Snooker Trump tips Williams for the title after Crucible defeat

MARK Williams admitted he was stunned by his own success after rolling back the years to beat world number one Judd Trump and book his place in the final of the World Snooker Championship.

- Phil CASEY Press Association

Williams, 50, who is bidding to win his fourth title and become the oldest champion in tournament history, compiled four centuries and 10 breaks over 50 in a 17-14 victory at the Crucible.

The veteran Welshman was yesterday taking on a player young enough to be his son in the final that continues today, after 28-year-old Zhao Xintong thrashed seven-time champion Ronnie O'Sullivan 17-7 in the other semi-final on Friday.

Williams, who has been struggling with his eyesight and is scheduled to undergo surgery next month, trailed 7-3 early in the second session but fought back to level at 8-8 and won five of the eight frames played on Saturday morning to open up a 13-11 lead.

The left-hander carried on where he left off in the final session with breaks of 67 and 65 to move 15-11 ahead, before Trump hit back with his 106th century of the season to close the gap.

That ensured a mid-session interval would be required but Williams went into the break needing just one frame for victory after responding with a century of his own.

When play resumed Trump took the 29th frame to keep his hopes alive and also won the next with a 116 clearance after Williams missed a red to the middle with his first chance to seal victory.