Ronnie O Sullivan - Ali Carter - final

[Rane]

I´m quite surprised that this thread hasn´t been started yet.

I hold O´Sullivan as favourit, but I think it will be closer than last time. My guess 18 - 14 or 18 - 15.

[FerruleFox]

Carter looks like he'll be much more competitive this time but hard to imagine him beating Ronnie over such a long match. Their B and C games just don't compare.

[Ronnie's tip]

Carter is in better form IMO - he's had a harder draw and the pressure is on Ronnie. First session is huge. If Carter wins it, I think he'll win the match.

[FOXMULDER]

Carter is in better form IMO .
huh?? I think we've been watching different tournaments.

Anyway... the problem for Carter will be the pressure that will definitely come if he gets a nice lead. He will be thinking along the lines of .... "I've got a real chance of becoming a World Champion... This is really happening.... How is this happening>..**** arghhhhh ".....

Ronnie will win.

[Table_of_Reds]

Carter is in better form IMO - he's had a harder draw and the pressure is on Ronnie. First session is huge. If Carter wins it, I think he'll win the match.Why do you even bother supporting O'Sullivan? Every single post you make you're saying how it's all going to be doom and gloom for him, and how much better his opponent is and how he's likely to lose. Support someone you have some sort of faith in, then you might actually get some enjoyment out of watching them play. This MIGHT be the last time you ever get to see your favourite player play, so you may as well try and enjoy it rather than being doom and gloom before the match has even started.

Also - Ebdon (ex-world champion, still a ranking event winner), Williams (ditto, also world number 2), Robertson (ex-world champ, regular event winner, one of the top players in the world), Matthews (two time finalist, ranking event winner, back in form) > M. Davis (journeyman nobody), Trump, Jones (flash in the pan youngish player who beat Higginson and a very off-form Smurphy but has done little else of note in his career) and Maguire.

Hard run for both, but O'Sullivan's was much harder.

[tawaterski]

Think Ronnie will crush the boy around 18-5 or 18-6.

[The Rook]

"If" Carter plays as well and as cannily in the final as his previous matches, then there is absolutely no chance O'Sullivan will annihilate him.

I've never seen Carter look so measured in his approach prior to this tournament and his standard has been consistently very high, so I hold a shred of optimism for him in the final – although O'Sullivan is clearly the favourite.

[grimreaper]

Carter 18- 15

[stylishkidsintheriot]

I'd call it Ronnie to win, 18-10. I've watched all of Ronnie's matches and only caught a few sessions of Ali's, wasn't impressed enough by his game this tournament that I think it'll be enough to beat Ronnie's excellent current form.

[Buda]

For the first time I'm not sure about Ronnie, he's playing much slower and safer which is not his style but if I have to guess the champ and score than it would be Ronnie 18-16.

[maxz]

I believe ronnie will win 18-10. Cant really see Ali winning this. normally ronnie lost his wsc matches are best of 17 or best of 25. i cant really see anyone can match his current form in best of 35 frames.most of his winning frames he does it in 1 visit.He dont really miss in like 5 to 6 frames consecutive and he got good defensive play and high percentage long pots. so NO WORRY!! its in his bag WSC 2012 CHAMPION.

[luke147]

Think ronnie will win this 18-13 but if carter can punish ronnie for the mistakes he makes he might have a chance in this match.

[LittleMissAlexa]

ronnie 18-12 Ali is ronnies walking wicket to use a cricket term

[Masterdoctorgenius]

i am quite excited

first session is very important, ronnie has to be with his patience, saftey and potting spot on

6-2 lead would be a nice lead to have

will it play in ronnies mind that he never lost a final and to ali. Will this add pressure (there is always pressure in a world final) or give him confidence ?

ali will approach with the same attitude like he did against maguire and judd, nothing to lose which could make him dangerous

[Odrl]

So, the nightmare final is here...

Well, nightmare before the tournament begun, but I'm slightly more optimistic about it now. I've been very impressed by Carter, especially in his last match against Maguire. I kept waiting for Maguire to close to gap and take control of the match. He had his chances and wasted most of them, but he was always up against it, because Carter's standard never dropped. Carter has very rarely missed in the balls in this tournament, not that it's all been one-visit stuff, but most of the time he has kept it tight, not taking major risks. He has never beaten O'Sullivan in a proper match, but I think this is probably the closest they have ever been. They are close in the rankings, close in what they have achieved over the last two seasons, both having their ups and downs, and close in the standard they've produced. Of course that doesn't mean they are equally close to what they are capable of, I think O'Sullivan is more likely of the two to play on this week's form consistently. Also, Carter is probably playing the most measured and methodical game of his career, so in a way he is closest to playing a game O'Sullivan struggles against.

The first thing for Carter to overcome in this final is his fear of O'Sullivan, in my opinion. If he ****s his pants again, like he did in 2008, the final will probably be over in the second session. I think with Ebdon's influence this week, he looks so composed, so determined, that there is less danger of that happening. The pressure is also slightly off, as he knows everyone expects him to lose. This could work in his favour, as long as he is still hungry for the title, and not just satisfied with reaching the final.

What can I possibly say about Ronnie O'Sullivan? I could go on and on about his weaknesses again, but to be honest, I think they were tested the most against Robertson. It went close, 13-10, but not close enough. So unless there was an even better player, in even better form than Robertson, O'Sullivan was always going to be the favourite here. We've seen no nonsense from him whatsoever this week. He has looked extremely mature, very concentrated and determined, and he has shown enough form to back it up. I think he is playing his best game since 2008. His long potting is back to a very good level, and his scoring is still very clinical. When he refuses to be unsettled, which has been the case in this tournament, his opponents are always in danger of losing a couple of frames in a row in no time. And they all did. On the other hand, O'Sullivan never went through a particularly bad patch, even though some players did match him for a while. Can Carter?

I think the biggest danger O'Sullivan faces here is possibly the pressure. The pressure of being such a favourite, expected to win comfortably. He knows that should he lose, some people will overreact and start calling it "the greatest shock in history", and no one wants to deal with that sort of thing. He was slightly under the radar at the start of the event, a lot of people concentrating on Trump and other contenders. Well, that luxury is gone. All eyes are on him now, and he has to do the business. He has done it in every match so far, so one more and he is the champion.

I think Carter will stick with him in the early part of the match, probably resisting O'Sullivan's good run of frames better than any of his previous opponents. But it will be tough to beat him, O'Sullivan to win 18-15. ;)


BTW, this seems to be one of those threads that sometimes shows as "not accessible". Perhaps it's the "´" in "O´Sullivan", so if someone could rename it, that would be great. :)

[Masterdoctorgenius]

i wished that ali had beaten him in some tournaments because logic suggests that at some point this run has to come to an end

[Rane]

O´Sullivan lost a match against Carter a short while before Carter won his first ranking tournment, but I don´t remember which. Maybe a qualifier for the premier league. So he has tried to beat him in a match meaning a little more than exhibition or practise, so I don´t think he will be as scared as he used to be. And he must be as high in confidence as O´Sullivan so hopefully it will be a good final.

