Andy Murray Begins 2012 With A Win

Andy Murray’s partnership with new coach Ivan Lendl got off to a winning start at the weekend as he picked up the Brisbane International title.

It was the opening tournament for Murray in this 2012 season and he was top seed but he faced the unpredictable Alexandr Dolgopolov.

Despite a couple of three set matches earlier on in the in week it was a straight forward victory for the Scot as he dropped just four games on his way to a first title of the new season.

They both held their opening service game before Murray went on a run of nine straight games to seal the opening set and get another break early in the second.

A dip in concentration saw Dolgopolov cut a 0-4 deficit to 3-4 as he finally had a sniff at the Murray serve.

And while Dolgopolov did put in a better performance in the second set he was no match for the power and the pace of Murray - who looked fresh after his winter break.

Speaking to BBC Sport after the match Murray said: "I'd like to say sorry to Alex; he had a problem with his leg.

"It's my first week with this new team and it was good. Mr Lendl - he's up there somewhere, hiding.

"I really enjoyed it. Hopefully it'll bring more success in the future."

The win was the perfect preparation for Murray just ahead of the Australian Open, which begins 16^th January in Melbourne, as he looks to get his hands on a maiden Grand Slam title.

FemaleFirst Helen Earnshaw