SAGA INSURANCE SIGN UNTIL 2009 12 Oct 2006 09:57:00
Following its successful sponsorship of the 2006 Masters, SAGA Insurance has decided to expand its involvement in snooker by sponsoring the famous invitation event for a further three years.
World Snooker is also delighted to announce that the 2007 SAGA Insurance Masters (January 14-21) will be staged at Wembley Arena. The event’s 26-year run at Wembley Conference Centre came to an end last season.
Jimmy White and Ding Junhui have both been awarded wild card entries to the 2007 tournament.
SAGA Insurance is part of the Saga Group, which is the UK’s leading provider of products and services specifically designed for people aged 50 and over. With over 2 million customers Saga provides insurance, financial services and holidays and publishes the award winning Saga Magazine.
The new three-year agreement, worth a seven-figure sum, was, brokered by sports marketing giant IMG, which is retained by World Snooker to sell the commercial rights for snooker’s four major BBC events.
With a history dating back to 1975, the SAGA Insurance Masters is an immensely popular event for snooker’s players and fans and receives extensive coverage from BBC Sport. John Higgins won the 2006 event when he beat Ronnie O’Sullivan 10-9 in a dramatic final.
World Snooker Chairman Sir Rodney Walker said: “We are very pleased to be extending our relationship with Saga. The Masters is a fantastic event and last year’s final was one of the most enthralling contests I have seen in snooker. Saga’s decision to renew their sponsorship underlines their satisfaction with the exposure they received.
“We now have major title sponsors for three of our four BBC events. This is a strong position and one which we continue to strive to improve.”
Andrew Goodsell, Chief Executive, Saga said: “The SAGA Insurance Masters attracts millions of viewers on BBC Sport and our sponsorship enables us to raise awareness of how people over 50 can make a significant saving on their insurance by choosing Saga.
“Last year’s tournament was a thrilling event and we look forward to more snooker of the highest calibre and to building on our good relationship with World Snooker.”
The Masters lost its traditional home at Wembley Conference Centre last year as the venue was knocked down, but the event now makes the short journey to Wembley Arena.
The Arena has recently completed a £35million refurbishment and is sure to provide a superb setting for one of the highlights of the sporting calendar.
Peter Tudor, the Arena’s General Manager, said: "It's very exciting for Wembley Arena to be staging a major snooker tournament for the first time. The Masters is a superb event and we are delighted that it is staying in Wembley. We're sure that the special atmosphere of the Masters will find a fitting home in the newly refurbished Arena."
For the first time, three wild cards will be awarded for the event rather than the usual two.
Whirlwind White retains a vast popular appeal and attracts huge crowds at Wembley year after year.
“I’m absolutely delighted to be awarded a wild card,” said 1984 Masters champion White. “It’s my favourite event other than the World Championship. I’m sure I’ll get great support again at Wembley, my fans there are fantastic.”
Ding, the 19-year-old Chinese prodigy, was considered to have an equally strong case having won the China Open, UK Championship and Northern Ireland Trophy within the past 20 months.
"This will be my third appearance in the Masters and it's such a great event to play in,” said Ding. “There's a unique atmosphere and there's so much history to the tournament. I am always confident of rising to the big occasion so I hope I can achieve success this time."
The final wild card will be awarded to the winner of a qualifying tournament, to be staged from November 4 to 9, giving all other players on the professional Tour the opportunity to earn a place at Wembley.
The world’s top 16 players qualify automatically, including the likes of Higgins, O’Sullivan, Stephen Hendry, Ken Doherty, Steve Davis and World Champion Graeme Dott.
The ticket box office for the SAGA Insurance Masters will be opened on October 30 Worlsnooker(c)
Riba
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Отправлено: 12.10.06 20:34. Заголовок: Re:
Parish church farewell for snooker star By DEBBIE LEIGH The funeral of snooker star Paul Hunter will take place at Leeds Parish Church a week today at 2pm.
Leeds Parish Church
His coffin will lie at the church's Lady Chapel from Tuesday at 9.30pm and a book of condolence will be opened for mourners to pay their personal respects to the talented player dubbed the Beckham of the Baize. Paul, who lived in Upper Batley, died at a Huddersfield hospice on Monday night – just days before his 28th birthday – after battling a rare form of intestinal cancer for the past 18 months. Despite enduring months of chemotherapy he continued to play professionally and threw himself into fundraising, helping to launch a charity for research into the disease. His death has sparked a flood of glowing tributes and messages of sympathy for his wife Lindsey and 10-month-old daughter Evie, revealing the high esteem in which he was held across the world. Thanks Paul Hunter
Lindsey, who was at Paul's bedside when he died, has thanked people for their support. The 31-year-old said: "I would very much like to express my heartfelt thanks to all our family, friends, Paul's fellow professionals, fans, and the media for their incredible support since we lost Paul. "It is an enormous source of comfort to me, and further evidence to that Paul was a very, very special person indeed. He was also the absolute love of my life, a totally devoted father to our beautiful daughter Evie, and he will always mean everything to us. "I hope you will understand that I do not wish to say anymore until after his funeral has taken place, and I kindly request you allow us to grieve in peace and privacy." A minute's silence was being held in Paul's memory before today's Betfred Premier League matches featuring Ken Doherty, Ding Junhui, Ronnie O'Sullivan and Jimmy White at Preston's Guild Hall. Paul injected youthful passion and a touch of glamour into the world of snooker after turning professional at 16. He won the Masters three times and was tipped as a future world champion. Determined But he was diagnosed with dozens of neuro-endocrine tumours in the lining of his stomach in March 2005 and although he was determined to keep playing he won only one match last season and fell from fifth to 34th in the rankings. His manager Brandon Parker said: "On Monday, the world lost a very special person, and I lost the closest of friends and working companions. He was a 'Champion of the World', and snooker will do well to recognise his talent and goals in driving the sport to new levels of competition in a fashionable sporting manner." To give to Paul's chosen charities send cheques payable to The NET Patient Foundation, or Kirkwood Hospice, to: Paul Hunter Snooker, c/o 13 Poolcroft, Sale, Cheshire, M33 2LF.
The NET Patient Foundation
shual007
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Paul Hunter
Clive Everton Wednesday October 11, 2006 The Guardian
The death of Paul Hunter at the age of 27, following an 18-month battle with cancer, robs the snooker world of a potential world champion and a sportsman unanimously popular with his peers. On television and in match arenas, his easy fluency, ponytailed blonde hair and striking good looks made him a great favourite. He accepted his triumphs modestly and his disappointments with exemplary grace. His finest hours were at Wembley, where he won three Masters titles in four years, all from losing positions. After trailing Fergal O'Brien 6-2 at the end of the afternoon session of the 2001 final, he made four centuries in six frames in the evening, prevailing 10-9. In his cheerful, unembarrassed way, he admitted that he and his future wife, Lyndsey, had made good use of his hotel room during the two-and-a-half-hour interval. "Let's just say I was a lot more relaxed for the afternoon session," he quipped in his victory conference. From being 5-0 adrift, Hunter beat Mark Williams 10-9 in the 2002 final, and transformed arrears of 7-2 against Ronnie O'Sullivan in 2004 into a dramatic 10-9 victory. His best run - and most galling defeat - in the world championship came at the Crucible theatre, Sheffield, in the 2003 semi-finals, when his 15-9 lead over Ken Doherty meant that he needed to win only two of the remaining session's nine frames to reach the final. Four agonisingly tense hours later, he walked out of the arena a stunned 17-16 loser, but still discharged his obligations in an immediate press conference with courtesy and dignity.
Hunter's consolation appeared to be that he would have many more attempts at the world title. But it was to transpire that only the following year, when he lost in the second round to Matthew Stevens, the closest of his friends on the tour, that he was in no condition to make a realistic challenge. Cancer was diagnosed just before he travelled to the China Open in 2005. None the less, he reached the quarter-finals and dealt patiently with queues of autograph and photograph seekers.
Hunter's plight had become known to all by the time, two weeks later, that he stepped on to the Crucible stage to a heartfelt ovation. He lost 10-8 to Michael Holt, and was to win only one match in the 2005-06 season as the side effects of his treatment drained his stamina.
In what was to prove his last visit to the Crucible last spring, he admitted: "I'm probably worse off than I was this time last year. The pain in my side is 24/7 now. I get stiff and light-headed. Obviously, I did not expect to win tournaments or anything like that but I had to try to tough it out."
His cheerfulness and positive attitude throughout his illness were remarkable, and the arrival of his daughter, Evie Rose, on Boxing Day last year, together with the steadfast support of Lyndsey and his family, at least provided comfort in his last months. His all too brief career earned him prize money of £1.53m, £15,000 of which he donated to help set up the Neuro-Endocrine Tumour Patient Foundation; a charity golf day in his name in August last year raised £80,000 for Leukaemia Research and St James's hospital, Leeds, where he was treated. Another event in his name last month raised £50,000.
The golden future so cruelly cut short seemed implicit from Hunter's earliest days in the game. He was only 13 when he became co-holder of the English Amateur Pairs title, and he was an outstanding English junior champion. At the 1996 Welsh Open, he became, at 17, the youngest ever semi-finalist in a world ranking event. Later that year, in the UK championship quarter-finals, Stephen Hendry trailed 5-3 before beating him 9-5, an encounter that prompted the seven times world champion to say: "He's got the game and he's got the bottle."
This conjunction of skill and match temperament gave Hunter the 1998 Welsh Open title, a success which temporarily derailed this otherwise ordinary fun-loving teenager from a Leeds estate, suddenly dazzled by recognition. "All I did was go drinking and clubbing," he was to recall. "I used to get stuck into the vodka big time. I'd go boozing the night before a match and yet I couldn't understand why I was losing."
It took him a season or so to realise how this excessive carousing was affecting him before he began to assemble a pattern of achievement which was to embrace not only his three Masters titles but first prizes in the 2002 Welsh and British Opens, two other ranking finals, 13 semis and 23 quarters.
· Paul Hunter, snooker player, born October 14 1978; died October 9 2006
Jimmy White says he is looking forward to an emotional Preston Guild Hall return. The Whirlwind warmed up for tonight's Betfred Premier League clash against Ronnie O'Sullivan at the Preston venue with a stunning 5-1 victory over Chinese sensation Ding Jun-Hui in the last round at Derby.
"It was my first win in the Premier League competition this season and it leaves me in tip-top shape for the Guild Hall," said White.
"I've always enjoyed playing at the Guild Hall, it is a special venue where I have enjoyed many happy times.
"The Preston audience are a great crowd and they are very knowledgeable about snooker.
"I've always felt at home in Preston, because the supporters are always very fair.
"I've certainly always had a warm welcome at the Guild Hall, so I'm really looking forward to playing at Preston again."
White had suffered a miserable week as he had failed to qualify for the televised stages of the Royal London Watches Grand Prix.
But the Whirlwind was smiling again as he claimed a convincing win against Jun-Hui to stay in contention for a top-four berth that would clinch a semi-final spot.
"I'm playing as well as ever in practice and I'm just trying to keep it going for Preston," added White.
"My games is there in exhibitions and practice but you have to bring it to the table.
"Playing Ronnie O'Sullivan is a great challenge for any player, but this competition is high on the agenda.
"The Premier League is a tournament you want to do well in and it is more prestigious than some of the ranking events because it is live on television.
"You're playing to packed audiences wherever you go and are up against the best players in the world."
In tonight's other clash, Scotland's Ken Doherty meets Ding Jun-Hui.
Meanwhile, Stephen Hendry has hailed Ronnie O'Sullivan as the man to beat in this year's Premier League.
O'Sullivan lost his world No.1 ranking to Hendry last year, but the Scot is impressed with that O'Sullivan – who locks horns with White tomorrow.
Hendry said: "The bookies don't usually get it wrong and they have made Ronnie favourite as he's won it the last two times.
"The shot clock suits him better than anybody else because he doesn't have to move from his natural speed of play, which all the other players have to adjust to, and he is definitely the man to beat again."
It promises to be a sensational double-header for snooker fans, with the Guild Hall staging the World Snooker Trickshot Championships tomorrow, with former champion, American Mike Massey, and fans' favourite Steve Davis the star turns.
Tickets for the Lancashire Evening Post-sponsored Guild Hall event are £15 on the door, and £12.50 for the Trickshot Championships. 12 October 2006
Hunter's humour was never far away By Robert Philip (Filed: 13/10/2006)
Paul Hunter went through his short life with a smile on his face; he was easy to find backstage at any snooker tournament, you simply followed the sound of laughter.
His death from cancer at the age of 27 has deprived the game of one of its greatest talents and robbed his wife Lindsey of a devoted husband, 10-month-old daughter Evie Rose of a seriously soppy dad, and his parents, Alan and Christina, of a loving son.
Dubbed the 'Beckham of the baize' due to his boyish good looks and variety of hairstyles, Paul was also blessed with a permanent twinkle in his eye, frequently attracting the twinkle in the eye of others.
The last time we met, Paul delighted in recounting the tale of a recent round of golf he had enjoyed while on holiday on the Algarve. He was accosted on the 10th tee by an American lady of a certain age. "Ooooh," she cooed, "you're that handsome young pool player."
"Well, I can't help how good looking I am, can I?" he grinned cheekily. "Ah, I'm only kidding. A lot of people ask me if I'm trying to copy David Beckham with the hairband or whatever. But I'm not copying him as such, I just happen to like his hairstyles and if they suit him, then they're definitely going to suit me. (This was followed, like so many of Paul's pronouncements, with a loud chortle).
"Anyway, I'd like to be remembered as one of the best snooker players of my era, not the best looking."
Paul Hunter will be remembered as one of the nicest young men from any walk of life.
shual007
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Snooker has lost a charming and funny competitor By Brendan Gallagher (Filed: 11/10/2006)
It is not just his family and snooker that will miss Paul Hunter. In an often grey sporting world of isotonic drinks, carefully crafted sound bites and dogged political correctness, he gloriously bucked the trend and made friends wherever he went.
Hunter was a popular figure on and away from sporting scene Never more so than three years ago, when the BBC resurrected Superstars and flew the great and good of British sport to La Manga. Olympic gold medallists, obscenely paid footballers and world champions jostled for the limelight and best one-liners, but it was Hunter who effortlessly stole the show with his self-deprecating sense of humour and innate sense of fun.
When he landed in Spain, frankly, most of his fellow competitors did not have a clue who Paul Hunter was and a few were a tad sniffy about having to compete with a lounge lizard snooker player who had seemingly arrived straight from Stringfellows nightclub.
Within minutes, however, Hunter, armed with nothing more than his personality and smile, had charmed them all and emerged as chairman of the entertainments committee and the willing butt of everybody's good-natured jokes, on account of his declared aversion to strenuous physical activity.
The sight of Hunter – wife to be Lindsey on one arm, a lager in the other hand and a fag dangling form his mouth, a la James Dean – warming up for his next event was one to savour and perhaps reminded one or two of the more ultra competitive souls how to enjoy themselves.
The more discerning will also have noticed that there was another Paul Hunter lurking just below the blond playboy image and having the time of his life. Though hardly built for mountain-biking, putting the shot or the 100m, he always finished what he started.
Despite the humiliation of trying to 'perform' in front of Britain's fittest athletes, he never gave up. Not once. And when it came to the golf, at which he was genuinely talented, he was positively narked after fluffiing his one chance to collect maximum points. Just for a second, the smile deserted him.
That doggedness, alas, was needed only too soon when, in April 2005, he was diagnosed with neuroendocrine tumours, an extremely rare cancer of the stomach. He fought tenaciously, but on Monday, aged 27, he lost that fight. He leaves Lindsey and their daughter, Evie Rose.
Jimmy White – so akin to Hunter, temperamentally, as well as being a close friend –summed it up best yesterday as he led the many tributes.
"I can't tell you how special he was," said White, who actually heard the news while playing an exhibition match to raise money for Hunter's cancer charity. "He was a credit to life. He will be in my heart for the rest of my life. It's a very, very sad day for snooker, and sport in general.
"He was a bit of a Jack the Lad but he was never nasty to anybody, arrogant or rude like some sports people He was a really, really nice kid with a lovely family.
"You couldn't intimidate him. Nothing could put him off. As soon as he got beaten, or he won, he was back to Paul Hunter and that is a very hard quality to have. He was a tiger on the snooker table but you couldn't have met a nicer fellow.
"It's so, so sad – I'm totally gutted. It's beyond human comprehension. I can't get my head round it."
Sanya
green mama
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Отправлено: 13.10.06 22:00. Заголовок: Re:
Пусть будет хорошая новость:
NEW ARRIVAL FOR THE PERRYS 13 Oct 2006 13:08:00
Former European Open finalist Joe Perry and his wife Joanne are celebrating the birth of their first child. A baby girl, named Lexie, was born earlier this week. She weighed in at 6lb 2oz. Joe and Joanne met in Chatteris in 2001 and married in July last year at Kimbolton Castle in Cambridgeshire.
Riba
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Откуда: Моя Родина - СССР
Отправлено: 15.10.06 20:54. Заголовок: Re:
Snooker: Matt told 'do it for Paul'Oct 15 2006
Peter Shuttleworth, Wales on Sunday
MATTHEW Stevens was last night urged to turn his grief into inspiration and win the Grand Prix for his best mate Paul Hunter.
Snooker pin-up Hunter lost his battle against cancer last week to send the sporting world into mourning - and Welshman Stevens is understandably struggling to come to terms with the death of his childhood pal.
But former world champion Terry Griffiths told Stevens to win his fifth major trophy at the Royal London Watches Grand Prix in Aberdeen in Hunter's memory.
Welsh snooker legend Griffiths said: "This happening to his best mate will put everything into perspective for Matthew.
"Something traumatic like this could either affect Matthew's game dramatically or inspire him to success in Paul's memory. Matthew has such talent, I wouldn't rule him out winning the Grand Prix for Paul."
Stevens described his relationship with three-times Masters champ Hunter as a "bond like brothers" since they became inseparable on snooker's junior tour when the now 29-year-old Welsh star was just 11.
The Carmarthen cueman was devastated when he heard his friend was diagnosed with a rare form of stomach cancer in March 2005 - and Stevens admitted earlier this year: "Paul has been so strong .
"It has been hard to watch my mate endure the pain of cancer, especially when I can't do anything about it."
Brandon Parker, manager to both players, admitted Stevens is "in bits" and the Welsh snooker star will be the front pallbearer on his friend's last journey at Hunter's funeral on Thursday.
Just two days later Stevens begins his Grand Prix challenge.
The world's best snooker player seeks to end his title famine in the Grand Prix which begins in Aberdeen on Saturday
STEPHEN HENDRY is still in pursuit of himself. There was a time when he arrived at a tournament and understood that he would play well on his way to the latter stages, by which time he would be reaching peak form. It became the routine by which his career was defined and he was ranked No1 in the world for eight consecutive years. Last May he regained the No1 place after an absence of eight years, but a part of his old self remains elusive; he has not won a tournament for almost two years. “In the 90s, when I was dominating, it just happened,” he says.
In those eight years Hendry’s lowest ranking was No6, an acute diminishment when you have looked down on the rest for so long. That he has climbed back to the top through the sheer consistency of his form, rather than knowing again the thrill of winning an event, says much about the way snooker has found a spread of talent to replace the ruling figures of the past: Ray Reardon, Steve Davis and Hendry. The Scot has won 36 ranking events, including seven world titles, but his last victory came in the Malta Cup in February 2005.
“The longer it goes, the harder it becomes,” he says. “You do lack that 5% of confidence because you haven’t won for a while and the only way to get that last 5% is by winning. But it’s just a matter of getting a run going. I’m playing steady without reaching the heights that I used to. I’d like to have got to No1 by winning more tournaments, but the numbers don’t lie.”
In this season’s first tournament, the Northern Ireland Trophy in August, Hendry lost in the second round but ahead of the Grand Prix event that begins in Aberdeen on Saturday, he believes his game is in sound shape and it is only his mental readiness that needs to be ensured. He is working with his coach Terry Griffiths, the former world champion, on such preparation.
“I’ve got to physically motivate myself for some matches to get the focus that you need to win,” he says. “Sometimes you get to a match, you expect so much and nothing happens, so you get frustrated and your form goes. It’s about mental preparation with Terry, not going in as deep as sports psychology but just getting motivated for each match.”
All the world’s top players will be participating in Aberdeen, the tournament beginning with a new round-robin format and best-of-five-frame matches. It is also the first major tournament since the recent death of Paul Hunter, the popular Englishman who had been suffering from neuroendocrine cancer, and the players are planning a tribute to their friend and colleague. “We’re all going to the funeral on Thursday,” adds Hendry quietly.
Hendry believes that snooker is in the early stages of a renaissance, with a seventh ranking tournament added to this year’s calendar and an eighth planned for next season, when China will host a second event along with the China Open. The growth of the game in the Far East has invigorated Hendry’s competitive instincts. In his mid-20s, he often said that he would retire at 30, but three years short of his 40th birthday he has encountered no desire to leave the game.
Sanya
green mama
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Отправлено: 16.10.06 12:14. Заголовок: Re:
Ding to give up matches for Asian Games (CRIENGlISH.com) Updated: 2006-10-16 08:47
Chinese snooker prodigy Ding Junhui may give up playing his final Premier League matches for the Asian Games, local media reported. Ding, who tops the Premier League standings, needs only one more victory to advance to the semi-finals of the tournament.
The 19-year-old will play his final Premier League match in England on December 3, if he beats all of his rivals en route to the last stage. However, this would clash with the schedule for the Asian Games, according to the Beijing-based newspaper, "The First".
The snooker doubles event for the Asian Games is slated to be held on December 4 in Doha, Qatar.
Even if he succeeds in entering the final stage of the Premier League, Ding will play the Asian Games instead of going for the League title, Ding's agent Zheng Meng was quoted as saying by the newspaper.
