2024 World Grand Prix: Hometown Hero Mark Selby Ejects Ali Carter
In a thrilling second-round encounter at the Spreadex World Grand Prix, former world champion Mark Selby showcased his resilience and skill to secure a hard-fought 4-3 victory over the Masters finalist, Ali Carter.
Back-and-Forth Affair
The match kicked off with a high-quality safety battle, setting the tone for a closely contested affair. Selby, known for his strategic prowess, gained an early advantage with a solid 68 break, claiming the first frame and asserting his dominance in the encounter.
However, Ali Carter swiftly responded in the second frame, displaying his own prowess with a break of 66. Despite Selby's initial 50-point lead in the frame, Carter's determination allowed him to snatch the frame and level the score at 1-1.
Carter Takes the Lead
The intensity continued in the third frame, with both players engaging in another tight battle. This time, it was Carter who emerged victorious, narrowly securing the frame and taking his first lead in the match with a score line of 2-1.
A Champion’s Response
Never one to back down, Mark Selby showcased his championship pedigree in the fourth frame, responding with an incredible break of 106 to level the game at 2-2. The momentum swung back and forth in the following frame, with Selby managing to steal a tightly contested frame from Carter with a triumphant break of 62, reclaiming the lead at 3-2.
Captain’s Century
The drama reached its peak as Ali Carter fought back in the sixth frame, registering the first century of the game with a break of 103. This crucial break leveled the score at 3-3, setting the stage for a one-frame shootout to determine the winner and the contender to face Judd Trump in the quarterfinals.
One-Frame Shootout
In the decisive seventh frame, it was Mark Selby who rose to the occasion, sealing his place in the quarters with a fabulous break of 77. The former world champion's skill and composure proved pivotal as he clinched the match 4-3, showcasing his ability to navigate pressure-packed situations.
With this hard-fought victory, Mark Selby advances to the quarterfinals of the Spreadex World Grand Prix, eager to continue his quest for glory in the prestigious tournament.
Image credit: World Snooker Tour (WST)
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