Andy Murray rises above the noise as tempers fray in Davis Cup final

Andy Murray revelled in the soccer-like atmosphere of the Davis Cup final on Friday, after pulling Britain level at 1-1 despite picking up a penalty point for an obscenity.

The 28-year-old, together with Britain's captain Leon Smith became embroiled in some lively exchanges with the umpire Carlos Ramos as the raucous home fans in the 13,000-seat arena did their best to knock him off course against Ruben Bemelmans.

Belgium captain Johan van Herck also had words.

Murray was docked a point at 2-2 in the third set of his 6-3, 6-2, 7-5 victory and roared his defiance at the Belgian fans when he saved a set point at 4-5, having trailed 2-4.

Occasionally the home fans pushed the limits of fair play but Murray refused to criticise the crowd who made the opening day of the final such a colourful spectacle.

“I think that's kind of normal in Davis Cup, to be honest. I don't feel like they crossed the line,” the world number two said. “I'm experienced enough now to not allow it to bother me, and try to use it to my advantage as much as I can.”

Smith, hoping to guide Britain to their first title since 1936, has been heavily indebted to Murray's brilliance since taking over as captain with the Scot contributing 15 of the side's 19 points since he returned to the squad in 2013.