Last month, the Doha Asian Games changed the schedule for its snooker matches to avoid clashing with another snooker event, the UK Championship.
The snooker competition for the Asian Games will end on December 7 instead of December 11, allowing Ding Junhui to defend his UK Championship title from December 9.
Tribute to snooker ace By Dave Higgens THE widow of snooker star Paul Hunter left a moving tribute to him as he lay at rest in a church yesterday.
In a book of condolence, Lindsey Hunter wrote: "To Paul. You are my husband - forever. You are Evie's Daddy forever.
"You are our rock and will always be with us.
"You made us what we are as a family. All our hearts always. Love you forever. Your family, Lindsey and Evie Rose."
Three-time Masters champion Hunter died last week from cancer aged just 27.
Yesterday, Lindsey and 10-monthold Evie Rose joined other members of the family at Leeds Parish Church as Hunter's coffin arrived.
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A short church service was held before the family signed the condolence book and lit candles.
Hundreds are expected to attend Hunter's funeral on Thursday, including many of his fellow snooker professionals.
The coffin will lie in the Lady Chapel of the church for two days and the book of condolence is available for visitors to sign.
Riba
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Отправлено: 19.10.06 07:06. Заголовок: Re:
Snooker champ's wife says farewell to 'our rock' Family, friends and hundreds of fans prepare for funeral of Tyke snooker player killed by cancer Nishika Patel "Our rock" was how Paul Hunter's widow chose to remember her husband as his coffin was brought to Leeds Parish Church. Lindsey Hunter was the first to write a moving tribute to Paul in a book of condolence after his coffin was carried into the church's Lady Chapel yesterday. The snooker star, who died from cancer at just 27, will lie in the chapel until the funeral at 2pm tomorrow when six snooker players will carry the coffin. Mrs Hunter, who arrived at the church with their 10-month-old daughter Evie, wrote: "To Paul you are my husband forever, you are Evie's daddy forever, you are our rock and will always be with us. You made us what we are as a family. All our hearts always. Love you forever. Your family Lindsey and Evie Rose." Tearful relatives walked arm in arm behind the coffin as it was carried into the church and sprinkled with holy water. During a short service prayers were led by Canon Tony Bundock. Mrs Hunter broke down as she stepped forward to place two flowers on the coffin. His sister Leanne also fought back the tears as she placed a cross on top of a purple drape. Later Mrs Hunter lit a candle alongside nine others that were already burning. Members of the public were then allowed in to pay their respects and more than 200 people filed through the chapel during the day. Dozens of young men and young boys were among the visitors who all lit candles. One man brought in a snooker cue while others brought cards, flowers and snooker-related gifts. One fan wrote: "You would have been world champion." Hundreds of fans and friends are expected to attend the funeral and the book of condolence will be available for visitors to sign from 9.30am to 5pm today. Loudspeakers are being installed for those who cannot gain entry tomorrow and a screen may also be installed outside the church. The Yorkshireman died in a Huddersfield hospice last Monday after a 19-month battle with cancer. Despite chemotherapy, Mr Hunter continued to compete professionally but won only one match last season and fell from fifth to 34th in the rankings. The Snooker Writers' Association paid tribute to him yesterday by re-naming its Newcomer of the Year Award in his honour. He won it in 1998. Donations can be made to Mr Hunter's chosen charities – The NET Patient Foundation or Kirkwood Hospice, Huddersfield. nishika.patel@ypn.co.uk
Riba
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Отправлено: 19.10.06 07:22. Заголовок: Re:
Bond pays tribute to 'potential world champion' Hunter
NIGEL Bond will line up with the rest of snooker's elite for the Royal London Watches Grand Prix in Aberdeen this weekend just days after the sport lost one of its rising stars.
Today (Thursday) the funeral will take place in Leeds of the three-times Masters champion Paul Hunter, who died last Monday after losing his 18-month battle with cancer. Hunter was just 27 years old.
Bond, who will be at the funeral, said: "It's just a terrible loss, not just for snooker but obviously for his family and friends. It really is devastating for him to go at such a young age. He was three-times Masters champion and had got the world at his feet, and was a potential World Champion.
"He was happy-go-lucky and whether in defeat or victory he was still the same person. There was no chip on his shoulder or anything, he was just a really, really nice lad."
The Royal London Watches Grand Prix begins as a round robin tournament with groups of six players playing each other in best of five frames matches.
Bond, the world number 20 (provisional 23), has been drawn with former World champion and current provisional world number one Ken Doherty and Neil Robertson, who defeated Bond in the second round of the Northern Ireland Trophy in August.
Also in the group are Joe Swail, promising teenager Judd Trump and Paul Davison.
It's not a format that Bond has played before or one that many other players will be familiar with.
"TV just wanted a different format, so we'll see what happens," said Bond. "There'll be lots of matches, a lot of roll-on, roll-off. I think probably the players would have preferred a bit longer matches, but at the end of the day it's the same for everybody."
Bond begins with a match against Robertson on Saturday (11.45am) and is not deterred by the result in Ulster.
"It was a good game and I had my chances," said Bond. "But I played alright over there, there wasn't really too much wrong with my game. I've just got to keep it going and get a good run.
"I went to Northern Ireland having only prepared for three or four days because I had only been back from holiday that long. But for this one I've had longer to practice," he said,adding: "I feel as though I'm hitting the ball well."
Bond said his aim this season was to get back in the top 16 and, if he is not able to do that, to stay in the top 32.
Schedule. October 21: Bond v Robertson (11.45am), Bond v Doherty (3.30pm). October 22: Bond v Swail (8.30pm).
October 23: Bond v Trump/Davison (1.35pm), Bond v Davison/Trump (8.30pm).
Second round through to finals from October 25 to October 29. Coverage on BBC TV.
18 October 2006
Riba
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Отправлено: 19.10.06 07:23. Заголовок: Re:
Fans flock to pay respects to Paul
Nationwide tributes to 'inspiring' snooker star By Suzanne McTaggart And Peter Lazenby MOURNERS from across the country have been gathering to sign the book of remembrance for Leeds snooker star Paul Hunter. More than 250 people arrived at Leeds Parish Church to pay their respects to Paul, who died of cancer on Monday last week, by writing personal tributes, laying flowers, making donations and lighting candles in his memory. Some visitors had travelled from places as far afield as Aberdeen, Weymouth and North Wales to sign the book of remembrance, which simply states: In Loving Memory of Paul Alan Hunter. 14th October 1978 to 9th October 2006. One of the emotional tributes said: "I didn't know you that well and I'm going through a bad time in my life, but you've given me the courage to battle on. "I will use you as my inspiration in the days ahead, God bless, a topman and a gentleman. Mark." Heart Another entry read: "I played a match against you Paul and I remember you letting me play with your cue – may God take you to his heart warmly. RIP John McCabe." One entry said: "I will never forget what a true sportsman you were, a great snooker player, but an overwhelmingly endearing character. I hope that you've found somewhere better. Ed." As reported in the YEP yesterday, Paul's wife Lindsey was the first to write in the Book of Remembrance, which is available for signing until 5pm today. Present were Lindsey, Paul's parents Alan and Christine Hunter, Paul's sister Leanne, his cousins Nicola and Amanda Hunter, Lindsey's mother Pauline Fell and Lindsey's aunt Pauline Wade. A short service was led by the Rector of Leeds, the Rev Alan Bundock. After signing the book Lindsey placed a bible on top of her husband's coffin which lays in the Lady Chapel at the church. Later Lindsey lit a candle to her husband's memory, one of several burning in the Lady Chapel. Hundreds of fans and friends are expected to attend tomorrow's funeral, which will be held at Leeds Parish Church at 2pm. Members of the public are welcome to attend, though space is limited. Speakers are being installed outside the church to relay the service to any unable to gain entry. The family has named two charities for donations in Paul's memory: The Nets Patient Foundation and Kirkwood Hospice in Huddersfield, where he died. Paul, who lived in Upper Batley, died from the cancer neuro endocrine tumours or NETs. While being treated for the disease Paul helped set up the charity to raise funds for research. Donations can be made by making cheques payable to the NETs Patient Foundation or to Kirkwood Hospice, and sent to Paul Hunter Snooker, c/o Poolcroft, Sale, Cheshire, M33 2LF. To write a tribute to Paul Hunter visit www.leedstoday.net. suzanne.mctaggart@ypn.co.uk
Sanya
green mama
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Отправлено: 19.10.06 08:42. Заголовок: Re:
Snooker 'sombre' at Hunter loss
Defending champion John Higgins says it will be a "sombre event" when the Royal London Watches Grand Prix begins this weekend, following Paul Hunter's death. The season's first major tournament gets underway two days after Hunter's funeral, which takes place at Leeds Parish Church on Thursday at 1400 BST.
Hunter died at the age of 27 on 9 October after a battle with cancer.
Higgins said: "Everyone will be feeling the terrible loss and our thoughts are going to be with Paul and his family."
The Scot, 31, and many of his fellow professionals will be attending the funeral and he added: "The Grand Prix really is going to be a sombre tournament.
"Most of the players will be going to Paul's funeral before travelling up to Aberdeen on Friday.
"Paul was such a great battler and always had a smile on his face, even more so when he was telling everyone he was going to beat the cancer.
"It was the mark of the man because I don't think anybody else could have handled it the way he did and it is sad it has ended this way."
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Откуда: Россия, Белый город над белой Двиной
Отправлено: 19.10.06 16:19. Заголовок: Re:
Hundreds gather at Hunter funeral
Jimmy White and Ronnie O'Sullivan joined fellow players at the funeral Hundreds of mourners assembled in Leeds Parish Church and many more gathered outside for the funeral of snooker professional Paul Hunter. The three-times Masters champion died of cancer at Kirkwood Hospice, Huddersfield last Monday, aged 27.
Matthew Stevens, Hunter's closest friend on the circuit, was one of the pallbearers at the service.
Meanwhile, many of Hunter's fellow professionals were due to form a guard of honour for their friend's coffin.
Seven-time world champion Stephen Hendry and six-time winner Steve Davis were joined by Jimmy White, Ken Doherty, Ryan Day, Dennis Taylor, John Parrott and Willie Thorne.
Hunter's grieving father Alan was due to give a tribute, as was Sir Rodney Walker, chairman of the game's governing body World Snooker.
Hunter's coffin has been inside the church for the past two days and thousands have signed a book of condolence started by his widow Lindsey and 10-month-old daughter Evie
rusel
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Отправлено: 19.10.06 16:25. Заголовок: Re:
*PRIVAT*
Sanya
green mama
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Откуда: Россия, Белый город над белой Двиной
Snooker: Bravery of Hunter offers inspiration to his followers By Kaveh Solhekol
Our correspondent reports from Leeds on the eve of the funeral of the popular young cueman who died from cancer
PAUL HUNTER did not want to be a star. Winning snooker matches was all he had on his mind when he turned professional at the age of 16 in 1995. His ambition, apart from living a long and happy life and seeing his daughter grow old, was to become the world champion. Cancer robbed him of the opportunity to fulfil his destiny last week when he was only 27, but anyone making their way to Leeds Parish Church yesterday — his funeral takes place today — expecting to witness a mawkish display of grief would have been disappointed.
For once, the queue outside the church at lunchtime was longer than the lines in the high-street banks dotted around the city centre. Office workers, grandmothers and grandfathers, young mothers pushing prams and children queued in the bright sunshine to pay their respects to one of Yorkshire’s favourite sons.
This is Leeds. United are one point off the foot of the Coca-Cola Championship and Leeds takes misfortune in its stride. Two books of remembrance on either side of a coffin. A bible, a picture of Hunter in his prime no bigger than an A4 piece of paper and 44 candles burning in a corner of the Lady Chapel.
“I didn’t know you that well and I’m going through a bad time in my life, but you have given me the courage to battle on. I will use you as my inspiration in the days ahead,” one message read.
One of Hunter’s uncles is in the queue, but he waits his turn and looks at the ground with his hands in his pockets. When someone dies, someone somewhere will remember them at least once a year, but Hunter’s family are spoilt for choice. They can remember him every year on his birthday, October 14, or on the day he died, October 9, but they can also remember him on the anniversaries of the days when his daughter was born or when he got married, or the three magical days when he defied the odds to win the Masters at Wembley in 2001, 2002 and 2004.
A mobile phone rings and breaks the silence. “You’re not the first and you won’t be the last,” a verger said. Tired feet shuffle forward while thoughts turn to the funeral this afternoon. Who is coming? Will we get in? Is the church big enough?
Hunter discovered he had cancer in April 2004, but said that he planned to be “tenacious and positive” in his fight against the disease. Despite being in severe pain after chemotherapy, he carried on playing until April this year.
He had lost some of the feeling in his hands and was too weak to practise, but he played through the pain in his first-round match in the World Championship at the Crucible before losing 10-5 to Neil Robertson. “There was no joy in it, for obvious reasons,” Robertson said.
Hunter’s brave performance that day is without equal. Courage and heroism are words that are used too often by sports pundits, but for once they are entirely appropriate. Would it not be fitting, in a year of high-profile sporting disappointments, if he were to win the BBC Sports Personality of the Year award posthumously?
Devotees pay their tributes to happy man who lived life to the full
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Откуда: Россия, Белый город над белой Двиной
Отправлено: 20.10.06 06:39. Заголовок: Re:
MIRROR
20 October 2006 A CHAMPIONS FAREWELL TEARS FOR PAUL HUNTER By Jan Disley IT was Jimmy White who broke down first.
As the coffin carrying Paul Hunter passed in front of him, The Whirlwind could not hold back the tears.
Beside him Ronnie O'Sullivan, his eyes red and raw, bowed his head.
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One by one, the greats of snooker said their final farewell to one of the sport's shining stars - taken from them at the absurdly young age of 27.
Willie Thorne dabbed at his eyes and Steve Davis stared solemnly as Paul's wooden casket was carried by six men wearing the snooker uniform of black suits and black bow ties.
Among the pallbearers was Paul's close friend and fellow professional, Matthew Stevens.
Paul's widow Lindsey followed the coffin into the church while their 10-month-old daughter Evie, dressed all in pink, was carried in a black baby seat by an undertaker. Up to a thousand family, friends and fans gathered at Leeds Parish Church yesterday to pay tribute to the man they called the "Beckham of the Baize."
The front pews were packed with all the biggest names in the sport - including Dennis Taylor, John Higgins, Graeme Dott, Joe Johnson, Stephen Hendry, Peter Ebdon, Ken Doherty, John Parrott and Shaun Murphy.
Snooker legend Alex "Hurricane" Higgins - who has fought a long battle with throat cancer - was also there to pay his respects.
Lindsey, 27, read a touching poem written in tribute to Paul, who died at a hospice near his home in Huddersfield, West Yorks, after a 19-month fight against cancer.
She read: "He played the game that he loved, he played with passion so rare, and all of the crowd that saw him were privileged because they were there.
"So if you stood at the great gates of heaven with one look that you would understand, for amongst a great host of angels would be one with a cue in his hand."
Outside the church, hundreds of men, women and children lined the streets to hear the service relayed on loud speakers. Afterwards, former world champion O'Sullivan had to be comforted as he collapsed in tears.
Willie Thorne said the presence of so many stars showed the love and respect that everyone in the sport had for Paul, who was three times Masters champion.
He said: "He's going to be so sadly missed. He was a great winner and a great loser. You admired him so much. Ninety-nine per cent of the players have come to pay their respects. It just shows what the world thought of Paul Hunter."
Balding Willie told how Paul never lost his sense of humour even in the midst of his cancer treatment. He added: "He used to say, 'I don't mind the chemotherapy as long as I don't end up looking like Willie Thorne'."
Dennis Taylor said: "Paul just stood out a mile. It's a dreadfully sad loss. He would certainly have been a world champion that's for sure."
Paul's cousin Tony Roberts also paid a touching tribute. He said: "Paul was a fighter through and through. He gave us everything, his generosity, his looks, his hairstyles - and, above all, his strength and determination."
During the service Sir Rodney Walker, World Snooker Chairman, described the star as "inspirational".
He said: "He had a calmness under intense pressure that separates the great from the good."
Sir Rodney said Paul's image was glamorous and his charisma and flamboyant approach made him one of snooker's biggest draws.
He added: "But there was not a pretentious bone in his body. He wanted to give something back to the fans who put him where he was."
j.disley@mirror.co.uk
shual007
Леди Йага
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Отправлено: 20.10.06 19:19. Заголовок: Re:
Stars farewell to Hunter Oct 20 2006 Western Mail
SNOOKER stars including Ronnie O'Sullivan, Steve Davis and Jimmy White joined relatives, friends and hundreds of members of the public yesterday for the funeral of Paul Hunter.
Queues began forming outside Leeds Parish Church up to two hours before the service for the 27-year-old rising star of the sport who lost his battle with cancer last week.
Other members of the public lined the street outside the church as snooker stars past and present joined the crowds waiting to go in.
Jimmy White was among the first of the players to arrive, with those following forming a roll-call of the famous names of the sport.
John Virgo, Willie Thorne and Steve Davis chatted with other mourners as Peter Ebdon, Ken Doherty and Shaun Murphy were among the many others who filed into the church. Ronnie O'Sullivan was one of the later players to arrive.
Outside the church, fans' favourite Willie Thorne said, "I'm deeply saddened. He was 27 years of age, having won three Masters titles. "He's just going to be so sadly missed. He had a great personality, so you never knew whether he had won or lost. "I admired the kid so much, he battled so very hard these last two or three years." Bald Thorne recalled how Hunter used to say he did not mind the chemotherapy "as long as I don't end up looking like Willie Thorne." Thorne went on, "It's been a very sad day. "I think 99% of the players around the world have come to pay their respects. It shows what the world thought about Paul Hunter."
Also speaking outside the church, former world champion Dennis Taylor said, "Paul just stood out a mile. "He was just so good for our game. "It's just a dreadfully sad loss. He would have certainly been a world champion, that's for sure." Taylor recalled a particular final clash between Hunter and Ronnie O'Sullivan, saying the two of them walked to the table like "two pop stars". "That was just great," he said.
Hunter, who was known as the "Beckham of the baize", leaves a widow, Lindsey, and 10-month-old daughter Evie. The three-times Masters champion died last week after an 18-month battle with dozens of neuro endocrine tumours on the lining of his stomach.
Mrs Hunter watched as the coffin was carried into the church by six pallbearers wearing the snooker player's "uniform" of a dark suit with a black bow tie.
One of the pallbearers was Hunter's friend and fellow professional, Matthew Stevens.
Mrs Hunter, 31, who was wearing a black dress, followed the coffin into the church as an undertaker carried sleeping baby Evie in a child's black car seat.
A Who's Who of world snooker, including Dennis Taylor, John Parrot and Steve Davis, sat shoulder to shoulder on the front bench inside a packed church. The church, which holds up to 1,000 people, was full to capacity, with a crowd of mourners standing at the back and up the stairs.
As the coffin was borne down the aisle, music from Rocky III, Going To Fly Now, was played through the speakers and many in the congregation began to weep.
Hunter's father, Alan, gave the first of four personal tributes, saying the massive turnout "would make our son Paul so proud" and showed "just how much our beautiful son was loved".
Mrs Hunter appeared composed as she read a poem, A Tribute To A Champion - Paul Hunter, by Don Clarke.
She read, "There's one bright star in the heavens tonight and oh how it shines for all to see, for this star is special, it has a smile and laughter for now it is free."
World Snooker chairman Sir Rodney Walker described Hunter's many qualities, saying he was a great sportsman who "never made excuses" in defeat. After the service the mourners left the church, many in tears. Snooker player Ronnie O'Sullivan was heaving with emotion, weeping and red-eyed, as he went outside.
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Откуда: Россия, Белый город над белой Двиной
Отправлено: 21.10.06 23:50. Заголовок: Re:
С сайта World Snooker Association
ROCKET FLYING - AND THAI TOO 21 Oct 2006 16:55:00
Ronnie O'Sullivan was fast out of the blocks in the Royal London Watches Grand Prix today - and his new practice partner Issara Kachaiwong surprised a former champion.
The Rocket cruised to a 3-1 defeat of veteran Steve Davis to win his opening match in the first ever Round Robin phase of a ranking event.
Davis won the first frame with a break of 61 then O’Sullivan hit back to level with 41 and 43. The world No 3 then went up a gear and rattled in 83 and 133 - the highest break of the event so far.
The Chigwell cueman is back on the table tomorrow at 1.35pm against Michael Holt.
Issara, a talented 23-year-old Thai who win the Asian Championship to qualify for the pro circuit for the first time, came from 2-0 down to beat 1997 Grand Prix champ Dominic Dale 3-2.
He trailed 50-1 in the third but battled back to win three frames on the bounce with a top run of 47.
Issara, pictured with O’Sullivan at the World Snooker Academy in Sheffield, won six of his seven matches in the qualifiers.
Defending champion John Higgins had no scares in his comfortable 3-0 victory over Thailand's James Wattana.
Breaks of 59, 72 and 94 were enough to see the world No 4 to victory.
"It's the best possible start," said Higgins, who beat O'Sullivan 9-2 in last year's final. "Over the best-of-five frames you'll always be on edge, but you've just got to go out there and play as if it's a normal match.
"I couldn't have asked for any more than the way I played today. It's cut-throat snooker."
Last year's World Champion Shaun Murphy slipped to a 3-0 defeat to Welshman Ryan Day in his opening match. Day had runs of 60, 77 and 66 to upset the Rotherham potter.
Glasgow's Alan McManus whitewashed Barry Hawkins, a 3-0 winner despite having only mustered a high break of 42.
Nigel Bond had plenty to smile about as he clinched a deciding frame victory over Australian hotshot Neil Robertson thanks to a match-winning 87 run.
