Federer stands in Murray's way

Australian Open: Roger Federer cruised past Frenchman Jo-Wilfried Tsonga in Melbourne this morning to ensure it is he who stands…

Australian Open:Roger Federer cruised past Frenchman Jo-Wilfried Tsonga in Melbourne this morning to ensure it is he who stands in the way of Andy Murray and the Scotsman's first Major title in the Australian Open final on Sunday.

The world's best was in ominous form and brushed aside the highly-rated Tsonga, dropping just seven games on his way to a straight sets 6-2 6-3 6-2 win.

Federer completely dominated on his serve conceding just 15 points in his 13 games on delivery to leave Tsonga, the 10th seed, shell-shocked.

With no pressure on his serve Federer worked away at Tsonga's delivery, which was not as potent as usual with the Frenchman seemingly troubled by an abdominal injury.

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Federer broke serve on five occasions to book a re-match of the 2008 US Open when he beat Murray in straight sets.

Federer's win also meant he has now reached 18 of the past 19 grand slam finals.

Federer was content with the quick manner of his victory against Tsonga, who reached the final at Melbourne Park two years ago.

"Yes, I'm very happy to be through," Federer said. "It is always difficult to play top players, sometimes it plays out the way you want it to and sometimes you have to work a lot harder.

"It was just so important to win that first set and get that good start.

"I thought it was quite intense early but maybe he was more fatigued mentally than physically, I think that showed near the end."

Turning his attention to Sunday's final against Murray, the Swiss said he expected a tough encounter especially as the Scot aims to end Britain's 74-year wait for a male major winner.

"I know that he'd like to win the first title in British tennis in, what is it 150,000 years?" he joked.

"It would be so nice for him. He's a nice guy.

"I will have to be aggressive. We've had some different types of matches against each other. We sometimes like to jerk around on the court and play some high balls at each other.

"Definitely it will be tactical. It is always a tactical game against him."