[The Rook]

So, the nightmare final is here...

Well, nightmare before the tournament begun, but I'm slightly more optimistic about it now. I've been very impressed by Carter, especially in his last match against Maguire. I kept waiting for Maguire to close to gap and take control of the match. He had his chances and wasted most of them, but he was always up against it, because Carter's standard never dropped. Carter has very rarely missed in the balls in this tournament, not that it's all been one-visit stuff, but most of the time he has kept it tight, not taking major risks. He has never beaten O'Sullivan in a proper match, but I think this is probably the closest they have ever been. They are close in the rankings, close in what they have achieved over the last two seasons, both having their ups and downs, and close in the standard they've produced. Of course that doesn't mean they are equally close to what they are capable of, I think O'Sullivan is more likely of the two to play on this week's form consistently. Also, Carter is probably playing the most measured and methodical game of his career, so in a way he is closest to playing a game O'Sullivan struggles against.

The first thing for Carter to overcome in this final is his fear of O'Sullivan, in my opinion. If he ****s his pants again, like he did in 2008, the final will probably be over in the second session. I think with Ebdon's influence this week, he looks so composed, so determined, that there is less danger of that happening. The pressure is also slightly off, as he knows everyone expects him to lose. This could work in his favour, as long as he is still hungry for the title, and not just satisfied with reaching the final.

What can I possibly say about Ronnie O'Sullivan? I could go on and on about his weaknesses again, but to be honest, I think they were tested the most against Robertson. It went close, 13-10, but not close enough. So unless there was an even better player, in even better form than Robertson, O'Sullivan was always going to be the favourite here. We've seen no nonsense from him whatsoever this week. He has looked extremely mature, very concentrated and determined, and he has shown enough form to back it up. I think he is playing his best game since 2008. His long potting is back to a very good level, and his scoring is still very clinical. When he refuses to be unsettled, which has been the case in this tournament, his opponents are always in danger of losing a couple of frames in a row in no time. And they all did. On the other hand, O'Sullivan never went through a particularly bad patch, even though some players did match him for a while. Can Carter?

I think the biggest danger O'Sullivan faces here is possibly the pressure. The pressure of being such a favourite, expected to win comfortably. He knows that should he lose, some people will overreact and start calling it "the greatest shock in history", and no one wants to deal with that sort of thing. He was slightly under the radar at the start of the event, a lot of people concentrating on Trump and other contenders. Well, that luxury is gone. All eyes are on him now, and he has to do the business. He has done it in every match so far, so one more and he is the champion.

I think Carter will stick with him in the early part of the match, probably resisting O'Sullivan's good run of frames better than any of his previous opponents. But it will be tough to beat him, O'Sullivan to win 18-15. ;)


BTW, this seems to be one of those threads that sometimes shows as "not accessible". Perhaps it's the "´" in "O´Sullivan", so if someone could rename it, that would be great. :)


This is the best and most objective summary of the forthcoming match I have read!

As you mention – Ronnie sometimes struggles with percentage players. IMHO Ali's nerves will be crucial to whether this match becomes interesting or not. I think many people are dismissing Carter based on his reputation, but if he can maintain the high quality and methodical game from the previous rounds – Ali will be Ronnie's toughest opponent this tournament.

[Masterdoctorgenius]

the last match was a PL match

ali lost it in curiouse fashion

3 times missed calles, and match over lol

[montoya10]

Well, well..

Here comes the nightmare final. I was hoping for a Maguire v O'Sullivan / Stevens, but it wasn't meant to be.
Where to begin, where to begin.. All right, first of all, to give Carter his due credit, let me say that he has played some excellent safety throughout the tournament up to this point. He was also fairly consistent in taking the chances he was represented and create openings for himself.
With all these positive things said and done, I should also say that Carter was very lucky against Maguire to run away with that match. Maguire possibly played his worst snooker in the semi-finals and Carter was let off the hook in numerous frames by Maguire. On another note, every frame that could have gone either way ended up in Carter's favor and he did enough to wrap up the win in the end.

But O'Sullivan has nearly played at close to his highest gears in this tournament. Don't be lulled into a false sense of Stevens not playing well. Stevens played as well as he could and at most of the times, he looked to be competent enough to cope with any other player, bar the first session. O'Sullivan outplayed all of his opponents and perhaps this is even a more dangerous sign than he himself playing well and composed.

I'm not going to ponder on their head-to-head records. Williams last beat O'Sullivan in 2002 and Stevens last beat him in 2003, and that pattern did not change. There is no reason for me to believe that Carter is more capable of these two to change his fate in a world championship final.

O'Sullivan will probably take command from the start and go on to win 18-9, something similar to his 2008 victory.

PS. I'm once again convinced me to watch this by fellow forum members. I hope it'll be worth to watch this time :)

[DamienB]

Guys what time does the match start?

[montoya10]

Guys what time does the match start?

Two hours to go.

[DamienB]

Thank you!!

[montoya10]

You're welcome (=

Come on Ronnie for the maximum!!

[Masterdoctorgenius]

1 hourt to go

COME ON RONNIE! We know u still got the magic.

[The Boss]

http://img.thesun.co.uk/multimedia/archive/00048/a_48490a.jpg

I am Dracula: O'Sullivan terrified younger viewers with his Bela Lugosi impression in 2004. Will we see a return of the fangs on Monday? :cool:

[asbani]

Ronnie will dominate this clearly, he never lost a World championship finals, and Ali carter has never beaten Ronnie on a television match.

[DamienB]

i hope to see a all out battle and not a walkover

[tawaterski]

I think the only guy in the planet who can destroy Rocket easily is MARK SELBY.

[montoya10]

http://img.thesun.co.uk/multimedia/archive/00048/a_48490a.jpg

I am Dracula: O'Sullivan terrified younger viewers with his Bela Lugosi impression in 2004. Will we see a return of the fangs on Monday? :cool:

Isn't this around the times he was mentored by the great Ray "The Dracula" Reardon?

[DamienB]

i don't think there's anybody who could easily destroy ROS

[Masterdoctorgenius]

i don't think there's anybody who could easily destroy ROS
maybe higgins at his best

[montoya10]

Mark Selby could do that. He never earned respect from Ronnie O'Sullivan by his play, in fact, in his interviews, Ronnie labeled his play as boring once, if I'm not wrong.
The only person who can cope with an O'Sullivan that is giving his head to the game is John Higgins. Very best of Stephen Hendry, Mark Williams, Judd Trump (all-attacking players) will also have a chance, but they need to be ultra-sharp, which isn't that likely.

