After a tight game, a masterful break in the eighth frame helped
Marco Fu defeat world No.1 Stephen Hendry in a 5-4 victory to reach
the last 16 of the
2007 World Snooker China Open yesterday in
Beijing.
The Hong Kong cueist attributed his stunning comeback victory to
his pre-game psychology.
"I told myself to keep calm, even in the last frame, for
overmuch losing previously?reminded me to be self-possessed
and to build a win without any pressure," Fu said of his
performance at the after-match press conference.
Hendry started horrendously, going down 3-1, but battled back
with three strong breaks of 108, 53 and 54 to go into a 4-3 lead.
The Snooker King then hit a 58 run and seemed sure to win.
This was counting without a long red by Fu who began a 72
clearance, which saw him score some improbable pots including the
last red along the side cushion into a baulk corner.
The decider then came to the wire but Fu clinched it with a
break of 63.
"I felt confident because I prepared well for the match," said
world No.22 Fu. "Six Chinese players won their matches yesterday,
I'm very happy to see the young talent coming through."
Despite his win, Fu still heaped praise on Hendry, saying: "In
my mind, he remains a great player and audiences have much higher
requirements for him."
Stephen
Hendry
(China Daily March 28, 2007)
