Match Reports from the 888.com World Championship

Higgins Shoots Down The Rocket

John Higgins 13 – 9 Ronnie O’Sullivan

John Higgins ended Ronnie O’Sullivan’s quest for a third world title to deservedly book his place in the last four.

The match was largely decided in Wednesday’s morning session, when Higgins won seven of the eight frames to lead 11-5 against a misfiring O’Sullivan.

The Rocket improved in the final session to win four of the first five, but could not keep Higgins out indefinitely.

Higgins said: “The final four frames this morning were massive.  I really felt good about my game.”

The scores were level at 4-4 after a high-class first session, but Higgins took over when play resumed.

The Scot took all four of the opening frames to go 8-4 up, knocking in breaks of 71 and 53.  By contrast, O’Sullivan continued to struggle with his safety and long potting, aspects of his game that caused him concern earlier in the tournament.

A break of 75 got the world number three going, and he looked set to win the next only to miss frame ball.  Higgins seized his chance to pinch the frame with a 65.

After a 94 in the next, Higgins, whose only world title came in 1998, again came from behind to win the 16th frame on the black and move 11-5 clear.

O’Sullivan returned in the evening with renewed purpose, and showed his intent by doubling a red at the first opportunity.  He threatened to stage a comeback with breaks of 70 and 93, but Higgins held firm to make his first semi-final since 2000.

O’Sullivan was disappointed, but accepted the defeat with grace.  “My technique let me down.  Even tonight on certain shots I was unable to do what I wanted with the cue ball,” he said.  “I never felt that I was able to completely keep [Higgins] out of the game.”

A delighted Higgins said: “Obviously Ronnie was the favourite, he’s a fantastic player but I fancied winning the match.

“He told me to play well and go on to win it.  I have a lot of respect for him as a person and a player.

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