Allen defence is off the table
MARK ALLEN saw his Masters title defence come to grief at the first hurdle yesterday.
But the world No6 said his decision not to practise on the match table played no part in a 6-5 loss to Luca Brecel.
A rule change has allowed players to have 10 minutes in the arena pre-match.
But while Belgium’s Brecel, 23, took advantage and settled quickly to lead 3-1, Allen opted to keep his powder dry for a big entrance.
Brecel claimed he felt it was of huge benefit with all tables playing differently and was surprised Allen did not do likewise. Allen said: “I just didn’t think I needed the 10 minutes on the match table.
“I like just going out there and being introduced and especially being defending champion. “Practising in front of the crowd before would have spoiled the moment. But it had absolutely no bearing on the match. “We have been around long enough to get used to a table – 10 minutes doesn’t make any difference.”
Brecel said: “I am a bit surprised Mark didn’t take his chance to practise. The arena table is always different.”