Morgan shows fighting spirit to reach junior semi-finals

(GETTY IMAGES)

George Morgan, attempting to become the first British boy to win a Grand Slam junior singles title since Andy Murray, advanced to the semi-finals of the Australian Open here yesterday when he beat Jeson Patrombon, of the Philippines, 5-7, 6-2, 6-3.

Playing in the heat of the day, Morgan started to wilt in the final set, losing three games in a row after taking a 4-0 lead. However, the 17-year-old Briton recovered his poise and eventually served out for victory, which he clinched with a smart forehand cross-court winner. He was due to play the top seed, the Czech Republic's Jiri Vesely, in today's semi-finals.

"I had a tough match yesterday and my legs were a bit tired and my lungs were going quite a bit," Morgan said afterwards. "I was obviously getting a bit nervous towards the end. It wasn't the best standard, but I was pleased the way I fought. It was a nice shot to finish."