Week Two: 2-0, +0.61 Units (ROI 61%)

James Blake over Carlos Moya @ $1.74

Source: Pinnacle Sports
Stake: 0.5 Units

After a dissapointing start to the new year, James Blake comes up against the old Spaniard, Carlos Moya. Since August '05 Blake has accumulated a 22-4 win/loss record on hardcourt, beating the likes of Nadal, Berdych, Stepanek and Robredo. In contrast, other than his win in Chennai early last year, Moya had a lackluster year away from clay. He went 0-7 against players inside the top 25 last year on hardcourt and lost in the first round at this same tournament.

Both players faced capable first round opponents on their way to the 2nd round however I believe Blake had the tougher opponent of the two. Moya struggled to beat an out of form Grosjean, needing three sets to beat the Frenchman, whereas Blake outgunned Sanguinetti in two sets on Monday night. Blake should come into this matchup refreshed, after having Tuesday off. Conversely, Moya played until roughly 6.00pm local time today and now must get himself up for tomorrow mornings match (just flying in from India doesn't help either). Overall I see Blake getting this one in two sets, however, with the Australian Open being less than a week away we can never be sure of a players motivation, therefore I'm only going small on this matchup.

Good luck all
Betsy