[The Boss]

If Ronnie wins he will be the oldest Champion since Reardon in 1978 (45). Fangtastic :cool:

[Odrl]

Well, if we're looking at patterns... Only Stevens and White played in more than one World final without ever winning. On the other hand, every multiple champion has lost at least one World final, except O'Sullivan. ;)

So if Carter loses, he will become another exception, while O'Sullivan will stay one as well. :)

[tawaterski]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CZcyhRq_wv0

[montoya10]

Well, if we're looking at patterns... Only Stevens and White played in more than one World final without ever winning. On the other hand, every multiple champion has lost at least one World final, except O'Sullivan. ;)

So if Carter loses, he will become another exception, while O'Sullivan will stay one as well. :)

Well, I checked it out and actually, it looks like there is one more elite name belonging to that club, aside from Stevens and White. It's 1973 and 1975 finalist Eddie Charlton (=
In fact, White is a ten-time semi-finalist, apparently Charlton reached that stage eight times and this was Stevens' sixth semi-final. So, Carter shouldn't complain that much :D

[Masterdoctorgenius]

Bring the final on

come on ronnie

[Odrl]

Why was Carter introduced first? Isn't the higher seed usually introduced last? ;)

[Odrl]

Top notch safety play from Carter so far. :)

[daffie]

Wow...what a beautiful shot that was...the overhead cam-shot that is...giving us a full view of the table from the side, with Michaela placing the white behind the green and Ronnie awaiting his next try at escaping the snooker. Don't think I've ever seen that particular view before, for that long as well.

Anyway...on with the match :)

[Masterdoctorgenius]

first chance for ali after saftey error from ronnie

[PaddyLowson]

Personally, I hope we get a good final. It should be better than the 2008 final, but I do think that we wont be going much beyond half nine, ten o'clock tomorrow night

I remember being very disappointed with the way Ali played his second round match in the UK Championships, showing disinterest. Now he's in the final, he's played great snooker to get there. The midsession on Friday night to move from 10-6 to lead 14-7 was very impressive and I'm sure I'm not the only one who expected him to go 16-8 or actually go on and finish the job at 17-7.

Regarding the final this year, it will be interesting to see how much he has learnt from 2008 when Ronnie really did give him a hiding. Finishing the afternoon relatively early (i.e. winning the session) will have helped even if Ronnie won 17-10.

Ali's problem was that he slipped well behind early on last time and from 6-2 behind was always playing catch up, and from 11-5 behind, 18-8 wasn't a shocking scoreline. - This year he needs to stick with him early on, if he's 11-6 or worse overnight then it could become a runaway tomorrow.

The main target for both tomorrow is 10-7 That gives a little room for both. You have to remember if you win each session by the bare minimum then you're going to have a 15-10 lead heading into the final session, and that would be tough to overturn.

I do think Ronnie will win, and I don't think it'll be that close, but closer than last time, 18-12 is my prediction.

[montoya10]

Unlucky for Carter. Chance of a steal for O'Sullivan.

[Masterdoctorgenius]

this would make carter thinking

[montoya10]

O'Sullivan can't get the job done. Carter should be relieved.

[montoya10]

A poor string of safeties from O'Sullivan, not reflecting anything he previously played in this tournament.

[montoya10]

What a poor shot selection by Carter on the penultimate red. He would have always left that red on if he got anywhere close to the pocket.
Is that Hendry in the commentary box?

[Masterdoctorgenius]

ali too defensive

[breakman16]

Good start for Ronnie, Carter should have rolled the penultimate red in, gave himself almost no chance of potting it at that speed!

[montoya10]

Did John Virgo just think the pink couldn't be re-spotted? Oh God!

[cyclone]

Is that Hendry in the commentary box?

yes it is :)

[Masterdoctorgenius]

ronnie on fire

2-0

any1 6 frames on the bounce?

[Table_of_Reds]

Did John Virgo just think the pink couldn't be re-spotted? Oh God!It's not his fault, he spent most of his career wearing silly waistcoats and doing crappy impressions instead of playing snooker like the other commentators did.

[montoya10]

Magnificent break by O'Sullivan. That was one of the best of the championship.

[DamienB]

If that's not the best i don't know what is :)

[montoya10]

yes it is :)

He is usually spot on with his comments. And he isn't interrupting with the flow like some others, chit chatting like an inch shorter, an inch longer, two millimeters off the spot, etc. He is good to listen (=

[cally]

Wht's the growth on parrots nose eh...

Come on ron....;)

[breakman16]

It's not his fault, he spent most of his career wearing silly waistcoats and doing crappy impressions instead of playing snooker like the other commentators did.

Former UK Champion in 1979, so he's not a mug, have some respect!!

[Odrl]

ronnie on fire

2-0

any1 6 frames on the bounce?

Carter played a pretty good first frame, so I don't think he will be losing 6 in a row. Unless he has already cracked...

[montoya10]

It's not his fault, he spent most of his career wearing silly waistcoats and doing crappy impressions instead of playing snooker like the other commentators did.

Nice comment! He's the Craig Sager of snooker, I guess.

[breakman16]

Genius at work, great stuff Ronnie!

[montoya10]

Former UK Champion in 1979, so he's not a mug, have some respect!!

No disrespect to his career, but I only love his famous catchphrase "Where is the cue ball going?" and that's the only enjoyable aspect of his commentating skills.

[wemba]

What a delicious irony if O'Sullivan were to make a 147, with Hendry in the commentary box seeing his top break and prize money shared.

[daffie]

Hate being negative, but so far it looks like Ali could be bulldozered if he isn't careful. Mind you, he needs to be very attacking...staying positive, instead of trying to slow things down too much. It won't work with ROS.

Pretty good chance now for Ali...common son, get your 1st frame on the board!

[montoya10]

Carter will be very lucky if he bags this frame. He played an awful safety when a medium percentage pot was on.

[daffie]

Carter will be very lucky if he bags this frame. He played an awful safety when a medium percentage pot was on.

Exactly my point...he needs to stay positive and attacking (where the % is).

[daffie]

What a delicious irony if O'Sullivan were to make a 147, with Hendry in the commentary box seeing his top break and prize money shared.

That could provide for an entertaining moment or two indeed :)

[daffie]

Good first frame Ali! Well done. Keep the pressure on ROS.

[davisskeggsm]

I think O'sullivan should take the Championships' although Ali Carter should give Ronnie a run for his money. Shouls be a great match :D

Matt

[Table_of_Reds]

Former UK Champion in 1979, so he's not a mug, have some respect!!It was a joke, get off your high horse.

[breakman16]

well played Ali, good response!!

[breakman16]

It was a joke, get off your high horse.

lol where were your grins or emotions then?

[montoya10]

Century goes begging, but good frame to get on the board.

[breakman16]

No disrespect to his career, but I only love his famous catchphrase "Where is the cue ball going?" and that's the only enjoyable aspect of his commentating skills.

me too, but he's there to commentate on the game as he sees it, not to entertain the fans, the players will hopefully do that for us, great stuff so far, seen much worse than this I must say!!

[montoya10]

And Carter refuses yet another pot.
As soon as O'Sullivan settles down with his safety play, Carter won't be getting those chances so often, so, I don't really get his point, to be honest.

[Ronnie's tip]

Carter is murdering O'Sullivan with the safety's.

[Masterdoctorgenius]

ali refusing too much

not guts to oopen the bunch off his own break

the pack has been open ooof the safeties, look at the table

black and pink out of commision

[montoya10]

It will take ages to complete this frame under these circumstances.

