Federer Smells The Bacon

Day 8 at the U.S. Open saw Roger Federer in 4th round action against 13th seed Jurgen Melzer of Austria. Federer was made to work by the Austrian who came out all guns blazing and kept them blazing for the entire two hours on court. Federer however, could "smell the bacon" and took the meal at the right moments, breaking the Austrian's serve but not his resolve.

To Melzer's credit, he kept battling and pushing Federer, in particular, with some excellent return of serves rushing the great champion, but to his detriment, his attempting to hit winners off every single ball, led to far too many unforced errors, and made him look rather unprofessional and inexperienced. Federer did what was required and won in straight sets 6-3, 7-6, 6-3.

Elsewhere, Robin Soderling survived an early setback against Montanes to win in 4, whilst Djokovic ended the American dream run of Mardy Fish. The impressive 'Ree-shard' Gasquet was beaten by compatriot Gael Monfils, surprisingly in straight sets, after which they hugged and kissed, and parted ways.

Monfils will play Djokovic in one quarter final while Federer will meet familiar foe Soderling in the other. Soderling is an extremely dangerous player and the Swiss must be wary and have a game plan prepared, but Federer is smelling the bacon, and looks set to progress to the latter stages this time.