By Elliott West
“Never give up!”.
Neil Robertson
Introduction
The Masters always guarantees drama but no one could foresee the drama and tension that would be produced in the semi-final match between the Australian and Welshman, Neil Robertson and Mark Williams. A classic in the making but not one that was felt beforehand that would pan out as one that could have been taken straight out of an episode of the Game of Thrones. Both players had suffered health issues prior to this tournament with Robertson battling tinnitus and Williams, long covid after a prolonged period of sickness due to the virus.
The Clash
This match produced every aspect of snooker that the game entails, a bumper package of drama, tension, audience interaction, snookers, misses, a deciding frame and a match that would be decided on the final black. It was a meeting that really summed up why we love snooker. Robertson started off well with this race to six, winning the first frame with a 102 break and would be followed by a break of 52.
However a defiant Williams went on to make breaks of 59, 71 with a 60 break to steal the last frame before the interval, the fourth frame on the final colours. Robertson could have returned dejected but instead went on to bring a possible grasp on the keys to the final winning the sixth frame to reduce his deficit to 4-2. Mark then took the lead and made it 5-3 to go one away from victory with a 91 break.
Neil make have been on the ropes but like any top player, he pulled his game back when it most mattered, taking the next two to bring about a deciding frame. There then followed a frame that could be compared to one of the most ferocious pressure cookers. One that swayed in the favour of both players but Williams had the early advantage and only needed a colour to win it.
Robertson wouldn’t give up and when the Welshman missed the frame ball, a tightrope finished ensued with much of it fought out on a precarious black hanging off the corner pocket and two reds blocking its path, almost hugging the hanging ball. Mark would seal his fate on a feathered green and with Neil getting the snookers he required, it was all about potting the finals colours, including the crucial black to seal a victory. This he achieved and under intense pressure and then bowed his head after sinking the black. An emotional Robertson literally had tears rolling down his face as he gave an emotional speech in his post-match interview with Rob Walker in the arena. He now is guaranteed a £100,000 prize whoever he plays in the final tomorrow. An opponent that will be determined in the other semi-final between Barry Hawkins and Judd Trump.
