Timetable & Details

John Higgins (Sco)	(8-1), 10-2	Gerard Greene (NI)
Scores: 66-38, 65-31, 0-121 (95), 75-9 (71), 76-23 (72), 75-42 (53), 67-37, 77-44, 65-2 (60), 38-71, 142-0 (142), 80-49 (60) John Higgins wasted little time in booking his place in the second round with a 10-2 romp against Gerard Greene. The world champion, trying to make history by retaining his title, never looked like falling at the first hurdle - as so many greats before him have. In the morning session he was hugely impressive, charging 8-1 ahead despite a defiant 95 from the debutant. In the evening Higgins was spectacular, making a 142 to put him in line for the highest break prize of 20,000 pounds. Higgins revealed the preparations for defending his crown had been far from perfect. He said: "I'm delighted because I had to have a new tip on my cue on Friday. The other one bust." "I wasn't 100% confident on a lot of shots early on and I felt I was very lucky to win 10-2." "I was nervous and a bit frightened before the match but it was a great buzz to walk into the arena, being introduced as the world champion."
Mark King (Eng)	(5-4), 10-8	Darren Morgan (Wal)
Scores: 62-1, 82-25 (58), 78-9, 48-77 (59), 6-84 (84), 58-53 (53 Morgan), 42-57 (55), 81-37 (56), 0-126 (52, 65), 53-64, 15-88 (87), 0-102 (62), 57-19, 24-68, 69-57, 79-49, 84-28 (68), 58-55 Mark King made it to the second round as he emerged victorious after a real battle with Darren Morgan. The world number 16, who had led 3-0, was only 5-4 ahead overnight and knew he was in for a tricky time. Morgan, who has plunged down the rankings and had to qualify, dug deep and forced his way into an 8-6 lead. King, from Romford, showed his mettle to hit back and although there were a few wobbles at the finish he finally clinched it 10-8. King said: "It was a very tense match because there was so much at stake. I knew I had to win to stay in the top 16." "Darren must have been delighted to have gone in 5-4 down at the end of the first session because he didn't play particularly well." "It was my dad and my friend at the interval pumping me up to go out there and win it."
Stephen Lee (Eng)	(7-2), 10-7	John Lardner (Sco)
Scores: 68-32, 72-15, 85-42, 88-6 (52), 10-69, 78-15, 83-6, 50-66, 74-0 (55), 37-84, 121-0 (84), 74-15, 41-68, 43-68 (55), 58-59, 38-67 (63), 59-25 Stephen Lee came close to a shock exit at the hands of debutant John Lardner before finally sealing a 10-7 victory. Lee seemed to be cruising to victory at 9-3 up with a frame to go before the mid-session interval. But he started to make mistakes and debutant Lardner capitalised almost every time to take four frames in a row, the third on the black. He also had a chance in frame 17 but Lee finally kept his cool to clinch a nervous victory. Stephen Lee admitted he "just fell over the line" after finally finishing off determined debutant John Lardner 10-7. Lee had led 9-3 at one stage and said: "I just lost my concentration." "I have been playing really well recently but I didn't show it in any sessions of this match and I must work to get my concentration back." Lee refused to blame his recent neck injury for his struggle. "It isn't 100% but is getting better and I only feel it when I stretch for shots." John Lardner said he thought he could beat Stephen Lee after fighting back from 9-3 down to 9-7 before finally losing his first round. "At 9-3 I thought I had to take it one frame at a time and kept telling myself I could win not that I would." he said. "At 9-7 I thought I would win but that was when the pressure started." Lardner admitted he had suffered stage fright in Wednesday's session. "I shock like a leaf in the first frame but it's the best place I've ever played."
Alan McManus (Sco)	(4-5), 10-7	Jimmy White (Eng)
Scores: 80-0 (73), 1-81, 14-65, 3-94 (94), 63-60, 72-8, 95-0 (89), 24-70 (70), 0-66 (65), 60-49, 67-46, 19-81 (58), 93-24 (93), 70-41, 1-122 (77), 67-60, 50-34 Jimmy White's hopes of the world title were left in tatters yet again as he crashed out 10-7 to Alan McManus. The Whirlwind, runner-up an amazing six times, truly believed that this could finally be this year - and for a while he played with real conviction. The crowd loved it - some a little too much with one person ejected during the evening session - but sadly some of the old flaws started to appear. A wild slash at a blue saw him slip 9-7 behind and it proved on so costly. Jimmy White was forced to reflect on another painful day at the Crucible after losing in the first round. He said: "I didn't perform and I didn't feel like I was going to perform and it's quite soul-destroying." "It was sickening really. I was lost mentally. From 3-1 my concentration went and I've no idea why." "I tried to motivate myself and I was not enjoyed the pressure. I'm going to take a long holiday after this." Alan McManus admitted that watching Stephen Hendry battling to victory over Paul Hunter had helped him through a tough clash with Jimmy White. He said: "Watching Stephen gave me a bit of inspiration. I really dug in and I had great desire to win." "The match wasn't pretty because we were both nervous for different reasons but I won a lot of the close frames." "Jimmy missed a blue at 8-7 and it was massive. It's a shame he's gone out and I hope he gets back in the top 16." Jimmy White and Alan McManus both hit out at rowdy fans who disrupted their first round clash at the Crucible. Play on both tables had to be halted when two fans were ejected and referee John Williams repeatedly told sections of the audience to be quiet. White said: "I suppose it did affect me because when you're not forcused it's hard to get yourself together." McManus added: "The crowed get too involved and it doesn't help Jimmy. There was too much noise."
