US make strong start

Roddick talks tactics with US captain Patrick McEnroe

Andy Roddick and James Blake gave the United States the perfect start to their postponed Davis Cup relegation tie with India in North Carolina.

US Open quarter-finalist Roddick crushed Harsh Mankad, while Blake swept past Leander Paes as the US attempt to secure their place in the World Group in 2002.

The tie was originally due to take place three weeks ago but was delayed in the wake of the terrorist attacks in New York and Washington.

Mankad could not trouble Roddick

A vociferous crowd gave the tie a more patriotic feeling than usual, and Roddick took advantage with a 6-3 6-4 6-1 win over Mankad.

"It was great," said Roddick. "I had goosebumps listening to the national anthem and the crowd.

"I'm glad I put us ahead. It was a bit tough because the guy had nothing to lose. I had to do my job. A win is always a win."

Roddick was never in danger of losing the match but US coach Patrick McEnroe had praise for Mankad's effort.

"We expected to win this match," said McEnroe. "Andy struggled with his ground strokes and the kid played better than we expected."

James Blake then put the home side 2-0 ahead with a 7-5 6-3 6-3 win over Leander Paes.