Neil Robertson reaches the last 16 of the World Open
The World Champion Neil Robertson reached the last 16 of the World Open Championship in Glasgow after beating Irish qualifier David Morris 3-1.
The Irishman who was making his debut on television missed a crucial blue in the first frame and Robertson took full advantage by potting a pink to win the frame.
The second frame saw Morris rally. It was a scrappy affair with both players missing opportunities. Robertson seemed to become complacent and missed a number of easy pots that he has sunk with ease throughout the tournament. Morris managed to take the frame
after missing some chances himself.
Robertson’s lull in form was short lived and the World Champion came back with a break of 62 to take the third frame and put the Australian into a 2-1 lead in a best of five frame match.
In the final frame, Morris made a break of 35 before producing a poor safety shot which let his opponent in. Robertson capitalised on the mistake and won the match with a break of 40. Robertson will be happy with his days work and will await the last 16
draw.
The Australian is the defending champion having won the tournament in Glasgow last year, although it was named the Grand Prix then. Since then his consistency as player has improved and he is showing the talent he has at the table on a far more regular basis
during tournaments.
Robertson has stated that this year his priority is to challenge John Higgins number one world ranking position. Higgins is currently suspended from snooker after being found guilty of bringing the game into disrepute over match fixing allegations. Robertson
is the ranked number three in the world and in current form has every chance of taking the number one ranking.
Robertson seems to have matured over the past season and after the match the Australian said, “I’m now used to the pressures of defending tournaments. I won two ranking events in one season, but didn’t handle the following season too well. However, I’ve
learnt from those experiences.”
Robertson will be cautious going into the last 16 draw. Despite being World Champion and the form player over the past season he is not the favourite to life the World Open title. Ronnie O’Sullivan is the bookies favourite to lift the trophy after his maximum
147 against Mark King earlier in the week.
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