Sam takes a huge scalp to make last-16
Qualifier Sam Craigie sent defending champion Zhao Xintong packing at the UK Championship, writes NEIL GOULDING.
The world No. 47, from Newcastle, delivered a massive upset with an impressive 6-2 victory over China’s Xintong at York’s Barbican Centre.
And, after one of the biggest wins of his career, 28-year-old Craigie beamed: “The crowd really spurred me on, they were absolutely phenomenal. I’ve never experienced anything like that before.
“At the start they were behind him, but midway they seemed to switch. But I’m not complaining.
“I didn’t feel great before the match. I woke up with a headache and I was shaky, but thankfully I started well. I’m glad I did because it sent out a message to Zhao. He’s that good he can quickly pump you 6-0.
“It’s a good win, I think I played well. I’m happy with my performance.
“I fell at this hurdle last year, so it’s nice to be into the last-16.”
Breaks of 83, 78, 69 and a matchclinching 104 did the damage as Craigie, who had to win two qualifying matches to secure his place at the ranking tournament, led throughout.
A deflated Xintong admitted: “I felt the pressure and I was very nervous, but Sam played well.
“I’m sad, but this is a learning experience for me.”
Mark Allen emerged a 6-4 victor over best mate Jordan Brown in their all-northern Irish showdown.
Brown pocketed breaks of 84 and 83, but Allen progressed with runs of 115, 105, 68 and 63.
“Today was just about the result for me,” admitted Allen.
“I knew it was going to be a tough match. We’ve had a long friendship, a close one, but we had to play each other at some stage.
“Jordan is one of my best mates. I’ve known him since we were 12.
“But something has changed for me mentally. I’m in such a good place.”
Brown admitted: “It wasn’t nice at all, it was a strange feeling.
“I can’t speak highly enough of Mark. He’s a class player. He’ll win the World Championship one day. It’s not a matter of if, it’s a case of when.”