Chinese teenager Liang Wenbo upset Dubliner Fergal O'Brien 3-1, pocketing breaks of 72 and 49.
Two-times world champion Mark Williams was beaten 3-0 by Basildon’s Stuart Bingham, his opponent knocking in breaks of 67, 54 and 50.
888.com World Champion Graeme Dott was off to a losing start, beaten 3-0 by Northern Ireland Trophy and UK champion Ding Junhui.
Sanya
green mama
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Откуда: Россия, Белый город над белой Двиной
Отправлено: 21.10.06 23:53. Заголовок: Re:
Оттуда же:
DOTT STAYS IN TOUCH 21 Oct 2006 21:40:00
Graeme Dott, the 888.com World Snooker Champion, kept his hopes alive in the Royal London Watches Grand Prix with a battling victory over Joe Perry.
After losing his opening match 3-0 to Ding Junhui, another defeat for Dott tonight would have left him on the brink of elimination in Aberdeen.
But the Glaswegian edged to a 3-2 victory over world No 18 Perry. He made breaks of 74 and 61 in the first four other frames but Perry won the other two.
Dott started the decider with a run of 58. His opponent battled on but relief came for the Scot when he potted the last red.
"After losing to Ding I knew I had to win my last four games," said Dott, who has generously waived his waistcoat logo fee to sport a Cancer Research UK patch, as a tribute to Paul Hunter.
"I know it’s conceivable that I could go through with three wins but I don’t want to rely on other results so I’ve set myself the target of winning every game.
"That’s going to be tough because I think I’m in the hardest group and the best-of-fives make it difficult. I’m playing well in patches but I’m playing too many careless shots and that will cost you in short matches."
World No 1 Stephen Hendry scraped through his opening match 3-2 against Mark Selby.
The Scot took the first with an 83, then the next two scrappy frames were shared. Selby levelled at 2-2 with a brilliant 139 total clearance.
Both players had chances in a fragmented deciding frame, but Hendry chipped away with 14 and 21 to take it 66-14.
Ryan Day kept his superb start to the event going with a 3-0 defeat of Ali Carter. The Welshman, who beat Shaun Murphy 3-0 earlier, blasted in 47, 40, 95 and 140.
Stuart Bingham set a new front-runner for the £4,000 high break prize with an excellent 141 against Stephen Lee. But he let slip a 42-0 lead in the last frame as Lee knocked in 21 and 38 to steal it 3-2.
Ronnie O'Sullivan took a significant step closer to the last 16 of the Royal London Watches Grand Prix in Aberdeen with a 3-0 win over Nottingham's Michael Holt.
The first round is being played in a new round-robin format at this year's nine-day event, and after his second group win 'The Rocket' insisted it was very much to his liking.
"I enjoyed it," said O'Sullivan, who was the beaten finalist in this event last year.
"You always enjoy it when you get a result. But it's not always just about the result, it's nice to get a few breaks as well and win the way I've won.
"That is more important for me at the moment. I just want to enjoy the game, that's the main emphasis."
O'Sullivan added: "I don't think (the short match format) suits anyone better than anyone else.
"Willie Thorne hit the nail on the head when he said 'suck it and see'. I I just think what will be, will be.
"If you play well, no matter what the format is, whether it's one frame, best of 19, best of 25, you will win. If you don't play well you haven't got much chance of winning."
Defending champion John Higgins claimed his second win with a 3-1 triumph over Thailand's Issara Kachaiwong, battling back after his opponent had gone 1-0 ahead thanks to a break of 74.
But a high break of 69 and some clever tactical play made sure Higgins maintained his unbeaten record.
Fellow Scot Alan McManus eased to a 3-1 win over Dominic Dale, inflicting the Welshman's second defeat in as many days.
Last season's Masters semi-finalist knocked in breaks of 74 and 101 to see off Dale and keep his last 16 qualification hopes alive with his second win and with three group games still to play.
Other winners from the second session of play included Preston potter Ian McCulloch, a 3-0 victor over Basildon's Stuart Bingham with breaks of 75 and 43, while Stoke's Jamie Cope compiled runs of 82 and 91 in a 3-1 victory over Hong Kong's Marco Fu.
Former world champion Shaun Murphy secured his second win after a 3-1 victory over Dubliner Michael Judge.
Qualifier Judge had a century break, but Murphy's own run of 104 and an additional 56 was good enough to go through.
"I have really been putting the hours in during practice and I'm feeling sharp," said Rotherham's Murphy.
Mark Williams has decided to pull out of the Royal London Watches Grand Prix because of a wrist injury.
The two-times World Champion sprained ligaments in his left wrist during a gym session ten days ago.
He battled through the pain in his first three matches, losing to Stuart Bingham and Robin Hull and beating Stephen Lee.
He made the decision to withdraw after a 3-1 defeat to Finland's Hull tonight.
"My wrist is hurting and I can't play properly," said the 31-year-old Welshman. "I don't want to make it worse so I've decided to pull out and rest it before the next tournament.
"Every time I play a shot with pace I get a lot of pain. If I'd carried on I don't think I could win another frame and I don't want to risk making it worse.
"I've never pulled out of a tournament before and it's not nice. Even if I'd won tonight my decision would have been the same. Maybe I should never have come here. I decided to give it a try but it was no good." Williams' three results in the group will be declared void.
HIGGINS WINS SWA PLAYER OF THE YEAR 23 Oct 2006 13:11:00
Scotland's John Higgins has been named Highland Spring Player of the Year for season 2005/6 by the Snooker Writers' Association.
The 31-year-old won two major tournaments during the campaign – the Grand Prix and SAGA Insurance Masters – and finished runner up in two others.
Higgins is currently defending his title in front of his home fans at the Royal London Watches Grand Prix in Aberdeen.
Graeme Dott wins the Highland Spring Achievement of the Year award for his magnificent success in the 888.com World Snooker Championship.
Dott, who had never previously won a major tournament, defeated Peter Ebdon 18-14 to lift the game’s ultimate prize after an epic final at the Crucible Theatre in Sheffield.
The Wheels In Motion/Paul Hunter Newcomer of the Year accolade goes to Michael White, who won the World Grand Prix, the sport’s leading amateur event, in his home country of Wales at the age of just 14.
This award was re-named last week in honour of the late Paul Hunter, who won it himself in 1998.
Richard Balani’s contribution to the game is recognised with the Highland Spring Special Award.
Balani’s efforts have made Malta one of the leading venues for major tournament snooker for many years.
Ronnie O'Sullivan became the first player to book his place in the last-16 stage of the Royal London Watches Grand Prix.
The 'Rocket', last year's runner-up, beat Hong Kong's Marco Fu to secure his fourth group win on the bounce - and with victory is guaranteed a slot in the next phase of this year's competition at the Aberdeen Exhibition and Conference Centre.
"I'm just trying to relax and win my matches," said O'Sullivan, after his 3-2 victory over Fu.
"I was feeling a little bit hungry before my match because we went on 10 minutes later than scheduled. But that didn't matter."
Although O'Sullivan had won his three previous matches, he was still not guaranteed a place in the next round.
However, victory over Fu made sure of top spot in his group and now the former world champion and world number one has a chance to impress in the knockout stages.
O'Sullivan added: "I don't care what format they (World Snooker) put on, we're here to pot balls.
"The best man will win this tournament at the end of the week.
"We've had so many breaks this year I'm just enjoying potting balls and I think it's (the new format) is all good.
"You've got to experiment. Why not? It's quite refreshing. The tournament begins again now!"
Last season's Malta Cup winner, Ken Doherty, must wait until Monday night to see if he qualifies for the knockout stages.
The 1997 world champion lost his first match in Scotland, beaten 3-2 by Aussie left-hander Neil Robertson.
But despite defeat he still occupies top spot in his group after three wins from his other matches.
However, if he were to lose to Belfast's Joe Swail in his last group match and Melbourne potter Robertson were to triumph, then Doherty would be dumped out of the tournament.
Cambridgeshire's Joe Perry upset on-song Andrew Norman, the Bristol qualifier who had won all three of his group matches up until Monday afternoon.
Perry triumphed 3-0 with a high break of 82 and now has a record of two wins and one loss. Victories in his remaining two group matches would give him a good chance of reaching the next round.
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Откуда: Россия, Белый город над белой Двиной
Отправлено: 24.10.06 14:26. Заголовок: Re:
ART ATTACK 24 Oct 2006 10:16:00
Snooker's leading stars created unique pieces of artwork on Monday for charity group the Willow Foundation.
The Foundation organises special days out for seriously ill young adults. Leading sports figures such as footballer Thierry Henry and golfer Ian Poulter have recently contributed pieces of art, combining paint and canvasses with sporting equipment.
The snooker players took their turn in the players’ lounge at the Royal London Watches Grand Prix in Aberdeen. A canvas was laid horizontally on to a snooker table and the players hit painted balls across it to make spectacular patterns.
Ronnie O’Sullivan (pictured signing his contribution), Stephen Hendry, Steve Davis, John Higgins, Ken Doherty, Peter Ebdon, Terry Griffiths and Dennis Taylor were among those to take part.
The original pieces as well as 50 prints were signed and they will be auctioned to raise money for the Willow Foundation.
Sanya
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Откуда: Россия, Белый город над белой Двиной
Отправлено: 24.10.06 18:31. Заголовок: Re:
I still have hunger for success says Hendry
STEPHEN HENDRY insists he still has the hunger to win more silverware despite not having won a ranking snooker event since 2005. Hendry is competing in the Royal London Watches Grand Prix in Aberdeen but the seven-times world champion has won just one of his three last-16 group qualifying matches. With Welshman Matthew Stevens - a 3-0 winner against the Scot yesterday - leading Group E after three successive victories and Leicester's Mark Selby having won two of his three, Hendry is threatened with an early exit from the second ranking event of the season at the Aberdeen Exhibition and Conference Centre. Despite maintaining he still has the motivation to succeed, the 37-year-old says he has become frustrated with his failure to rediscover the magic which saw him dominate the 1990s. "Maybe I've been too harsh on myself," admitted Hendry. "If another player beats you, then you respect that, but I believe it's my fault all the time." But he is adamant the state of the tables is having an adverse effect on him. "They're the worst tables I've ever played on," he said. "It's verging on unplayable out there. "It's verging on a farce. I've got to stop myself going into a rant because I'll probably get disciplined (by World Snooker) for this." Meanwhile, Glasgow's Alan McManus defeated James Wattana 3-1, the Thai player's second loss of the day in Group A. And Stephen Maguire - another Glaswegian - scored a double in Group H, beating Graeme Dott, of Larkhall, and Chinese star Ding Junhui by the same 3-1 scoreline.
24/10/2006
Sanya
green mama
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Откуда: Россия, Белый город над белой Двиной
Сообщение: 633
Откуда: Россия, Белый город над белой Двиной
Отправлено: 25.10.06 19:40. Заголовок: Re:
ALL GUNS BLAZING 25 Oct 2006 17:27:00
Ronnie O'Sullivan said he wants to be like Billy the Kid after shooting down David Gray at the Royal London Watches Grand Prix.
The Rocket’s 5-2 success put him through to the quarter-finals where he meets Neil Robertson, a 5-3 winner over Andrew Norman.
O’Sullivan claims he has rediscovered his "love of snooker" and was in ebullient mood after knocking in breaks of 136, 51, 107, 51 and 67 to easily see off Gray in Aberdeen.
"I want to be aggressive like Billy the Kid," said world No 3 O’Sullivan, runner-up in last year’s Grand Prix. "You look at all the great sportsmen - Steve Davis, Roger Federer, Tiger Woods, Michael Schumacher and Phil Taylor are all aggressive.
"They know to play a defensive game. I know how to play a defensive game, Ray Reardon has taught me that, but I don’t intend on having many scrappy matches. I won’t stop playing aggressively.
"I’ve been playing poorly for the last 10 or 11 years. I remember winning as a kid with effortless ease and that’s how I need to play. I can do that if I play this type of game. I can go through players and win without it feeling like I’ve had to work for it. It’s kind of come easy to me.
"A lot of snooker players are too intense and serious. You can catch it off them, it’s like a lurgy which goes around. I want to be laid back and just enjoy it.
"I’m not in this for trophies or the money, I’m in this for the love. That means more to me. It’s just the beauty of the game.
"My game needs to be a little bit stronger, but I’m really not worried whether it comes or not. I’m going out there to enjoy it and take that enthusiasm and that love for the game I had as a kid."
Meanwhile, Aussie ace Robertson came from 2-1 behind to end Norman’s chances.
Bristol’s Norman knocked in breaks of 44 and 59 to edge ahead. But the Melbourne Machine was up to the task and reeled off the next two frames to re-establish his advantage.
Norman rallied to draw level, but with breaks of 56 and 75 it was Robertson who made sure of victory.
"Overall I’m not too happy with the way I played, but I’m definitely looking forward to playing Ronnie," said Robertson.
"I think I’m one of the few players who can beat him even when he’s playing well, providing my long game is working and I’m scoring well."
Robertson’s win has seen him reach his sixth ranking event quarter-final, but he is yet to reach a semi.
"It doesn’t bother me at all," added the world No 13. "I think it’s a good sign if you keep getting to quarter-finals.
"Eventually I’ll start to break through. I’ve lost a few close ones, but it’s definitely not a stumbling block."
Сообщение: 650
Откуда: Россия, Белый город над белой Двиной
Отправлено: 26.10.06 16:16. Заголовок: Re:
YOU DO RUN RON 26 Oct 2006 12:31:00
Not only is Ronnie O'Sullivan one of snooker's quickest cuemen, he's pretty fast away from the table too. And if the two-times World Champion looks quicker around the table than usual in Aberdeen this week, then maybe it's because he's been receiving some top class athletics coaching.
The Rocket has always been keen on his running and earlier this month clocked new 10 kilometres personal best of 36 mins 31 secs in Southend.
And that's hardly surprising considering he's been training with National Junior cross country champion, Danielle Sale.
Sale's coach is former international, Maxine Joyce, and she's set the twice former world champion a weekly 40 mile schedule.
"He's very keen and wants to improve on his times," says Joyce. "He used to go down to Woodford Green but he was find he was running aimlessly.
"He was just going out for a run and there was no structure to it. When he first came down to me last July he was finding the track really hard.
"We used to do 8 x 800 metres and he could only do six reps. Now, he's starting to do all the reps and his recovery is a lot quicker and his times are coming down."
O'Sullivan has been training with Joyce's son, Shay, a 34 minute 10km runner.
And she believes O'Sullivan can get down to 35 minutes. "Maybe faster if he can fit in the training," she added. "Ronnie says the running does help his snooker in a way. It makes the mind fitter."
The Essex star warmed up for Aberdeen with another run, finishing a creditable 13th in the Standish Hall Trail Race.
Извините, что пишу здесь,просто не знаю, где изложить свою просьбу. Пожалуйста, кому не трудно, выложите ссылки статей на тему прекращения Эмбаси спонсирования снукера. Нужны именно статьи. Заранее спасибо!
Sanya
green mama
Сообщение: 679
Откуда: Россия, Белый город над белой Двиной
Отправлено: 27.10.06 18:05. Заголовок: Re:
RED-HOT ROBBO STUNS ROCKET 27 Oct 2006 16:19:00
Ronnie O'Sullivan admitted he was "blown away" as Neil Robertson produced the best performance of his career at the Royal London Watches Grand Prix today.
Last season’s runner-up O’Sullivan was thumped 5-1 at the Aberdeen Exhibition and Conference Centre as the rising star from Down Under secured a place in his first-ever ranking event semi-final.
The Rocket, who had previously declared he wanted to be like gunslinger Billy the Kid, admitted: "Neil was on fire. He blew me away.
"You have to give the guy credit. He barely missed a ball and when he did I just didn’t punish him.
"Sometimes you come up against someone playing like that and there’s not much you can do. He deserved his win. I wish I could have given him a better game.
"If he carries on playing like that he’ll fancy his chances of winning this. He was a hard man out there today."
Robertson, who had lost in his previous five ranking quarter-finals, started well with runs of 31 and 32 to take the opener.
An excellent 46 clearance followed as the Melbourne Machine went 2-0 ahead, before O’Sullivan hit back with a break of 69 after Robertson had missed a routine black.
But the Cambridge-based Aussie won the fourth frame with an 42 break to lead 3-1 at the interval - and following the resumption the world No 13 sparkled.
Further breaks of 71 and 65 followed as the left-hander fired his way into the semis where he will now play either Scot Alan McManus or Preston’s Ian McCulloch.
"I would definitely say this is the best performance of my career so far," said an understandably delighted Robertson.
"I’m very happy with the way I played. I’ve scored more heavily and played more explosive stuff in other matches, but I think playing like that against someone like Ronnie is so much harder to do.
"I kept my composure because I knew I was playing well and I knew I would be creating chances for myself.
"I said before the match I was probably one of the few players who can beat him when he’s playing well. I definitely believed that.
"When I get in the balls and I’m concentrating and my positional play is good, then I score almost as heavily as anyone.
"Obviously long potting is my strength as well as clearing up under pressure, so there was absolutely no reason why I shouldn’t think I could beat him."
Asked if this was an early sporting blow for Australia ahead of the forthcoming Ashes, Robertson cheekily replied: "At least Ronnie got one today. We should win the cricket 5-0!"
Defending champion and home favourite John Higgins suffered a surprise 5-2 reverse to Mark King at the Royal London Watches Grand Prix tonight.
Going into the quarter-finals, the form book suggested that Higgins would meet Ronnie O’Sullivan in the final for the second consecutive year. But both snooker giants have taken the road out of Aberdeen today, leaving an unlikely semi-final line-up.
It was the Wizard of Wishaw’s first defeat to King for 12 years. "It went wrong all night," said the world No 4. "My concentration was all over the place from the first frame onwards. That was the telling point in the match.
"My safety was atrocious and I was leaving chances on a plate for him. You’ve got to perform, but I just didn’t turn up.
"I was confident about my game and even at 4-0 still felt brilliant and that I could get back, but all night I struggled."
And asked whether O’Sullivan’s shock exit had given him a better chance of winning the tournament Higgins added: "I couldn’t have cared less whether Ronnie had gone out.
"I knew that if I played well I’d win, so it wouldn’t have mattered who was in the other half of the draw.
Higgins started in the worst possible fashion with a new record of 12 consecutive misses in a televised match. After potting a red he was trapped in the pack and tried to come off two cushions to hit the yellow or green. When he finally succeeded on his 13th attempt, he drew one of the biggest cheers of the week.
Ironically he eclipsed his opponent’s record of 11 misses against Stephen Lee at the 1997 UK Championship at the Preston Guild Hall.
And after King added a break of 66 the first frame was gone, before he added the next with runs of 38 and 26.
A 69 break followed to make it three frames on the bounce, and then Higgins strangely conceded the fourth frame only 44 behind and with 51 points available.
It got slightly better after the interval for Higgins as he reduced his arrears with back-to-back breaks of 55 to to trail 4-2.
But it only delayed the inevitable as world No 29 King secured a place in his seventh ranking event semi-final with a 71 break in the seventh and deciding frame. One more victory and he will have reached only his third ranking event final.
"The first time I ever played John I beat him. That was about 1924 I think," said King, tongue-in-cheek.
"I managed to lose to him 11 times on the spin after that. No matter how well I played he just played better. He smacked my arse every time, it was relentless.
"But I thought that I would beat him sooner or later, otherwise I would take it to the grave."
And King was delighted with the way he performed in front the television cameras, setting up a semi-final showdown with Jamie Cope tomorrow night.
ROBERTSON STORMS INTO ABERDEEN FINAL 28 Oct 2006 18:08:00
Neil Robertson became the first Australian to reach a ranking final for 16 years at today's Royal London Watches Grand Prix.
The Aussie ace ended Scottish interest at this year's championship at the Aberdeen Exhibition and Conference Centre with a battling 6-2 semi-final victory over Alan McManus.
World No 13 Robertson battled back from 2-0, reeling off six frames on the spin for a memorable win.
Warren King was the last player from Down Under to reach a ranking event final when, in 1990, he lost to Steve James in the Mercantile Credit Classic final at the Norbreck Castle in Blackpool.
Melburne potter Robertson will now play either Romford left-hander Mark King or Stoke qualifier Jamie Cope in tomorrow's showcase final, with the winner set to pocket a cheque for £60,000.
King, a 125/1 outsider to win the title at the start of the tournament, and 21-year-old Cope, given odds of 66/1 before a ball had been potted, play in tonight's other semi-final.
"It obviously means a lot to have won today, but it would mean more to win the tournament," said a delighted Robertson, who needs one more victory to be the first Aussie to win an elusive ranking event title.
"I've just got to keep doing what I've been doing. I knew I'd have a really tough match, but even if I'd have gone 3-1 behind I knew I could come back.
"There's a fair bit of interest back home already but if I can win it I think I'll get a lot of attention, which would be great for snooker in Australia."
Looking ahead to the final, Robertson added: "I'm going to take it one ball at a time and I'm going to enjoy myself, which is the most important thing.
"I've never played Jamie before, but I've practised a bit with Mark in Cambridge (where Robertson is based).
"Mark's a good potter and has a strong safety game and Jamie just goes for his shots."
McManus was the better starter and won the first frame on the pink after his opponent had over-swerved in escaping from a snooker. Last season's Masters semi-finalist, McManus then pocketed an excellent break of 100 to make it 2-0.
But Robertson, who knocked out last year's runner-up Ronnie O'Sullivan in the quarters, showed why he is regarded as one of the sport's most exciting talents.
A break of 55 reduced his deficit, then he snatched the pivotal fourth frame on a respotted black after gaining two snookers on the blue and making an excellent clearance.