[Masterdoctorgenius]

ebdon u delevepoed a new clon

[daffie]

Fine by me...I love this frame!

[maxz]

Ali is a joke... even early 80 is more entertaining than this. commentator got nothing much to talk about . lol

[montoya10]

ebdon u delevepoed a new clon

Funny it is (=
But he isn't half as good as Ebdon, in my eyes.

[Odrl]

What do you mean? Carter hasn't been much slower than O'Sullivan, has he?

[Masterdoctorgenius]

odrl, carter slowed him down

this is obvious

[daffie]

20 minutes...and counting :)

[montoya10]

He isn't playing that slow, to be fair.

But the balls are terribly situated and with a couple of bad shots from both, only two reds are left in the playable positions again.

[Ronnie's tip]

Can't we have a re-rack?

[Odrl]

odrl, carter slowed him down

this is obvious

How? Surely it would be ungentlemanly conduct if Carter physically restrained O'Sullivan when O'Sullivan was at the table? :)

O'Sullivan was pretty fast when he made that century. He had two decent chances to make something in this frame. First he missed a fairly easy long pot, then he failed to get away from the black cushion from that red over the pocket. The frame could have opened up if O'Sullivan got himself in, but he didn't. :)

[Odrl]

Can't we have a re-rack?

Noo, it's a pretty intriguing frame. :)

[montoya10]

It looks like the end now. Carter with a golden chance.

[daffie]

It looks like the end now. Carter with a golden chance.

And if he fails to take it, then if will be the first breakdown...so common Ali, make it count!

[cally]

Oops.................

[Masterdoctorgenius]

ali is a type of player which doenst make things happen

he let them happen

[daffie]

Btw what's that black armband on Ali's arm? Something Ebdon cooked up, maybe some positive-energy band of some sort?

May The Force Be With You! :)

[montoya10]

What poor safety play in this first mini-session from O'Sullivan. Apart from the century, he didn't really play decent enough for the world final out of the first four.

[cally]

It's them silly magnetic band things, i forget the name now but they are a big con and was removed from lots of shops that sold them...lol

I noticed hendry and a few others wear them to..

Placebo and nowt else

Silly buggers...lmao

[daffie]

Ah yes I thought it might be something like that...but hey, whatever works for ya...good on ya.

[LittleMissAlexa]

Carter has to win to get back into the sixteen so a lot riding on it

[Odrl]

It was important for Carter to get back to 2-2, he doesn't want to go behind early. He looks very composed at the moment.

But we've seen this week how dangerous O'Sullivan can be coming back from the interval. I think the fifth frame could be an important one. :)

[zombieman]

Carter has to win to get back into the sixteen so a lot riding on it

Yeah, because being not having to qualify for the next 3 or 4 ranking events is more important than a world title. Don't be silly.

[The Rook]

I think Ali deserves great credit for the way he has played in the first 4 frames. He was very unlucky in the first, and could have very easily been blitzed early. Carter showed great resilience to hold on, and hasn't made things easy for ROS. Ali has virtually no chance of out scoring Ronnie in open play, so I think it's important for him to keep things tight. Very early days, but hopefully this match will stay close!

[CueAntW147]

Nice feature at the interval about Alex Higgins, by his lovely daughter, nice to see 30 & 40 years after his titles he is remembered great stuff .;-)

[breakman16]

Bless beautiful lovely Lauren Higgins, hug for her!! lol

[daffie]

Tears in my eyes watching the between-frames-feature with Lauren Higgins about Alex, and also the interview with ROS. Fantastic to see Ronnie is such a positive and healthy frame of mind. I know how difficult depression can be to deal with, so great to see Ronnie getting on top of it (or at least a handle on it) after some rough years.

On with the match...very enjoyable so far. Ali keeping things tight and 2-2 is a good score for the first part of the 1st session.

[cally]

Nice feature at the interval about Alex Higgins, by his lovely daughter, nice to see 30 & 40 years after his titles he is remembered great stuff .;-)

Great was wasn't it.. Brought a lump to me throat did that..

Forgotten he will never be...:)

(As he glimpses to a framed pic of alex on the wall)

[Table_of_Reds]

Wow, O'Sullivan's safety today is as bad as I've ever seen. Carter will pick him off easily if it continues, his strategy of slowing him down to a snail's pace is working wonders as well.

[LittleMissAlexa]

Yeah, because being not having to qualify for the next 3 or 4 ranking events is more important than a world title. Don't be silly.

just pointing out he has extra pressures

[LittleMissAlexa]

Wow, O'Sullivan's safety today is as bad as I've ever seen. Carter will pick him off easily if it continues, his strategy of slowing him down to a snail's pace is working wonders as well.

peter ebdons idea no doubt

[Masterdoctorgenius]

ali misses a sitter on 42 break

ronnie didnt punish him in his first visit, but did enough to snatch the frame

should hurt ali a bit

[breakman16]

Not a bad idea, considering Ebdon has beaten the great Hendry in a world final and surely has an idea of what to do in this situation too!! lol Ali needed that frame, gonna find himself behind 5 3 if he carries on missing like that!

[breakman16]

ali misses a sitter on 42 break

ronnie didnt punish him in his first visit, but did enough to snatch the frame

should hurt ali a bit

exactly, it's not about winning first visiti after a mistake, winning the frame is all that counts, Ali will be gutted about losing that frame!

[Odrl]

Poor frame for Carter to lose, he should have won it in that first scoring visit after an incredible gift from O'Sullivan. Surely this relieves some pressure from O'Sullivan now, he knows he won't necessarily be punished when he makes a mistake.

[montoya10]

Poor frame for Carter to lose, he should have won it in that first scoring visit after an incredible gift from O'Sullivan. Surely this relieves some pressure from O'Sullivan now, he knows he won't necessarily be punished when he makes a mistake.

And he misses out on another chance.

[Table_of_Reds]

Carter only needs to play good hit and run snooker, his long potting and safety play will be enough to pick off O'Sullivan. His slow play will really mess with O'Sullivan's head sooner rather than later too.

[daffie]

Yup another chance missed...and yet another one in the meantime. Ali needs to stay focused about his shot selection...he really doesn't want to go for too much low % shots, and let Ronnie in with a chance!

His safety play is very good though...and it needs to be.

[Erwan_BZH]

Very boring so far.....Too much influence from Ebdo on Carter here. Trying to play so slowly..... :/

[daffie]

I respectfully disagree...very enjoyable and tense match. Lots going on...

[Table_of_Reds]

Another frame to Carter. Hit and run snooker, slow turgid play once again paying off.

Carter has the World Championship in the bag as long as he doesn't crap himself. He has O'Sullivan right where he wants him, doing to O'Sullivan exactly what he hates.

[daffie]

Good job Ali! Keep the pressure on...make sure you get at least one of the last 2 frames as well.

Edit : nice fluke btw :)

[zombieman]

Carter can't possibly beat O'Sullivan at his own game like Higgins or Trump can, so I understand why he went with the tactics what made Selby successful at battling Ronnie. It's obvious for me who to support though, I can't stand defensive snooker.