Mark Williams (Wal)	(6-3), 10-4	Ian McCulloch (Eng)
Scores: 19-65, 100-0 (100), 67-56 (55 McCulloch), 140-0 (140), 67-74 (62 McCulloch, re-spotted black), 14-52, 80-0 (80), 67-61 (61 McCulloch), 72-34, 75-15 (75), 78-59 (67), 54-63, 66-62 (66 Williams, 61 McCulloch), 66-22 Welsh hot-shot Mark Williams booked his place in the second round with a 10-4 win over debutant Ian McCulloch. Williams, winner of three ranking titles this season, didn't have it all his own way in the morning session but still carved out a 6-3 lead. McCulloch, a bold, attacking player from Preston, took to his task with relish and might have been closer. In the evening Williams took control, including a cheeky steal after McCulloch made a 61, and he was home. Williams, who had to overcome on upset stomach during the match, said: "It was a never a 10-4 victory. It was a lot closer than that." "A lot of frames were on the black. Ian did tremendous and he held himself together really well." "I felt relaxed and I could have had a 147 but I played a bad positional shot and blew it."
Alain Robidoux (Can)	(3-6), 6-10	Nick Walker (Eng)
Scores: 109-15, 58-62, 32-75, 4-86 (80), 14-74 (56), 0-80 (80), 62-17, 69-5 (50), 0-78 (70), 80-29, 74-42, 29-73 (61), 92-1 (60), 36-65, 45-72, 49-64 Debutant Nick Walker reached the second round - and condemned Alain Robidoux to the snooker wilderness. The world number 71 from chester had the upper hand after going 6-3 ahead but had to withstand a dogged fightback by the French Canadian. Robidoux, in a terrible run of form, battled back to trail just 7-6. It was't pretty but Walker, who beat Dennis Taylor in qualifying, showed great composure and clinched the match 10-6 with a steely 31 clearance. Nick Walker admitted he was stunned as he made his debut against Alain Robidoux at the Crucible. He said: "This arena is something else. I've been here twice to watch when I was growing up but actually playing here is amazing." "I couldn't see a ball early on. I wasn't shaking, I just felt paranoid because of the camera." "They were following me around like Daleks. I am absolutely delighted to get through to the next round."
Nigel Bond (Eng)	(8-1), 10-6	Dominic Dale (Wal)
Scores: 25-74, 67-26 (57), 66-56 (52 Dale), 94-0 (76), 78-8 (57), 50-41, 63-57, 77-25 (70), 95-11 (83), 37-73, 29-70 (69), 109-6 (61), 13-61, 8-82 (66), 6-167 (122), 77-0 Nigel Bond made it into the second round for the first time in three years with a 10-6 win over Dominic Dale - in what turned out to be a historic match. The world number 13 from Old Tupton in Derbyshire started the morning 8-1 up but it was the Welshman who looked bright-eyed and bushy-tailed. Dale made a 122 to trail 9-6, pilling up a record points total of 167 after Bond missed 11 times when snookered. Bond might have cracked but he showed great resilience to clinch it. Bond, sporting the logo of a cartoon character called "Can-Do", had a flashback to 1994 when he pulled off an amazing recovery against Cliff Thorburn. He said: "I was thinking about that as Dominic came back at me and said to myself 'don't let him do it to you'." "I've been working on my cue action. I've been jabbing and pecking at the ball but now I'm hitting through it."
Ken Doherty (Ire)	(8-1), 10-3	Steves James (Eng)
Scores: 57-49, 85-16 (57), 81-1 (81), 64-22, 75-28, 64-14 (56), 0-137 (137), 69-25 (54), 65-1 (65), 46-60, 26-77, 104-0 (104), 62-56 Ken Doherty quickly booked his place in the second round with a comfortable 10-3 victory over Steve James. The 1997 world champion, hoping to reach a third successive final, resumed at 8-1 up but again it was James who began with more brightly. His devil-may-care attitude - probably accepting his chances were slim - gave him the first two frames of the day. Doherty, without a title for two years but impressive this season, missed the odd black but did record his first ton. Ken Doherty rakindled his love affair with the Crucible as he beat Steve James - and clearly fancies his chances of a second world crown. He said: "I felt grand out there. It's like coming back home. I felt very relaxed and I really enjoyed it." "This is the pressure-cooker of snooker but I love the atmosphere and I can't wait for my next match." Doherty had a chance of a 147 and said: "It was a great opportunity but there's plenty more frames to do it in."
