/ Ben Caudell / 02 September 2010 /

Ben Caudell is in no doubt about who he fancies to prevail in what should be a lively women's encounter at Flushing Meadow...

Bethanie Mattek Sands (USA) v Andrea Petkovic (GER)

Twenty-two-year-old Andrea Petkovic of Germany faces home favourite Bethanie Mattek Sands for the first time in her auspicious career on the Grand Stand court, late this evening. Petkovic is viewed by many as a potential top-10 player and she is one to definitely keep an eye on at this year's U.S Open.

Ranked at 38 in the world, Petkovic opened the season with a semi-final appearance in Brisbane, Australia, followed by losing in the final of s-Hertogenbosh to Justine Henin in three sets. In July, she made the semi finals at the Istanbul international event losing to Elena Vesnina. The fact that she came through a tough first round match here in New York against the 17th seed and inform hard court player Nadia Petrova gives me further reason to believe that there is definite value in backing the German at a price slightly above even money.

Petkovic has a better ranking than Mattek Sands, she has played at higher level tournaments this year, against better competition. Mattek Sands, who is more influential on the doubles circuit, has never progressed past the second round at Flushing Meadows in seven previous attempts and struggled in the first round. I'm pretty sure that this price will shorten before the start of the match, so my advice is back Petkovic as early as possible.

Selection: Back Andrea Petkovic @ [2.1] to win match

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