Safin, Andreev Lead Russia to 2-0 Davis Cup Lead Over Thailand

Paradorn "The Thai Fighter" Srichaphan's claycourt Achilles' Heel was brought to the forefront Friday in Russia as unheralded Russian Igor Andreev rolled over the No. 20-ranked Thai 7-5, 6-2, 6-4.

Marat Safin followed with a 6-4, 6-1, 6-2 win over Thai No. 2 Danai Udomchoke to put Russia up 2-0 in the tie.

On Saturday Russia will look to clinch the tie when Safin and Mikhail Youzhny team against Thailand's version of the Bryan brothers in Sanchai and Sonchat Ratiwatana, who are 1-0 career in Davis Cup zonal play.

Russia was forced to play the World Group qualifying round after they were knocked out of this year's World Group main draw in the first round by Max "The Beast" Mirnyi and Belarus.