Ronnie O'Sullivan (Eng)	(7-2), 10-3	Leo Fernandez (Ire)
Scores: 94-29 (58), 63-16, 67-54, 32-67, 73-56, 85-25, 0-80 (80), 55-54, 85-67 (56 O'Sullivan), 1-84 (80), 69-0, 63-56 (respotted black), 69-24 (68) Ronnie O'Sullivan wasted little time in beating Crucible debutant Leo Fernandez as he sealed an easy 10-3 victory. Fernandez did not let an overnight 7-2 deficit bother him as he knocked in an 80 break to reduce the arrears in the opening frame of the final session. O'Sullivan finished off the match by taking the next three frames, including the 12th on a respotted black. Fernandez showed great promise but it was O'Sullivan who booked a clash with Steve Davis' conqueror Joe Perry. Ronnie O'Sullivan confessed to a sense of disillusionment despite win the first round. "I know I can play a lot better than that," said O'Sullivan. "I was never under any pressure but I never really got going and made basic errors." "I'm not getting a buzz out there and it's just not happening." "I'm trying to hit form but it's hard. I'll work at it over the next year but I don't see myself staying in the game for a long, long time if I can't."
Steve Davis (Eng)	(2-7), 9-10	Joe Perry (Eng)
Scores: 35-85 (56), 66-68, 61-68 (61, 68), 93-6 (60), 38-60, 30-73, 1-120 (120), 76-0, 0-81 (81), 98-2, 70-41 (51), 91-4, 76-39 (64), 23-55, 92-0 (70), 15-65 (54), 80-0, 81-0, 52-55 (55) Crucible legend Steve Davis staged a brave fightback but it was not enough to avoid a shock 10-9 first round defeat to debutant Joe Perry. The six-times world champion was 7-2 down overnight but made five solid breaks to win the first four frames and put the pressure on the new boy. A fluked red helped Perry stop the rot to go 8-6 up and he then led 9-7 before Davis forced a decider. He was 52-0 up but a missed blue let in Perry for a superb winning clearance. Perry could not stop smiling after wrapping up a shock victory over six-times world champion. It is the first time the Wisebach player has made the last 16 of any tournament and he said: "I am delighted." "In the final frame I tried not to think about anything but potting balls. I knew it was my last chance so I made up my mind just to go for everything." "He fought back by playing well and I hadn't done a lot wrong so that kept my hopes up." Steve Daivis was a frustrated man after suffering a shock 10-9 first round defeat. "That was the best I've played in the first round at the Crucible for a decade," he said. "I worked out a month ago what I was doing wrong in my game and know why I am playing well now." "I feel comfortable and relaxed on the table now and want to get among the balls and I was pleased with the way I played in this match."
Anthony Hamilton (Eng)	(5-4), 9-10	Chris Small (Sco)
Scores: 47-69, 118-0 (103), 26-64, 102-19 (70), 54-77 (54 Hamilton), 72-0 (72), 37-87 (79), 126-0 (90), 78-28, 4-114 (114), 75-18, 111-21 (108), 16-71 (70), 54-66 (54 Hamilton), 113-0 (81), 54-72 (54 Hamilton), 40-71 (71), 87-39 (52), 57-63 Chris Small took the scalp of the first seed to fall in this year's event when he defeated Anthony Hamilton 10-9. The Scot, who was a semi-finalist in this season's Grand Prix, trailed for most of the match before edging ahead late on against the 11th seed. A break of 71 put Small within a frame of victory only for Hamilton to take it to the decider with a reply of 52. The last frame was a nerve-tingling affair with Small punching the air as he sank the final black to win. Chris Small admitted to feeling very nervous in the climax to his titanic struggle. Small won the match 10-9 on the last ball and said: "I could hardly hold the cue on that final black. It's not easy when you are shaking like a leaf." "I don't think I've been in a match quite like it. You have to keep your concentration going for so long." "Anthony is a great player. I'm sorry for him. It's his second setback after last week's British Open final defeat."