[montoya10]

It's a fairly good quality session compared to the semi-finals' first session. I'm content with this one.

[breakman16]

Good job Ali! Keep the pressure on...make sure you get at least one of the last 2 frames as well.

well said daffie, just what he needs to do, Erwan_BZH, there's more to snooker than breaks, Ali will do whatever he has to do to give himself a chance to win the match, and rightfully so!!

[lennon11]

I really hope at some point carter realizes this kind of negative snooker will kill the game,after all snooker is a spectator sport in need of the publics support and finance.

[Table_of_Reds]

Peter Edbon - World Champion 2002, 2012.

[montoya10]

I really hope at some point carter realizes this kind of negative snooker will kill the game,after all snooker is a spectator sport in need of the publics support and finance.

This is not an exhibition game for fans. They are playing for the world title.

[montoya10]

Peter Edbon - World Champion 2002, 2012.

Had it not been for Ray Reardon's mentoring, O'Sullivan would be nowhere near in the eve of a possible fourth world championship.

[daffie]

well said daffie, just what he needs to do, Erwan_BZH, there's more to snooker than breaks, Ali will do whatever he has to do to give himself a chance to win the match, and rightfully so!!

Couldn't agree more! It's called tactics.


I really hope at some point carter realizes this kind of negative snooker will kill the game,after all snooker is a spectator sport in need of the publics support and finance.

Couldn't disagree more! Ali is playing fantastic matchplay snooker and fair play to him.

[lennon11]

This is not an exhibition game for fans. They are playing for the world title.

But without the fans the game would die,just like billiards.

[breakman16]

needs to get high on the blue then cannon the red and black in play as soon as poss!

[Table_of_Reds]

Had it not been for Ray Reardon's mentoring, O'Sullivan would be nowhere near in the eve of a possible fourth world championship.Reardon taught O'Sullivan a skill. Edbon's taught Carter how to be irritating.

[breakman16]

But without the fans the game would die,just like billiards.

true, its just as well the fans dont moan all the time when games go scrappy, they realise there's more to snooker than century breaks, how old are you? Are you raised on centuries and one visit snooker??

[breakman16]

Reardon taught O'Sullivan a skill. Edbon's taught Carter how to be irritating.

like he gives a damn, carter has a lot of skill in the safety department, you're not realising the difference between having a skill and using and not giving a damn what anyone else thinks, he's there to do a JOB after all, not play a game for the enjoyment of others, this is PRO sport for goodness sake, you need to realise that!!

[LittleMissAlexa]

terrific 92 break

[montoya10]

Reardon taught O'Sullivan a skill. Edbon's taught Carter how to be irritating.

Carter isn't irritating. That's all I can say about it.

[coomsey76]

Wow..... what s clearance from Ronnie!!

[breakman16]

awww Ronnie, that's just almost taking the mickey making 90 from there, never seen the like, HOW can anyone make 90 from there???

[Table_of_Reds]

That's how you play snooker, Peter Carter.

[montoya10]

O'Sullivan possibly with one of the finest clearances ever.

[willtyson]

Amazing clearance, second best clearance I've ever seen! :)

[daffie]

true, its just as well the fans dont moan all the time when games go scrappy, they realise there's more to snooker than century breaks, how old are you? Are you raised on centuries and one visit snooker??

I'm guessing that could very well be the case. I grew up watching snooker in the 80s and one-visit quick firing snooker does NOT do it for me...but I tink that might have been apparent already ;)

Btw what a clearence from Ronnie though...incredible!

[Odrl]

Good break from O'Sullivan. He shouldn't have had the chance, but he took full advantage when Carter missed. Important frame coming up, it would be nice if Carter could make it 4-4 after the first session. :)

[daffie]

Amazing clearance, second best clearance I've ever seen! :)

Ok I'll bite ;) what do you consider to be the best ever then...the clearance by The Hurricane maybe?

[Masterdoctorgenius]

Good break from O'Sullivan. He shouldn't have had the chance, but he took full advantage when Carter missed. Important frame coming up, it would be nice if Carter could make it 4-4 after the first session. :)
yeah

but carter would have thought that he should get a second chance considering how the balls were spread

this clearnce was total genius

[breakman16]

another 200 quid to charity coming up, genius at work!!

[montoya10]

Now, my belief that he is going to call it the time is solidified by that pink after that third red.

[willtyson]

Ok I'll bite ;) what do you consider to be the best ever then...the clearance by The Hurricane maybe?

You guess correctly :D http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dViH2UERKBs

[daffie]

You guess correctly :D http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dViH2UERKBs

:) that one does take the cake!

Btw many server busy moments here lately...unfortunate, especially when writing a reply...but hey, how can I really complain...this forum is the best! :)

[Odrl]

Nice finish from O'Sullivan. He really got the most out of every session this week, except for the first one against Robertson. Carter was doing the same, especially against Maguire, but he must be disappointed to be behind here. It will be important not to let O'Sullivan get away tonight. :)

[Masterdoctorgenius]

what a way to response to ali slow tactics

sublime clearance followed by perfect break of 141

think ronnie wants to finish it as quickly as possible

and the 5th frame to go 3-2 up after carter on a break of 42 missed a sitter could prove pivotal

[daffie]

Nice finish from O'Sullivan. He really got the most out of every session this week, except for the first one against Robertson. Carter was doing the same, especially against Maguire, but he must be disappointed to be behind here. It will be important not to let O'Sullivan get away tonight. :)

Yes I agree...very very important not to give Ronnie the chance of running away with the match, especially at this rather early stage.

[lennon11]

true, its just as well the fans dont moan all the time when games go scrappy, they realise there's more to snooker than century breaks, how old are you? Are you raised on centuries and one visit snooker??
Im a 33year old man,with a right to air my opinion without being shot down quite so rudely,I never said anyone else opinion was wrong only that in my opinion for snooker to grow it has to appeal to more than just the snooker fan but general public and the way to do that would be for them to see a more expansive style of snooker thus attracting more sponsors and fans...again only my opinion though!

[gazza147]

Ronnie to Win 18-9

[breakman16]

what a way to response to ali slow tactics

sublime clearance followed by perfect break of 141

think ronnie wants to finish it as quickly as possible

and the 5th frame to go 3-2 up after carter on a break of 42 missed a sitter could prove pivotal

yeah I said that to my bro, that's the difference between 4 all and 5 3 of course!!

[doorag]

I hope the 93 winds up on youtube. Somehow managed to miss it.

Wink wink.

[breakman16]

Im a 33year old man,with a right to air my opinion without being shot down quite so rudely,I never said anyone else opinion was wrong only that in my opinion for snooker to grow it has to appeal to more than just the snooker fan but general public and the way to do that would be for them to see a more expansive style of snooker thus attracting more sponsors and fans...again only my opinion though!

there's been lots of that though! I asked a question and you gave an answer is all, Lots of centuries and high scoring, more so than some tournaments of the past, it's too important a match to expect a high quality session with lots of breaks, it hardly ever happens in the world final, just the nature of the beast! Just be grateful you get the chance to watch the final live, every ball, unlike in some countries and that it happens to a reasonable hour for you to watch it!

