Snooker Players Championship Report: Zhao Xintong Beats Mark Allen 6-5 to Reach Final, Set to Face Higgins for the Title

On February 22nd Beijing time, the semi-finals of the Snooker Players Championship concluded with an intense battle that went the full 11 frames. The ever-resilient Higgins held off a strong comeback to narrowly defeat Trump 6-5, while China’s last hope Zhao Xintong staged a dramatic 6-5 comeback to edge out Mark Allen. This sets up the final showdown between Higgins and Zhao Xintong, competing for the £150,000 prize!

Higgins faced the strongest contender from the ’80s generation, Trump, who has reached multiple finals this season, won the German Masters, and currently holds the world number one ranking. The match was a rollercoaster, with Higgins taking early leads of 3-0, 4-1, and 5-3, only for Trump to fight back to 5-5. In the deciding frame, Trump’s red ball error cost him dearly, allowing Higgins to clinch a 6-5 victory. Higgins advanced to the final with a narrow escape, proving he only gets stronger with age. One wonders if O’Sullivan regrets missing out, as a substitute has now reached the final, gaining both fame and fortune!

Zhao Xintong went up against the fierce ’80s player Mark Allen. As China’s sole remaining contender, fighting alone after all teammates were eliminated, Zhao had previously edged out Slessor 6-5 in the first round and convincingly defeated Murphy 6-3 in the second, who had doubted him, to reach the semifinals. Facing former world number one Mark Allen, a player known for his all-around skills and strong mental resilience, it was destined to be a tough battle. Zhao started slowly with many basic errors, while Allen’s sharp accuracy gave him a 3-1 lead. After the break, Zhao regained form, steadily chipping away at the score with precise shots to level at 5-5. In the deciding frame, both players engaged in a tactical duel. Zhao’s fearless play and a difficult black ball pot, combined with Allen leaving a middle-pocket chance, allowed Zhao to complete a high-scoring clearance and secure a 6-5 comeback victory, advancing to the final!

Thus, the final matchup for this tournament is set: Zhao Xintong versus Higgins. This clash between youth and experience is about to unfold. Zhao, comparable to Rocket, will face the skilled and seasoned Higgins. He must fight hard to claim victory and pursue his second ranking title of the season. Go for it!

Written by/Ti Tan Novel!