John Parrott (Eng)	(6-3), 10-8	Terry Murphy (NI)
Scores: 14-70, 6-82, 58-33, 55-52, 80-30, 94-31 (62), 56-34, 10-60, 73-0, 0-93 (92), 0-90 (54), 76-51 (59), 8-75, 86-19, 10-67 (55), 23-63, 78-28 (78), 69-42 (62) Former champion John Parrott was made to work hard by qualifier Terry Murphy before winning a tough struggle 10-8. Murphy showed great determination as he fought back from 7-5 and 8-6 down to level the match at 8-8. But the Liverpudlian dug deep to make a break of 78 in the 17th frame and put himself within sight of victory. Another break of 62 in the next gave Parrott the breathing space he needed and it wasn't long before he ended the brave Ulsterman's Crucible challenge. "At 8-6 I thought I was in control and quite frankly, it was a real battle near the end," said the 1991 champion. "I've had a lot of battles recently and it's because I'm not in the best of form to be honest. "My long game is non-existent at the moment. I have a few days off so I can work on it because if it's not right here you are going to get caught out."
Peter Ebdon (Eng)	(3-6), 7-10	Matthew Stevens (Wal)
Scores: 35-69, 41-91 (91), 65-72 (50 Stevens, re-spotted black), 0-120 (120), 102-31 (63), 34-76 (54), 59-56, 53-61 (50), 84-0 (84), 64-30, 4-76 (71), 63-60 (59 Stevens), 106-6 (81), 81-0 (81), 23-64, 55-69, 54-65 Matthew Stevens kept his nerve to reach the second round after a hard-fought 10-7 win over seventh seed Peter Ebdon. Stevens, a beaten finalist in this season's UK Championship, was four up on three occasions before Ebdon struck back to level the match at 7-7. Both players lost some of their fluency as the tension mounted before Stevens took another two-frame advantage. The 16th frame was a nail-biter and the young Welshman seized victory on the pink after potting a superb brown. Qualifier Stevens checked the challenge of Ebdon and admitted: "To be honest I nicked those last three frames." "During the afternoon my game was good but Peter played really well to come back and draw level and I thought I had blown it towards the end." "All-in-all I was happy with the way I played and being guaranteed a top 16 place next season makes things easier."
Tony Drago (Mal)	(7-2), 10-4	Fergal O'Brien (Ire)
Scores: 68-50, 69-52, 56-45, 84-22, 44-68, 50-62, 81-7, 62-53 (53 O'Brien), 89-11, 67-68 (55), 92-17, 37-88 (56), 73-28, 105-1 (51, 54) Tony Drago booked a second round spot after finally ending the challenge of Fergal O'Brien with a 10-4 victory. Tenth-seeded Drago extended his 7-2 overnight lead by taking the opening frame of the afternoon. O'Brien, who won the British Open last week, stayed in touch with the help of a 56 break in the 12th frame. But the gap was always going to be difficult to bridge against the "Star of Malta" as Drago wrapped up the match shortly after the interval. "I'm going to enjoy myself and stay relaxed. I'm still in the top 16 but I won't be thinking about that," insisted the Maltese cueman. "There are 30 players good enough to be in the top 16 and if I dropped out next year I could still get back in." "But it won't bother me and it's not the end the world. I've been in the top 16 for five years and have done well."
James Wattana (Thai)	(5-4), 10-8	Macro Fu (HK)
Scores: 58-19 (52), 60-9 (54), 7-74 (74), 67-40, 24-71, 1-82 (82), 72-44, 74-10, 1-64 (56), 54-63, 73-10 (67), 49-70, 78-20, 1-86, 0-98 (84), 77-0 (62), 136-0 (136), 64-26 James Wattana won a terrific struggle with Macro Fu in the Crucible's first all-Asian clash as he edged home 10-8. The Thai-phoon was in front of most of the match but Fu refused to buckle and fought back to level before a break of 84 took him into an 8-7 lead. But Wattana bounced back to make it all-square and once again went in front with a magnificent 136 clearence. Fu's challenge was ended in the 18th frame as Wattana sealed the match to send an Oriental audience delirious. Wattana was literally almost speechless after winning a hard-fought battle with fellow Oriental Macro Fu. Wattana, who has been suffering throat trouble recently, whispered: "I've lost my voice after all that pressure!" "Macro played really well and I just couldn't pull away from him. I feel good but nervous at the same time." Commentating on the first all-Asian encounter at the Crucible, he added: "It's such a pity that we had to play each other so soon in the tournament." Debutant Macro Fu found it hard to disguise his disappointment after losing 10-8 to James Wattana. "It's one of the worst ways to end a season in which I started off so well," confessed the man from Hong Kong. "I didn't feel nervous at all after the first few frames and the atmosphere is good once you get used to it." "James played really well in the second session and his 136 break would have boosted his confidence. I will now go home to relax then return next year."
