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The second reverse singles match in the Fed Cup clash between the USA and Australia features Sofia Kennin and Kimberly Birrell. Join The Roar for live scores and commentary from 6:30am (AEDT).
This match presents the opportunity to pull the tie back level after one nation will have taken the lead after the first of the reverse singles.
Alternatively, it is the potentially decisive match that settles the tie; making the doubles obsolete.
Australia’s Kimberly Birrell continues to ride the wave that she climbed aboard at the Australian Open in January.
Still ranked well outside the top 100, the young Aussie does look like a far better player than her current ranking suggests.
With still so much to learn at the age of 20, she was outclassed by Madison Keys on the opening day but should stand more of a chance against Kennin, the world number 36.
Kennin is also a youngster at 20 and still on the rise, yet has advanced beyond the first round of three of the four grand slam events; hinting at real quality.
Ashleigh Barty was too good for the young American on day one and Kennin will have learned a few lessons about the control and strategy required to move inside the top 20 in the rankings.
Today pits two young stars up against each other for what could be the first of many times. The home crowd will continue to be a factor and Birrell will have to be at her best to find a win today.
Prediction
Kennin has a definite edge in experience and maturity at this level and despite her own nervousness, should be able to comfortably handle the threat Birrell presents.
The Australian will need to play a close to perfect match to topple the American and she does have a chance.
However, it looks like a two-set win for Kennin with the home fans cheering her on.
Catch all the action on The Roar live coverage from 6:30am (AEDT).
Where: Cellular Arena, Asheville, North Carolina
When: Monday 11th February 2019, 6:30am (AEDT)
TV: 9 GEM
Betting: Sophia Kennin $1.45 Kimberly Birrell $2.95
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