Tornado Sim, rising star Thian show title credentials
SIBU: Red-hot favourite Sim Hong Hui edged closer to the title after eliminating unheralded Kelvin Ngo 2- 0 ( 53-18, 63-14) in the last 16 of Sibu Swan City Snooker Championship held at Southern Point, Wednesday night.
Sim, dubbed the ‘ Tornado’ for his fast attacking style, surged into a runaway lead, potting at several tight angles and forced Ngo into submission.
It was a lopsided game with little chance for Ngo to retaliate.
When asked on his performance thus far, Sim was a picture of calm.
“It’s still a long way to go and of course, it will be a big bonus to me if I can lift the title,” he said.
Meanwhile, fast rising star Ricky Thian has again proved himself as genuine title contender when he easily defeated Peter Liong 2- 0 (59- 42, 75-25).
“My aim is to qualify for the semi- finals,” said the affable Thian.
Thian was relatively unknown and came to prominence during the past two legs of the Swan City Cup.
He was shown the exit by former state champion Mark Yeo in the semi-finals of those two legs.
Added Yeo, “Thian has the talent and potential to go far. He can be the champion in the making and if he continue to work hard, he should be the future star to watch.”
The champion will bring home RM800, first runner-up will get RM400, joint third RM200 each and quarter-finalists, RM100 each.
The highest break with a minimum of 50 points will get an additional RM200.