Stephen Hendry (Sco)	(5-4), 10-8	Paul Hunter (Eng)
Scores: 47-55, 2-67, 86-0 (74), 96-35 (96), 45-96 (92), 93-38 (87), 87-32 (50), 64-1 (63), 5-74, 23-63 (51), 54-56, 56-25, 0-102 (66), 61-29, 5-76 (54), 61-28, 75-7 (68), 93-9 (93) Stephen Hendry claimed the last three frames to stave off the threat of a shock defeat and beat Paul Hunter 10-8. Hendry was in trouble against the Leeds debutant who was never behind after taking the first frame to level at 5-5. Hendry could not get into his stride, only managing a top break of 44, as Hunter made three half-centuries. Both players made mistakes as nerves took hold before Hendry finally got into gear to hit back from 8-7 down with a 68 and a 93 to clinch victory. Hendry was just happy to be in the second round after seeing off Crucible new boy Hunter. "There are always two or three players you want to avoid in the first round draw and Paul was one." he said. "I have been delighted with the way I've been playing in the second round half of the season and knew I had to play well to win this match." "I'm just pleased to win it and would have been in shock if I had lost as I've been cueing so well." Paul Hunter warned Stephen Hendry he would have to up the tempo to claim his seventh world title. "If Stephen wants to win the title then he'll have to play better than that," said Hunter after his defeat. "I don't think he played very well except in patches and I had chances to win the match and should have been ahead after the first session." "However I enjoyed it and am guaranted a top 16 place."

John Higgins (Sco)	(8-0), (12-4) 13-4	Mark King (Eng)
Scores: 94-5 (75), 124-1 (104), 108-21 (108), 87-35 (51), 85-1, 86-16 (62), 90-29 (84), 77-0 (77), 4-105 (99), 53-67, 81-6 (69), 0-108 (103), 1-117 (103), 64-51, 49-41, 78-52 (60), 108-0 (80) John Higgins took just 10 minutes to wrap up his 13-4 victory over Mark King and move into the quarter-finals. Higgins was denied a morning off by King after his 8-0 first session rout as the Romford professional shared Friday's eight frames with him. But Higgins wasted little time in Saturday's first frame as breaks of 80 and 28 completed his win. It takes him through to a last eight tie against fellow Scotsman Alan McManus or Trowbridge's Stephen Lee. John Higgins said he had produced his best form this year in the first eight frames of his victory. "That session was probably the best I have played this session and it is good to know that it is still there at the end of the campaign," he said. "I was probably too relaxed in the second session and Mark came back very strongly and it could have proved fatal if he had made it 9-5." "If I can play how I played most of the match I fancy winning the title again." John Higgins said he was relishing his time as world number one after wrapping up his quickfire victory. "If you can't enjoy being world number one you can't enjoy anything, " he said. "When I came here last year I was the nearly, nearly man as I had never won any of the big titles but my success here raised my self-belief ten-fold." "Now I know I am the man to beat it gives me a good boost and I know I have got nothing left to prove." Mark King took satisfaction from his second session revival in his 13-4 defeat by world champion. He lost the first session 8-0 and said: "John played like Superman and it cost me the match but I was pleased with how I played in the second session." "I could have won that 7-1 as I was 4-1 up but missed a silly black and if I'd gone in at 10-6 I'd have done well as I thought 12-4 did not reflect the match." "But I'm 99% certain of my top 16 place for next season which is pleasing."
Stephen Lee (Eng)	(6-2), (11-5) 13-7	Alan McManus (Sco)
Scores: 81-25, 111-11 (89), 128-0 (128), 8-63, 68-69 (68 Lee), 57-53 (50 McManus), 87-0 (87), 104-20 (104), 74-53, 78-6, 61-32, 22-73 (54), 52-67 (52 Lee), 95-28 (65), 75-0 (70), 45-66, 20-63, 25-66 (61), 69-37, 91-0 (90) Stephen Lee completed a polished display by beating Alan McManus 13-7 to reach his first Crucible quarter-final. Lee totally dominated the first two sessions of the match and came into Monday evening's play 11-5 ahead. McManus had never clicked into gear in the match but finally showed some defiance by taking two frames. He only delayed the inevitable however as Lee claimed the two frames he needed to inflict McManus' sixth successive second round defeat in Sheffield. Stephen Lee said he had no fear about his quarter-final date with world champion John Higgins. The match begins on Wednesday afternoon, less than 14 hours after his 13-7 win over Alan McManus, and Lee said: "I am not scared of John." "I will have to raise my game but I am looking forward to it. I think I can win this tournament, no problem." "I did the damage to Alan in the first session and that pleased me after how I played in the first round." Alan McManus admitted he had been second best as he lost to Stephen Lee in the second round. "He was too strong for me and I didn't play anything like I did earlier in the season," he said. "I don't mind losing but not to play well is disappointing." "Stephen is a big danger to anyone in this tournament and will give John Higgins a great game but John is a heavy favourite whoever he plays." "John's the man. He feels he's the best and I don't think anyone'd disagree."