The post-interval resumption saw Robertson compile a fine run of 79 to go in front for the first time in the match, and he made it 4-2 by winning scrappy sixth.
McManus might have pulled one back but was unlucky to go in-off at the business end of frame seven, Robertson cooly clearing from yellow to pink.
The next went down to the final black and Robertson doubled it the length of the table to seal victory.
"It was all to play for at 2-2, but never really happened for me after the break," admitted McManus. "I'm a little disappointed, but Neil's playing well, you can tell that.
"It's not like I completely chucked the match away, I wasn't reckless. Good luck to Neil. He's a really, really good player. It's the first time I've played him and he impressed me.
"He's favourite in my eyes to go on and win it. He certainly looks on top of his game."
Clive Everton Saturday October 28, 2006 The Guardian
Ronnie O'Sullivan and John Higgins were widely expected to contest tomorrow's Royal London Grand Prix final but neither will even feature in today's semi-finals. Neil Robertson, a 24-year-old Australian who had lost his five previous world-ranking quarter-finals, reached his first semi-final in style with an emphatic 5-1 win over O'Sullivan, and Mark King, the world No29, was a surprise 5-2 winner over Higgins.
"You have to give the geezer credit. He hardly missed a ball and when he did I didn't punish him. He was on fire and against someone like that you can't turn up with your B game" said O'Sullivan.
Neil Robertson traced his first major triumph back to the moment he tried to snap his own cue four years ago. The talented young Australian beat Jamie Cope 9-5 in Aberdeen tonight to win the Royal London Watches Grand Prix.
The 24-year-old’s first spell on the professional Tour was unsuccessful and, after heading back to his home in Melbourne in 2002, his future in snooker was in the balance.
"Because I was so far away from the UK, making it to the top just seemed like a dream," said the left-hander as he reflected on tonight’s triumph.
"I thought to myself ’it’s never going to happen’. You have to commit so much and sacrifice so much.
"I remember practising one day and missing an easy ball. I hit my cue against the side of the table as hard as I could. Somehow it didn’t break and after that things turned around for me. It’s the cue I used today and it’s as straight as an arrow.
"I got a wildcard back on to the Tour (after winning the World Under-21 Championship in 2003), and knew I couldn’t mess that opportunity up. I practised really hard and thankfully I’m starting to get all the rewards now."
As for the final, the popular Cambridge-based player said: "I’m just so happy to have won. Leading 8-2 I thought it was in the bag. I was feeling really good and all I wanted was one chance.
"But the balls just went a little bit funny and Jamie started to find his rhythm. Then he started to miss a few balls and it became contagious.
"If he had won the frame to make it 8-6 then anything could have happened, so I’m so relieved to have won it.
"It really hasn’t sunk in yet, but maybe after a few drinks it will. It’s a great moment. I had a few nerves, but when you beat Ronnie on the way to the final, it gives you the confidence to go on.
"I was twitching all over the place towards the end. Luckily the crowd were far back because I would have hit them with my elbow!
"It’s the best week of my life, it’s just been incredible. It’s also the biggest cheque of my career, but that’s not the reason I play. As long as I’ve got enough money to pay the bills the money’s not that important.
"I just want to win, play in these sort of arenas and in front of big crowds. My family has been following the match on the (worldsnooker.com) live scoring. I’ll be making a few calls in the morning.
"Hopefully this is the start of many tournament wins for me. Maybe a few younger players in Australia can start to play. We tend to be so hungry to win so we could produce quite a few good players."
Cope was upbeat despite defeat and hopes to be a title-challenger in years to come.
"I just didn’t turn up tonight," admitted the 21-year-old from Stoke. "I felt Neil was going to struggle a bit to get over the line, but his lead was just too big.
"The atmosphere was great, but it was my first final and I didn’t really know what to expect. I’ll be ready for the next one.
"My concentration wasn’t 100 per cent and I threw a couple of frames away. But you live and learn.
"I’ve had a really good week and enjoyed it. I’m just looking forward to the next one. Hopefully I can keep climbing the rankings and get into the top eight.
"I had no doubts about my ability, I just expected to play a bit better. I’m played really well in the semi-final, and I was looking forward to bringing that to the final. But it just got away from me."
Neil Robertson savoured the best moment of his snooker career after winning the Royal London Watches Grand Prix.
The Australian powered his way to a 9-5 victory over Englishman Jamie Cope at the Aberdeen Exhibition and Conference Centre.
With his memorable win Robertson became the first Australian to win a ranking event title, pocketing a Ј60,000 winners' cheque in the process, while Cope scooped Ј30,000 as runner-up, as well as Ј24,000 in additional prize-money for a televised maximum 147 clearance earlier in the tournament.
Fellow countryman Warren King was the last man from down under to reach a ranking event final, but he lost 10-6 to Steve James when he reached the 1990 Mercantile Credit Classic final at the Norbreck Castle in Blackpool.
But Robertson, given odds of 33-1 to win the title prior to the tournament, needed just four frames to beat Stoke qualifier Cope, having led 5-2 after the afternoon session of play where seven frames of the best-of-17 frame match were contested.
And with a three-frame cushion, Melbourne's Robertson grew in confidence as the match went ahead, rarely missing when given the chance to shine in Scotland.
"I'm just so happy to have won the match," said a delighted Robertson, who also won an 18-carat gold watch from the title sponsor.
"Leading 8-2 I thought it was in the bag. I was feeling really, really good and all I wanted was one chance, but the balls just went a little bit funny and he (Jamie) started to find his rhythm.
"But he started to miss a few balls, I did and it became a little bit contagious.
"If he had won the frame to make it 8-6 then anything could have happened, but I'm so relieved to have won it.
"It really hasn't sunk in yet, but maybe after a few drinks it will sink it. It was a great moment for me."
Robertson added: "I had a few nerves, but when you beat someone like Ronnie (O'Sullivan), it gives you the confidence to go on.
"But I was twitching all over the place. Luckily the crowd were far back because I would have hit them with my elbow otherwise.
"It's the best week of my life, it's just been incredible."
However, it was 21-year-old Longton potter Cope who took the early advantage, edging a nervy opening frame to lead 1-0.
Left-hander Robertson, who is based in Cambridge, then reeled off four consecutive frames - a century break of 100 levelled the match, before runs of 78, 59 and 52 saw Robertson open up a three-frame cushion.
Back came Cope with a high break of 55 to reduce his arrears, but Robertson pinched the last frame of the afternoon session to restore his three-frame advantage.
It got even better for Robertson when the pair resumed for the deciding evening session, with a possible 10 frames available.
The lead became four frames after Cope missed a couple of decent chances to reduce his arrears, with Robertson pinching a scrappy frame to make it 6-2.
Robertson then edged within two frames of victory by winning a scrappy ninth frame which he clinched by 64-31 points.
The roll kept going as a 63 break took the 24-year-old left-hander within one frame of his first title, having previously never progressed further than the quarter-finals stages in no fewer than five ranking events.
Cope made a stylish 105 to make sure the match went to final session, but it only delayed the inevitable.
The Stoke man did win another two frames to make the score look respectable, but Robertson was not be beaten.
Victory was finally secured when world number 13 Robertson - who will move to seventh in the provisional world rankings following his victory - won the deciding 14th frame and raised his arms with delight.
"I just didn't turn up tonight," admitted Cope.
"I felt he (Neil) was going to struggle a bit to get over the line, but it (his lead) was just too big.
"The atmosphere was great, but it was my first final and I didn't really know what to expect. But I'll be ready for the next one now.
"My concentration wasn't there 100 per cent and to be honest I've thrown a couple of frames away. But you live and learn."
And despite defeat Cope, who moves up to 14th in the provisional rankings, added: "I've had a really good week and I've enjoyed it. I'm just looking forward to one more really (reaching another final).
"It's good be in the top 16 definitely. Hopefully I can improve on that and reach the top eight.
"I've had no doubts (about my ability), I just expected to play a bit better. I played really well in the semi-final, and I was just looking forward to bringing that to the final.
"But my concentration wasn't there. I was feeling okay with the conditions, but it just got away from me."
Сообщение: 738
Откуда: Россия, Белый город над белой Двиной
Отправлено: 30.10.06 18:21. Заголовок: Re:
The Times October 30, 2006
Snooker: Robertson blazes trail for Australia by claiming historic title By Phil Yates
NEIL ROBERTSON, a left-hander with flair and a dedicated approach to the sport that inspired his permanent relocation from Melbourne to Cambridge, became the first Australian to win a worldranking tournament last night.
Robertson, 24, as attacking and free-flowing as his countryman, Eddie Charlton, was cautious and ponderous, beat Jamie Cope, from Stoke, 9-5 in the final of the Royal London Watches Grand Prix in Aberdeen to collect the largest prize of his career, £60,000.
Had it not been for a blistering day in his home town a decade ago, had Robertson not chosen to escape the heat in an air-conditioned snooker club, the sport in Australia would not be enjoying the boost it badly needs. Seven months after Quinten Hann was banned for eight years by the World Professional Billiards and Snooker Association for intending to fix a match, his compatriot, Robertson, underlined his potential and climbed to No 7 in the provisional world rankings.
Australia may have produced Walter Lindrum, the finest billiards player to wield a cue, but snooker has been one of the few sporting pursuits that those Down Under have found difficulty in crowing about.
Robertson is the sixth non-British or Irish winner of a world-ranking event, joining Cliff Thorburn and Bob Chaperon, of Canada, Silvino Francisco, of South Africa, James Wattana, of Thailand, and Ding Junhui, of China.
Leading 8-2 after dominating the exchanges, Robertson lost three successive frames but, complementing his skill with a cool temperament, the Australian compiled a decisive 55 break in the fourteenth frame.
Сообщение: 745
Откуда: Россия, Белый город над белой Двиной
Отправлено: 30.10.06 21:16. Заголовок: Re:
Все на ту же тему..
Bang on cue!
Neil Robertson has revealed his first ranking event title success has made him hungrier to win more honours.
But the popular Cambridgebased Australian, who won the Royal London Watches Grand Prix in Aberdeen last night, admitted he came close to quitting the game five years ago.
"There was one point when I was 19 when I just got fed up with it (the game) and got fed up with the tour," he said.
"I was practising with the rest and actually tried to break my cue.
"It's an amazing story, really.
Because I'm so far away from it now, it just seems like a dream.
"You have to commit so much and sacrifice so much. I wasn't that dedicated to the game.
"I actually hit it (my cue) against the table as hard as I could and it didn't break. I used that cue tonight, it was as straight as an arrow.
"That sort of turned it around a little bit. I was given a wild card a few seasons ago and I couldn't mess that opportunity up. I had to come over here, practise all the time and thankfully I'm starting to get the rewards now."
Robertson beat Stoke qualifier Jamie Cope 9-5 in their best-of-17- frame final showdown to become the first Australian to win a ranking event title.
And now he is confident his trophy cabinet will start to fill.
"Hopefully this is the start of many tournaments for me," added Robertson, who has risen to seventh in the world rankings from 13th.
"Hopefully a few younger players in Australia can start to play because if kids in Australia start and play - because of the Australian culture and because Australians tend to be so hungry to win - Australia could produce quite a few good players, there's no doubt about that.
"There's a nine year old who is knocking in 40-50 breaks, so they just need to be given the opportunities.
"It's so hard being so far away, but I really hope this does raise the popularity of the sport back home."
Сообщение: 839
Откуда: Россия, Белый город над белой Двиной
Отправлено: 05.11.06 14:12. Заголовок: Re:
Снукерный марафон.
40-часовой марафон снукера будет проходить в помещении Филармонии Общества Sliema с участием известных игроков снукера и выдающихся лиц политики, экономики и культуры.
Марафон стартует в пятницу, 24 ноября, в 21.30, и закончится в воскресенье днем.
Times of Malta, Sun, November 5, 2006
Sanya
green mama
Сообщение: 876
Откуда: Россия, Белый город над белой Двиной
Отправлено: 06.11.06 20:13. Заголовок: Re:
Ding to Give up Premier League Play-offs
2006-11-04 06:47:59 CRIENGLISH.com
Ding Junhui is to give up the Premier League play-offs to compete in the Asian Games. Related News: Ding Reaches Premier League Play-offs 2006-11-03
This news was disclosed by Sina.com, the world's leading Chinese internet portal, quoting Saturday's Dushikuaibao, a local newspaper from eastern Zhejiang province.
Ding's agent Zhang Meng told the newspaper that Ding will definitely give up the Premier League play-offs to work with two other players on the Chinese squad.
Ding will join Tian Pengfei and Liang Wenbo to compete for the team title at the upcoming Asian Games to be held from December 1st to 15th.
The play-offs for the Premier League, meanwhile, are scheduled for December 2nd, and the final for the 3rd.
Ding will become the first snooker to desert the Premier League in its 19-year history. He is currently leading the tournament with three wins, one loss and one draw.
Ding had previously encountered a clash of schedules when he opted to defend his UK Championship instead of playing in the Asian Games. The Games organizers reshuffled the event's schedule especially to attract the continent's top cuiest.
According to Ding's agent, his sudden withdrawal may cause some problems between the cuiest and the tournament's organizers. Negotiations are underway to settle the aftermath of the decision.
Sanya
green mama
Сообщение: 877
Откуда: Россия, Белый город над белой Двиной
Отправлено: 06.11.06 20:15. Заголовок: Re:
Ding set to play in Doha 11/6/2006 10:31:14 PM - By AFP Beijing: Chinese snooker sensation Ding Junhui has confirmed that he will play at the Asian Games in Doha next month, putting his Asiad title defence ahead of winning the sport’s top professional league. Ding, who recently emulated the feats of former world champions Ronnie O’Sullivan and John Higgins by winning three ranking titles before his 20th birthday, will be a hot favourite in the cue events. The 19-year-old star is currently top of the seven-man snooker Premier League, and he has guaranteed himself a place in the semi-finals. But he has told Asian Games organisers that he will withdraw from the Premier League final on December 3 if he gets that far in order to be in Doha where the snooker competition starts in December 4, the Asian Games website reported. Last month, the Asian Games changed the schedule for its snooker matches to avoid clashing with another top event, the UK Championship. Last year Ding became the first player from outside the British Isles to win that title. Ding, who comes from close to Shanghai, defeated Supoj Saenla of Thailand by three frames to one to clinch gold at the last Asian Games in Busan four years ago when he was just 15.
shual007
Леди Йага
Сообщение: 7617
Откуда: Израиль, Беер-Шева
Отправлено: 07.11.06 18:10. Заголовок: Re:
THE DARLING OF DUBLIN 07 Nov 2006 10:22:00
A few of world No 2 Ken Doherty's favourite things.
What’s your favourite holiday destination? Melbourne, Australia, that’s where my wife Sarah comes from
Favourite food? Thai
Favourite restaurant Roly’s Bistro in Dublin
Favourite drink? Guinness
Favourite TV programme? The Office
Favourite comedian? Woody Allen
Favourite film? Woody Allen’s Manhattan
Favourite band? I love U2. I think their best album is the Joshua Tree and my favourite song is One
Favourite actor and actress? Robert di Nero and Halle Berry
What car do you drive? A BMW X5
What was your first car? A Ford Escort
Do you have any superstitions? I don’t like to touch trophies during tournaments. Not until I win them anyway!
Do you play any other sports? I play golf to a 14 handicap and I enjoy playing football – nothing serious, just a kick around with mates.
Any other hobbies? I love going to art galleries and reading art books. I’m a particular fan of the Italian Baroque artist Caravaggio. I also like going to the movies and playing the odd game of poker.
Favourite sports team? Manchester United. Ryan Giggs is my favourite player
Sporting hero? Mohammed Ali
Favourite snooker venue? The Crucible
Career highlight? Winning the World Championship in 1997. Also winning the world amateur and junior titles. I’m very proud to be the only player to have won all three of those.
What’s the lowest moment of your career? Probably the two world finals I lost – in 1998 and 2003.
How many hours a day do you practise? Around five hours
Who has been the biggest influence on your career? My family
What advice do you have to budding young players? Get some basic coaching and try to play in competitions and in matches against better players. Always listen to advice.
SEVEN-TIME World Snooker Champion Stephen Hendry faces an early elimination from the 2006 Betfred Premier League Snooker competition after his latest defeat.
Hendry lost 4-2 against Ronnie O'Sullivan and now needs a big victory against Ding Jun-hui next week and hope other results go in his favour to have any chance of making the play-offs.
O'Sullivan could relax before this match as he had already qualified for the next phase, but this encounter was vital for Hendry's overall chances in the tournament.
However, the Scotsman, who received fine backing from the patriotic crowd in the SECC in Glasgow, made a poor start and was quickly 2-0 behind. O'Sullivan (pictured right) has expressed his desire to become the first player to compile a 147 break in the Premier League and had a chance to do this in the first frame.
However, after potting nine reds and eight breaks, and with the score on 65, O'Sullivan then missed the black before the white dropped in as Hendry earned a reprieve. But he could not capitalise on this and the Rocket did enough to take the first frame comfortably.
The second was a far more scrappier affair as both players struggled to get into any rhythm. But the crucial point came when Hendry missed an attempted pot at a red close to a cushion and O'Suillivan scraped home by a 16-point margin to leave Hendry a lot of work to do.
Both players continued to make mistakes in the third frame, before a break of 41 from O'Sullivan was enough for him to move into a 3-0 lead and leave Stephen Hendry, who started the year as the World No.1, on course from an early exit from the tournament.
But Hendry, who has been crowned World Champion seven times, showed his strength of character in frame four.
He quickly got to the table and built a large break, although the run looked to have come to an end on 44 when he lost position and faced a tricky black with the cue ball tight on the side cushion. But a fantastic shot saw him cut the black in from a tight angle, much to the delight of the large Scottish crowd.
Hendry eventually made 87 to bring the match back to 3-1 but missed out on a century break, although still did manage his highest break in this year's competition, beating the 75 he made against Graeme Dott back on September 14 at the Sands Centre, Carlisle
The fightback continued in the fifth frame as Hendry's second successive break of more than 50 - this time a 72 - helped him to a 78-4 success to bring the scoreboard back to 3-2 in O'Sullivan's favour.
However, the comeback ended in disappointment as a missed red gave O'Sullivan a chance in the sixth frame and he proceded to make a break of 84 for a 4-2 win.
"I didn't come up here for the fresh air - I came here to win" said O'Sullivan. "The crowd paid good money so that's what I was here to do.
"Stephen is my favourite player to play as he plays the right game. A lot of people play an amateur game but Stephen is a professional and plays all the correct shots."
Betfred Premier League Snooker November 16, 2006 - SECC, Glasgow Ronnie O'Sullivan 4-2 Stephen Hendry. O'Sullivan's scores first 82-7 (O'Sullivan 65), 51-35, 68-3 (O'Sullivan 41), 7-87 (Hendry 87), 4-78 (Hendry 72), 84-8 (O'Sullivan 84)
'come down to Rileys at 7pm and we'll have a game of pool.'
That was the challenge thrown down to me by none other than Jimmy White.
So I did, and as I entered the recently refurbished American Pool and Snooker Club, I realised I would be playing the man known as The Whirlwind.
Just what exactly was I putting myself through?
To be invited to play against the green baize legend that is Jimmy White is one thing.
But to face him in a frame alongside 200 watching spectators is another.
Granted, it may not be the Crucible, but any sizeable crowd is enough to unnerve a young rookie in any game.
So once the six-time World Championship finalist had done with the dignitaries, I was first up on the list to face Jimmy at Cardiff's City Road complex.
I was introduced by the compere and amid a small group of hecklers was about to face one of the most nerve-wrecking experiences of my life.
A few thoughts went through my head. Don't tense up and don't show your nerves.
But it was the blunt message of a friend of mine, who I have had many battles with over pub pool tables down the years, that kept flashing in front of my eyes.
He said: 'Whatever you do, don't miss the balls.' It seemed simple - or so I'd thought.
The cool persona which I try to present had clearly deserted me as my clammy bridge hand touched the table.
And there it was, a fluid pull back of the pool cue - and the white ball bounced, bounced, and bounced off the side of the table and on to the floor.
Cue howls of laughter.
A clearly red-faced journalist told Jimmy and the crowd it was a practice trick shot, it was all show for the cameras.
I think they all knew better.
Fortunately the second break-off attempt, by which time I was reaching record levels of perspiration, went according to plan.
By that, I mean I hit the ball and with ironic cheers that greeted it, I was off and running. After potting two red balls in succession, my confidence soared. Could I really beat the godfather of the current snooker generation?
The 44-year-old is regarded as the best ever player not to lift the world crown.
So could he fail again?
Well, actually no.
After a natural miss by yours truly, White came along and finished me off before I could get back to the table.
Two minutes later and after a handshake and a wry smile, it was all over.
'I wouldn't worry about the break,' said White, referring to my embarrassing first shot error as he tried to cheer me up afterwards.
'In fact, I've seen a lot worse on the circuit over the years.'
Somehow, I think he was being a little kind.
We are offering 10 readers the chance to win a free 12-month membership with Rileys American Pool and Snooker Club on City Road.
Just answer this simple question: What is Jimmy White's nickname?
The closing date is on Friday, November 24. Usual terms and conditions apply. Send your answers via e-mail to darren.witcoop@wme.co.uk or alternatively by post to: Darren Witcoop, South Wales Echo, Sports Desk, Thomson House, Havelock Street, Cardiff CF10 1XR
Сообщение: 988
Откуда: Россия, Белый город над белой Двиной
Отправлено: 21.11.06 23:41. Заголовок: Re:
Eurosport - AS - 21/11/2006 16:39
shual007
Леди Йага
Сообщение: 7693
Откуда: Израиль, Беер-Шева
Отправлено: 23.11.06 19:24. Заголовок: Re:
NEW REFS ARE READY FOR YORK 23 Nov 2006 10:04:00
Two of World Snooker's new referees will officiate professional matches for the first time at the UK Championship.
