Wozniacki powers through

Caroline Wozniacki’s search for a maiden grand slam title remained on track as the Danish top seed powered into the second round of the Australian Open in Melbourne today.

The 21-year-old had little difficulty against Anastasia Rodionova, despatching the Australian with a 6-2 6-1 victory on Rod Laver Arena.

Wozniacki drove home every ball with the ferocity more often seen deep in the second week of a major than the opening day.

It certainly proved the wrist injury she sustained in the Sydney International was no cause for concern.

“I was a little bit nervous about my wrist, I was so happy I could play full out today,” she said.

Rodionova had her chances, and will rue a rash of errors which cost her dear.

She could have taken the first break at 2-2 in the opening set, but lost four successive points to allow Wozniacki to level and retain her serve.

The Dane stepped into gear in the following game to take the advantage at 4-2, and dominated from then on, winning the next seven games before Rodionova finally held serve again with a well-placed forehand down the line which almost brought the crowd to their feet.

But she faded in the final game as Wozniacki neatly wrapped up the match in just over an hour.