Mark J Williams (Wal)	(4-4), (9-7) 13-7	Nick Walker (Eng)
Scores: 109-7 (62), 3-78 (78), 73-47 (62), 28-74, 107-0 (55, 52), 52-61, 89-5 (88), 5-68 (57), 16-82 (52), 67-59, 124-0 (123), 1-70 (57), 69-26, 54-45, 65-54, 45-68 (62), 84-46 (55), 70-40, 119-0 (83), 71-28 Mark Williams finally shook off a dogged challenge from Nick Walker to earn a quarter-final with Ken Doherty. Although Williams won 13-7 the Crucible newcomer made life difficult for him, leading 5-4 and never falling more than one frame behind until near the end. Coming into the final session Walker only trailed 9-7 and hoped for a shock. He continued to cause Williams problems but the Welshman found his best snooker of the match to win the day's first four frames and wrap up victory. Mark Williams said he feels he can end John Higgins' reign as world champion after beating Nick Walker 13-7. Williams, who faces Ken Doherty next, said: "If I can get past Ken and if I get John in the semi-finals I think I will beat him." "I have got as good a chance as anyone left in the tournament and I have never come here in a better frame of mind." He also paid tribute to Walker, adding: "He is definitely good enough to reach the top 32 in the next year or two." Nick Walker was disappointed after losing all four of Monday's frames to go out 13-7. "I'm a bit gutted that I did not put in a better performance today," he said. "It all boiled down to him being a lot more comfortable with the surroundings than me and I also didn't score as heavily as I know I can." "However it has been tremendous for me. I have won a match here and I will be better next year although I have got to work hard on my game."
Nigel Bond (Eng)	(5-3), (10-6) 11-13	Ken Doherty (Ire)
Scores: 56-35, 99-23 (67), 78-11, 1-83 (83), 22-87 (52), 82-25, 70-40, 0-91 (91), 48-75, 60-23, 79-32, 62-42, 58-67 (57 Bond), 50-79, 64-7, 66-1 (66), 59-62 (50 Bond), 17-73, 61-68 (52 Bond, respotted black), 53-44, 0-79 (79), 20-95 (66), 13-68, 1-89 Ken Doherty produced a superb fightback to win seven out of eight frames and snatch a 13-11 win over Nigel Bond. Bond resumed 10-6 ahead but Doherty won the first three frames after errors from the Derbyshire professional. In frame 17 Bond missed the blue to let Doherty clear up and two frames later a missed green let Doherty clear again and then win on a respotted black. Bond won the next to go 11-9 ahead but Doherty hit back, leading for the first time at 12-11 before sealing victory. Ken Doherty was a happy man after staging an amazing comeback to beat Nigel Bond. "At 10-6 down it looked pretty ominous but winning three of today's first four frames gave me a realistic chance." "Something wasn't there yesterday but I just found it today and that was more pleasing than anything." "Without my experience of playing here and of lifing that cup I wouldn't have won that match. That gives you belief and puts you on a different level." Nigel Bond was heartbroken after letting a 10-6 lead slip away against Ken Doherty. "If I hadn't missed a couple of balls that I should have potted I'd have won, that was all that was in it," he said. "You will miss balls in a 25-frame match but Ken Doherty well in the last session and capitalised on my mistakes." He added: "I don't want the season to end now as I've been cueing well again. I am in control of my action and when I get down on a shot I expect to pot it."
Ronnie O'Sullivan (Eng)	(5-3), (9-7) 13-8	Joe Perry (Eng)
Scores: 61-13, 57-72, 100-30 (100), 37-59, 80-21, 88-0 (66), 62-39, 27-90, 66-53 (66), 0-132 (109), 23-52, 5-97, 93-35 (54), 76-0 (76), 61-71 (53 O'Sullivan), 74-44 (74), 59-8, 72-1 (72), 67-37, 0-89 (61), 63-62 Ronnie O'Sullivan did not take long to book his quarter-final spot as he beat qualifier Joe Perry 13-8. The third seed started the morning with a 9-7 lead and moved to within a frame of victory inside 43 minutes. Perry, first round conqueror of Steve Davis, stopped the rot and forced the match beyond the mid-session interval by winnig frame 20 witha break of 61. But the Rocket soon wrapped up victory when he sealed the next on the black to set up a clash with John Parrott. Ronnie O'Sullivan was in good spirite after he beat Joe Perry 13-8 to set up a last eight clash with John Parrott. "I'm more upbeat than I was last week. I've got most of my trouble out of the way and all the practice I've put in is beginning to play off," said O'Sullivan. "It was a decent match. People haven't heared too much of Joe but I've played him a few times and I know he is good." "But I'll have to tighten my game up against John in the quarters as my record against him isn't that good." Joe Perry was not downcast after he was beaten by Ronnie in their second round encounter. "I wasn't expecting anything when I came here but I've loved being at The Crucible and I can't wait to return," said the qualifier from Wisebech. Perry's finest moment was his first round defeat of Steve Davis and he reflected on that momentous occasion. "I shall never forget the Davis match and it is something that will always stay with me," he added.
Chris Small (Sco)	(4-4), (9-7) 12-13	John Parrott (Eng)
Scores: 68-17, 71-25, 0-88 (66), 0-71 (71), 68-21 (67), 8-87 (80), 9-81 (65), 70-33, 1-78 (55), 62-48, 12-66 (66), 71-31, 63-26, 62-0, 38-68, 64-49, 39-69, 45-61, 89-23 (84), 54-74 (74 Parrott, 54 Small), 16-59, 0-97 (61), 61-42, 138-0 (131), 0-85 (68) John Parrott was pushed to the wire by qualifier Chris Small before winnig a marathon 10-hour struggle 13-12. The contest crawled along at a snail's pace with the 18th frame becoming the longest so far in this year's event at almost an hour. Parrott eventually won it to level at 9-9 and from there he began to up the tempo as he opened up a two-frame lead. Small fought back to level at 12-12 with the help of a 131 clearance but it was Parrott who held his nerve to win. John Parrott praised Chris Small after he had ended the brave Scot's challlenge 13-12 in a 10-hour battle. "I feel sorry for him. His performance overall was pure grit. Chris is like a human limpet. He just won't let go." said the former champion. "Chris is a slow player but that is not being detrimetal to him because that is the way he plays." "If I play Ronnie O'Sullivan in the quarters I won't be here at this time!" he joked to the press at midnight. Chris Smal thought the odds were with him in the tense final frame before going down 13-12. "When I got fought back to 12-12 I felt I would be favorite to win it," said Small after a superb 131 clearance had brought him level in an epic encounter. "Both of us knew that it might go to the wire but fair play to John for the way he held himself together." "He still manages to keep playing well and winning even though he has a lots of other commitments in his life."
Matthew Stevens (Wal)	(6-2), (9-7) 13-8	Tony Drago (Mal)
Scores: 74-12 (72), 100-30 (79), 4-74 (67), 73-0 (73), 66-0 (53), 4-103, 74-41 (62), 78-70 (60 Stevens), 0-112 (108), 92-1 (72), 0-137 (137), 47-70, 64-9, 52-66, 74-46, 62-63 (63 Drago, 62 Stevens), 75-13, 26-75, 87-0, 67-54, 125-0 (124) Matthew Stevens reached his second successive Crucible quarter-final when he beat Tony Drago 13-8. In doing so, Stevens condemned the 10th seeded Drago to a place outside the top 16 for the first time in five years. The Maltese Falcon started the day 6-2 adrift but two centuries in three frames put him back in contention. Drago's downfall came in the 20th frame when a miscued red and a missed green let Stevens in for a 12-8 lead and the Welshman finished with a century. Stevens was relieved to get over the winning line and reach the last eight. "The early sessions were more enjoyable but it was tense for both of us tonight though I loosened up towards the end." "It was a really nice gesture from Tony when he shook my hand afterwards and said he hoped I would go on to win it." Stevens could face Stephen Hendry if he beats James Wattana but he added: "I don't mind who I play though I guess it would be special to play Stephen." Matthew Stevens' defeat of Tony Drago in the second round will bring a smile to the face of Steve Davis. Drago's exit together with Nigel Bond's departure at the hands of Ken Doherty means that the Nugget retains his top 16 place for a record 20th season. Stevens, already provisionally in the top 16, is guaranteed a place next season as is Mark King and Paul Hunter. Jimmy White will also secure a spot provided James Wattana does not go all the way and win the title.