There are plenty of new faces among the refereeing fraternity this season - 12 in total.
And two of them, Belgian Oliver Marteel and Jean-Pierre van Vlerken of Holland, will be on duty at the Barbican Centre in York.
The duo were among nine officials whoofficiated in matches during this month’s Masters qualifiers at the World Snooker Academy in Sheffield.
"It’s imperative that we get more referees coming through the ranks," said tournament director Mike Ganley.
"These guys have been in the system and assessed for about two years now.
"They’ve officiated at PIOS events and the next stage was the Masters which obviously featured Main Tour players.
"The next level is to elevate them to the Main Tour and Oliver and Jean-Pierre will get their opportunity in York."
The nine new ’gloves men’ are: Jurgen Gruson, Rene Tinge, Andrew Yates, Ben Williams, Andrew Cherry, Greg Conginilio, William Bridge plus Marteel and van Vlerken.
Dutchman Jan Verhaas and Welshman Eirian Williams, two of the games most respected officials, have been keeping an eye on their colleague’s progress.
They have taken on the assessing role previously held by Lancastrian John Newton, who retired at the end of last season.
UK: Highland Spring pots snooker deal 23 November 2006| Source: just-drinks.com editorial team
Highland Spring has announced a GBP1m (US$1.91m) investment in snooker, the water company’s biggest ever sponsorship deal.
Riba
Сообщение: 3181
Откуда: Моя Родина - СССР
Отправлено: 24.11.06 05:52. Заголовок: Re:
Ding determined to hang on to title
Ding Junhui has warned he is in no mood to give up his UK Championship crown. The 19-year-old Chinese star will defend his title in York next month - but only after jetting in from the Asian Games in Qatar just 24 hours before his opening match.
The provisional world number four said he was hopeful he could reproduce the 2005 form that saw him capture snooker's second biggest championship - his first major title on British soil.
"I probably will be tired but I am not too worried about it," the 19-year-old told York newspaper The Press.
"The first stage could be difficult - particularly with the time issue - and I might get tired at first, but if I can go on well, I will be concentrating on the game.
"I think I can win again. I am always very uncertain to say I will win again, but I will try my best.".
Ding will open the defence of his UK title against either Ryan Day or Chinese compatriot Liu Song on December 9.
He enters the tournament in impressive form, a 9-6 victory over Ronnie O'Sullivan in the Northern Ireland Trophy in August giving him his third ranking title.
Ding was also due to compete in the play-offs of snooker's Premier League, although he had to withdraw due to his Asian games commitments.
Eurosport - AS - 23/11/2006 15:44
Riba
Сообщение: 3182
Откуда: Моя Родина - СССР
Отправлено: 24.11.06 05:56. Заголовок: Re:
SON OF A GUN Hendry keen to win again and catch up with Blaine Exclusive By Neil Goulding
STEPHEN HENDRY believes it's time for him to start winning trophies again - because his eldest son Blaine is putting him to shame.
Seven-times a world champion and winner of a staggering 36 ranking events, the all-conquering Scot has little to prove and is seen by many as the greatest player to have graced the green baize.
Despite all his success, 37-year-old Hendry still has the desire to help fill an ever-cluttered Hendry family trophy cabinet.
Blaine, who celebrated his 10th birthday last month, is already showing considerable promise and is a regular winner in junior leagues. He also won a junior tournament at the Spencer Snooker club where his dad practises.
Sporting a broad smile, his dad said: "He's the only one bringing home the trophies at the moment. He's a bad loser, though. I wonder where he got that from.
"I've not had a great deal of success in terms of winning tournaments over the past couple of seasons but to get back to No.1 in the world rankings after eight years is a fantastic achievement.
"I've done it through consistency rather than brilliance, which is not exactly they way I wanted to get there. I would swap being on top of the rankings for a couple more titles, that's for sure."
Hendry, who hasn't won a tournament since beating world champion Graeme Dott 9-7 in the 2005 Malta Cup Final, is targeting long-overdue silverware this season.
He said: "My main target for the rest of the season is winning a tournament again but it's great to be introduced into arenas as world No. 1."
That introduction was something Hendry got used to during his years of domination. After turning professional in 1985 he took just three years to leap into the top four and only a further two seasons to take the No.1 slot.
His vice-like grip on pole position was not loosened until 1998 when fellow Scot John Higgins won the world title to leapfrog him in the world rankings.
In his golden years, Hendry won 26 ranking titles in the space of eight seasons, including a modern-day record of seven Crucible crowns.
But with so much success, more than £8million in prize money and two young sons at home, his dedication to practice is not what it was.
He added: "I don't put in as many hours as I used to. These days it's two or three hours a day on my own at the club.
"I'd rather do that than give it four or five hours, including match practice, as I did 10 years ago. Quality's more important than quantity now and I want to enjoy practice rather than get bored."
Riba
Сообщение: 3183
Откуда: Моя Родина - СССР
Отправлено: 24.11.06 05:58. Заголовок: Re:
DOTT ON THE SPOT By John Docherty
WORLD champion Graeme Dott takes on Ronnie O'Sullivan in the Betfred Premier League at Aberdeen's SECC tonight knowing a draw will be enough to secure him a semi-final place.
But Stephen Hendry, who is bottom of the table with just one win from five matches and faces Chinese star Ding Junhui, needs a miracle to reach the play-offs.Ding has been ordered to withdraw from the semis to represent China in the Asian Games.
Dott said: "I'm in a pretty good position and as long as Stephen doesn't win I'm sure to make the semis."
Steve Davis is also in action against Ken Doherty.
Deal on the table Highland Spring pours £1m into snooker sponsorship
THERE was a time when Canadian Bill Werbeniuk was famed for sinking 18 pints of beer during a match to steady his jitters.
But the cleaner image of snooker was confirmed yesterday when Highland Spring announced a £1 million investment in the game, the Perthshire company's biggest ever sponsorship deal.
It will see the world's top three players - from left, above: Ronnie O'Sullivan, Ken Doherty and Stephen Hendry - joined by 12 other snooker personalities in Team Highland Spring.
Under the three-year deal, the company's logo will appear on the players' waistcoats, with the brand expected to be seen by more than 200 million viewers during 300 hours of televised coverage a year on BBC Sport, BBC Interactive, Sky Sports and Eurosport.
Seven times world champion Stephen Hendry MBE said: "Snooker is increasing in popularity with more and more youngsters entering the sport. It's important they understand the benefits of good hydration during sport and how it helps you stay focused and perform to the best of your ability."
Sanya
green mama
Сообщение: 1031
Откуда: Россия, Белый город над белой Двиной
Отправлено: 25.11.06 14:51. Заголовок: Re:
В доллярах вышеозначенный 1 млн паундов превращается практически в 2 миллиона..
Highland Spring invests $1.91 million in snooker
24th November 2006 By Laura Ellis
Highland Spring has revealed its biggest ever sponsorship deal, investing GBP1 million ($1.91 million) in the game of snooker. The three-year deal will involve top snooker players including Stephen Hendry, Ken Doherty and Ronnie O'Sullivan, who will wear the company's logo on their waistcoats during televised matches.
AdvertisementThe company expects more than 200 million viewers will see the logo during the course of the three years.
The Scotland-based company has also extended its deal with World Snooker as the official water supplier for three years.
Сообщение: 1036
Откуда: Россия, Белый город над белой Двиной
Отправлено: 26.11.06 01:51. Заголовок: Re:
На ЮКее нас ожидают два новеньких реферя.. наверн, только в ТВ-раунд их не поставят.. (а хотелось бы)
NEW REFS ARE READY FOR YORK 23 Nov 2006 10:04:00
Two of World Snooker's new referees will officiate professional matches for the first time at the UK Championship. There are plenty of new faces among the refereeing fraternity this season - 12 in total.
And two of them, Belgian Oliver Marteel and Jean-Pierre van Vlerken of Holland, will be on duty at the Barbican Centre in York.
The duo were among nine officials whoofficiated in matches during this month’s Masters qualifiers at the World Snooker Academy in Sheffield.
"It’s imperative that we get more referees coming through the ranks," said tournament director Mike Ganley.
"These guys have been in the system and assessed for about two years now.
"They’ve officiated at PIOS events and the next stage was the Masters which obviously featured Main Tour players.
"The next level is to elevate them to the Main Tour and Oliver and Jean-Pierre will get their opportunity in York."
The nine new ’gloves men’ are: Jurgen Gruson, Rene Tinge, Andrew Yates, Ben Williams, Andrew Cherry, Greg Conginilio, William Bridge plus Marteel and van Vlerken.
Dutchman Jan Verhaas and Welshman Eirian Williams, two of the games most respected officials, have been keeping an eye on their colleague’s progress.
They have taken on the assessing role previously held by Lancastrian John Newton, who retired at the end of last season.
Sanya
green mama
Сообщение: 1083
Откуда: Россия, Белый город над белой Двиной
Сообщение: 1099
Откуда: Россия, Белый город над белой Двиной
Отправлено: 28.11.06 20:15. Заголовок: Re:
Dott takes pot at Games decision
TENNIS and archery are in but snooker has been rejected for the 2010 Commonwealth Games. Scots world snooker champion Graeme Dott said: "It's a bit weird. People could name at least three snooker players but no archers." Officials cited the UK-centric nature of the game as the problem. Seattle Seahawks beat Green Bay Packers 34-24 in the NFL last night.
Publication date 28/11/06
Sanya
green mama
Сообщение: 1106
Откуда: Россия, Белый город над белой Двиной
Сообщение: 1116
Откуда: Россия, Белый город над белой Двиной
Отправлено: 30.11.06 16:59. Заголовок: Re:
30 November 2006 YEAR DOTT PLANS TO MAKE HIMSELF SNOOKER LEGEND By John Docherty
GRAEME DOTT last night revealed he is determined to be ranked a snooker legend.
Dott wants to emulate Stephen Hendry and John Higgins by becoming the third Scottish player to hold the World and UK titles in the same year.
Last May Dott took the world crown by beating England's Peter Ebdon 18-14 in Sheffield for his first ranking tournament success.
Now he wants to capture the UK Championship - currently held by Chinese star Ding Junhui - when the tournament starts in York next Monday.
Dott and stable-mate Higgins will be dressed to thrill after both were suited and booted by Slater Menswear of Stirling.
Dott said: "When I won the world title it was.an amazing experience and to add the UK, which is the second biggest tournament, would be the best thing ever for me.
"Only five players have achieved that feat in the same season - Scots Hendry and Higgins along with Steve Davis, John Parrott and Ronnie O Sullivan - so it would be phenomenal to join that group.
"If a player can win the World and the UK events in the same season it can elevate him to being a snooker great.
"People would talk about you in the same breath as Hendry and Higgins and the rest of these guys who have legendary status."
Dott, who takes on Scott MacKenzie or Michael Holt in his opening match, admitted the UK has yet to prove a happy hunting ground.
He said: "I have not done very well in that competition. My best performance was reaching the last eight a couple of years ago.
"I have no idea why my record has been so disappointing. Maybe it's because I never seem to do well in the first half of the season. Hopefully, I can put that right this year."
Dott has a big date before he hits the road to York. This weekend he faces Jimmy White in the semi-finals of the Betfred Premier League at Manchester.
Sanya
green mama
Сообщение: 1117
Откуда: Россия, Белый город над белой Двиной
Отправлено: 30.11.06 17:02. Заголовок: Re:
MURPHY: THE GAME HAS CHANGED Thursday 30th November 2006
England's highest ranked snooker player Shaun Murphy believes that the game has evolved and will keep evolving even if one player rises to dominate the sport. Murphy, who became World Champion in 2005, has heralded the performance of his contemporaries insisting that healthy competition has taken the game of snooker forward.
Though Murphy has not ruled out the possibility of a return to one-man domination, seen with the likes of Steve Davis and Stephen Hendry, he insists the game has changed and would not diminish should one player take control again.
The world number five said: "I think the face of snooker has changed and may still be changing.
"I was looking at the provisional ranking list the other day and I'm the highest-ranked English player on it, which I find amazing knowing there's the likes of Ronnie O'Sullivan, Peter Ebdon, Stephen Lee and Steve Davis, who is still punching strongly.
"It's very nice for me to look at that and think `Flipping heck, I'm the highest-ranked Englishman'. I'm very proud of that."
Murphy differs from others in his belief that snooker will not continue in its current state, where one player cannot perform consistently enough to break away from the pack.
"I'm not really a believer that nobody will dominate the sport again, even though that's what a lot of people say," added the 24 year from Rotherham.
"I think you always get one person who emerges that's better than the rest. Of course I'd love it to be myself and I'm working very hard to that end."
Зловеще улыбающийся пельмень
rusel
moderator
Сообщение: 1100
Откуда: Болгария- но Родина-СССР, живу в Велинграде
Отправлено: 30.11.06 18:43. Заголовок: Re:
эх, запрещено комментировать
Sanya
green mama
Сообщение: 1126
Откуда: Россия, Белый город над белой Двиной
Сообщение: 1141
Откуда: Россия, Белый город над белой Двиной
Отправлено: 01.12.06 20:36. Заголовок: Re:
WHIRLWIND TO WIN IT - GOLDSTEIN
Friday 1st December 2006 Semi-finals GRAEME DOTT v JIMMY WHITE
From the very start I actually tipped Jimmy White to win. I had a flutter on him at 150-1 so now he is in the semi-final I am getting a little bit excited that he might just do it.
It is going to be interesting because Jimmy has not played well all season - I don't think he has qualified for any ranking events yet which suggests he is playing awfully.
In the Premier League, though, he has had some fantastic results - he beat Ding Junhui and Stephen Hendry 5-1 which is no mean feat.
It all depends if Jimmy can keep his cool. Graeme Dott is a difficult opponent but if Jimmy keeps his cool it could go his way - I don't know if that's my heart or my head talking? It will be a tough game for both players.
Dott: Hard to beat
The World Champion is the World Champion for one reason - because he is so difficult to beat. I predict 5-3 either way. It's too tough to call.
In the Premier League you always play top quality opponents whereas in qualifying for ranking events, no disrespect, but you are playing against lower players.
It is more difficult for someone like Jimmy - who has been there, seen it, done it - to subconsciously raise his game against someone who is ranked fifty places below him than it would be against the World Champion or Ronnie O'Sullivan or Hendry.
Playing in front of packed houses of 800 people upwards has made a difference and has some relevance in his impressive performances in Premier League snooker this season.
Dott has got down to the last four which would suggest he is playing well. He is a very difficult player to beat.
He has been branded as a slow player but he isn't. In the Premier League he has got one of the fastest times on the shot-clock.
His average time is around 16 seconds, which is only second or third behind Ronnie and Jimmy and possibly Steve Davis, who has sped up his game which is great to see.
Dott will be the first to admit that he isn't the sort of player who will get in and win a frame with one visit, that's not how he won the World Championship.
He certainly performs like a World Champion and is playing well in the Premier League. If he hadn't made it to the final four it would have been a disappointment for him.
RONNIE O'SULLIVAN v STEVE DAVIS
Form would suggest that Ronnie should win quite convincingly but December seems to be a lucky month for Davis. Last year he needed Ronnie to beat Shaun Murphy 5-1 to make the final four and that's exactly what happened and also last December Steve got to the final of the UK Championship, which is the second biggest ranking event.
Anything can happen in this game. If both players are on top form then Ronnie will win. They both play a similar style - they are both open and fairly quick but I predict that Ronnie will win by two or three frames.
Ronnie loves the Premier League and he loves the Sky competitions because the crowds have been fantastic. Every single week it's been nothing but a full-house.
Only when the final ball has been potted have the crowd started to leave which is fantastic - you don't get that in any other snooker.
Ronnie is the defending champion and has won the Premier League crown for the past two seasons so he will be desperate to make it a hat-trick of wins.
The Final
If it is an O'Sullivan v White final, which I know the majority of snooker fans would love to see, it would be a fantastic final.
I know it's the worst thing a pundit could say but if those two made the final and turned it on, snooker will be the winner. I think snooker needs a final like that - the Whirlwind against the Rocket.
I have backed Jimmy from the beginning and I am not going to change my mind. I think the Premier League has been brilliant this season.
A main factor is whether it brings in the crowds or not and every week it has been a full-house which is testament to the quality of the snooker and to everybody for coming to watch the top players in the world compete.
We have seen some great matches - the only thing we are missing in the Premier League this season is a maximum break. I wouldn't be surprised if we got one this weekend.
Сообщение: 1143
Откуда: Россия, Белый город над белой Двиной
Отправлено: 01.12.06 21:14. Заголовок: Re:
Rocket Aims For Three In A Row
FOLLOWING two years of domination of the Betfred Premier League Snooker, Ronnie O’Sullivan goes for three in a row as the 2006 play-offs take place at The Forum Centre, Wythenshawe, Manchester this weekend.
The Essex-based ‘Rocket’ is on an unbeaten run of 21 games in the tournament and sponsors Betfred justifiably make him a heavy 2/9 favourite to carry off the trophy on Sunday night.
O’Sullivan (pictured right with the 2005 trophy) faces Steve Davis in the second semi-final on Saturday evening and for Davis there will be added incentive to do well as 50 per cent of any prize money he receives will go to the Hunter Foundation, a charity set up by Lindsey Hunter in memory of her late husband Paul.
Davis finished fifth in the League but was handed a second chance when Chinese sensation Ding Jun-hui was forced to withdraw from the Play-Offs in order to represent China in the date-clashing Asian Games.
Sponsors and promoters felt that with the fifth placed player effectively gaining a ‘free-roll’ into the Play-Offs, it was a golden opportunity to help the Hunter Foundation.
“This is a great, unexpected chance to compete in the Play-Offs and I really hope I can raise a decent amount in Paul’s memory,” said Davis. “It won’t be easy as Ronnie is playing exceptionally well at the moment but I will try to play my own game and I’ll be giving it my best shot."
In the other best-of-9 semi-final, 2006 World Champion Graeme Dott goes up against surprise qualifier Jimmy White.
For White, who has slumped to 51 in the provisional World Rankings, the Betfred Premier League represents a chance to get in among the big money and turn his season around.
White is a 9/4 outsider to beat Dott but if he can repeat the type of form that saw him beat both Stephen Hendry and Ding Junhui 5-1 then he is capable of springing a shock. The two winners will then face off over the best of 13 frames at 7.30 on Sunday evening.
All matches will be played under the 25 second shot clock rule and in addition to the prize fund, there will an additional £1,000 on offer for any century breaks.
The prize money breaks down as follows: The Winner: £50,000 Runner-up: £25,000 Semi-Finalists: £12,500
The four players are carrying forward the following amounts, won under the Betfred Premier League’s unique ‘£1,000 per frame won, £1,000 per century break’ prize money structure.
Сообщение: 1165
Откуда: Болгария- но Родина-СССР, живу в Велинграде
Отправлено: 02.12.06 16:30. Заголовок: Re:
Kava, как приятно не напрягать голову при чтении с английского!
Sanya
green mama
Сообщение: 1151
Откуда: Россия, Белый город над белой Двиной
Отправлено: 03.12.06 00:06. Заголовок: Re:
Graeme Dott 4-5 Jimmy White
Reigning World Champion Graeme Dott faced Jimmy White in the first of this evening's play-offs of the Betfred Premier League Snooker at the Forum Centre, Wythenshawe.
White (pictured right) was looking for revenge after he had suffered a 4-2 defeat when the pair met in the second round of group matches back in September at the GL1 in Gloucester.
Both players made a nervous start in the opening frame as they struggled to compile a notible break as White lost position on 31 before Dott did likewise after he had a run of 24 and then again after a further score of 25.
A missed red into the right centre pocket from Dott gave The Whirlwind a chance and he cleared up to the pink to move into an early lead in this best of nine-frame encounter.
The second continued in the same vein as White was 7-0 ahead with three single reds and a foul from Dott the only score in the first ten minutes. But the Scotsman left a chance and a break of 64 from White saw the score move to 2-0.
If the first two frames had been a bit scrappy, the third saw White play some of his best snooker of this year's competition with a break of 94, although a missed blue cost him his opportunity of making his second century of the 2006 League.
At the start of the tournament, White was priced at 100/1 by Betfred to lift the trophy but he continued his surprise performance as he moved 4-0 ahead. It was another stop-start frame with the highest individual score only being 33 but White steadily built a decent lead before Dott conceded after a foul on the blue left him trailing by 42 points.
But Dott showed why he is World Champion as a break of 87, his highest of the match, moved the score to 4-1 and kept White needing one more frame for a place in the final.
The Londoner had a great chance to do that in the sixth as he went 26 points ahead but then missed a red into the right centre pocket and Dott capitalised with a break of 51 to make it 2-4 and keep his hopes alive.
White began to show his nerves as his 4-0 lead was gradually being wiped out and he only gained nine points in the seventh frame as Dott clawed back the deficit to 4-3, helped by a break of 31.
In a drama-filled match, Dott ensured the first play-off would go down to a sudden death frame as a score of 61 saw him win his fourth successive frame and be close to recording a magnificent fightback.
The tenth frame was an epic encounter and White made a positive start by moving 28-1 ahead. However, he was then only one shot from losing after he made two successive fouls where he failed to hit any ball. However, he did better with his third attempt and he eventually edged towards the finish line before Dott conceded the frame and match
Betfred Premier League Snooker First play-off - Saturday, December 2, 2006 The Forum Centre, Wythenshawe Graeme Dott 4-5 Jimmy White Dott's scores first 50-67 (White 31), 0-71 (White 64), 0-94 (White 94), 20-62 (White 33), 87-1 (Dott 87), 63-28 (Dott 51), 57-9 (Dott 31), 90-16 (Dott 61), 11-60.
