Shanghai Masters Qualifying and Main Draw

[ferret]

See the draws here - http://www.thesnookerblog.com/shanghai-masters-qualifying-and-main-draw/

[LittleMissAlexa]

should the draw really be before the cut off point?

[daffie]

Darn...still one full month to go untill the 1st major (televised) tournament of this year's snooker calendar! :05.18-flustered:

[SnookerFan]

Australia and Wuxi got on television.

[SnookerFan]

Eurosport have announced the coverage. As usual, they have forgotten about the final.

BRITISH EUROSPORT (all times BST)

Monday September 17

0730-1030
British Eurosport 2

0800-1030
British Eurosport

1030-1130
British Eurosport

1230-1530
British Eurosport

1230-1530
British Eurosport 2

1900-2200
British Eurosport 2

Tuesday September 18

0730-1030
British Eurosport

0730-1030
British Eurosport 2

1030-1145
British Eurosport

1230-1400
British Eurosport

1230-1530
British Eurosport 2

1900-220
British Eurosport 2


Wednesday September 19

0730-1030
British Eurosport

0730-1030
British Eurosport 2

1030-1130
British Eurosport

1230-1530
British Eurosport 2

1230-1330
British Eurosport

1900-2200
British Eurosport 2

Thursday September 20

0730-1030
British Eurosport

0730-1030
British Eurosport 2

1030-1130
British Eurosport

1230-1530
British Eurosport 2

1230-1530
British Eurosport

1900-2200
British Eurosport 2


Friday September 21

0730-1030
British Eurosport

0730-1030
British Eurosport 2
1030-1145
British Eurosport

1145-1230

British Eurosport
1230-1530
British Eurosport

1900-2100
British Eurosport 2

2200-0000
British Eurosport

Saturday September 22

0730-1000
British Eurosport

1300-1330
British Eurosport 2

1330-1630
British Eurosport 2

1930-2100
British Eurosport 2

Sunday September 23

1815-2000
British Eurosport

2100-2245
British Eurosport 2

Monday September 24 (replays)

0700-0900
British Eurosport 2

2000-2130
British Eurosport 2

[daffie]

Cheers for the schedule. I checked the online Eurosport schedule for Holland 2 days ago and saw that Eurosport will be airing on both channels simultaneously. This will make my job harder of scheduling the HD recorder...will have to check each night before to find out the schedule for the next day...specifically which matches will be aired on which Eurosport channel....

But...looking forward to the first "big" tournament of the year...

[SnookerFan]

I'm not going to see much of this. I'm out Monday night and Friday night and can't watch any during the day due to work. Sunday, I'll be too hungover from a pre-planned thing on Saturday night, so will just have to snatch it here and there when I can.

[SnookerFan]

Pity it's not one of those tournaments that starts at 6am. I've been known to watch an hour or two before I leave for work on occasion. :D

[gazza147]

Yes it is quite awkward to swap back and fore and Recording is a Nightmare but at least there is Snooker on at Last!...Seems a Long Break doesnt it.

[SnookerFan]

It's been a while. I had the same problem with the Australian Open and Wuxi Classic. On during the day when I'm at work, so didn't watch as much as I'd have liked.

Am thinking of booking the UK Championship off work.

[eric1234]

Anyone know if O'sullivan is playing the Shanghai Masters?

[LittleMissAlexa]

nope draw was done before he signed the contract its the last event his missing from (excluding et 2 which has already started)

[eric1234]

Thanks Alexa!

[daffie]

Yes it is quite awkward to swap back and fore and Recording is a Nightmare but at least there is Snooker on at Last!...Seems a Long Break doesnt it.

Well yesterday I found a solution...bought a new HD recorder (the old one was crap anyway), which can handle 2 timed recordings simultaneously. So now I can just record Eurosport HD and Eurosport2 HD during afternoons and decide later on when I get home which match(es) to watch :snooker:

[Odrl]

Right, snooker week starts tomorrow. I think I'm right in saying this is the first time the Shanghai Masters is only the third main event on the calendar, which means it's not so anxiously anticipated, but it also doesn't have the disadvantage of players coming into the event out of form.

I guess it will be tough to predict the players' form, because the last medium-length event was a month ago, and everything since was only the best-of-7 format. But let's try it anyway...

Quarter 1:

Mark Selby v. Jamie Cope
Stuart Bingham v. Tom Ford
Ding Junhui v. M.King/Zhao X.
Shaun Murphy v. Dominic Dale

We start with a fairly strong quarter. Selby has a tricky 1st round opponent in Cope, one of the most interesting matches of the round, but considering Selby's recent record against Cope, he is a big favourite. Still, Cope has a good record in China, so I wouldn't rule him out completely. Stuart Bingham could be a bigger danger to Selby here, as he has proven to be something of an early-season specialist recently, and already has a ranking final appearance to his name this season. So it's most likely going to be between those two, in my opinion, with Selby starting as favourite, despite his loss to Bingham in the Wuxi Classic in June.

Ding and Murphy are the other two big names in this quarter, and I'm sure the Chinese audience would love to see them meet in the 2nd round here. Ding's draw is not too bad, a fairly low-profile wildcard player or Mark King, so he should come through if he plays well. But it's always tough to predict his form, especially in China where he often plays a bad tournament. Shaun Murphy has also had his share of early exits in China, especially in recent seasons, and he does face quite a tricky opponent in Dominic Dale, a former Shanghai Masters champion. Ding and Murphy have played each other quite a lot, with Murphy being on top in their rivalry at the moment. His win over Ding in the 2010 Wuxi Classic final is particularly memorable, as he was 8-2 down and came back to win 9-8. Another long matches between the two was in the 2nd round of the 2009 UK Championship, where Ding thrashed Murphy 9-3. I don't have much faith in either of these two, but I think Ding is probably more likely of the two to show some form here.

Quarter 2:

John Higgins v. J.Jones/Lu N.
Martin Gould v. R.Day/Wang Y.
Allister Carter v. R.Milkins/Zhou Y.
Stephen Maguire v. Peter Ebdon

A very intriguing quarter. This is John Higgins' first appearance in the main events this season, so it will be very interesting to see his performance. He had a terrible last season, without a single highlight, and taking a break during the two summer events is not really a good sign for this season. Still, the last time he had a poor season he followed it with a good one, so if he still has the motivation, he could become the man to beat again. Of all the wildcard matches, Jones against Lu is surely the most promising. Lu prevailed in their encounter in Beijing in April and went on to beat Murphy on that occasion. He lost 5-4 to Doherty in Wuxi, but I'm sure he will fancy his chances again here. I'm sure we are all very interested to see what kind of season Jones has after his terrific performance in last season's WC. This is his first real chance to do something, but the draw is very difficult, although he has already beaten Higgins on TV, in a short match last season. Two more players deserve a mention here... Martin Gould finally won a couple of matches as a seeded player in Australia. Without a consistent top player in this quarter, Gould could well take advantage. Ryan Day? Well, he has always played well in China, so with a bit of form, he could go through as well. I usually go with Higgins when it's tough to call, but I'm tempted to go with Day here.

