Safin fightback gives Russia advantage

Marat Safin hit back from two sets down to beat Tomas Berdych and give Russia an early advantage in their Davis Cup quarter-final against the Czech Republic.

World number nine Berdych started well and appeared in complete control before Safin stormed back to register a 6-7 (5/7) 4-6 6-3 6-2 6-4 triumph.

The first set went with serve with Berdych clinching it on the tie-break and a solitary break in the second saw the Czech establish a commanding advantage.

But Safin, who has won just one match on the ATP Tour in 2008, belied his woeful recent form with a stirring comeback.

An early break was enough for him to clinch the third and, with Berdych looking nervous, he claimed two more of Berdych’s service games in the fourth to set up a nail-biting decider.

He gained an early advantage and held on, despite Berdych having a break point as Safin attempted to serve it out.

The second rubber of the day sees home favourite Igor Andreev take on Radek Stepanek.