Collins looking for 'the zone' to deny Barty Australian Open title

Ashleigh Barty is aiming to be the first Australian women to winher home Grand Slam in 44 years

Danielle Collins faces a daunting task in the Australian Open final on Saturday against a world number one who is aiming to become the first homegrown women's champion in 44 years, backed by a fiercely partisan crowd.

But the resurgent American is reday to tackle top seed and clear favourite Ashleigh Barty.

"I think for me when I have a really clear idea of my tactics and what I want to do, it's easier for me to get there," said the 27th seed, who is pain-free after surgery last year for endometriosis.

"But I think it really helps when you can have a real clear road map to what you want to do on court and how you want to execute your game plan."

As Jessica Pegula put it after losing to the Australian in the quarter-finals: "I think she's definitely living in everyone's head a little bit.

But Collins has proven at Melbourne Park that she belongs on the big stage, and has pushed Barty hard in their previous four matches, winning their previous encounter in Adelaide last year in straight sets. 

- Weight of expectation -

She is the first Australian woman into the decider of her home Grand Slam since Wendy Turnbull in 1980 and is aiming to become the first winner since Chris O'Neil in 1978.

Asked how she would prepare for one of the biggest matches of her career, she replied: "Same old. I'm a creature of habit. Not a lot will change for us. The preparation stays the same, process is the same.

Barty has repeatedly pointed during the tournament to her ability to "problem-solve" while on court, a trait she has worked on with coach Craig Tyzzer.

"I think the way she's able to control the baseline and really take the game on she's one of the most fierce competitors out here. She loves to get in your face and loves to really take it on," said Barty.

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