Doubles decider goes Britain's way

Laura Robson and Heather Watson won a decisive doubles rubber against Portugal to secure Great Britain's second victory at the Fed Cup in Israel.

Judy Murray's side were easy winners over Bosnia-Herzegovina on Thursday in Europe/Africa Zone Group I but had to work harder on Friday in Eilat, with Watson losing her singles clash against world number 130 Michelle Larcher de Brito 6-1 6-4.

Robson had earlier beaten Margarida Moura 6-2 6-1 in the opening singles rubber and Murray opted to stick with the pair for the doubles rather than turn to Anne Keothavong or Johanna Konta. The duo, who teamed up at the Olympics last year, saw off Larcher de Brito and Joana Vale Costa 6-2 6-1 in 55 minutes to earn Britain a 2-1 victory in the tie.

Britain are likely to face a much stiffer test on Saturday, though, in their final round-robin match against unbeaten Hungary.

Timea Babos is a top 100 player while Greta Arn is hugely experienced, although both Watson and Robson will be favourites on ranking.

The winner of Saturday's Pool B decider will progress to a play-off on Sunday against the winners of Pool D. Whoever comes through that will go forward to a World Group II promotion play-off in April.

Britain got to that stage last season in Murray's first year as captain but lost to Sweden and have high hopes of going one better this time.