Very strong second part of this quarter. I'm not sure what to expect of Carter. He returned to form at the WC, then lost early in the first two main events of the season, but played pretty well in the recent PTCs. He could be in danger again here, facing a very good traveler in Robert Milkins. Maguire against Ebdon, undoubtedly the match of the 1st round, is of course a repeat of the China Open final, which was a good and hard-fought match. Peter Ebdon already has a ranking final to his name this season, and having won his last two ranking titles in China, I guess he can now be considered a China specialist. Maguire hasn't done anything in the major events so far, but has been very good in the PTCs, so it's reasonable to expect some form from him. Carter against Maguire isn't a common pairing, so it would be interesting to see, as would Carter against Ebdon, after their successful relationship at the WC. Of the three top players, I think Maguire is the most likely to go through.

Quarter 3:

Mark Williams v. Mark Davis
Ricky Walden v. S.Davis/Zhu Y.
Matthew Stevens v. Joe Perry
Neil Robertson v. F.O'Brien/Chen F.

Here we have a very strong 1st round match between Williams and Davis. Davis reached the semi-finals of the first two ranking events, which is probably the most consistency we've seen from any player so far this season. He has a habit of knocking out big favourites in the early rounds, and here is another great opportunity. Well, if you call Williams a big favourite at this point in time. He is traditionally an excellent traveler, but not in the last couple of overseas events. His PTC campaign so far has been quite good, so maybe he will be up for it this time. Ricky Walden could be a big danger in this event. Having won the Wuxi Classic in June, he is now a two-time ranking event winner in China, with a bunch of other decent results as well. I don't think he should have too much trouble in the 1st round here, but his 2nd round match should be a good one, against either opponent. Tough to call again, but I guess Williams is due a good tournament.

Then we have what is probably one of the weaker parts of the draw. Neil Robertson is the big name, but he is the one top player who really struggles in the Chinese events. He finally got past the 2nd round on a couple of occasions last season, and will probably do so again this season with the increased number of tournaments. But he is probably not on many people's list of immediate contenders. That slightly opens the draw for other players here, Matthew Stevens being the obvious choice. He was impressive in the WC last season, reaching the business end of the tournament after a couple of mediocre seasons. That has always been an event that suited him, but these Chinese events are not everyone's cup of tea, so I'm not sure Stevens will be particularly comfortable here either. Joe Perry? Well, recently he has played better than a season or two ago, and he has always been a very solid player, well capable of taking advantage when the top players are out of sorts. I don't think this part of the draw will play a major role in the context of the tournament, but someone has to win it, so we'll just go with Robertson.

Quarter 4:

Stephen Lee v. Marcus Campbell
Graeme Dott v. J.Robertson/J.Long
Mark Allen v. M.Fu/Lu H.
Judd Trump v. Barry Hawkins

Stephen Lee's name is the most dominant in this part of the draw. His opening match against Marcus Campbell could be a tricky one, as Campbell has been known to play a strong overseas tournament and knock some favourites out. Lee's form hasn't been as impressive recently as in early 2012, but still quite solid, and in line with his current ranking. Another appearance at the business end of a ranking tournament would not be a surprise at all. On the other hand, Graeme Dott has been struggling to get through these rounds recently. Jimmy Robertson doesn't look like a tricky draw at first glance, if he comes through at all, because Jin Long is certainly one of the most dangerous wildcards here. In any case, if Dott does get through, his record against Lee is very poor, so I make Lee a big favourite in this part of the draw.

And finally, a series of interesting names at the bottom end of the draw. Starting with Trump against Hawkins, one of the most promising pairs of the 1st round, particularly now that Hawkins comes to the event as the Australian champion. But since being the winner of the previous event often works against players, he will do well to beat Trump here. I expect Trump to compete for a few titles this season, but at the same time, he probably won't be a consistent presence at the business end of every tournament, particularly with tough draws such as this one. Speaking of consistency, Marco Fu's appearance in the semi-finals of the Australian Open could quite possibly be his only good result this season. In any case, he rarely follows a good tournament with another one, but if he does, he is certainly another candidate for getting through this quarter. And finally, Mark Allen... Well, we know China isn't his favourite place, but at the same time, it's the place of his only ranking title so far. He has had a good record in the big three events in recent seasons, but I expect him to get close to a couple of the "minor" titles this season as well. I enjoyed his rivalry with Trump last season, so it would be nice to see them meeting in the 2nd round here. I can see any of this four getting through, but if I have to choose, I'll go for Allen.

Possible QF lineup:

Mark Selby v. Ding Junhui
Ryan Day v. Stephen Maguire
Mark Williams v. Neil Robertson
Stephen Lee v. Mark Allen


So there we are... I'm certainly up for some early-morning snooker. Should be a good week. :smile:

[Odrl]

I guess the organizers don't agree with my choice of wildcard match this time, Jones-Lu not on a TV table. They went for Davis' and Fu's match, both very one-sided so far. :wink:

[LittleMissAlexa]

I guess the organizers don't agree with my choice of wildcard match this time, Jones-Lu not on a TV table. They went for Davis' and Fu's match, both very one-sided so far. :wink:

they alwats go for davis, jimmy,drago, wattana if they are playing wildcard matches

[LittleMissAlexa]

first century of the main event a 112 by Lu Haotian

[Odrl]

first century of the main event a 112 by Lu Haotian

Not bad for such a tiny player. :smile:

But of course he lost the other three frames, which were more fragmented.

[LittleMissAlexa]

young players will always lose scrappy frames

[LittleMissAlexa]

im going to assuming this mystical Lu Haotian 131 was in the prelim for Asian PTC1 as i cant find it anywhere else

[LittleMissAlexa]

he won but shame Lu Haotian didnt make a 147 he would of knocked thanawat thirapongpaiboon out of the record books as the youngest to make one in professional play

[Sam_92]

Any chance if you know if Haotian is the youngest ever to make a century in professional tournament?

[LittleMissAlexa]

just vto state how good a victory this is marco has been excellent this season 18 centuries 4 more than second placed judd trump and in good form final of the last ptc

[trains]

Wildcards in Asia seem to have more weight and point than in continental Europe as the standard and depth in Asia seems much better.