Sanya
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Отправлено: 03.12.06 00:24. Заголовок: Re:
White Holds His Nerve To Claim Final Spot
JIMMY White held his nerve to stun World Champion Graeme Dott and secure a place in the final of the 2006 Betfred Premier League Snooker competition.
White, who has slumped to No.51 in the World Rankings, produced some of his best snooker of the year as breaks of 64 and 94 helped him race into a 4-0 lead. However, Dott showed his strength of character to claim the next four before White clinched the last frame to set up a final with either Ronnie O'Sullivan or Steve Davis.
"The more practise you get, the more lucky you get," said a delighted White. "In the first two or three frames I had quite a bit of luck but played quite well to be 4-0 up.
"Graeme didn't do much wrong in the next three frames and at 4-4 it was anybody's game but I'm pleased to win the match.
"We are both experienced enough but there was pressure from start to finish. In the last game I only had a 19-point lead but was in control of the safety and I just had to stay in there and look for the opportunity."
White (pictured right) was looking for revenge after he had suffered a 4-2 defeat when the pair met in the second round of group matches back in September at the GL1 in Gloucester.
Both players made a nervous start in the opening frame as they struggled to compile a notible break as White lost position on 31 before Dott did likewise after he had a run of 24 and then again after a further score of 25.
A missed red into the right centre pocket from Dott gave The Whirlwind a chance and he cleared up to the pink to move into an early lead in this best of nine-frame encounter.
The second continued in the same vein as White was 7-0 ahead with three single reds and a foul from Dott the only score in the first ten minutes. But the Scotsman left a chance and a break of 64 from White saw the score move to 2-0.
If the first two frames had been a bit scrappy, the third saw White play some of his best snooker of this year's competition with a break of 94, although a missed blue cost him his opportunity of making his second century of the 2006 League.
At the start of the tournament, White was priced at 100/1 by Betfred to lift the trophy but he continued his surprise performance as he moved 4-0 ahead. It was another stop-start frame with the highest individual score only being 33 but White steadily built a decent lead before Dott conceded after a foul on the blue left him trailing by 42 points.
But Dott showed why he is World Champion as a break of 87, his highest of the match, moved the score to 4-1 and kept White needing one more frame for a place in the final.
The Londoner had a great chance to do that in the sixth as he went 26 points ahead but then missed a red into the right centre pocket and Dott capitalised with a break of 51 to make it 2-4 and keep his hopes alive.
White began to show his nerves as his 4-0 lead was gradually being wiped out and he only gained nine points in the seventh frame as Dott clawed back the deficit to 4-3, helped by a break of 31.
In a drama-filled match, Dott ensured the first play-off would go down to a sudden death frame as a score of 61 saw him win his fourth successive frame and be close to recording a magnificent fightback.
The tenth frame was an epic encounter and White made a positive start by moving 28-1 ahead. However, he was then only one shot from losing after he made two successive fouls where he failed to hit any ball. However, he did better with his third attempt and he eventually edged towards the finish line before Dott conceded the frame and match.
Dott added: "I wanted to win but Jimmy played well. At the start it felt like a nightmare as nothing went for me. Sometimes you can be 4-0 down and be demoralised but it wasn't like that."
Betfred Premier League Snooker First play-off - Saturday, December 2, 2006 The Forum Centre, Wythenshawe Graeme Dott 4-5 Jimmy White Dott's scores first 50-67 (White 31), 0-71 (White 64), 0-94 (White 94), 20-62 (White 33), 87-1 (Dott 87), 63-28 (Dott 51), 57-9 (Dott 31), 90-16 (Dott 61), 11-60.
Sanya
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Отправлено: 03.12.06 02:02. Заголовок: Re:
Rocket Closes In On Another Title
RONNIE O'Sullivan stayed on course for his third successive Betfred Premier League Snooker title.
The Rocket defeated Davis 5-2 in the second semi-final and will now will be odds on to be Jimmy White in tomorrow's final at the Forum Centre in Wythenshawe after The Whirlwind secured a shock 5-4 victory against World Champion Graeme Dott.
O'Sullivan, the favourite to lift the Betfred Premier League Snooker trophy for the third successive time, made a fantastic start as he made a break of 111 to claim the opening frame against Davis. That score was the fifth highest of this season and already left veteran Davis with a mountain to climb.
It soon became 2-0 as O'Sullivan looked determined to finish off the match as quickly as possible with breaks of 42 and 54 to leave Davis contemplating a semi-final defeat.
Missed shots by O'Sullivan at a pink as the shot clock was running down and then a tough red into the centre pocket gave Davis two chances to take the third frame. But he could not take full advantage and with the reds well placed O'Sullivan compiled a break of 74 to move 3-0 ahead. After the first three frames, O'Sullivan had scored a total of 285, while Davis had struggled to only get 35 points.
It nearly became 4-0 when, after a lengthy safety battle, O'Sullivan went in off after potting a potential frame-winning brown ball and that handed the frame to Davis.
The Nugget had a chance to make it 3-2 but after making a break of 17, his highest in the first five frames, he missed a black off the spot. O'Sullivan soon had the opportunity and another substantial effort, this time of 86, took the score to 4-1 with the Rocket one frame away from victory.
Davis finally found a tiny bit of form in the sixth frame as scores of 28 and 32 helped him to a 64-28 success. But there was not to be another comeback in the play-offs as a break of 64 helped O'Sullivan claim the second spot in the final.
Betfred Premier League Snooker Second Play-off - Saturday, December 2 Ronnie O'Sullivan 5-2 Steve Davis O'Sullivan's scores first 111-18 (O'Sullivan 111), 100-16 (O'Sullivan 42, 54), 74-1 (O'Sullivan 64), 48-60 (O'Sullivan 37), 106-17 (O'Sullivan 86), 28-64 (Davis 32), 71-14 (O'Sullivan 64)
Sanya
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Snooker's annual trip to the Mediterranean was under the spotlight today as a press conference was staged to launch the 2007 Malta Cup.
Online ticket sales start tomorrow (Friday December 1), visit www.maltacup.org
"World Snooker is delighted to be heading back to Malta in January for another World Ranking tournament. It’s one of the highlights of the calendar for the players and officials because of the warm hospitality we receive," said by Mike Ganley, Tournament Director of World Snooker.
"This will be the eighth time we have staged a ranking event on the island and we are always guaranteed enthusiastic support from the knowledgeable Maltese fans.
"The top players in the world will once again be flying to Malta to compete for ranking points and prize money of over £200,000. The quality of snooker last year was outstanding and Ken Doherty’s 9-8 victory over John Higgins in the final was a classic match.
"Doherty and Higgins will again be in contention for the title, as well as the likes of Ronnie O’Sullivan, Stephen Hendry, Steve Davis and World Champion Graeme Dott. And of course the local interest is provided by Maltese legend Tornado Tony Drago plus wild cards Simon Zammit and Joe Grech.
"Our thanks go to the Malta Tourism Authority for their support, which is a key element in the financing of the event.
"Thanks to the Hilton Conference Centre - it’s fantastic place to stay and a great venue for snooker. We also wish to thank Malta TV and Eurosport for their television coverage as well as the many Maltese journalists who cover the tournament.
"And of course our gratitude goes to Snooker Promotions Malta for the fine job they do in the staging of this tournament each year."
The Press Conference was introduced by Joe Zammit, director of Snooker Promotions (Malta). "Despite great competition from several countries around the world vying to stage a world ranking event, we are once again proud to be able to stage a top class snooker tournament," he said.
"The Malta Cup is only one of the two ranking events that are staged outside the UK this season, and we know that the event ranks very highly in the players’ personal lists of preferred events.
"This time, we have once again managed to secure the participation of 2 ‘wild card’ matches, where two of our top local players will pit their skills against some of the world’s best players in front of their own supporters. Besides this, Malta’s top professional, Tony Drago, has agreed to play his three qualifying matches in Malta at the start of the tournament.
"Once again, this tournament would not have been possible without the support of our local sponsors, primarily the Malta Tourism Authority, Air Malta and the Hilton Hotel. Our sincere thanks go to them all for their tremendous support over the years. This year, however, we have added another important and prestigious sponsor: Vodafone Malta."
Richard Balani, director of Snooker Promotions, then went on to give further details on the event itself: "The 2006 Malta Cup once again proved that snooker is very popular amongst the Maltese, and it also confirmed that the event is highly followed by snooker fans across the world. The Eurosport coverage has served to spread the popularity of the game in new areas, and also encourages snooker fans from other countries to come to Malta and watch the tournament live. In fact, we calculate that up to 50% of the audience who watched the snooker at the Hilton last season were from overseas.
"I am sure that the Malta Tourism Authority is as pleased as we are with this, and we have already received several enquiries from all over Europe about tickets for the event. This interest has encouraged us to set up our own online ticket booking facilities on our website www.maltacup.org, which will actually go ‘live’ as from the 1st December. Both Maltese and overseas snooker fans will be able to book the best seats immediately, on a block ticket basis or also on a day ticket basis. We are also providing full travel packages for our overseas fans – offering them a ‘one stop shop’ - to make it easier for them to come to Malta to watch the snooker. So far we have had enquiries from the UK, Germany, Holland, France, Belgium, Holland, Austria, Switzerland, Poland, Ukraine, Russia and Kazakhstan. Many of these have already confirmed their trips to Malta and are waiting to buy their snooker tickets when our online shop goes live.
"The tournament will be played from the 28th January to the 4th February at the Hilton Conference Centre in Portomaso. It will be played on the usual 32-man knockout format, plus three qualifiers which have been held over to be played here. Besides these, however, 2 of Malta’s top players, Joe Grech and Simon Zammit will also be given the chance to play as ‘wild cards’ in this event. They will play against the lowest 2 ranked players who qualify for this event in Malta, namely, Andrew Higginson and David Roe.
"Both ‘wild card’ matches, as well as Tony Drago’s first qualifying match against Lee Spick will be played on the 28th January, the opening day of the tournament, where local crowds will be expected to give their usual vociferous support for our players. Three other last 32 matches (Round 1) will also be played on this day. On Monday 29th, the winner of the Drago – Spick match will play the last 64 qualifier against John Parrott, along with five other Round 1 matches. Tuesday 30th will see the last of the qualifiers with Michael Holt, as well as five other Round 1 Matches.
"The last three matches of the last 32 round will be played on Wednesday 31st, along with three of the Last 16 round, while on Thursday 1st February, we will see the other five Last 16 matches played out. Till this stage, all matches will be played on a 3 table setup and will be on a best of nine frame basis.
"The quarter finals will see the setup changed to a 2 table format and these will be played on 2nd February starting at 4 pm, all matches best of nine.
"Both semi finals will be played on a 1 table setup on the 3rd February, at 3pm and 8pm, best of 11 frames, while the final will be contested on Sunday 4th. This will be played over 2 sessions, one at 2pm and the second at 7pm, and will be best of 17 frames.
"All the matches of the Malta Cup will be controlled by 5 international snooker referees, 3 of whom are Maltese. These are Michael Attard Montalto, Terry Camilleri and Ray Debattista.
"Block and Day Tickets for the Malta Cup will go on sale as from the 1st December 2006, and these will be available at Lm35 and Lm5-Lm8 through our website, www.maltacup.org. The ticket office at the Hilton Conference Centre will open on the 22nd January.
"As in past years, we are also looking to make special parking arrangements purchase tickets, as a substantial discount on parking charges will be available to them on presentation of a validated ticket. Parking facilities will be available at the Portomaso Hilton car park.
"The event will be covered extensively by television, both local as well as international. The well known and prestigious television network, Eurosport, will also be broadcasting the event on a live and recorded basis, extending the tournament’s reach to over 95 countries and 255 million households. Such international exposure will also serve to once again put Malta on the sporting map. This event is arguably the only sport that is staged in Malta and that ensures the participation of all the world’s best players, in effect, sports tourism at its very best."
The Press Conference was also addressed by Mr Kevin Drake, Personal Assistant to the Chairman of the Malta Tourism Authority. He said: "The Malta Tourism Authority has long been conscious of the promotional potential of the Malta Cup. The extensive coverage that this initiative generates in Malta’s core tourism markets undoubtedly promotes Malta in a highly effective manner; associating our country with a prestigious international sportive event. It is precisely for this reason that the Malta Tourism Authority has actively supported the Malta Cup and will continue to do so for the foreseeable future."
Jimmy Attard, Section Head, Marketing Services of Air Malta once again confirmed the airline’s continued support. "Air Malta is once again this year assisting Snooker Promotions through a commercial agreement. Air Malta was one of the few organizations that have assisted this event from its inception 11 years ago.
"This activity forms part of Air Malta’s, ‘Committed to Our Community’ initiative that aims to support and encourage local organisations and activities in various sectors be they cultural, social, philanthropic, environmental, heritage and sport, that help the Maltese Community in some way or another.
"It has already been mentioned that for this year the best foreign players in this sport will be once again participating together with various world Champions that draw a large number of enthusiasts together with their families to the Maltese islands.
"This event gives great exposure to Malta and Air Malta as it is expected that the tournament will be transmitted on the Eurosport network." concluded Mr Attard.
Sanya
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Отправлено: 03.12.06 23:14. Заголовок: Re:
Ronnie O'Sullivan 7-0 Jimmy White
Ronnie O'Sullivan was aiming to win the Betfred Premier League Snooker competition for the sixth time, while White was hoping to lift the trophy for only the second time after winning the 1993 competition.
O'Sullivan had won the last two Leagues and White would have to be at his best to win as The Rocket had not lost in this competition for 22 matches, a run stretching back to January 2005.
White had suffered a 5-1 defeat when the pair met during the group phases and soon fell 1-0 behind as a break of 49 from O'Sullivan helped him to a 77-7 opening frame triumph.
In the second, White had a glorious chance to level the score as he made a break of 49 but then lost position and that forced him into a tougher red than expected, which he subsequently missed.
That opened the door for O'Sullivan to win the frame 62-49 and at 2-0 White already had a lot of work to do to stay in the match.
White would not be able to make any mistakes but a poorly-placed safety shot gave O'Sullivan a chance in the third that he took in ruthless fashion. The Rocket quickly reached three figures and had an opportunity to compile a score of 140, which would have been the best score of this year's League.
However, a missed blue saw the break come to an end at 122, but it was still enough for the score to become 3-0 with the match already looking a formality.
This was White's first appearance in a competition final in 32 months but he was being outclassed by a focused and determined O'Sullivan who was looking at his best. A break of 93 made it 4-0, although a missed pink denied The Rocket of a second successive century.
The Whirlwind claimed his first points in three frames in the fifth but O'Sullivan soon built a 33 point lead before he made a rare mistake and missed the black. It did not matter as White left a chance on the remaining red and then conceded the frame despite only being 29 behind with 35 points left on the table.
A clearly frustrated White was beginning to make unforced errors and let O'Sullivan in again in the sixth as The Rocket compiled another huge break, this time of 73, made it 6-0.
O'Sullivan gave White a rare chance and he made nine and well positioned to score heavily but a missed blue was to be his last shot of the competition. The Rocket sealed the victory with a break of 113 in a fitting conclusion to this season's tournament.
Betfred Premier League Snooker The Final Sunday, December 3, 2006 - The Forum Centre, Wythenshawe Ronnie O'Sullivan 7-0 Jimmy White O'Sullivan's scores first 77-7 (O'Sullivan 49), 62-49 (O'Sullivan 32, White 49), 122-0 (O'Sullivan 122), 93-0 (O'Sullivan 93), 42-13 (O'Sullivan 35), 98-1 (O'Sullivan 73), 113-9 (O'Sullivan 113)
Sanya
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Отправлено: 03.12.06 23:55. Заголовок: Re:
ROCKET ROARS TO A WHITE-WASH Sunday 3rd December 2006
Former world champion Ronnie O'Sullivan claimed his third straight Premier League title with a 7-0 demolition of Jimmy White in the final at the Forum Centre in Wythenshawe.
It was a virtuoso potting display from the 'Rocket' but he was helped by a woeful performance from an out-of-sorts White, whose game may have been suffering a reaction following his last-gasp victory over world champion Graeme Dott in Saturday's semi-finals.
The six-time World Championship runner-up set the tone for his evening with a miss on a straight black in the opener and O'Sullivan took advantage with a run of 49 to take the lead.
O'Sullivan began the next with a break of 32 but White hit back with a break of 49 - his best of the night - before O'Sullivan won the subsequent safety duel and took the frame with a break of 29 to the pink.
White did not score a point in the next two frames as O'Sullivan compiled a break of 122 in the third - his fourth century of the tournament. He should have had his fifth £1,000 century bonus in the next, but he missed a cut on the pink with the break on 93.
The fifth frame was a scrappy affair, won by the Essex potter after White missed a simple yellow to the middle early on and then a cut on the black into the corner by at least six inches.
In the sixth frame White missed a long red by a country mile and inevitably O'Sullivan made him pay, a break of 73 - which should have been another century - putting him within a frame of victory.
The mid-session interval changed nothing as O'Sullivan quickly wrapped up the victory in the seventh frame of the evening. White got amongst the balls first but after a run of just nine, missed a blue to the corner, and O'Sullivan stroked in a break of 113 to claim the title.
White's consolation was a cheque for £44,000, while O'Sullivan - unbeaten throughout the tournament - picked up £79,000.
O'Sullivan told Sky Sports: "You never know how matches are going to go. I managed to get off to a great start and put some pressure on Jimmy. It was just tough for Jimmy because he has been playing so well in this league and I expected it to go all the way, but snooker is a funny game."
White added: "I was a bit disappointed. I had a chance to win the second game but after that I didn't really settle and if you don't punish the Rocket it is just demoralising. He just gets better and better and it's magic to watch. I was willing him on to make hundred breaks. But I just didn't get going and I was disappointed I didn't give him a really good game."
Sanya
green mama
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O'Sullivan: I Want The World Title Again RONNIE O'Sullivan targeted the World Championship again after sealing his third successive Betfred Premier League Snooker title.
O'Sullivan made two century breaks as he cruised to an emphatic 7-0 victory against Jimmy White in the final of the Premier League, which was held at the Forum Centre, Wythenshawe.
"I got off to a good start to put some pressure on Jimmy and it was always tough for him," said O'Sullivan. "He has played so well to get to the final and I expected it to go all the way but snooker is a funny game."
The Rocket was always in control and made breaks of 122, 113, 93 and 73 in a one-sided final.
After the victory, Leanne Hunter, sister of the late Paul Hunter, presented O'Sullivan with the trophy (pictured right) and a cheque for £79,000, while White also received a cheque of £44,000.
Leanne herself was handed a cheque for £10,000, which will go towards the Hunter Foundation, after promoters Matchroom Sport, sponsors Betfred and the players agreed to make a sizeable donation to the newly-formed charity.
"I'm proud and honoured to be here tonight representing the Paul Hunter Foundation," said Leanne Hunter.
"I would like to say a huge thank you to the Premier League sponsors Betfred and the players for their contribution to the Paul Hunter Foundation, which will help underprivileged and handicapped children play snooker.
"Paul was a wonderful person and brother to me. He will be so proud."
O'Sullivan, who is widely regarded as one of the best snooker players in the history of the game, has only lifted the World Championship title on two occasions - 2001 and 2004. But he believes he still has a lot more to achieve in the sport.
"I haven't conquered the snooker world," said O'Sullivan. "There's still a few more world titles I would like to win. But there are other things in life. You see Leanne here and Paul is sorely missed. At the end of the day it's just a game of snooker."
This was White's first tournament final in 32 months and admitted the better player won.
"I had a chance to win the second game and after that I didn't settle," said White. "Ronnie just gets better and better and only needs one chance to win a frame but I'm a bit disappointed I didn't give him a good game."
Ding on cue in doubles win Tuesday, 05 December, 2006
Ding Junhui and partner Tian Pengfei steamroller Marco Fu Ka Chun and Chan Wai Ki of Hong Kong, China to win the goldChina’s pair Ding Junhui and Tian Pengfei demolished Marco Fu Ka Chun and Chan Wai Ki of Hong Kong, China by 3–1 (64–66, 102–2, 72–37, 126–7) to clinch the men's snooker doubles gold medal at the Al-Sadd Sports Club on Tuesday 5 December.
Despite a highest break of 47, the Chinese pair lost the first frame on the black ball, before taking charge of the proceedings by winning the next three frames in a row for a convincing victory.
Busan 2002 singles champion, Ding, produced a brilliantly constructed break of 126 in the fourth frame – providing the highlight of the match and a fitting end to the final. The 19 year-old, provisionally ranked No 4 in the world, broke open the bunch with his second shot and then proceeded to pick his way through the reds before finishing with a flourish.
Earlier, Tiang potted a quick 55 in the second frame and his partner followed it up with a 47 in the third, as the Chinese pair took control of the match. Hong Kong, China’s Fu and Chan were hardly in the contest once the Chinese got into their groove and amassed only 46 points in the final three frames.
After the defeat, Fu praised China’s performance and offered no excuses for the defeat: “The Chinese are all good and seriously watching their actions, they score heavily and that’s very important. I know I played well, but I didn’t really learn anything new, although I played very comfortably with my team mate.”
Earlier, Thailand’s Atthasit Mahitthi and Phaithoon Phonbun beat Lai Chee Wei and Moh Keen Hoo from Malaysia by 3–1 (63–17, 104–18, 52–77, 80–61) to win the bronze medal match. After convincingly winning the first two frames, Malaysia bounced back in the third before Thailand secured the match in the fourth.
Elsewhere, China’s Ding won the crucial second reverse singles to help his team reach the semifinals of the snooker team event as China turned back a 0–2 deficit to beat Thailand 3–2 and set up a meeting with India, who brushed past Pakistan 3–0.
