Fish breezes through

Top seed Mardy Fish wasted little time in reaching the quarter-finals of the US Men's Clay Court Championship in Houston.

Top seed secures straight-sets victory

Top seed Mardy Fish wasted little time in reaching the quarter-finals of the US Men's Clay Court Championship in Houston. Albert Ramos had his chances to cause an upset but Fish saved eight of nine break points on his way to a 6-3 6-4 victory. Fish had led 5-1 in the second set before Ramos threatened a comeback - however the American held his nerve. "Naturally, you think, 6-3, 5-1 and you figure the finish line is pretty close," said Fish. "You've got to keep your foot on the gas a little more.

Consistent

"But he played better at the end. He has nothing to lose at that point. We've all been there." Fish will be joined in the last eight by third-seeded Guillermo Garcia-Lopez, who toppled Somdev Devvarman 6-4 6-1. "I played pretty consistent and it was a solid match for my first time on clay this year," Garcia-Lopez said. "Overall, I am happy with the start. I look forward to the quarter-finals." Sixth seed Kei Nishikori recorded a 6-3 6-3 victory to set-up a clash with Fish, while seventh-ranked Pablo Cuevas ended the run of wildcard James Blake.