[LittleMissAlexa]

Any chance if you know if Haotian is the youngest ever to make a century in professional tournament?

thats a tough one Lu Nings age is up for debate hes anywhere between 14-19 they said he was 14 at the world open and 18 in wuxi no one ages that quick lu ning hit two in the world open

this apparentely isnt his first either he hit a 131 somewhere probably in the preliminaries of the asian ptc (first completed tournament of the season) so may of been 14 there

[LittleMissAlexa]

Wildcards in Asia seem to have more weight and point than in continental Europe as the standard and depth in Asia seems much better.

its because the chinese players play regularly against the likes of ding, liang, xiao, liu chuang, cao in their own tour these arent strictly amateurs as the chinese tour is professional

[LittleMissAlexa]

Ronnie made possibly 30 before he turned 18 (only one of two players to score 20 in their first season on the main tour Anthony mcgill is the other)

[trains]

its because the chinese players play regularly against the likes of ding, liang, xiao, liu chuang, cao in their own tour these arent strictly amateurs as the chinese tour is professional
Whats the pay rate like on that tour,are these 'not strictly amateurs' getting more than low ranked official pro's or are there just more sponsors there? cheers

[LittleMissAlexa]

you will have to ask that keith guy that posts on the asian ptc threads

[LittleMissAlexa]

if martin gould loses hes out of the top 16 barry hawkins is provisionally sixteenth

[Odrl]

What a shot from Mark Davis, gets an almost impossible snooker on the pink, but flukes the pink at the same time. 1-1. :smile:

[Looki]

Crazy clearance from Williams! Best of the season so far.

[streamer45]

Terrific break by Mark Williams, top class!

[Odrl]

Well, that clearance was just ridiculous. He never even stopped to think about things, he just kept potting them and knocking reds off cushions. :smile:

[Hal]

Wow, what a break .... that was perhaps best break I have ever seen ....

[Giggity1984]

Did Cope play well in his 5-1 victory over Selby? Or is it a flattering scoreline?

[Looki]

Did Cope play well in his 5-1 victory over Selby? Or is it a flattering scoreline?

Yes, fairly well. And he was better tactically imho which was a little surprise. He played more mature than I've ever seen.

[Looki]

Bit of a thriller going on between Ebdon and Maguire.

[sberry]

What was Ebdon doing arguing with the ref there, that looked a free ball from here?

[Looki]

What was Ebdon doing arguing with the ref there, that looked a free ball from here?

Ebdon didn't think it was a free ball.

[daffie]

Discussion about a free ball. 2 things for me :

- The ref should make a decision, regardless of what the player thinks
- Ebdon should eventually, after voicing his opinion, accept the refs decision

Btw as far as I can tell from the tv screen, the ref is correct.

[vmax4steve]

Ebdon simply trying to influence someone who he considers to be an inexperienced referee, shamefull really, definate free ball. Clive Everton must be sitting behind someone wearing a sombrero, dork!!
Interesting to see how Maguire simply went from that point onwards, missing balls by miles, looked like watching a match down the local Legion.

[Giggity1984]

Yes, fairly well. And he was better tactically imho which was a little surprise. He played more mature than I've ever seen.

Thanks for the update. Just read the match summary on worldsnooker, hopefully he can have a good run.

[daffie]

...and just what the hell is that PA going on and on about?! :confused: :D

[Odrl]

Maguire was all over the place towards the end there. It would only have taken one good snooker from Ebdon I think.

He did show some form at times though, so it should get easier for him now, against more fluent opponents.

[sberry]

Ebdon simply trying to influence someone who he considers to be an inexperienced referee, shamefull really, definate free ball. Clive Everton must be sitting behind someone wearing a sombrero, dork!!
Interesting to see how Maguire simply went from that point onwards, missing balls by miles, looked like watching a match down the local Legion.

That's the way I saw it too, I think he must have convinced himself that it isn't gamesmanship nor is the slow playing - it was interesting seeing Carter flying around the table in the latest PTC compared to his Ebdon influenced slow-mo action in the Worlds.

I was always under the impression the ref's decision is final, will have to check the latest rules again, could it be considered misconduct to argue that hard rather than just asking "are you sure?"

[arbitrage]

Ebdon simply trying to influence someone who he considers to be an inexperienced referee, shamefull really, definate free ball. Clive Everton must be sitting behind someone wearing a sombrero, dork!!
Interesting to see how Maguire simply went from that point onwards, missing balls by miles, looked like watching a match down the local Legion.

exactly. no one likes cheats like him - and he has been getting away with it for the better part of a decade. the fact that he had the decency to pot the pink and end this farce of a match is some slight redemption for the torture he has put snooker spectators through for a decade.

....and yes, according to the dinos on this forum - players shouldn't be affected by slow play, should they? and if they are, it's their problem, isn't it? well, i guess stephen maguire just joined that club of players who can't "cope" with slow play and are "mentally weak". apparently eurosport RO and CCTV channel 5 couldn't "cope" either and are "mentally weak" too since they cut the match right in the middle to go to other programming.

[Odrl]

....and yes, according to the dinos on this forum - players shouldn't be affected by slow play, should they? and if they are, it's their problem, isn't it? well, i guess stephen maguire just joined that club of players who can't "cope" with slow play and are "mentally weak". apparently eurosport RO and CCTV channel 5 couldn't "cope" either and are "mentally weak" too since they cut the match right in the middle to go to other programming.

No problems here, Eurosport showing both matches in full. :wink:

I am not sure about Maguire's ability to cope in slow matches... He doesn't really have a history of struggling in them, but he did look uncomfortable in the first session of last season's China Open final against Ebdon. He battled through it in the end though, and pushed Ebdon very close.

As for being mentally weak, I think Maguire joined that club a long time ago. The way he approached his WC semi-final against Carter, banging his cue after every mistake very early in the match... It's just not a very productive attitude. :wink:

[arbitrage]

i said eurosport RO.

[Odrl]

Yes, and I said "here". So, my Eurosport is mentally much stronger, no problem coping with slowness. :wink:

[daffie]

Yes, and I said "here". So, my Eurosport is mentally much stronger, no problem coping with slowness. :wink:

Yup same 'here'...both my Eurosport channels are coping very well...have been watching all day so far ;)

[tommygunner1309]

That's the way I saw it too, I think he must have convinced himself that it isn't gamesmanship nor is the slow playing - it was interesting seeing Carter flying around the table in the latest PTC compared to his Ebdon influenced slow-mo action in the Worlds.

I was always under the impression the ref's decision is final, will have to check the latest rules again, could it be considered misconduct to argue that hard rather than just asking "are you sure?"

The rules state: Section 5. 1 (ii) The referee shall be free to make a decision in the interests of fair play for any situation not covered adequately by these rules
(iii) Be responsible for the proper conduct of the game under these Rules

In other words he has total control of the match and his decision is final. A player should only question his decision after the match has been completed.

[arbitrage]

Yes, and I said "here". So, my Eurosport is mentally much stronger, no problem coping with slowness. :wink:

in your case, the problem or issue is obviously not with eurosport.

[Odrl]

in your case, the problem or issue is obviously not with eurosport.

Not sure what that even means. :smile:

Anyway, another poor Chinese performance from Ding. A familiar scenario, a couple of good fluent frames, followed by an inexplicable loss of form.

Murphy was close to losing as well, which would have really opened up this quarter. But since he's survived, he is the favourite to reach the semi-finals on paper. :smile:

[Looki]

exactly. no one likes cheats like him - and he has been getting away with it for the better part of a decade. the fact that he had the decency to pot the pink and end this farce of a match is some slight redemption for the torture he has put snooker spectators through for a decade.

....and yes, according to the dinos on this forum - players shouldn't be affected by slow play, should they? and if they are, it's their problem, isn't it? well, i guess stephen maguire just joined that club of players who can't "cope" with slow play and are "mentally weak". apparently eurosport RO and CCTV channel 5 couldn't "cope" either and are "mentally weak" too since they cut the match right in the middle to go to other programming.

Take a holiday from whining?

Maybe it's a tea party conspiracy that Ebdon gets to cheat year after year...

[The Statman]

Discussion about a free ball. 2 things for me :

- The ref should make a decision, regardless of what the player thinks
- Ebdon should eventually, after voicing his opinion, accept the refs decision

Btw as far as I can tell from the tv screen, the ref is correct.Yes, Ebdon was quite entitled to query the decision, and the referee cannot be criticised for explaining and even demonstrating that she was correct.

However, that having been done, she should have done as you say, and Ebdon, again as you say, should have accepted it.

[Odrl]

However, that having been done, she should have done as you say, and Ebdon, again as you say, should have accepted it.

Was that not what happened though? She made it pretty clear the she wasn't going to change her mind, at which point Ebdon said he accepted the ruling but didn't agree with it personally, and play resumed. :wink:

[DandyA]

Yes, Ebdon was quite entitled to query the decision, and the referee cannot be criticised for explaining and even demonstrating that she was correct.

However, that having been done, she should have done as you say, and Ebdon, again as you say, should have accepted it.

I didn't see the incident under discussion but I wholeheartedly agree with The Statman's statement and I think it's hugely to snooker's credit that it is played with such etiquette ...

[daffie]

Was that not what happened though? She made it pretty clear the she wasn't going to change her mind, at which point Ebdon said he accepted the ruling but didn't agree with it personally, and play resumed. :wink:

Yes that's what happened...eventually. I personally feel Ebdon was pushing for too long, too much. Partly understandable, as it was a very important moment at 3-4 behind. But still, no real excuse, as it seemed pretty clear that it was a free ball...he should have accepted the ref's decision earlier. Having said that, I also think the ref wasn't forceful / decisive enough, but again this could be due to her relative inexperience as a ref.

Anyhow...all's fine I think :)

[sberry]

Agreed, after asking the ref for a second decision you should get on with it, not make her get other balls and markers out explaining the obvious, her reasoning and still disagreeing and not getting on with it again and again - would he have tried that with big Len or John?

It's easy to convince yourself that this is part of snooker and every player should accept it but it comes under etiquette, not trying to put a player off with mind games and delaying tactics should be as enforced as not dancing in front of them while they're on the shot.

[Gerry Armstrong]

Peter was perfectly entitled to ask if the Referee was sure but she seemed pretty emphatic so that should have been an end to it. He must have cued up to the white at least 4 or 5 times and then went back to the Referee moaning that the decision was incorrect as he reckoned he couldn't hit any more of the red if the Yellow wasn't there.

In situations like these, which are clearly a judgement call and a very close one at that, Peter should have accepted the decision after his first query and got back to his seat pronto and let Stephen get on with the game. It's not as if the Referee got the Black from a pocket after being potted and decided to re-spot it by placing it on top of her head!!

He is free to disagree but he argued far too long - and he was wrong in to the bargain as he clearly doesn't understand the rule properly based on the statements he was making about what he could hit and not hit.

[Odrl]

would he have tried that with big Len or John?

There was a similar situation a couple of years ago when Ebdon played Ken Doherty. He argued with Jan Verhaas for about 10 minutes and still couldn't accept his call. It worked against Ebdon on that occasion, because he was all over the place for the remainder of the match. :wink:

[sberry]

I can't believe he doesn't understand the rule properly and his eyes are good, he was using the ref's inexperience and the fact she cannot explain as quickly and fluently her reasoning as English is her second language albeit spoken very well. She was put under unnecessary pressure in order to disrupt an opponents play and she coped with it well.

It's gamesmanship as much as shouting at your opponent on shot and these days in sport and life if we do it and we're pilloried for it we can simply say we misunderstood, were taken out of context or made a mistake and are sorry but honestly wouldn't do it for that reason.

Nobody doubts the will to win but when it becomes win at any cost it's simply wrong, he knows and we know.

[sberry]

I should have added 'in my opinion only which is not necessarily the decision of anybody else and could be wrong' - but we know, imo.

[daffie]

As you say sberry, I also thought the ref (don't know her name, except vor "Ivy") handled the added pressure very well indeed, especially as things like these are sometimes harder to explain / discuss when English is not your first language (albeit her's is very good).

I also believe Ebdon was right in asking the ref to place an extra ball next to the object ball for better view, but after that had been done, he should have accepted her decision.

[daffie]

So which matches are on atm...anything good? :)

[sberry]

I'm watching Campbell vs Lee, about to go 3-3 probably but they're making me look half decent, Davis needs the last 3 against Walden and Bingham and Ford are onto the decider.

Campbell/Lee is worth watching if you have Eurosport if only to boost your confidence.

[daffie]

Cheers sberry. I'll be watching everything later on when I get back from work...will keep the campbell - Lee and Bingham - Ford matches in mind as the ones to watch.

[vmax4steve]

Yes, Ebdon was quite entitled to query the decision, and the referee cannot be criticised for explaining and even demonstrating that she was correct.

However, that having been done, she should have done as you say, and Ebdon, again as you say, should have accepted it.

You could have stood in the doorway of the arena and called it a free ball, it was that obvious, no demonstration was needed. Ebdon was trying to influence a young referee who just might have cracked under the situation, and at the same time p*ss off Maguire even more. Why can't this bloke simply stand up and play rather than relying on p*ssing off his opponents.

[Odrl]

I think he could also have just been in denial, refusing to believe he might have played his last shot in the match. As it turned out, the frame went on for over an hour after a tactical battle on the colours. :smile:

[sberry]

Because when the ability to win normally falls too far below the will to win some people will resort to any tactic to try to get the result. The excuses about shot-time are laughable and you only need watch a re-run of the world final and the next PTC to see this. However, the thought police can convict nobody and denying it is part of the 'game' as is not denying it.

At the end of the day you'll be remembered as a player who won some and lost some but what is more important in my mind is how others perceived your outlook and integrity, if you don't care to be remembered as a decent or fair sportsman that's your call.

[Guy3103]

Finally some snooker worth watching... I'm stuck on the Higgins - Jones match. It's pretty cool they are both playing TW cues :cool:

[daffie]

Is that Jamie Jones? (can't watch atm) One of the revelations of last year for me personally. Looking forward to seeing more of him...

[Guy3103]

It really seems as if John's new cue has quite some weight to it... I remember someone mentioned it having a larger than standard ferrule but does anyone know about the weight?

[Guy3103]

Jamie Jones it is and his in quite good form winning the first frame in one visit after Higgins in and off... but looks like the 2nd frame is going to Higgins now.

[Odrl]

Not bad from Higgins, he looked very impressive after he raised his game. I think he joins Williams as the tournament favourite at this point.

On the other hand, Trump has been very uninspired so far. I don't think he can beat a solid Barry Hawkins with this kind of form.

[Looki]

On the other hand, Trump has been very uninspired so far. I don't think he can beat a solid Barry Hawkins with this kind of form.

The mid-session interval can do wonders. But, yes, he's been poor and his attitude sucks a bit. Smashing balls on few occasions in frustration.

[Odrl]

The mid-session interval can do wonders. But, yes, he's been poor and his attitude sucks a bit. Smashing balls on few occasions in frustration.

And here we go, Trump takes control of the match. Looking good for 4-3 now. :smile:

[arbitrage]

I can't believe he doesn't understand the rule properly and his eyes are good, he was using the ref's inexperience and the fact she cannot explain as quickly and fluently her reasoning as English is her second language albeit spoken very well. She was put under unnecessary pressure in order to disrupt an opponents play and she coped with it well.

It's gamesmanship as much as shouting at your opponent on shot and these days in sport and life if we do it and we're pilloried for it we can simply say we misunderstood, were taken out of context or made a mistake and are sorry but honestly wouldn't do it for that reason.

Nobody doubts the will to win but when it becomes win at any cost it's simply wrong, he knows and we know.

well said. he has been doing this kind of stuff intentionally (deliberate time wasting being the most obvious) for the better part of a decade. yet there are people in denial who will claim that this is what makes great viewing for snooker.

[Looki]

well said. he has been doing this kind of stuff intentionally (deliberate time wasting being the most obvious) for the better part of a decade. yet there are people in denial who will claim that this is what makes great viewing for snooker.

Have you considered professional help? There must be a pill that makes you want to write something else once in a while...

[Odrl]

So, decent lineup for the 2nd round then. The matches I'm most looking forward to are Williams-Walden, Trump-Allen and Maguire-Carter. :smile:

[daffie]

Jamie Jones it is and his in quite good form winning the first frame in one visit after Higgins in and off... but looks like the 2nd frame is going to Higgins now.

Just got home, but it seems eurosport hasn't aired the Jamie Jones match...so it's over to Lee - Campbell. Or should I start with the Neil Robertson match?

Whoops, nevermind...the Jamie Jones match is on now! :)

[LittleMissAlexa]

Might be wrong but i think barry hawkins has just replaced martin gould into the top sixteen

[crocodile]

[QUOTE=arbitrage;668706]exactly. no one likes cheats like him - and he has been getting away with it for the better part of a decade.

Doesn't seem to have helped him very much though judging by his results in the last 6 or 7 years ....

[Odrl]

Doesn't seem to have helped him very much though judging by his results in the last 6 or 7 years ....

Only Higgins, O'Sullivan and Robertson have won more ranking titles than Peter Ebdon in the last six years. :wink:

[arbitrage]

[QUOTE=arbitrage;668706]exactly. no one likes cheats like him - and he has been getting away with it for the better part of a decade.

Doesn't seem to have helped him very much though judging by his results in the last 6 or 7 years ....

2012 china open is a prime example of how he cheats to win.

[Looki]

2012 china open is a prime example of how he cheats to win.

How did he cheat? By playing a better match than his opponent, making a couple of centuries along the way? That *******! ;)

[Giggity1984]

[QUOTE=crocodile;668956]

2012 china open is a prime example of how he cheats to win.

Cheating would have to involve playing shots that are not allowed under the rules. As much as i dislike his style of play without a shot clock, he didn't cheat.

[arbitrage]

[QUOTE=arbitrage;668962]

Cheating would have to involve playing shots that are not allowed under the rules. As much as i dislike his style of play without a shot clock, he didn't cheat.

from wiki - "When The Times described his slow play as 'cheating', he attempted to sue them for libel and lost" (ref. article The Times published in 2005 after ebdon's antics at 2005 WSC QF vs ronnie o'sullivan.

therefore, i will continue to use the label 'cheating' with regards to his deliberate slow play.

[daffie]

*He Lost* !!! :snooker:(The Times isn't the be all - end all)

[daffie]

Cheating would have to involve playing shots that are not allowed under the rules. As much as i dislike his style of play without a shot clock, he didn't cheat.

I agree. It can be annoying at times, although most of the times I don't find Ebdon especially nor deliberately slow to influence his opponent. His style of play can be offputting for me personally at times, but I do find him ok to watch mostly. However he could do himself a favor by speeding his play up somewhat...he seems to play too slow, out of his own rhythm, and consiquently hinders himself at times.

[Capelito]

Meanwhile:
Carter-Maguire 5-0
Perry-Robertsson 5-0
both quite surprising results I think

[daffie]

Meanwhile:
Carter-Maguire 5-0
Perry-Robertsson 5-0
both quite surprising results I think

Indeed! Very onesided matches...that's too bad really.

[daffie]

Very quiet in here this afternoon...nobody's watching, or none of the matches are worth mentioning ? ;)

[sberry]

The King-Murphy game is very good, watching that now, it has the what is going to happen next factor to it.

Trump about to beat Allen, Higgins and Carter whitewashed Day and Maguire.

[daffie]

Cheers for the heads-up...will start off my snooker evening with the King - Murphy match then...

[sberry]

Higgins survived a comeback from Carter to reach the semis and Joe Perry showed Ebdon/Carter what sportsmanship and integrity is by calling a foul on himself in the deciding frame which cost him dearly.

Looking forward to Murphy-Bingham and expecting Murphy's luck to continue and the petulant Trump will want to beat Dott to get the number 1 ranking spot.

