As we wait with anticipation for the return to competitive snooker of Stephen Hendry, I thought maybe a quick look back at day 1 would be in order.
The day belonged to 64 year old Joe Johnson who beat the much fancied Patrick Wallace in fine style 3-0.
The was no real surprise when tournament favourite Peter Lines made short work of Patsy Fagan, again 3-0
Willie Thorne didn’t disgrace himself in losing 3-1 to Aidan Owens – my pre-tournament pick for a value bet at 14/1
Last match of the day was a close affair where Tony Knowles came from 2-0 down to force the “re-spotted black” decider against Jonathan Bagley, which Bagley won after an attempted double by Knowles.
Quarter finals day today
Joe Johnson now meets John Parrot
Jonathan Bagley takes on Cliff Thorburn
Peter Lines plays Dennis Taylor
and the highlight of the day – Aidan Owens against Stephen Hendry
Could there be a shock on the cards?