[daffie]

what a way to response to ali slow tactics

sublime clearance followed by perfect break of 141

think ronnie wants to finish it as quickly as possible

and the 5th frame to go 3-2 up after carter on a break of 42 missed a sitter could prove pivotal

Well, this is exactly what Ali is trying to prevent by applying his tactics. So far it has worked...to a degree.

We all know that if Ronnie gets on a roll like the last 2 frames, then he is pretty much unstoppable.

Ali needs to comtinue doing what he did in the first 6 frames...

[montoya10]

Im a 33year old man,with a right to air my opinion without being shot down quite so rudely,I never said anyone else opinion was wrong only that in my opinion for snooker to grow it has to appeal to more than just the snooker fan but general public and the way to do that would be for them to see a more expansive style of snooker thus attracting more sponsors and fans...again only my opinion though!

I get your point, but this is a snooker forum, so, there is a fair chance that you'll run across a traditional snooker fan, not the ones the organizations try to attract. Turning snooker into something like darts will be a disgrace to the sport and I'm sure such a move would really draw public appeal. Drunken fans, shouting in the arena to the players, making quite a bit of noise, fifteen second shot clock and the game is greatly promoted!
So, in other words, you have the right to express the way you think, but my advise is don't set your expectations too high, as there are many true snooker fans who tend to disagree with your ideas in this forum (=

Note: I know you made no points about how snooker should be promoted, so, it looks like I've made the points up myself. So true, but, then again, you can only limit the adoption of a specific style by going way off the traditions of the sport and that's what I call a disgrace. It should be left as it has been.

[lennon11]

there's been lots of that though! I asked a question and you gave an answer is all, Lots of centuries and high scoring, more so than some tournaments of the past, it's too important a match to expect a high quality session with lots of breaks, it hardly ever happens in the world final, just the nature of the beast! Just be grateful you get the chance to watch the final live, every ball, unlike in some countries and that it happens to a reasonable hour for you to watch it!

Just wish ali had shown a little more intent to entertain even though it is a very important match.

[coomsey76]

Those last two frames from Ronnie were pure class....... be interesting to see how Ali reacts and plays tonight!!

[DamienB]

Only an aggressive player stands a chance against Ronnie, this pot and play safe that Ali's playing does not stand a chance he needs to attack

[montoya10]

Only an aggressive player stands a chance against Ronnie, this pot and play safe that Ali's playing does not stand a chance he needs to attack

He doesn't have that much firepower in his game, so, I don't expect him to be in an attacking mode. All he can do is to make the most out of his chances, not throw away leads and keep the pressure on O'Sullivan with consistently good safety play.
And so far, his break building was well off the mark to get this done.

[FOXMULDER]

Pressure off O'Sullivan for tonight's session. He can cruise on autopilot if necessary, and still win 2 or 3 frames.

Carter needs 4-4 bare minimum tonight. If Ronnie goes 10-6 ahead I can only see one result.

(well, I can only see one result anyway...)

[TarHeel7703@yahoo.com]

When will they start again?

[coomsey76]

When will they start again?

They resume at 7pm.....

[Wimm]

I think the main problem is Ali is trying not to lose the match instead of winning the match. Didn't get seriously punished in the previous matched, this time it's different. Another fact is that Ronnie knows Ali's changing his game, that is not really a positive way of playing.

[daffie]

During the break I came across NHRA Funny Cars dragracing on ESPN...talk about someting completely different from snooker :) These guys are doing +500km/h in under 4 seconds...snooker not fast enough for you?
Ah well that's enough of that I suppose...too much testosteron for my linking. Impressive technical feat though, scary as it is.
Edit : excuse the off-topic brain-fart ;)

[breakman16]

Just wish ali had shown a little more intent to entertain even though it is a very important match.

but if he attacks and tries to play up to the crowd then he'll lose, there's NO WAY he can live with Ronnie scoring and attacking, anyone want some Matchroom aftershave btw?? lol

[daffie]

I think the main problem is Ali is trying not to lose the match instead of winning the match. Didn't get seriously punished in the previous matched, this time it's different. Another fact is that Ronnie knows Ali's changing his game, that is not really a positive way of playing.

I'm not so sure about that. Ali has been playing the same game all tournament long, it's just a new adapted way of playing for him. And especially necessary against Ronnie. I agree, Ali can't beat Ronnie playing his (fast) game. This is the only way of having a chance at winning.

[Masterdoctorgenius]

I'm not so sure about that. Ali has been playing the same game all tournament long, it's just a new adapted way of playing for him. And especially necessary against Ronnie. I agree, Ali can't beat Ronnie playing his (fast) game. This is the only way of having a chance at winning.
this type of game works only if ronnie is mentally fragile

but nowadays it isnt the case anymore, he is more patient and waits for his chances that will surely come

2 years ago it might have worked but only selby which he doesnt respect much could have a chance with these kind of tactics though i am not sure if selby in form could have beaten ronnie in top form and stabile mind

[daffie]

this type of game works only if ronnie is mentally fragile

but nowadays it isnt the case anymore, he is more patient and waits for his chances that will surely come

2 years ago it might have worked but only selby which he doesnt respect much could have a chance with these kind of tactics though i am not sure if selby in form could have beaten ronnie in top form and stabile mind

Still...it is *the only chance* one has against Ronnie. So...what other option does one have really ;)

[daffie]

Btw no-one else getting the "server busy" messages every now&then (pretty often today)...am I the only one?

[montoya10]

Btw no-one else getting the "server busy" messages every now&then (pretty often today)...am I the only one?

It started right after Hendry retired. It will exist forever when O'Sullivan retires.

[DeanH]

Btw no-one else getting the "server busy" messages every now&then (pretty often today)...am I the only one?

no, you are not being picked on! :D I thought it was my continuing router problem :rolleyes: :D
the forum must be busy for some reason...
;)

[Ronnie's tip]

Does anyone know why the introduction was so low key? Last year the atmosphere when Higgins/Trump came out was unbelievable with the smoke, music, fans standing up ect.

I was expecting something similar today.

[daffie]

no, you are not being picked on! :D I thought it was my continuing router problem :rolleyes: :D
the forum must be busy for some reason...
;)

:) I had thoughts along the same line...thought the probs might be originating on my ipad, which I use of course when in front of the tele watching the snooker. Thanks.


It started right after Hendry retired. It will exist forever when O'Sullivan retires.

That seems like the most logical conclusion ;)

[daffie]

Does anyone know why the introduction was so low key? Last year the atmosphere when Higgins/Trump came out was unbelievable with the smoke, music, fans standing up ect.

I was expecting something similar today.

Me too. I felt Rob Walker was also very low-key during the whole of this tournament, with some exceptions. It seems like he has lost some of his fire :) Hope he will pick it up soon....I liked it a lot, got the crowd going as well each time.

Last year was during the evening's session, don't know 1st or 2nd night. Hopefully some of that again this year...never seen anything like that before (or after)...the hairs on the back of my neck where up!

