Sara Errani will fight for a place in the quarter-finals of the Rome Masters following a 7-5 5-7 6-2 victory over American Christina McHale.

The number seven seed started off strongly but she was well matched by her opponent, who executed quick returns and swooping forehands to hold her serve well in the first few games.

Despite her positive start, McHale was unable to force through a tie-break as Errani clinched a vital break of serve to take a one-set lead in Italy.

Errani continued her dominance in the second set by taking an early break and knocking the wind out of McHale's sails as she struggled to regain form.

While Errani looked set to clinch victory, McHale was able to deny her two match points to draw level and force the match into a third and final set.

Despite the American's fightback, Errani managed to take control of the contest by winning an early break of serve and finishing off the match.