Keys unlikely to manage a Williams double
MADISON KEYS prevented an all-Williams semi-final when she ousted Venus with a gutsy three-set victory on Tuesday night but taking out Serena is likely to be beyond the 19-year-old.
Keys took a medical timeout in that match due to a flare-up of her adductor injury, but despite being a break down in the third set with her leg heavily strapped she was able to edge the win after her opponent's serve went to pieces.
Keys won't receive any such favours from the top seed, who put in her most dominant performance of the tournament when thrashing the in-form Dominika Cibulkova 6-2 6-2.
Serena has struggled with illness over the past week but it hasn't appeared to affect her game, and class and experience are likely to prevail with a one-sided scoreline probable.
The pressure of the situation may draw unforced errors from Keys and if her power game unravels then Serena could wrap it up quickly. The evens about under 19.5 games looks worthy of investment.
Second seed Maria Sharapova takes on 10-3 compatriot Ekaterina Makarova in the first semi-final and Adrian Humphries has recommended siding with the favourite on the 4.5-game handicap.
Recommendation
Under 19.5 games in S Williams v Keys, Evs Ladbrokes
Best prices – S Williams v Keys: 1-6 Williams, 9-2 Keys.
Handicap – BoyleSports: 4-5 Williams -5.5 games, Evs Keys +5.5 games.
Total sets – best prices: 4-11 two-set match, 23-10 three-set match.
Best prices – Australian Open winner: 8-11 S Williams, 19-10 M Sharapova, 16 Keys, Makarova.