Snooker: Davis fluke sets up victory over White
Steve Davis triumphed in his nostalgic dual with long-standing rival Jimmy White at a packed Preston Guild Hall last night.
However, the six-times world champion's 5-4 victory came with some good fortune in the deciding frame when, deep in trouble, he fluked a red to start a match-winning run of 21. "That was a Davis special," said White. "I fancied clearing up if I had got a chance."
Davis, who now plays Mark Williams for a place in the quarter-finals, said: "You won't see a better fluke all year. I'm sure Jimmy's friends and family were not too pleased."
Williams bounced back from his 6-0 hiding by Stephen Lee at the recent Regal Masters – his first whitewash since the 1999 Scottish Open – by knocking out Michael Judge 5-4. However, it was hardly vintage Williams – his best break was only 61 in frame six.
"Losing to Stephen was a shock at the time," admitted the Welshman. "No one should be good enough to beat me 6-0, though it was my first match of the season."
Qualifier Michael Holt was also smiling as he beat Quinten Hann 5-4.
Subscribe to Independent Premium to bookmark this article
Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Premium subscription today.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies