Hewitt, Federer in semifinal clash

CINCINNATI, Ohio (Reuters) -- Lleyton Hewitt produced a commanding performance to beat Spaniard Carlos Moya 6-2 6-4 on Friday to reach the semifinals of the Cincinnati Masters where he will renew his rivalry with current world number one Roger Federer.

In the battle of the two former world number ones, the Australian broke Moya in the first game and stormed through to his fourth semifinal of the year.

Federer had to battle past unseeded Spaniard Nicolas Almagro to win 6-3 3-6 6-2 in the second quarterfinal.

The Swiss, looking for his 50th career title, broke in the sixth game but immediately dropped his serve before breaking for a second time to take the opening set.

Almagro, appearing in his sixth quarterfinal of the year, broke serve in the eighth game of the second set to level the match before an early break in the decider was enough to take Federer through against a resurgent Hewitt.

In other action on Friday, American James Blake rallied to defeat countryman Sam Querry in three sets, and Nikolay Davydenko of Russia beat number 16 David Ferrer of Spain in straight sets.

Federer beat Hewitt just a week ago in the Montreal quarters on the way to a final which he lost to Serb Novak Djokovic.

The Swiss stands 12-7 in the series against Hewitt, notably winning the last 10 meetings. Hewitt last tasted success in Melbourne Davis Cup play nearly four years ago.

"I am playing well at the moment," Hewitt, twice runner-up in Cincinnati, said. "I thought my court coverage was exceptional today.

"But it's hard to close him out, he's such a strong player, so I am really happy to win in straight sets."

World number 19 Moya had beaten fourth seed Novak Djokovic of Serbia on his way to the last eight but made too many unforced errors as Hewitt cruised through the first set.

Hewitt then broke twice to lead 3-0 but after having treatment for a blister on his right big toe Moya broke back and forced the Australian to serve out the match.

Hewitt kept his nerve to reach his fourth semifinal of the year. E-mail to a friend

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