this as 50/50 a match as they come and I am inclined to agree with them. I would have given Murray the edge had it not been for the storyline of coming up against his former coach. Whilst tactically I think this is less important, Murray has a habit of mentally not being fully focussed.

We will get to see whether Berdych really has turned over a new leaf of whether he was benefiting from a below-par Nadal. I actually think that may be a big factor, as Murray was tested by Dimitrov and Berdych has had a clearer path. I will take Murray in 5, but it’s so very close.

Next: Lob and Smash 2015 Grand Slam Predictions

More from Lob and Smash

Home/Andy Murray