[Masterdoctorgenius]

Does anyone know why the introduction was so low key? Last year the atmosphere when Higgins/Trump came out was unbelievable with the smoke, music, fans standing up ect.

I was expecting something similar today.

this was the last session of last year

watch tomorrows last session then it will be surely the same or more buzz

[daffie]

Haven't seen the Barry Hearn piece on BBC yet (taped it though)...is it worthwhile watching?

[PatBlock]

no, you are not being picked on! :D I thought it was my continuing router problem :rolleyes: :D
the forum must be busy for some reason...
;)

ferret explains the problem here;

http://www.thesnookerforum.com/board/showthread.php/37614-Trouble-logging-on?highlight=trouble

-

[breakman16]

Haven't seen the Barry Hearn piece on BBC yet (taped it though)...is it worthwhile watching?

YESSS!!! Barry Hearn is a lucky man, but he's a hard worker, a legend, he should be knighted for his services to sport tomorrow, I'm a huge darts fan since 1998 and a life long snooker fan, I'm sure Phil Taylor would take a bullet for him! Sir Barry Hearn. . .

[daffie]

ferret explains the problem here;

http://www.thesnookerforum.com/board/showthread.php/37614-Trouble-logging-on?highlight=trouble

-

Ha...those Chinese again huh :p Somebody wake Mark Allen up...

Cheers for the link.

[daffie]

YESSS!!! Barry Hearn is a lucky man, but he's a hard worker, a legend, he should be knighted for his services to sport tomorrow, I'm a huge darts fan since 1998 and a life long snooker fan, I'm sure Phil Taylor would take a bullet for him! Sir Barry Hearn. . .

Cheers...sounds like a must-watch then :)

[daffie]

Btw anyone know the introduction music on bbc...something like "oh oh oh oh...i'm a lovely boy". Sounds pretty corny like this, but actually sounds like a pretty good song...(and no, it's not Andrew Gold :))

[Ronnie's tip]

Fancy Carter to take this session, leaving it close for tommorow.

[daffie]

Well...Rob's back! :)

Ok then...very interested to see what this evening's session will bring. I'm thinking it might be a pretty high score for Ronnie though.

[PatBlock]

Very early days, but hopefully this match will stay close!

Would be nice, but I can see ROS pulling away tonight.

-

[Table_of_Reds]

Fancy Carter to take this session, leaving it close for tommorow.I'm surprised you haven't predicted some sort of alien to appear and abduct O'Sullivan in his spaceship yet.

[snookerfran]

I'm surprised you haven't predicted some sort of alien to appear and abduct O'Sullivan in his spaceship yet.

Surely the alien would consider Ronnie unworthy and just ignore him. He's been rubbish so far. ;)

[daffie]

I'm surprised you haven't predicted some sort of alien to appear and abduct O'Sullivan in his spaceship yet.


Surely the alien would consider Ronnie unworthy and just ignore him. He's been rubbish so far. ;)

You're both mistaken..the alien is sitting right there in his seat atm, with a snooker cue right beside him :)

[daffie]

The best possible start indeed!

Good job Ali.

[Ronnie's tip]

Good frame for Carter. 2 mistakes by Ronnie in that frame though.

[montoya10]

Carter with some terrific potting. Good frame for the start.

[coomsey76]

Just the start Ali needed......

[breakman16]

GO ON ALI!!! Doesnt matter how he wins them, just that he does. . .

[PatBlock]

Ali had to let Ronnie know there that his mistake would cost him, needed a couple of visits, but got there in the end.

-

[Ronnie's tip]

Ronnie has been kissing the balk colors than anyone I've ever seen...

[Table_of_Reds]

Ronnie has been kissing the balk colors than anyone I've ever seen...Ronnie's going to lose this final, he's not going to pot another ball and Carter's going to get a 147 in every frame.

Happy now?

[montoya10]

Ronnie has been kissing the balk colors than anyone I've ever seen...

I think it's down to the fact that you're a fan of him and you watch him more than anyone else (=

[montoya10]

O'Sullivan pinched a nervy frame to re-establish his lead.

[breakman16]

Good effort Ronnie, managing to keep Carter at arms length, interesting stuff, mental battles galore going on I think!!

[montoya10]

O'Sullivan not messing around and his sole care is about the title, not maximum.

This is his last hurrah.

[breakman16]

Great shot, great chane for Carter!!

[Ronnie's tip]

That's another thing I've noticed about Ronnie in this WC...the packs have cursed him. So often he's gone into them but been left with nothing.

Carter was lucky not to leave anything when those two balls went flying. Expect Carter to win this frame now.

[Masterdoctorgenius]

this could hurt ronnie

[breakman16]

Roll the blue in with right hand side Ali, and play a medium distance red which is 3 quarter ball or near as dammit straight, just accept what the table allows you to do or gives you!!

[Masterdoctorgenius]

what a lucker is ali turning put tobe#

nothing on

[daffie]

Very important frame this I feel for Ali to take...6-5 behind with 6 frames to play tonight, and taking the frame off Ronnie with a 60 point lead...BUT, Ali missing the red has spoiled that chance. He really doesn't need to be making mistakes like that at critical junctions.

Ali needs to keep his cool now!

[breakman16]

That's another thing I've noticed about Ronnie in this WC...the packs have cursed him. So often he's gone into them but been left with nothing.

Carter was lucky not to leave anything when those two balls went flying. Expect Carter to win this frame now.

He wasnt perfect on that black, another couple of inch would have left him lower on the black, then he could have got more pace into the cue ball, also he hit the front red first, he meant to miss that, see the replay to see what I mean, not unlucky, he just misjudged it!!

[Masterdoctorgenius]

ali missed a big trick here

thats he wont be a WC

he has to stteal such frames

[breakman16]

ali missed a big trick here

thats he wont be a WC

he has to stteal such frames

exactly and anyone who says ronnie was lucky is only partly correct, Ali should have taken that chance, if u cant clear up from there regardless of the score then you can never be world champion, simple as that!!

[montoya10]

He wasnt perfect on that black, another couple of inch would have left him lower on the black, then he could have got more pace into the cue ball, also he hit the front red first, he meant to miss that, see the replay to see what I mean, not unlucky, he just misjudged it!!

Yes, it was a loose positional shot on the black. It's very easy to miss out on the target ball when playing a cannon and end up empty-handed afterwards.
Meanwhile, Carter thrashed a big chance to stay in touch. Big frame coming up now.

[LittleMissAlexa]

i will be chastised fpor suggesting this but Ali's breakbuilding has been very below par today thats why he is losing

[LittleMissAlexa]

exactly and anyone who says ronnie was lucky is only partly correct, Ali should have taken that chance, if u cant clear up from there regardless of the score then you can never be world champion, simple as that!!

its rare for Ronnie to misjudge cannons

[breakman16]

i will be chastised fpor suggesting this but Ali's breakbuilding has been very below par today thats why he is losing

not from me, you are stating fact, he hasnt scored enough for sure!!

[breakman16]

its rare for Ronnie to misjudge cannons

it is, but it was made into a difficult shot by Ronnie, by not being good on the black, meanwhile Ali is failing to punish him for any mistakes he makes!

