David Ferrer continued his quest for a third Swedish Open title after surviving a scare to defeat Dustin Brown 6-1 4-6 6-4 and book a spot in the semi-finals.

Spaniard Ferrer triumphed on the Bastad clay in 2007 and 2012, and the top seed appeared to be on course for a quick win after taking the opening set in 21 minutes.

However, having broken for a 4-3 lead in the second, Ferrer suffered a drop in performance as Brown reeled off three straight games to level the match.

But when the same scenario occurred in the decider, Ferrer this time took full advantage and served out at the first time of asking to set up a last-four showdown with compatriot Albert Ramos-Vinolas, who came from a set down to defeat Andrea Arnaboldi.

On the other side of the draw, Fernando Verdasco battered Facundo Bagnis 6-2 6-1 and plays Gastao Elias in the semis following his comprehensive 6-2 6-2 win over second seed Joao Sousa.

Elsewhere at the Hall of Fame Championships in Newport, United States, Donald Young routed top seed Steve Johnson 6-2 6-3 to set up a semi-final against Gilles Muller, who came from behind to beat Adrian Mannarino in three sets.

Second seed Ivo Karlovic, runner-up in the past two seasons. also reached the semis.The big-serving Croat accounted for Marco Chiudinelli 6-3 6-4, and he now faces Marcos Baghdatis for a place in the final.