In the other quarterfinal matches, top seeds Hong Kong, China eliminated Kuwait 3–0 and Malaysia knocked out Qatar 3–1.
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Отправлено: 06.12.06 16:30. Заголовок: Re:
UK CHEMPIONSHIP GREAT SCOTT 06 Dec 2006 13:51:00
Glaswegian Scott MacKenzie is one frame from victory after a storming first session against Michael Holt in the Maplin UK Championship.
World No 21 Holt had no answers as his 26-year-old opponent was simply unstoppable. The Scot opened with a 65 to secure the first and then fired in a 109 to take the second. Frames four and five were closer affairs but still went the same way.
MacKenzie then had runs of 79, 88 and 59 to complete a dream session. He leads 8-0 with first to nine frames going through to the second round in York. At stake is a place in the last 32 and a match against 888.com World Champion Graeme Dott.
Matthew Stevens, the 2003 champion, leads David Gray 6-2 at the interval. Breaks of 114, 133, 65 and 81 have allowed the Welshman to forge ahead.
Joe Perry continued his fine run of form. After his convincing first round victory against Michael Judge, he opened with an 81 and leads Barry Hawkins 5-3.
The games between Ali Carter and Stuart Bingham and Peter Ebdon and Mark Selby are all square. Ebdon, who struck a maximum at this tournament in 1992, opened with a 125 and a 110 before Selby responded with a 99 and a 76. The high scoring didn’t end there, both players hitting further breaks in the nineties.
All these matches will play to a finish this evening www.worldsnooker.com
rusel
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Отправлено: 07.12.06 12:09. Заголовок: Re:
WELSH DRAGON FIRES INTO LAST 16 06 Dec 2006 22:23:00
Matthew Stevens, champion at York three years ago, cruised into the third round of the Maplin UK Championship with a 9-5 defeat of David Gray.
The player nicknamed the Welsh Dragon beat Stephen Hendry in the 2003 final at the Barbican Centre for his sole ranking title and has hopes of capturing the trophy again a week on Sunday.
And he anticipates a clash with countryman Ryan Day in the next round. "I know he has to play Ding (Junhui) first, but I’ve been practising with Ryan, he’s playing fantastic snooker and I fancy him to win that match.
"Ding may be the defending champion, but it will be tough for him to fly back from the Asian Games (in Qatar) and play here the following day."
Carmarthen’s 29-year-old Stevens did most of the damage in the first session this morning, building a 6-2 advantage.
Londoner Gray made a brilliant start to the evening session by becoming only the seventh player to make a 146 in professional play, setting a strong front-runner for the £5,000 high break prize.
But Stevens won the next two frames for an 8-3 lead, and despite seeing his opponent pull two back, got over the winning line in the 14th.
"I’ve lost in the first round here for the last couple of years so I’m pleased to be through," added Stevens. "I like this venue and I’ve got good memories of playing here."
Glasgow’s Scott MacKenzie was on the right end of a remarkable 9-0 whitewash of a player 36 places above him in the rankings, Michael Holt.
After winning all eight frames in the first session, the Scot needed just 12 minutes tonight to book his place in the next round, closing with a run of 60.
He now faces 888.com World Champion Graeme Dott. "It’s a dream match for me," said MacKenzie. "The only one that could be better would be to play Stephen Hendry."
Peter Ebdon was in outstanding form in a heavy-scoring match against Mark Selby. The former World Champion piled in breaks of 125, 110, 96, 53, 98, 123, 72 and 124. Selby was no slouch himself with 99, 76, 92, 63 and 127 but still succumbed 9-6.
Stuart Bingham edged through 9-8 in a nail-biter against Ali Carter which went down to the last black.
The pair were tied at 6-6 at the mid-session interval but Carter was then docked a frame by referee Oliver Marteel for arriving back late to the playing arena.
Bingham went 8-6 up with a 54 then Carter bravely battled back to level with 67 and 92.
He had a chance in the decider but missed a tricky final black and, after a safety exchange, Bingham slotted it into a baulk corner for victory.
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Отправлено: 07.12.06 22:13. Заголовок: Re:
MAGUIRE SET FOR ROCKET CLASH 07 Dec 2006 19:14:00
Stephen Maguire overcame a bout of the jitters to book a last 16 showdown with Ronnie O’Sullivan at the Maplin UK Championship.
The Glaswegian battler, who became a father for the first time last week, has avoided sleepless nights thus far, focused on success in York while his fiancé Sharon looks after the couple’s one-week old son, Finn, at home in Milton.
But the 2004 UK winner saw his nerves tested to the limit by Belfast’s Joe Swail, before he eventually prevailed, 9-8 winner after a thrilling last-frame decider at the Barbican Centre in the pair’s second round showdown.
“I led all the way apart from the first frame, but he was never in front. So I’ve led all the way and he kept coming back and back. A couple of times I had him in real trouble, but he just kept potting them or producing a great safety and getting back in.
“I just couldn’t find a way of getting rid of him. I’m just over the moon to have won”, a relieved Maguire admitted.
Maguire can’t wait to now play Ronnie in the next round, for the Milton cueman beat the ‘Rocket’ two years ago, 9-6 in the last 32 stage when he went on win the prestigious UK title.
“Ronnie can absolutely annihilate you, but I sent him packing two years ago, so I hopefully I can play well again,” added the 2004 European Open champion, who pocketed breaks of 83, 58, 52, 82, 86, 107 and 67 to progress.
“All I wanted was just once chance to see if I could do it (win the last frame). I’ve made a 67, so I’m ecstatic.
“It’s the kind of game I’ve been losing these last 18 months, so it feels good to actually win a match where both players have played well for a change.
A misfiring Ronnie O'Sullivan scraped into the last 16 of the Maplin UK Championship having been taken the distance by qualifier Ricky Walden.
The three-time UK champion edged a nerve-racking 16th frame by just two points, before he re-ignited his title-charge with a 108 break to seal victory, 9-8.
"I'm just delighted to have got through," admitted a relieved O'Sullivan. "He deserved to win that match.
The Rocket had further match breaks of 107, 50, 59, 74, 64 and 125, but having led 7-4; saw Walden battle 8-7 ahead.
Meanwhile, Glaswegian Jamie Burnett could not repeat his first-round heroics. The Hamilton potter was beaten 9-5 by last year’s runner-up Steve Davis, a six-time winner of the UK crown.
Previous winner in 1999 and 2002, Mark Williams edged past Gerard Greene 9-7 and Stephen Lee came through a tough tussle against Rod Lawler 9-6. www.worldsnooker.com
Sanya
green mama
Сообщение: 1256
Откуда: Россия, Белый город над белой Двиной
Сообщение: 1563
Откуда: Болгария- но Родина-СССР, живу в Велинграде
Отправлено: 08.12.06 10:59. Заголовок: Re:
ANGLES ON THE NUGGET (www.worldsnooker.com| 07 Dec 2006 22:36:00
The Scots are now guaranteed four players in the last 16 of the Maplin UK Championship.
With a healthy 6-2 lead at the mid point, he had to sit and watch as Shaun Murphy showed great resilience to fire in a 76 to reduce the deficit. But with breaks of 59 and 57, he secured the next three frames to take the match.
“I’m looking forward to playing Steve. Any time you play him it’s a real occasion,” said the world number 19. “And to play him on the big stage, at the UK, will be very special.
"It will be a good game with Steve. He’s such a legend. It’s no surprise he’s still going strong. It’s (snooker) his life. He’s still in the top 16, so it’s quite amazing really.”
The Scot is pleased with his form and practising hard, “I’m not hitting the ball badly. I’ve been knocking in a lot of crunch balls, which gives you confidence.
“That’s what you need to be doing against the best players."
John Higgins also secured his place in the last 16 after overcoming the stubborn challenge of Mark King, 9-5 and despite not feeling at his best.
"The first four frames I couldn’t even see the table," admitted Higgins. "I got some eye drops and that helped. I was going to try anything!"
Besides the illness Higgins was also lacking match practise, "I came into the competition cold because I’ve not played for six weeks and some of the boys have been playing in the Betfred (Premier League). It was a really scrappy match. I came here very apprehensive after the Grand Prix (in Aberdeen).”
"I’m just happy to have made it through to the televised stage.” In the last 16 he will play Stephen Lee, “Stephen’s playing well and found a bit of form by winning the Welsh Open last season, so I’m sure it will be a tough match."
The Romford potter did have the consolation of equalling the top break. He hit a 146, also a tournament best for him, matching the mark of David Gray who only scored his yesterday evening. The final frame was a tense safety battle but the Wizard of Wishaw prevailed, taking the match 9-4.
Finland’s Robin Hull came out on top, after his match against Royal London Watches Grand Prix winner, Neil Robertson. Level at the interval, Hull moved to within one frame of victory helped by breaks of 60, 96 and a 68.
The Melbourne potter took the thirteenth but Hull was not to be denied, winning 9-5.
Sanya
green mama
Сообщение: 1268
Откуда: Россия, Белый город над белой Двиной
Уж простите, что не так оперативно, как обычно, но новостей сейчас зело много, а времени на занятие переводом крайне мало. Так что, пока как получается...
Clive Everton Wednesday November 29, 2006 The Guardian
Sir Rodney Walker, chairman of the World Professional Billiards and Snooker Association, was re-elected to its board by a 43-0 margin at an AGM in Sheffield attended by only one player and three managers. No questions were asked about the association's accounts after it was disclosed that Myerscough Developments, a company controlled by Walker, had received £75,237 in commissions. Asked which contracts were linked with these payments, Elaine Goldsmith, the WPBSA's secretary, said they were agreements Walker had been "instrumental in closing". This is despite the fact that the sports marketing company IMG/TWI is the snooker body's exclusive sponsorship agent for BBC events. Another £20,000 in commissions was payable to Walker but he donated it to charity. He additionally received £20,000 for chairing WPBSA Ltd and £20,000 from its wholly owned subsidiary World Snooker Ltd.
Only four players won more in prize money than the £135,237 Walker earned from WPBSA activities. Although a bottom-line profit of £1.226m for the year ending June 30 was declared, prize money for events totalled £2.339m, more than 50% down from two seasons earlier. There has been much grumbling that the association's contract with 888.com gives the world championship sponsor the right to one of the two waistcoat logos each player is permitted, an agreement which has also been made with Saga Insurance, sponsor of the Masters. However, judging by the apathy of the players - 26 chose not to vote at the AGM - they seem to have accepted their lot.
Sir David Richards, chairman of the Premier League, was re-elected by 42-1 and Peter Ebdon, the 2002 world champion, 27-17. Two directors co-opted during the year, Lee Doyle, chief executive of 110sport, and Dr Hamish McInnes, who was introduced by Walker, were elected.
Sanya
green mama
Сообщение: 1276
Откуда: Россия, Белый город над белой Двиной
Отправлено: 09.12.06 14:43. Заголовок: Re:
Не нравится мне перспективки на матч с Роном.. особенно с учетом настроений вышеозначенного товарисча..
HENDRY SURVIVES HAROLD FIGHT-BACK 09 Dec 2006 22:29:00
Stephen Hendry produced a superb late burst to end Dave Harold's hopes of an upset at the Maplin UK Championship.
The world No 1 crashed out at the first stage of the Royal London Watches Grand Prix in October and looked in danger of another early exit when Harold recovered from 7-3 down to 7-7 at the York Barbican Centre.
But when the Stoke potter missed the easiest of reds to a centre pocket early in the 15th frame, Hendry pounced.
A break of 88 restored his lead and a cool 82 in the next put him through to the last 16 and a clash with pal Mark Williams.
"From 7-3 to 7-7 it was all Dave, I didn’t have a chance," said Hendry, reflecting on his opponent’s burst which featured breaks of 111 and 115.
"I thought it was a match I was destined to lose. I couldn’t believe he missed the red in the next. I held myself together and made two great breaks.
"I had a bad start to the season but we’ve only had two ranking tournaments, there are still five to go. There are no alarm bells ringing, I just want to get back to winning ways.
"I’ve got a great record in this event and I’ve always considered it one of the big two or three that I want to win.
"I can’t wait to play Mark, it will be fantastic. There are some big matches in the next round and that’s great for the tournament. You want to be involved and play in those games."
Fellow Scot Graeme Dott had a much more comfortable passage into the last 16, beating Scott MacKenzie 9-2.
The 888.com World Champion led 6-2 after the first session and added the three frames he needed in emphatic style with runs of 107, 92 and 112 to set up a match with Finland’s Robin Hull.
"I played well, although Scott is a much better player than he showed today," said Dott. "It was his first time on TV and he will learn to deal with it.
"I feel very comfortable in these long frame matches, although I haven’t got a good record in this tournament.
"It won’t be an easy match for me against Robin, if he beat Neil Robertson he must be playing well and he deserves to be here."
Сообщение: 1340
Откуда: Россия, Белый город над белой Двиной
Отправлено: 11.12.06 17:52. Заголовок: Re:
ROCKET FLIES INTO LAST EIGHT 11 Dec 2006 15:25:00
Ronnie O'Sullivan became the first player into the quarter-finals of the Maplin UK Championship with a comprehensive win over Stephen Maguire.
The Rocket took the four frames he needed today to complete a 9-3 success.
Breaks of 82, 66, 100 and 110 allowed the Chigwell cueman to race through within an hour at the York Barbican Centre, setting up a meeting with Stephen Hendry or Mark Williams.
UK Champion in 1993, 1997 and 2001, O'Sullivan has been made hot favourite by bookmakers to collect a fourth crown and will be hard to stop if he continues his outstanding level of break-building.
"Stephen made a few mistakes and that gave me the chances to score," said the 31-year-old. "That's not the way I want to do it, I prefer to create my own chances. But it's a good win for me."
O'Sullivan was full of praise for his opponent, who won this tournament two years ago.
"He's got a better all round game than me," added the world No 3. "He puts pressure on you with his tactical game and he scores well, he's a fantastic player.
"When he beat me here and in the British Open a couple of years ago, I couldn't see anyone beating him. He was better than the other young players coming through, although Ding has now taken over from him.
"But I'm sure he will win big tournaments again before long."
Despite his own form, O'Sullivan is taking nothing for granted as he looks to the week ahead. "One day your opponent is off form but the next one you play might be flying," he said.
"There are no easy runs these days, the younger players are such good potters and they can crack them in from anywhere."
Santia
Сообщение: 3029
Откуда: Украина, Херсон
Отправлено: 11.12.06 20:00. Заголовок: Re:
Армагеддон откладывается.
"A sport on the rise"
Экс-чемпион мира Джо Джонсон рассказал в интервью каналу Евроспорт, что нынешнее поколение звезд снукера сияет намного ярче, нежели его собственное - 980-х годов.
Джонсон выиграл Главный Приз снукера в 1986-м году, будучи аутсайдером, ставки на которого принимались из расчета 150 к одному. Тогда он переиграл первого номера в мировом рейтинге Стива Дэвиса в финале со счетом 18-12.
Уроженец Брэдфорда Джонсон играл тогда, когда на свой пик взошли звезды Стива Дэвиса, Джимми Уайта, Дэнниса Тэйлора и Алекса Хиггинса. Однако Джонсон утверждает, что стандарты игры невероятно выросли за последнюю декаду.
«Уверен, что нет такого спорта, который бы не улучшался со течением времени, и для снукера это тоже верно. Стандарты в настоящее время намного выше, нежели были в мое время.
Когда есть столько великолепных игроков, практически невозможно угадать победителя соревнования. Исход турнира может решить такая мелочь, как у кого на кие нашлепка лучше. Грань невероятно тонкая.
Снукер очень вырос со времен моей молодости, и, несомненно, это хорошо»,
Сейчас Джонсон находится в Йорке и готовится комментировать Чемпионат Великобритании для канала Евроспорт. Он также добавил, что, наконец, спустя годы попыток распространить снукер по всему миру, можно утверждать, что они увенчиваются успехом.
«Мы долгие годы старались принести снукер в другие страны мира, но сейчас кажется, что усилия начинают окупаться.
Я помню, как буквально после моей победы на Чемпионате Мира в 1986-м, лучшая восьмерка игроков отправилась в Китай, чтобы выступить на показательном турнире. В первый вечер никто не пришел – на пустой арене находились только восемь игроков и рефери. Но на второй вечер в зал набилось шесть тысяч человек, потому что накануне нас показали по телевидению. Так что мы всегда знали, что снукер обязательно укоренится в Китае, это только вопрос времени. А что бы не делали китайцы, они стараются делать это хорошо. Они отдаются делу полностью, настраиваются ментально и тренируются как проклятые.
Я думаю, что игра определенно развивается в правильном направлении. В World Snooker пришли люди, которые обеспечили надежность и доверие, чего не хватало в прошлом. И это доказывают последние несколько лет, когда в игре появились новые спонсоры в новых странах, открывшие новый рынки. Я буду в восторге, если снукер будут продолжать развивать по всему миру».
Sanya
green mama
Сообщение: 1345
Откуда: Россия, Белый город над белой Двиной
Crucible runner-up Peter Ebdon hopes he can go one better at the Maplin UK Championship.
The Dubai-based cueman comfortably saw off Stuart Bingham 9-4 at the York Barbican Centre to progress to the quarter-finals.
Ebdon, one of snooker's toughest match players, lost to Graeme Dott in the final of the 888.com World Snooker Championship in May and is planning to be around at the conclusion this time.
"I've prepared almost as hard for this as I do for the Crucible," said the 36-year-old. "I'm very proud to be in the top eight of the rankings and if you want to stay there you have got to do well in the big events.
"I prefer the longer frame formats and you nearly always get a strong line up in the latter stages of this tournament."
Basildon's Bingham trailed 6-2 overnight but was off to a fine start in the second session with breaks of 70 and 114 to reduce his deficit to two frames.
He had a chance in frame 11 but crucially missed the penultimate red on 38 and Ebdon cleared up for 7-4.
The former World Champion started the 12th with a 62 but Bingham had a chance to snatch it, only to miss a tricky final black. Ebdon slotted it in and added the next with a 50 to secure his place in the next round.
"Stuart didn't play well yesterday but he came back strongly today so I was delighted to get through," added Ebdon.
"The tables are playing beautifully here, which can be frightening because it means your opponent can reel five or six frames off without you getting a shot."
Ebdon could now face practice partner Ding Junhui, who leads Matthew Stevens 5-3.
The defending champion was off to a stunning start with runs of 63, 111, 92 and 100 to take the first four frames.
But 2003 UK Champion Stevens recovered to 4-2 with 66 and 74. Ding won the next frame of a high-quality contest with 60 and 54, but the Welshman kept his arrears to two frames with an 82 in the last.
Stephen Hendry saw off Mark Williams at the Maplin UK Championship and eagerly awaits his clash with Ronnie O'Sullivan in the quarter-finals.
The five-times UK Champion scored a 9-6 success over pal Williams at the Barbican Centre to reach the last eight of snooker’s second biggest ranking event.
The world No 1 led 6-2 overnight but soon saw his lead cut to just one frame. Williams took the first today with breaks of 40 and 38 then stole the next from 66-0 down, finishing with a brilliant black along the top cushion.
A 52 helped the Welshman make it 6-5. But Hendry responded by winning the next with a 43 and closed in on victory with a 92 for 8-5.
Williams won frame 14 on the blue to keep his hopes alive but when he missed the third-last red in the 15th at 21-53, his chance had gone.
"Mark wasn’t in form yesterday but he played some great stuff tonight and potted some incredible long balls," said 37-year-old Hendry, who has not won a ranking title since the Malta Cup early in 2005. "The frame I won to go 7-5 was a big one.
"If you have aspirations of winning this tournament, you have to beat the best in the world. Ronnie is the best, he’s fantastic to watch and he will be favourite.
"I can’t wait for the match. If I hit form I’ve got a great chance and it’s an opportunity for me to test my game. Slowly but surely my form is coming back."
The only player to have won more UK titles than Hendry, Steve Davis, is also through to the quarters.
The Nugget, six times a winner, got the better of a marathon tussle against Alan McManus, winning 9-7 at nearly half past midnight.
Tied at 4-4 overnight, last year's runner-up Davis pulled 8-5 ahead with a top break of 77. McManus battled back to 8-7 before Davis crawled over the finishing line after his opponent went in-off the blue at the end of the 46-minute 16th frame.
Сообщение: 1384
Откуда: Россия, Белый город над белой Двиной
Отправлено: 13.12.06 18:23. Заголовок: Re:
Wizard aims to pocket UK title Dec 13 2006
JOHN Higgins is hoping to hit top title-winning form after reaching the quarter-finals of the UK snooker championship in York.
The Wishaw Wizard enjoyed a comfortable 9-2 victory over Stephen Lee, having defeated Mark King 9-4 in the previous round, and now has his sights set on lifting the trophy to bookend a year which began with his epic Masters win.
He said: "This competition and the world championship are the two biggest ranking tournaments; I haven’t done well in them in the past few years, but hopefully I can change that as I have a good footing this week.
"I’m hitting the ball well, although it’s hard to judge how good my form is as this in only the third tournament of the season and I didn’t play in the Premier League.”
Twice a former winner of the UK title, Higgins will face Ken Doherty or Joe Perry for a place in the last four, with his rivals’ match due to be completed last night (Tuesday).
Higgins found himself 45-0 down in the first frame against Lee, but won it by hitting a 59 in response and then never allowed his opponent a look-in during the next three games with breaks of 128, 121 and 108.
It allowed him to surge into a 7-1 overnight lead, and he easily completed his victory in Monday’s opening session.
The Wishaw player had to mount a fightback in the early stages of his first game of the tournament, against Mark King, after finding himself 2-0 and 3-1 down, but he triumphed in the next four in succession to progress.
Sanya
green mama
Сообщение: 1385
Откуда: Россия, Белый город над белой Двиной
The Rocket forfeited his best-of-17 quarter-final match against Stephen Hendry at 4-1 down at the York Barbican Centre.