[snookerfran]

i will be chastised fpor suggesting this but Ali's breakbuilding has been very below par today thats why he is losing

Yes, and he's playing safe when he's run out of position instead of trying to keep the break going. He's usually fantastic at potting those difficult balls.

[LittleMissAlexa]

stephen "concentrating on thje pot forgetting the position" better that than the other way around

[montoya10]

i will be chastised fpor suggesting this but Ali's breakbuilding has been very below par today thats why he is losing

I disagree that he was below par.
He was downright awful for me.

[LittleMissAlexa]

Ali buggering up position again

[Table_of_Reds]

Going in off like that is ridiculous.

[Ronnie's tip]

Wow so unlucky Ronnie...

[Masterdoctorgenius]

tjhis is unreal

how many times ronnie is unfortuante

[LittleMissAlexa]

no dennis he wasnt unlucky he shouldnt of been straight

[LittleMissAlexa]

Going in off like that is ridiculous.

better in off than missing the pot the opponent does have to play from the baulk end

[LittleMissAlexa]

red to yellow poor again

[montoya10]

Poor standard compared to the afternoon session. 2-2 is a fair result.

[zombieman]

"How to share a session with Ronnie O'Sullivan with club level positional play"
by Ali Carter

[Table_of_Reds]

better in off than missing the pot the opponent does have to play from the baulk endDidn't miss the pot though did he? I wonder if O'Sullivan will give Carter the sarcastic round of applause for all the pieces of luck he's getting like Carter did to Trump (on top of bullying him on Twitter).

[Ronnie's tip]

To be honest I'm expecting Ronnie to have a session of pure luck soon, because I don't think he's had the run of the ball in any of his matches. Usually it evens itself out.

[breakman16]

no dennis he wasnt unlucky he shouldnt of been straight

exactly, he KNOWS the in off's on, played it and went in off, all pros have done that lots of times in their careers, going through his mind would have been "I could go in off here", 2 all is a fair result I think, Ali needed to be 6-6 though, when he could have cleared up when he was 60 behind!

[PatBlock]

That white going into the middle pocket off Ronnie's pot, has kept this match allive IMO.

-

[breakman16]

"How to share a session with Ronnie O'Sullivan with club level positional play"
by Ali Carter

lol 100 pages Ali please, due for publishing in 6 month, absolutely love it Sir!!!

[breakman16]

Didn't miss the pot though did he? I wonder if O'Sullivan will give Carter the sarcastic round of applause for all the pieces of luck he's getting like Carter did to Trump (on top of bullying him on Twitter).

it wouldnt work anyway, if bullying on twitter worked it would be like being back in school for goodness sake!

[Table_of_Reds]

exactly, he KNOWS the in off's on, played it and went in off, all pros have done that lots of times in their careers, going through his mind would have been "I could go in off here", 2 all is a fair result I think, Ali needed to be 6-6 though, when he could have cleared up when he was 60 behind!She was talking about Carter being straight on the black and apparently being 'unlucky' (according to Taylor) when the cannon onto the two reds didn't work out. Yes, O'Sullivan knew the in-off was a possibility, but it was a very very low possibility.


it wouldnt work anyway, if bullying on twitter worked it would be like being back in school for goodness sake!It was still very unsportsmanlike. I'm surprised Carter got away with it without much criticism from the public and without any sort of punishment from World Snooker, when Williams and Allen have been absolutely torn apart.

[sklskl]

I think Carter has the mileage to take this match all the way but I can see Ronnie having a fantastic session. He'll go on a little run.

[montoya10]

Carter is on the ropes. He has got to produce some sort of form or he's in real trouble.

[breakman16]

She was talking about Carter being straight on the black and apparently being 'unlucky' (according to Taylor) when the cannon onto the two reds didn't work out. Yes, O'Sullivan knew the in-off was a possibility, but it was a very very low possibility.

It was still very unsportsmanlike. I'm surprised Carter got away with it without much criticism from the public and without any sort of punishment from World Snooker, when Williams and Allen have been absolutely torn apart.

Williams and Allen were more upfront though, but I do agree that because it was on the Internet, the things people say dont get punished as much for some reason!

[Masterdoctorgenius]

carter missed two black off its spot

unforgivable

he is for the taking this evening

[snookerfran]

So what do you all reckon the end of session score will be? 8-8? 11-5? (I'm saying 9-7.)

[checkSide]

I haven't bothered to read the whole thread, so forgive me if this has been mentioned.

Ali Carter has been hanging out with Ebdon too much.
Ebdon has only beaten Ronnie 5 times in 15 attempts, so he doesn't know how to beat him himself. He has never devised any tactics to beat Ronnie consistently, and now he is promoting his losing style to Carter under the guise of "matchplay".

No one can beat Ronnie tactically!!

Carter would be much better off playing his natural game....

Cheers :)

[daffie]

So what do you all reckon the end of session score will be? 8-8? 11-5? (I'm saying 9-7.)

Thought 9 frames are to be played tonight? If so, I'm guestimating a 11-6 scoreline.

ROS has so much self believe and calmness that he can afford to bide his time...and pounce when the time comes, and it seems now is that time.

[sklskl]

Am I the only one or are any of you lot getting sick of the commentators?

Some of their comments are becoming so repetitive and clichey. One that I'm sick off is

"Where's the cue ball going"

[daffie]

Am I the only one or are any of you lot getting sick of the commentators?

Some of their comments are becoming so repetitive and clichey. One that I'm sick off is

"Where's the cue ball going"

I think even the rest of the commentator team is getting very tired of the cueball shout from JV. He tried to tone it down somewhat, but every now and then he lapses into old mannerisms.

And he does it again, right on cue :(

[sklskl]

I think even the rest of the commentator team is getting very tired of the cueball shout from JV. He tried to tone it down somewhat, but every now and then he lapses into old mannerisms.

Well wouldn't you believe it he said it again......

[narl]

I swear this "WHERES THE CUEBALL GOING" routine is getting tedious.

[LittleMissAlexa]

Am I the only one or are any of you lot getting sick of the commentators?

Some of their comments are becoming so repetitive and clichey. One that I'm sick off is

"Where's the cue ball going"

read this just as john said it

[Masterdoctorgenius]

low standard

carter really suffering, he is there for the taking

ronnie making the most of it but nearly went in off dont know how

the run of the balls is unreal in this match

[Table_of_Reds]

Am I the only one or are any of you lot getting sick of the commentators?

Some of their comments are becoming so repetitive and clichey. One that I'm sick off is

"Where's the cue ball going"The one upside of Hendry retiring is he's now in the commentary box, and he really is an excellent commentator. The best of the current lot IMO alongside Foulds and Griffiths.

[snookerfran]

Thought 9 frames are to be played tonight?

Ooh, I didn't realise. Awesome!


I think even the rest of the commentator team is getting very tired of the cueball shout from JV. He tried to tone it down somewhat, but every now and then he lapses into old mannerisms.

And he does it again, right on cue :(

He screamed it into the microphone twice last frame. It's getting pretty old now.