Snooker star left stunned after losing match despite potting ‘winning’ black at British Open – Wales Online
Chinese snooker sensation Tian Pengfei was left devastated after a heartbreaking defeat to Luca Brecel at the British Open, despite ‘potting’ a black to level the match. The two faced off in the last 64 in Cheltenham, with Brecel aiming to bounce back from a disappointing world title defence last season and current WST number 56 Tian looking to cause an upset.
Brecel dominated the match and had his 37-year-old rival on the back foot in the sixth frame, showcasing his long-potting prowess as he looked to secure the win. However, Tian was given a lifeline and even potted what should have been a ‘winning’ black, only for his cue ball to end up in a pocket, resulting in his exit from the tournament. The match was a rollercoaster of emotions.
Brecel took a two-frame lead before being pulled back to 2-1, reports the Mirror. His subsequent 3-1 lead was also cut short before the decisive sixth frame came into play. The ‘Belgian Bullet’ then missed the opportunity to seal victory when his long-pot attempt went wrong, leaving Tian with a chance to push the match into a decider.
But then disaster struck. The Chinese star lined up his long shot into the top right pocket, taking his time before making a commendable effort potting what would have been a frame-winning black. However, if John Virgo had been present, we might have heard ‘where’s the cue ball going?’ Tian’s white ball agonisingly rolled back down the table and fell into the pocket, costing him the frame and the match.
Brecel couldn’t help but crack a smile after his dominant win over Mark Allen in the UK Championship. The reigning world champion has bounced back from a disappointing start to the season, where he was knocked out in the first round by David Gilbert, and is now feeling confident about his game. “I’m playing the best I have ever played in practice, and in matches, I am making progress,” said Brecel.
“I used to look at rankings but not anymore, I don’t even know where I am. It doesn’t matter because the way I am playing, I am never going to be really low. If you are good, then you will always be good.” Brecel has also been working on his fitness, having lost around 10kg through cycling, which he says has improved both his physical and mental well-being.
The finish to Luca Brecel’s match with Tian Pengfei was dramatic, leaving the Chinese star devastated at the British Open. Despite potting a ‘winning’ black, Tian’s cue ball ended up in a pocket, resulting in his unfortunate defeat. Brecel’s dominant performance showcased his skills, leading to a final frame filled with tension and missed opportunities. The Belgian snooker player expressed confidence in his form and ongoing improvement, highlighting his commitment to success on the table.