[Odrl]

Good morning. :smile:

Some good snooker this morning, Higgins showing good breakbuilding form for most of his match against Carter. Williams and Perry didn't disappoint either, and my predicted final is still on. Yes, fair play to Perry, called it even though it wasn't at all obvious and gave away a crucial chance.

I will probably concentrate on Trump-Dott this afternoon. Trump against Williams would be a good semi-final, as I don't remember them ever meeting in a big match before. :wink:

[sberry]

They've met just 3 times before, Trump winning 3-1 in the premier league and 5-2 in the last qualifying round of the Bahrain ranking event and Williams beat Trump 4-0 in a PTC.

William's breakbuilding was not convincing against Perry so a Dott-Williams S/F could be a bit dour.

Considering they can get such huge TV audiences in China, why are the crowds so small - do they price tickets out of people's reach or what?

[PatBlock]

Considering they can get such huge TV audiences in China, why are the crowds so small - do they price tickets out of people's reach or what?

I've often wondered about this, not many of the Asian tours I've watched have been very well attended, and yet we're told the game's really popular over there, so why the poor audiences? Maybe one of our Chinese members could explain. Is it because of financial, cultural, political reasons, or what? Because if China has real aspirations of hosting major events, the attendance's surely have to improve, don't they?

-

[ferret]

incase you did not know already Michaela Tabb will be the referee for the final.

[PatBlock]

Eurosport player is not showing the Trump match, bit surprised at that. Did they show both matches this morning?

-

[sberry]

Eurosport player is not showing the Trump match, bit surprised at that. Did they show both matches this morning?

-

Yes, both games were on this morning.

[ThePhantomPotter]

Eurosport player is not showing the Trump match, bit surprised at that. Did they show both matches this morning?

-

i know. so irritating. who on earth would want to watch murphy rather than trump?

anyone got a streaming link? i found one but its very juddery

[jrc750]

I'm watching on sportlemon.tv, very clear
http://www.sportlemon.tv/v-4/4/102/v-450241.html

[ThePhantomPotter]

I'm watching on sportlemon.tv, very clear
http://www.sportlemon.tv/v-4/4/102/v-450241.html

i meant a link to trump. not a murphy fan!

[jrc750]

i meant a link to trump. not a murphy fan!

Ahh lol, in that case try this one :)
http://www.sportlemon.tv/v-4/4/102/v-450256.html

EDIT: bit juddery this table

[PatBlock]

Oh dear, this is turning into a bit of a mare for Bingham....

-

[PatBlock]

Ahh lol, in that case try this one :)
http://www.sportlemon.tv/v-4/4/102/v-450256.html

EDIT: bit juddery this table

Thanks for that. :)

-

[PatBlock]

They are now showing the Trump match on the Eurosport player. :)

-

[ThePhantomPotter]

the stream i'm watching for trump/dott is getting better in terms of judder
http://www.stopstream.tv/45/2/450257.html

[PatBlock]

What's gone wrong with Bingham? This is looking like a whitwash already, and it's not as though Murphy isn't giving him the chances.

-

[Odrl]

Eurosport do love their Murphy for some reason. I can understand it when he is the highest ranked player of the session, but that's not even the case here. I'm sticking with it though, TV seems more comfortable than a steam at the moment. :smile:

[ThePhantomPotter]

What's gone wrong with Bingham? This is looking like a whitwash already, and it's not as though Murphy isn't giving him the chances.

-

maybe a far eastern betting syndicate has threatened his family?!

[ThePhantomPotter]

Eurosport do love their Murphy for some reason. I can understand it when he is the highest ranked player of the session, but that's not even the case here. I'm sticking with it though, TV seems more comfortable than a steam at the moment. :smile:

i bet if the matches finishes early, rather than switch to trump, they'll show the match again to show everyone their love for him!

[PatBlock]

maybe a far eastern betting syndicate has threatened his family?!

Careful now... :p

-

[Odrl]

i bet if the matches finishes early, rather than switch to trump, they'll show the match again to show everyone their love for him!

You never know. Sometimes I get the Bundesliga or something on Eurosport2 when they show snooker in other parts of Europe, and they never switch over on the main channel. But I think everyone is stuck with cricket today, so they should switch over. :smile:

[PatBlock]

Nice bit of exhibition stuff from Trump at the end of the 4th there. :)

-

[ThePhantomPotter]

surely they aren't going to go back to the murphy match after the interval. it's over! bingham couldn't pot a ball down a manhole at the moment

[PatBlock]

You never know. Sometimes I get the Bundesliga or something on Eurosport2 when they show snooker in other parts of Europe, and they never switch over on the main channel. But I think everyone is stuck with cricket today, so they should switch over. :smile:

You never consider the Eurosport player? It's well worth the £5 for a single month and you generally get both tables to choose from.

-

[Odrl]

You never consider the Eurosport player? It's well worth the £5 for a single month and you generally get both tables to choose from.

I actually do have a subscription for Eurosport player, but it's just more convenient to watch it on TV at the moment. :smile:

[PatBlock]

I actually do have a subscription for Eurosport player, but it's just more convenient to watch it on TV at the moment. :smile:

Gotcha. :)

-

[PatBlock]

Murphy manages to loose that 5th frame, despite Bingham's efforts, so thankfully no whitewash then. :) Maybe the beginning of a claassic come-back...

-

[Odrl]

Looks like Bingham has successfully dragged Murphy down to his level now. Murphy had about four chances to make it 5-0. :smile:

[PatBlock]

Maybe the beginning of a claassic come-back...

-

Maybe not. :o

-

[Odrl]

Good break from Murphy to secure the match, should be a good semi-final against Higgins. :smile:

Now for the closing stages of Trump-Dott...

[PatBlock]

Now for the closing stages of Trump-Dott...

Looking like it's going to a decider now. :)

-

[neil taperell]

What a great break by Dott to take it to a decider

[Odrl]

That break rivaled Williams' clearance from his 1st round match, tremendous stuff. He must be favourite for the decider now. :smile:

[Odrl]

Well, good response from Trump in the end. He usually stands up to comebacks pretty well, and you can't ask for more than a century break in the decider. Although Dott did only just miss on two of his attempts...

Best day of the week so far, and tomorrow promises to be even better. :smile:

[PatBlock]

Best day of the week so far, and tomorrow promises to be even better. :smile:

Yep, Murphy, Williams, Higgins, trump, not a bad line-up for the last 4 is it. :)

-

[jrc750]

Yep, Murphy, Williams, Higgins, trump, not a bad line-up for the last 4 is it. :)

-

Yep very happy with that

[Odrl]

I think it shows that this is the third ranking event of the season this time, so we haven't had as many surprises as the previous years. :smile:

[PatBlock]

Starting to slip away from MJW now, COME ON MARK!

