Tennis: Jones plays into third round of US Open juniors

New Zealander Sacha Jones won her way into the third round of the US Open junior singles tennis championships with a 4-6 6-3 6-1 win over Uzbekistan's Dilyara Saidkhodjaeva today.

It is the first time Jones has won two consecutive singles matches in a Grand Slam event.

She said she had a slow start but found her groove soon.

"I had to find the right shot to make and just be a bit more patient," she said.

Jones had to grind out the second set and gained an advantage in the third when her opponent was serving and given point penalty at 15-30 to put Jones at break point which she then won to go ahead 3-1.

"I didn't see her throw her racquet but whatever I get I'll take."

The 15 year-old Aucklander now plays American Ashley Weinhold in the third round.

- NZPA