Sharapova out as Venus hits form

Venus Williams rolled back the years to produce a vintage performance and book her place in the Wimbledon final at the expense of defending champion Maria Sharapova.

The American – winner here in 2000 and 2001 – shrugged off recentindifferent form going into the tournament to outgun her 18-year-old opponent, and secure a memorable straight-sets 7-6 6-1 victory on Centre Court.