Heather Watson vs Madison Brengle: Hobart International match preview

A look ahead to the final match in women’s singles

Heather Watson and Madison Brengle (Getty Images)

Heather Watson, who is the only British hope in the women’s draw at the upcoming Australian Open, continues to prepare for it in style.

She has just reached her second WTA final beating Alison Riske of the USA en route 6-3, 7-5, in a match which featured six rain delays including one at match point.

She will now face a qualifier Madison Brengle (USA) who has her eyes on a first WTA trophy. Brengle defeated Japan’s Kurumi Nara in three sets 6-4, 1-6, 6-3 to book a berth in the final.

Watson had tougher opponents so far having to face the likes of seeded players like Sloane Stephens and Roberta Vinci.

However, it was Brengle who had to work harder to reach the final as only one of her main-draw matches was decided in two sets.

The two players have met just once before, when Watson won comfortably 6-1, 6-3.

After the final the they will head to Melbourne where Brengle will face Andrea Petkovic of Germany and Watson will encounter Bulgaria’s Tsvetana Pironkova in the first round of the Australian Open.

START: Saturday 1:00 AM

PAST MEETINGS:

2010 – Quebec City (Carpet) Watson won 6-1, 6-3

STATS:

Watson is the first Brit to ever reach the final in Hobart

A qualifier has reached the Hobart International final for the fourth consecutive year.

Watson won her only tournament to date in Osaka two years ago.

Watson is currently ranked 49th, while Brengle 84th.

ODDS:

Watson to win 1.57

Brengle to win 2.37