Events 
/ Ben Caudell / 30 March 2011 / Leave a Comment 
Ben's backing Mardy Fish to be the American number one
"If Fish wins today, not only would he reach the semi-finals of this event for the first time, he would also become the top ranked American for the first time in his career."
He'll have home support on his side and a strong record against top ten players, but can Mardy Fish overcome David Ferrer in what is likely to be a long match?
David Ferrer (ESP) v Mardy Fish (US)
After surprising first round losses for both these players at Indian Wells a fortnight ago, Miami has proved to be a different kettle of 'fish'. With the Spaniard and American firing on all cylinders and with both players yet to drop a single set, we can look forward to a real corker of a match that looks evenly balanced on paper but not in the match odds where Fish can be backed at [2.80].
The head-to-head record reads three wins apiece with only two of the six matches having been won in straight sets. However, it's been nearly four years since these two stalwarts last competed against each other, so history shouldn't have a significant baring on how this quarter-final pans out.
What is important, though, is the fact that Fish is coming into a purple patch of form at the right time. Having completed notable wins over former top ten player Richard Gasquet 6-4 6-3 and former US Open Champion Juan Martin Del Potro, the American has another incentive that will give him an extra adrenaline boost. If Fish wins today, not only would he reach the semi-finals of this event for the first time, he would also become the top ranked American for the first time in his career.
Fish has a great record against top ten players and he recorded a positive 5-3 stat in 2010. He's appearing in his third ATP World Tour quarter-final or better this year and his fourth ATP World Tour Masters quarter-final. An important fact to note is that from his last three appearances at this stage of a Master series event Mardy has gone on to reach the final.
There will be a lot of home support cheering Fish on. This match will probably go all the way but my money is going on the soon to be top American.
Recommended Bets
Back Mardy Fish @ [2.8] to win match
Back three sets @ [2.44]
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