So Andy plays the Croatian not before 1.30pm local time on the 'Pista alcala'.
Andy has only played Marin once at ATP level...well DC level...Andy winning in 5 sets on the grass. Cilic has picked up his maiden ATP title this year and has beaten Roddick, PHM (twice) , Gonzo...but lost to Seppi, PHM (twice), Bolelli & Fish amongst others.
Andy should be to strong if he plays near his best. Andy in straights for me.
Cilic is much improved, but still a bit brainless at times, although does seem to have had a good end to the season and is playing well at the moment.
Murray should be too good for him though, probably in a couple of reasonably close sets, maybe 1 tiebreak and 1 single break, something like 7-6, 6-4.
Not a fan of the time it's on though as I'll be up at uni, but it is during the lunch break so if MS TV works on the Uni computers I may be able to get the first set and a half in before the afternoon lecture
It's a shame that Bolelli waved the white flag as early as he did, depriving Andy of court time. (I'm not somebody that questions retirements usually, but I was watching the match and I was really surprised when he retired; he called the trainer but it was a brief inspection, with Bolelli shaking his head and seeming to refuse whatever treatment was offered - then retiring during the next game with no obvious sign of discomfort. Then playing a full doubles match just an hour or two later!)
I have seen some of both of Cilic's matches and he is serving very well, moving well, and hitting the ball hard and accurately. However all being well Andy's guile will see him through - I don't know how Marin will cope with being thrown soft balls and having to make his own pace all the time. Also Andy's low slices could make life difficult for the big Croat.
I'm not expecting super-aggressive Andy in this match, I suspect it wouldn't work. We shall see. . .
Cilic goes 40-0 up...three set points. The second goes begging when Cilic misses an easy put-away. Murray saves the third with an amazing passing shot under pressure. Earns himself a break point... and converts!!!! 5-5