FERGAL O’BRIEN PRODUCED a stunning finish against Barry Hawkins to book his place in the third round of the UK Championship.
In the process, the Irishman became the first player to compile five centuries in a best-of-11 frame match, as he came from 4-2 down to beat Hawkins 6-5. Although, five-time World Champion Ronnie O’Sullivan once made five in a best-of-nine
The world number 50 started with a break of 101 in the first frame and went on to secure four tons in the final five frames with breaks of 100, 111, 111 and then a 113 in the decider, to book a last-32 clash with Stephen Maguire.
“It’s got to be up there with the best matches I’ve ever played,” the 44-year-old said after his victory. “It’s just great to play the way I can against a strong opponent.”
Fellow Dubliner Ken Doherty was knocked out in the first round 6-0 by Thailand’s Noppon Saengkham, in what is considered the second biggest tournament on the tour after the World Championship.
The42 is on Instagram! Tap the button below on your phone to follow us!