-

[daffie]

Yeah would like to see MJW win and through to a final against Higgins. If Trump should go through (5-1 in front now) that's fine as well, but I really would like to see Higgins win this tournament...would do wonders for his confidence. I'd love John to get back to his best form...

[PatBlock]

Tabb's getting angry.... :eek:

-

[daffie]

Tabb's getting angry.... :eek:

-

:) as she should be...how many times can one politely ask people to put their cams away?!

2-5 behind, still a chance for MJW

BTW I'm watching this with a delay of some 20 minutes.

[PatBlock]

Mark was lucky to win that 8th frame, why did he play the blue so hard into the yellow pocket? He only needed it to leave Judd wanting a snooker.

-

[PatBlock]

BTW I'm watching this with a delay of some 20 minutes.

Ooo, that's a bit tricky, sorry for any plot spoilers M8 :) Can't you put it on double speed to catch up?

-

[daffie]

Ooo, that's a bit tricky, sorry for any plot spoilers M8 :) Can't you put it on double speed to catch up?

-

:) No worries for any spoilers...cheers mate. If I really have the need for not-knowing, then I always make sure to stay away from this place...for a while at least untill I'm caught-up again.

I'm having a hard time believing MJW can pull it back from 2-5 behind anyway...

just saw that missed blue...and the great blue potted later from MJW...lucky man!

Can you imagine Trump at double-speed :rolleyes:

[PatBlock]

Trump getting a little frustrated now, turning into a very interesting match this :)

-

[sberry]

Serious breakbuilding by trump to start and serious bottle from Williams to stay in it, most people fold under that pressure.

First time for a while a ranking event will be won by a top 6 player.

[PatBlock]

:)
Can you imagine Trump at double-speed :rolleyes:

lol :D

-

[sberry]

lol :D

-

Just video Tony Drago in the next PTC and play it back slowly.

[daffie]

Trump getting a little frustrated now, turning into a very interesting match this :)

Indeed...

So eventually Trump goes through with a 6-4 win.


Just video Tony Drago in the next PTC and play it back slowly.

;)

[PatBlock]

Just video Tony Drago in the next PTC and play it back slowly.

VERY slowly! :)

-

[CueInAction]

Does Trump have any chance of taking the #1 spot if he wins this torunament? I know Selby had a healthy lead in points but he must have dropped a few going out so early

[sberry]

Trump is now #1 provisionally

[PaddyLowson]

Trump is now #1 provisionally

If he wins then he takes WN1 spot, but if he loses then the gap is reduced to 785 points

[Guy3103]

Higgins just snookered himself on the last red and then missed it making the difference 35 points in Murphy's favor with 35 remaining on the table. Murphy went on to play the shot instead of using the miss rule. I'm just not sure whether the ref called the miss or not? Is there a miss at all?

[Odrl]

Higgins just snookered himself on the last red and then missed it making the difference 35 points in Murphy's favor with 35 remaining on the table. Murphy went on to play the shot instead of using the miss rule. I'm just not sure whether the ref called the miss or not? Is there a miss at all?

No, the miss is not called in this scenario after the rule was changed a year or so ago. So for the purpose of the miss call, only being able to tie is now the same as needing snookers. :wink:

[Odrl]

Higgins is in masterclass mode now, nice to see. :smile:

Can Murphy get back into the match from here?

[PatBlock]

Classy play from JH, should be a great final. :)

-

[Looki]

Good semis both. As a Williams fan I was a little disappointed that Trump run away so early, although he played very well so no complaints in that sense. Comeback was also on the cards but Mark left himself too much to do at the end of the day. Saw only last three frames of Higgins-Murphy match and Higgins seemed as good as ever.

[Table_of_Reds]

Can't wait to see Trump smash Miss Piggy tomorrow.

[Looki]

Can't wait to see Trump smash Miss Piggy tomorrow.

Miss Piggy might have a different idea. HairLoss-100 will have to be at his best. ;)

[Capelito]

Just noticed that whoever wins the final will provisionally be ranked #1.

[SouthPaw]

Hopefully Trump wins the final, it's about time he shows Higgins where he belongs, in the seniors tour =p

[billabong]

Hopefully Trump wins the final, it's about time he shows Higgins where he belongs, in the seniors tour =p

That seniors tour must be strong if Higgins can get to the final of a main tour event . . ;)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[the montrealer]

HI Higgins played great just like the old days it should be a great final will be watching it on the internet at www.worldsnooker.com cheers Leonard

[mythman69]

Here is the Mark Williams clearance . . .

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3PIBMrAw2MI&feature=youtu.be

: )

[mythman69]

Great start by Judd in the final - anyone on TSF watching this?

: )

[svdyc]

Watching only from the corner of my eye, but can still say that will be very difficult for Higgins to win if Judd can keep playing anything like this after the break.

[Looki]

Great display from Trump so far! Wonder if Higgins is going to make it back to the match. Well, it's still a long way.

[mythman69]

Yes Judd is looking good . . . c'mon Higgins (give us a close final)

[svdyc]

Higgins 5-0 down, but then nice 147 to take his first frame :D. Nice match

[rich45]

Thankfully he potted the final black, despite someone moving (again!!!) behind the pocket. Great stuff!

[LittleMissAlexa]

what is it about 147s when the match is already dead stuart binghams in wuxi comes to mind

[PatBlock]

Higgins 5-0 down, but then nice 147 to take his first frame :D. Nice match

Very nice indeed! :)

-

[rich45]

what is it about 147s when the match is already dead stuart binghams in wuxi comes to mind
Hardly a dead match, particularly if Higgins wins the last frame of the session.

[the montrealer]

Great stuff from Higgins also making a 147 Trump also missed a 147 making 14 reds and 14 blacks and missing the fifteen red. Trump is playing great and does not fear Higgins

[the montrealer]

Hardly a dead match, particularly if Higgins wins the last frame of the session.

HI Rich you did a lot of travel life is short cheers Leonard

[daffie]

I'm a bit behind as usual, but what a wonderful 147 from John!!! Fantastic moment for him, and such concentration to pot the final black despite someone in his eyeline moving (again!!). Great to see Judd appreciating it as much as well with a huge smile on his face...

'miss piggy'...'senior'...I don't think so! How about 'still one of the alltime greats!' :cool:

[PatBlock]

Here is the Mark Williams clearance . . .

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3PIBMrAw2MI&feature=youtu.be

: )

Excellent clearance, I missed that so thanks for posting it. :encouragement:

-

[Odrl]

Good session, although a bit too one-sided for my taste. :smile:

Trump seems to have a lot more firepower, so the only way Higgins can get back into the match is by being at his clinical best this afternoon. It's first to 10, so a 3-1 start would put him 8-5 behind, and Trump still wouldn't be within one of victory. :wink:

But I have a feeling it's not going to go all that close.