The statement he subsequently issued read: "I wish I could have played a better game today, but I had a bad day in the office.
"Anyone who knows me, knows that I am a perfectionist when it comes to my game, and today, I got so annoyed with myself that I lost my patienceand walked away from a game that with hindsight I should have continued.
"I wish I could have given Steven a better game, and I'm sorry I didn't stick around to sharpen him up for his semi-final.
"I'm also really sorry to let down the fans who came to see me play - it wasn't my intention to disappoint them, and for that I am truly apologetic. At this present moment in time I am feeling disappointed with myself and am hurt and numb, but I am a fighter and I will be back on my feet fighting stronger and harder than ever very soon."
former World Champion Joe Johnson fears that snooker may have seen the last of Ronnie O'Sullivan. O'Sullivan dramatically walked out of his Maplin UK Championship quarter-final clash against Stephen Hendry after just five frames.
The 31-year-old star insisted that frustration at his poor form prompted his actions and vowed to return to action "fighting stronger and harder than ever".
But 1986 World Champion Johnson believes that The Rocket's troubles run much deeper than he admitted - and said he hoped the sport had not lost another great character so soon after the sad loss of Paul Hunter to cancer.
"He obviously has something terribly wrong going on inside his mind," Johnson told eurosport.com.
"It could be that he feels he has let everybody down, that he says to himself: "That's it, I've had enough, I'm not going back".
"But I hope he hasn't packed the game in completely because snooker needs him.
"We have just lost a great player in Paul Hunter, and Jimmy White is no longer one of the main forces in the game.
"We need these type of players - and there are not may Ronnie O'Sullivans, are there?"
Johnson added that O'Sullivan's statement, released on Friday, failed to fully convince.
"His quotes seem manufactured to me," Johnson continued.
"They are not good enough excuses for walking out of the second biggest tournament in snooker.
"He has played badly before, lost heavily before, and not thrown the towel in. I think it is something more this time.
"I have played snooker for 40 years and there were plenty of times when I have wanted to walk out of a match. I'm sure every other player has felt the same at some point in their career.
"When everything is going against you and your opponent is on top, you hang in there and see it out, fight until the last ball. That is what we have been taught to do."
Johnson went on to say that he hoped O'Sullivan had close friends and relatives to talk to over the next few weeks.
"My first concern is for Ronnie, to see what brought all this on. I just hope he gets some help and gets himself sorted out. He needs to talk to somebody very close to him.
"I wouldn't like to speculate where Ronnie goes from here. Only Ronnie knows Ronnie will do."
Joe Johnson will be commentating for British Eurosport during the UK Championships from York.
Ronnie O'Sullivan will be asked to explain his controversial walk-out during his quarter-final match with Stephen Hendry at the UK Championships last week. The former world champion was trailing 4-1 to Hendry in York, but was 24-0 up in the sixth frame when he stunned the crowd by conceding the match, and now world snooker chairman Sir Rodney Walker wants answers.
"We are not frightened of him," confirmed Walker.
"We will take whatever action is appropriate but if there is way in which we can help him refocus, I would rather take that than hit him with a stick.
"At some stage I suppose you begin to run out of patience but I doubt whether we have reached that just yet."
After walking out during the Hendry match, O'Sullivan then refused to attend the mandatory press conference, although he did then issue a statement which apologised for his walk-out.
"I was pleased and relieved that within a short period of time a statement was issued on Ronnie's behalf apologising to the spectators, the viewers, and Hendry for his behaviour," said Walker.
"The players know we are beginning to rebuild the sport but incidents like this do nothing to give sponsors and spectators confidence to invest in it and it should not have happened.
"I am sure the chairman of the disciplinary panel will write to O'Sullivan inviting him to give an explanation."
Ronnie O'Sullivan has hinted that the reason for his UK Championship walkout is because he is still in mourning for pal Paul Hunter. O’Sullivan surrendered his quarter-final clash with Stephen Hendry at 4-1 down, with a statement the following day blaming his actions on "a bad day at the office".
However, Ronnie has now said he knew nothing about the statement issued by his PR company.
Three times Wembley Masters champion Hunter died in October after an 18-month battle against cancer and is still sorely missed by O'Sullivan.
He said: "I remember what a great person Paul was. I still think about him a lot.
"He was not just a great snooker player, although I don't think people knew how good he really was.
"But as a person, he never seemed down. He was always happy, always the optimist. He appreciated everything he had. He was such a lucky person.
"He was good to hang about with as there was such an energy about him. That was a natural instinct for him, whereas I'm a bit of a pessimist.
"If he'd lost a match he'd say good luck, go and get it won and he meant every word.
"I wasn't one of his closest friends but we spent some time where we'd have three or four days together when we were away. I got to know him on that basis. We had a right good laugh and we'd do some mad things."
Peter Ebdon, who went on to beat Hendry in the York final to become only the ninth player to win World and UK crowns, has offered his support to O'Sullivan, who is still unsure whether he will face disciplinary action.
Ebdon said: "I'm sure Ronnie is okay because he is a strong person and he'll pull through but if I can ever help him he knows where I am."
Both Ebdon and O'Sullivan attended Hunter's funeral in Leeds last October.
Популярные комментаторы телеканала «Евроспорт» Владимир Синицын, Сергей Курдюков и Александр Каливод поздравляют Вас с новым годом!
Владимир Синицын , комментатор снукера, судья международной категории:
«Главная радость - необъяснимый во многом бум на «Евроспорте», который связан со снукером - количество посещений на сайте зашкаливает...
Что касается меня лично, то это мой дебютный год на «Евроспорте». Я уже давно следил за трансляциями снукера здесь, можно сказать, видел себя на этом месте... И многочисленные коллеги советовали попробовать, ведь комментатором я работаю давно и в снукере не новичок - игрок и судья международного класса. Конечно, не так просто было найти контакты, но в итоге все осуществилось, и теперь я совершенно счастлив.
Сам снукер активно прогрессирует, появляются новые перспективные игроки, еще далеко не сказавшие своего главного слова - Робертсон, Коуп, тот же Дин... Они еще не раз порадуют зрителя. Кстати, о зрителях: очень приятно, что такая дружная компания образовалась у нас на форуме «Евроспорта» в разделе «Снукер». Работает обратная связь, очень много вопросов приходит. Рад, что мой любимый вид спорта вызывает такой интерес.
Надеюсь, что в новом году снукер сохранит свои позиции в программной сетке «Евроспорта» - будут показаны все главные турниры, которые будут держать нас в напряжении, доставят нам и приятные переживания, и просто эстетическое удовольствие от игры наших любимых спортсменов. Ну и надеюсь, что на экране в целом будут доминировать виды спорта, в которых успешно выступают российские спортсмены и представители постсоветского пространства - это придает особый интерес просмотрам. В этом году мы радовались нашим керлингисткам, биатлонистам, теннисистам и надеюсь, будем радоваться их успехам впредь.
Так что работаем в прежнем режиме и пусть спорт, стараниями канала «Евроспорт», приносит нам позитивные эмоции ежедневно, еженедельно, ежемесячно... Всегда!»
Charity snubs stricken snooker champion - Крису Смоллу отказали в финансовой поддержке от фонда WPBSA: http://news.scotsman.com/edinburgh.cfm?id=18492007 No comment. Зачем тогда благотворительный фонд?
Seule
maman
Сообщение: 5429
Отправлено: 05.01.07 16:49. Заголовок: Re:
REFEREE JOHN SMYTH DIES AT 78 05 Jan 2007 10:44:00
John Williams has paid a glowing tribute to his former colleague John Smyth who has died after a long battle with cancer.
Irishman Smyth, pictured with wife Val, passed away at his home in Chesterfield on Thursday aged 78.
The former London Underground Tube driver refereed two World Championship finals.
Indeed, he was one of the men who officiated at the first ever Crucible Theatre final in 1977.
Williams, who also took charge in John Spencer’s 25-21 victory over Cliff Thorburn that year, told World Snooker: "He was held in great respect.
"So much so that when I told Ted Lowe recently of John’s illness he immediately sent him a get well card.
"It was probably one of the last pieces of mail he received. John was a top class referee and as good as they get.
"I have known him for more than 30 years and I was sad to hear the news of his death."
Smyth also stood in the 1982 world final that saw Alex Higgins beat Ray Reardon to lift the trophy for the second and last time.
He continued to referee until the early 1990s and at the time of his death was President of the Professional Referees’ Association.
The funeral will take place on January 15 at 11.30am at Brimington Crematorium in Chesterfield.
Sanya
green mama
Сообщение: 1471
Откуда: Россия, Белый город над белой Двиной
The new Paul Hunter Classic tournament, which is not a World Snooker tournament, will take place from 23-26 August, and is expected to attract a field including Ronnie O'Sullivan, Matthew Stevens and Neil Robertson.
Sanya
green mama
Сообщение: 1473
Откуда: Россия, Белый город над белой Двиной
И пятый турнир сезона пройдёт без участия Джимми Уайта. Это стало ясным после поражения ветерана снукера в третьем раунде квалификации на Уэлш Оупен. Он проиграл в девяти фреймах Марку Аллену из Северной Ирландии. Стоило Уайту выбыть из числа 32-х сильнейших в рейтинге, как квалификация, ставшая необходимым условием участия в финальной части рейтинговых турниров, превратилась для Джимми в непреодолимое препятствие. Зато другой ветеран - Джон Пэррот - сыграет в феврале в Прештатине. Он обыграл Джимми Мичи в решающем фрейме, причём, в одной из партий Джон сделал серию в 132 очка, чего за ним давненько не наблюдалось. Неудача Уайта вписалась в общую картину третьего раунда квалификации: ровно половина из 16-ти сеянных снукеристов выбыла из турнира. Англичанин Марк Дэвис, сделав два сенчури, уступил всё же в решающем фрейме Ляну Венбо из Китая, шотландец Дрю Хенри всухую проиграл англичанину Эндрю Хиггинсону, начавшему с первого раунда, другой шотландец - Джэйми Барнетт - выбил из сетки валлийца Доменика Дэйла, затратив на это все 9 фреймов, Том Форд безоговорочно проиграл Айену Прису, также начинавшему с первого раунда. Есть ещё один герой, прошедший всю квалификацию с начала и до конца. Это чемпион Европы среди юниоров англичанин Бен Уолестон. Он оставил не у дел Фергала О'Брайена - 5:2. В числе неудачников оказался и Бэрри Пинчес, проигравший Дэвиду Джилберту 4:5. Завершает список неудачников из числа сеянных игроков Маркус Кэмпбелл, уступивший Джо Делани 4:5. Порадовал уверенной игрой Рикки Валден. Он уверенно обыграл Стюарта Петмана 5:1 и установил при этом высший брейк квалификации - 139 очков. Стремительно и безоговорочно победил Джэйми Коуп, затратив на матч с Майком Данном около часа. Коуп умудрился за пять фреймов сделать семь(!) брейков более 40 очков, а один из них был сотенным - 131 очко. Проиграли оба мальтийца. Тони Дрэго - ирландцу Майклу Джаджу - 2:5, а Алекс Борг - Адриану Ганеллу, причём, с сухим счётом. Герард Грин прошёл Рори МакЛеода (5:3), а Дэйв Харольд с таким же счётом обыграл Дэвида Морриса. Этот же результат был отмечен в протоколе матча двух англичан: Род Лоулер переиграл Эндрю Нормана. Финальная часть турнира пройдёт с 12-го по 18-е февраля. А пока считаные дни остаются до турнира "Мастерс", который стартует в Лондоне 14-го января и продлится до 21-го числа. И тут Джимми Уайт ещё сохраняет надежду попасть в число 16-ти сильнейших. Правда, турнир этот не является рейтинговым и особых дивидентов в виде бонусных рейтинговых очков за него не предусмотрено. Телезрители "Евроспорта" будут иметь возможность следить за этим турниром, учитывая большой объём предусмотренных трансляций.
DOHERTY FOCUSSED ON WEMBLEY TITLE 10 Jan 2007 10:31:00
Ken Doherty is determined to end his Wembley drought by winning the SAGA Insurance Masters crown for the first time in his 17-year career.
The Dubliner has been ever-present at snooker’s most prestigious invitation event since 1992 but has yet to get his hands on the trophy. He reached the final in 1999 and 2000 but lost to John Higgins and Matthew Stevens.
Doherty has been in impressive form over the past year, winning the Malta Cup and climbing to a career high second-place in the world rankings. He hopes he can go all the way in this year’s tournament, which begins on Sunday at Wembley Arena.
“I’d love to win this event, it’s steeped in tradition and history,“ he said. “Other than winning the world title again, the SAGA Insurance Masters is the one I most want.
“I’ve got good memories of playing in the tournament but also some bad ones. I’ve been in the final twice and lost 10-8 both times. And of course there’s the black I missed on a 147 (in the final against Stevens) which still haunts me.
“Wembley Conference Centre was a fantastic place. The crowds are vociferous and animated but I liked that as a fan and I like it as a player, it’s what sport is all about.
“I’m really looking forward to this year’s event and to finding out what the new venue is like. I get good support because there are a lot of Irish around the Wembley area and further out in London.”
Doherty plays his opening match against Barry Hawkins on Monday, January 15 at 7pm.
There are two other former World Champions in action that day. At 11am, Welsh ace Mark Williams plays rising Aussie star Neil Robertson, then at 2.30pm defending champion John Higgins faces an all-Scottish clash against Stephen Maguire.
Сообщение: 1518
Откуда: Россия, Белый город над белой Двиной
Отправлено: 12.01.07 22:23. Заголовок: Re:
Перевод статьи, выложенной Seule, заранее прошу прощения за возможные погрешности перевода.
Вдова Хантера обращается к Мастерс. Вдова Пола Хантера Линдси нарушила молчание и выступила в пользу переименования трофея Мастерс в честь трехкратного чемпиона Уэмбли.
Хантер умер в октябре 2006 в возрасте 27 лет, но World Snooker формально отказался почтить его память в этом турнире.
Линдси, впервые высказываясь по этой теме, сказала, что она и не ожидала, переименования целого турнира.
Но семья Пола и его друзья думают, что было бы прекрасно, если бы победитель турнира получал Трофей имени Пола Хантера," - говорит она.
"Мне кажется, что это было ожидаемо практически всеми. Все игроки, с которыми я говорила, и все болельщики полагали, что этот вопрос уже определен.
«На самом деле в настоящее время существует пять или шесть бизнесменов, поддерживающих World Snooker, и их решение, к сожалению, не в пользу этого. Но если в своем решении они прислушивались к мнению игроков и болельщиков, то это решение отвечает ожиданиям людей.»
Но World Snooker поддерживает такое решение, и не склонно создавать прецедент, следовать которому в дальнейшем было бы сложно.
Сайт Би-би-си Спорт ранее уже сообщил о том, что память звезды снукера, урожденного в Лидсе, будут чтить отдельно от стартующего в воскресенье турнира Мастерс.
Глубокое противоречие разделило мнения внутри бильярдной секции канала Би-би-си, где один из ее членов направил ходатайство, призывающее к оказанию некоторых почестей памяти Пола на Уэмбли.
Незадолго до этого, German Open pro-am, турнир, в котором Хантер принял участие после того, как ему был в 2005 году поставлен диагноз, будет именоваться как Paul Hunter Classic в память о великолепном англичанине.
Этот турнир не относится к рейтинговым, хотя стоит упомянуть, что руководство World Snooker создало школу снукера имени Пола Хантера.
Но турнир Мастерс, имеющий спонсорскую поддержку Saga Insurance, своего названия менять не будет.
На Гран-При, прошедшем в Абердине, была объявлена минута молчания, как дань памяти Полу Хантеру, но в Уэмбли ничего подобного даже не запланировано.
Цитата. Большое количество людей хочет, чтобы имя Пола жило, но я не вижу, чтобы руководители World Snooker изменили свое решение. Линдси Хантер.
"Наше правление единодушно согласилось, что Школа имени Пола Хантера это достаточная дань его памяти," сказал Би-би-си Спорт представитель World Snooker.
"Так же, как и Хантер стремительно поднялся через любительские разряды, обучение может дать одаренному молодому игроку шанс реализовать его талант, получив лучшее обучение."
Он сказал, что обучение, которое финансирует Saga Insurance, было бы лучшим проявлением дани памяти игроку.
"Эту предлагаемую схему обучения посчитали более соответствующей и действенной, чем другие предложения, включая переименование трофея," добавил он.
Легенда бильярда Джимми Вайт ранее призывал к переименованию турнира Мастерс или трофея Мастерс в честь Пола Хантера.
"Пол Хантер должен остаться в памяти в связи с этим турниром., где завоевал три невероятных победы," – сказал Вайт Би-би-си Five Live.
Saga Insurance объявила в четверг, что учреждает премию для школы Хантера в размере 50 фунтов за каждый брейк в 50 или больше очков, показанный на Мастерсе.
Тем временем, Линдси, вдова Пола, воспитывающая маленькую дочку Эви, ведет активную деятельность в Фонде Пола Хантера, с целью обеспечить возможность занятия спортом малообеспеченных детей и детей – инвалидов.
Газете "Дэйли Майл" она сообщила, что не хочет, чтобы люди думали, что проблемы Мастерс доминируют над ее ежедневными мыслями.
"Пол сказал бы: 'О! Не смотря ни на что, это не имеет большого значения'. Я думаю так же.. Если бы был учрежден Трофей Пола Хантера, то это была бы большая честь, и это имело бы большое значение для Эви, когда она станет старше," сказал Линдсей.
"На сей день существует большое количество людей, которые хотят переименования турнира. Но я не вижу, чтобы руководители World Snooker были склонны изменить решение. Еще не поздно передумать. Люди рассмотрят это решение с позиций, как они это рассматривают.
" Хантер стал любимцем публики, пройдя три финала, и выиграв трофей Мастерс в 2001, 2002 и 2004 годах.
И каждый раз он использовал так называемый 'План B', в перерыве встречаясь с Линдси, что приводило к улучшению его спортивной формы.
После смерти англичанина от рака, болельщики снукера и звезды снукера фактически объединились в общем горе, его похороны посетили практически все всемирно известные игроки. Прежние чемпионы мира Ронни О'Салливан, Стивен Хендри, Стив Дэвис, Джон Пэрротт, Деннис Тэйлор, Марк Вилльямс и Джон Хиггинс присоединились к Джимми Уайту на похоронах.
Супруга Грэма Дотта посетила больницу для планового обследования по поводу беременности. Из-за ранней стадии беременности супруги пока не сообщали об этом факте родным и близким. Во время планового обследования было выявлено возможное наличие опухоли. Результаты углубленного обследования будут известны в течение нескольких дней. Грэм Дотт благодарит всех, кто высказал свое участие и поддержку и просит рассматривать случившееся, как скорее семейное, нежели публичное событие.
HENDRY FINALLY SHAKES OFF STEVENS 17 Jan 2007 17:13:00
A relieved Stephen Hendry triumphed in a thriller at the SAGA Insurance Masters today despite giving up a seemingly insurmountable lead against Matthew Stevens.
Six-times Wembley champion Hendry looked to be sailing into the quarter-finals of snooker's most presitigious invitation tournament when he led Stevens 5-0.
But the Welshman, champion in 2000, battled back brilliantly to 5-5 and threatened to become the only player in the 32-year history of the event to win 6-5 after losing the first five frames.
It was not to be for Stevens, however, as world No 1 Hendry regrouped to take the deciding frame and progress to a match with Shaun Murphy or Steve Davis.
Hendry came from 36-1 down to win the first frame on the blue then added the second after Stevens had missed the last red at 54-47.
The Scot found his break-building range with 64, 80 and 76 for a commanding lead.
But 14th seed Stevens stormed back with superb runs of 103, 88, 103 and 61 to force a gripping decider.
Contributions of 19 and 41 put Hendry in control. Stevens still had a chance in the balls at 59 points down with 59 on the table, but he missed the black after potting his first red red and conceded.
"As I said to Matthew afterwards, I wouldn’t have been gutted to lose because he played so well to come back," said Hendry. "He turned into a different player at 5-0.
"My first chance came at 5-3 which I made a mess of, the next came at 5-4 and I had a chance of pinching it. But really from 5-0 to 5-5 I had precious little to play with.
"I was just delighted to get a couple of chances in the last frame. It’s very rare you don’t get a single chance in a final frame decider, you just have to keep your concentration and pot some balls."
Stevens said: "If I'd had one good chance in the last frame I would have made a break. I played well to come back and put him under pressure. Obviously I'm disappointed to have lost in the end.
Authorities in gesture of support to O'Sullivan Phil Yates
Ronnie O’Sullivan will not face disciplinary action for refusing to attend a supposedly mandatory press conference at the SAGA Insurance Masters. In fact, he has apparently been given unprecedented official permission to ignore media commitments during the high-profile event. A statement issued by the World Professional Billiards and Snooker Association (WPBSA), the sport’s governing body, revealed that because of “ongoing difficulties in his personal life” O’Sullivan would be “excused from fulfilling normal contractual requirements with the media”.
Sir Rodney Walker, the WPBSA chairman, took this controversial path after he and O’Sullivan had lunch last week, when the player explained why he had walked out of the Maplin UK Championship last month when trailing Stephen Hendry only 4-1 in their best-of-17-frames match. The WPBSA communiqué said: “Sir Rodney informed the chair of the disciplinary committee of his decision at the start of the tournament. He is convinced that to expose Ronnie to the added pressures of exposure to the media at the moment would not be in the best interests of the player.”
No other player, unless ill, has been given such a dispensation and the question is why it was not announced before O’Sullivan beat Ali Carter 6-1 on Tuesday. The chances of O’Sullivan being punished for his early departure from York would seem to have diminished.
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