[PaddyLowson]

A question for you

Is John the first person to make more than one 147 in ranking finals.

[PatBlock]

5 - 7, different match now...:)

-

[Looki]

5 - 7, different match now...:)

-

Getting interesting now, wonder if Higgins goes 6-7 behind to MSI. :) Trump looks a bit under pressure there.

[Odrl]

But I have a feeling it's not going to go all that close.

For some reason I thought he didn't have it in him today, but he does it again. Should be a great conclusion now. :smile:

[PatBlock]

Getting interesting now, wonder if Higgins goes 6-7 behind to MSI. :) Trump looks a bit under pressure there.

Yes it looks like the momentum's with JH now, what a great match. :)

-

[mythman69]

Yes 6 - 7 . . . getting real close now

Who do you fancy from here?

I am hoping Higgins wins it.

[Odrl]

Who do you fancy from here?

Tough to say... Trump has often responded quite well to players coming back at him in the past, like the UK final or the semi-final at the WC against Ding. But he did lose to Carter from 12-9 up at the WC, and to Maguire in Germany as well. I don't think his game will fall apart, but he needs some one-visit stuff if Higgins continues like this.

You can't really bet against Higgins in close finishes like this, with all of his experience and bottle. The worry for him was not taking his chances as strongly as Trump, and it did cost him this morning. But now that it's turned around, he should be a slight favourite if he makes it 7-7.

[mythman69]

Higgins looks good from here . . .

[daffie]

Are you guys watching the live stream on sportlemon...or somewhere else?

[armstm]

Getting interesting now, wonder if Higgins goes 6-7 behind to MSI. :) Trump looks a bit under pressure there.

eurosport commentator so irritating

[daffie]

Wow what a frame on the final black!

[Odrl]

Not a good sign for Trump, he missed by a mile when he had a shot at the black. :wink:

[PatBlock]

Are you guys watching the live stream on sportlemon...or somewhere else?

Eurosport player m8. :)

-

[armstm]

pressure on both players didn't think higgins would miss that pink. but trump missed a blue off the spot with cue ball in hand - that's a standard shot for him. and his attempt on the black looked very jabby. it makes me feel better about my game seeing that :@)

[daffie]

Eurosport player m8. :)

-

Cheers mate...but I don't have a subscription, so guess I'll have to do with the less-than-perfect images of sportlemon. Still good enough to watch, especially with eurosport most probably not airing much of the 2nd session later on on tv.

[mythman69]

I am watcing the live scoreboard on snooker world (no TV coverage here is Australia) . . .

Blackball game . . . 8-7 . . . go Higgins !

[armstm]

I am watcing the live scoreboard on snooker world (no TV coverage here is Australia) . . .

Blackball game . . . 8-7 . . . go Higgins !

higgins gets a lot of key doubles. did in 2006 masters, 2011 uk, 2011 wsc.

[Odrl]

That was a good break from Trump there, and not just the exhibition stuff either. :smile:

[Hal]

I am watcing the live scoreboard on snooker world (no TV coverage here is Australia) . . .

Blackball game . . . 8-7 . . . go Higgins !

There is almost always a stream on sportlemon.tv, watching one right now

[armstm]

pressure again trump missed a cut on a high black. difficult but usually would get it.

[mythman69]

Thanks for the tip . . . watching now

: )

[daffie]

Wow what an end to the 18th frame! On to a decider...

[PatBlock]

Don't know about the rest of you, but my nerves are in tatters watching this. :eek:

-

[Dan Lim]

Wow 9-9, what a match !

[armstm]

insightful stuff from the commentator "whoever wins this will be feeling elated"

[willtyson]

Nice 61! :)

[daffie]

What a fantastic win for John...what a comeback! Amazing final, as I have seen it only from 6-7 scoreline. Hopefully eurosport will air a bit as well later on...many congrats to John Higgins. Great win for him.

[streamer45]

Amazing Higgins!

[LittleMissAlexa]

how do you lead 7-1 then lose? judd thats horrendous for you

[Looki]

Well done, Higgins.

[Dan Lim]

What a wasted chance for Judd ): Anyway he is still young. Good luck to him in future, cheer...

[Looki]

how do you lead 7-1 then lose? judd thats horrendous for you

Did you watch the game, it can't get much better than how Higgins played especially in the beginning of the evening session... He is so strong a player when on form.

[Odrl]

Fantastic break from Higgins in the decider, and started with a brilliant long red as well.

People seem to say "best final in a while" for every final these days, but this one probably deserves it. :smile:

[mythman69]

Fantastic final . . . well done to both players !!

I won't forget that match in a hurry.

[trains]

how do you lead 7-1 then lose? judd thats horrendous for you
That might have something to do with playing the goat vying with O'S,Trump was unlucky not to flick the black at 35 he would have won if he did.

[LittleMissAlexa]

Fantastic break from Higgins in the decider, and started with a brilliant long red as well.

People seem to say "best final in a while" for every final these days, but this one probably deserves it. :smile:

judd [played the wrong safety if he would of doubled the brown over the pocket that initial red wouldnt of been on if it went in he may of been on that red

i thought judd would of taken the black as it had a guiding red ball

[sberry]

how do you lead 7-1 then lose? judd thats horrendous for you

Bottle, or lack of it.

[Looki]

Bottle, or lack of it.

I don't think Trump is to blame for losing. He didn't bottle it. Higgins was too strong, end of.

[daffie]

Holy cr*p...that was one heck of an awards ceremony!!! ;) Can't believe I watched the whole thing...just to see John lift the trophy.

[PatBlock]

Superb final, hats off to JH for a masterly display and hard luck Judd, they don't call him the wizard for nothing do they.

-

[cebs]

It took ages to get to the trophy with having all those photos to do and then there wasn't even an interview.

That was some comeback today but John has done it before so there was always a chance tonight. He almost did it in the 18th frame and then Judd had a chance in the last which was fair. Both played some cracking reds to get in and John played well tonight under the pressure I thought.

[arbitrage]

cements his claim to being the greatest match player of all time, to date.

[Rane]

The entire match is on youtube. If you haven´t seen it, it´s highly recommendable. One of the best matches I´ve ever seen. Such a high quality from both players.

[crocodile]

[QUOTE=daffie;669526]I'm a bit behind as usual, but what a wonderful 147 from John!!! Fantastic moment for him, and such concentration to pot the final black despite someone in his eyeline moving (again!!). Great to see Judd appreciating it as much as well with a huge smile on his face...

What? He actually appreciated great play by an opponent? Any more of this and I'll have to start reappraising the guy ....