James Wattana (Thai)	(4-4), (7-9) 7-13	Stephen Hendry (Sco)
Scores: 14-68 (64), 69-46, 79-38 (79), 42-72, 8-71 (65), 0-74 (74), 70-57 (63), 130-0 (130), 92-3 (68), 4-83, 1-65 (64), 110-9 (110), 35-84, 76-6, 0-90 (90), 15-61 (61), 53-64, 15-71 (54), 6-80 (80), 9-76 (75) Stephen Hendry threw down the gauntlet to his title rivals with a polished display as he beat James Wattana 13-7. The six-times champion ended Wattana's hopes by winnig the last six frames to set up a clash with Matthew Stevens. In frame 19 Hendry sportingly called a foul on himself after potting 10 reds and 10 blacks although a maximum was unlikely as he had run out of position. He wrapped up victory soon afterwards and in doing so became the first player to pass 6m pounds in career earnings. Stephen Hendry was happy with his performance after he beat James Wattana 13-7 to reach the last eight. "I'm playing pretty solidly. I'm in the quarter-finals and I haven't scored a century yet though I always felt I'd be one of the contenders," said Hendry. "I didn't think I would win so easily tonight as it had been a close match." "But that's the best I have seen James play for a long time. It's a shame he will drop out of the top 16 because he has a tremendous talent." Hendry showed his sporting qualities during his victory over Thailand's James Wattana. Hendry had potted 10 reds and 10 blacks in the 19th frame and the maximum 147 looked to be on for the Scot. In potting the 11th red he overran for the black and lost position, making a 147 almost impossible but called a foul on himself when he brushed the pink. "I know it was on but as I screwed back for the black I lefted myself no shot," said the six-times champion. James Wattana was very philosphical after losing to Stephen Hendry and missing out on a quarter-final place. "Stephen is very hard to beat and it's a pity I caught him on a good day. He is close to his best," said Wattana. "I wouldn't mind being in his place. He has done more than anybody, maybe he wants to win the title 100 times!" Hendry now meets Matthew Stevens and Wattana observed: "Matthew is playing really well at the moment and it should be a good match for both of them."

John Higgins (Sco)	(8-0), (11-5) 13-6	S Lee (Eng)
Scores: 108-23 (69), 132-0 (132), 71-47, 73-47 (51), 129-0 (82), 95-30 (56), 91-0 (91), 64-34 (63), 35-60, 57-42, 72-21 (72), 21-76, 18-109 (60), 124-1 (124), 12-68 (60), 40-63, 0-110 (110), 59-5, 130-8 (100) Defending champion John Higgins sealed a 13-6 win over Stephen Lee to set up a semi-final with Mark Williams. Higgins, trying to make history by taking the title again, was inspired on Tuesday when he whitewashed Lee 8-0. He found it hard to hit the same dizzy heights as the match wore on and looked distinctly jaded during the morning - but still knocked in another century. He was 11-5 up at the start of the evening and the end came quickly courtesy of a closing break of 100. John Higgins is hoping to take on Stephen Hendry in an all-Scottish final - but he has to get past dangerman Mark Williams first. Hendry takes on Ronnie O'Sullivan in the other semi and Higgins said: "Playing Stephen Hendry would be a dream." "I think I'm the man to beat for the title but I guess the other three will be thinking that about themselves." "This is probably the best four players that have ever been assembled in the semis. It's hard to pick a winner."
M Williams (Wal)	(7-1), (11-5) 13-9	K Doherty (Ire)
Scores: 43-81, 76-23 (71), 77-37 (76), 78-32, 56-5, 80-23, 78-4 (78), 91-34 (82), 74-56, 54-57 (57), 54-26, 58-66, 9-70 (54), 31-87, 109-0 (109), 64-45, 52-75 (75), 42-62, 80-9 (55), 11-72, 12-84 (59), 97-10 (97) Mark Williams took his revenge on Ken Doherty as he reached the semi-finals with a 13-9 victory. Doherty dashed the Welshman's hopes in last year's semi-final when he triumphed 17-13 - and it was pay-back time for title hopeful Williams. He was devastating in Tuesday's first session, leaving the 1997 champion and last year's runner-up reeling. Doherty's hopes of a hat-trick of final appearances were largely lost in that opening session when he trailed 7-1. Mark Williams looked forward to a semi-final showdown with John Higgins after beating Ken Doherty. He said: "I feel if I play him I'll beat him. On form we're probably the best players on the circuit this season but we haven't played each other." "I've ggot a bad record against John but I'm feeling good at the moment - I'm feeling really good!" "Against Ken today it was a bit nervy towards the end because I didn't want to throw it away." Ken Doherty had to admit he left himself far too much to do after going down 13-9. Doherty lost the first session 7-1 and said: "Mark hits a purple patch and it's very hard to come back when you are so far behind." "I put up a better show today. It's like chipping away at a block and you hope the block will fall down. The pressure did grow on Mark a bit." "I wasn't really firing on all cylinders in any session."
R O'Sullivan (Eng)	(6-2), (11-5) 13-9	J Parrott (Eng)
Scores: 75-23, 70-4, 57-73 (53 O'Sullivan), 76-74 (68, Parrott), 0-139 (133), 88-12 (88), 68-58 (52), 86-0 (85), 89-2 (70), 125-1 (120), 0-79 (79), 105-0 (105), 77-18, 28-68 (55), 0-105 (68), 83-1 (77), 0-91 (54), 1-66, 111-1 (72), 1-97 (97), 0-93 (93), 54-22 Ronnie O'Sullivan was given a tough time before finally overcoming John Parrott 13-9 to reach the semi-finals. O'Sullivan began the final session with an 11-5 cushion though it was Parrott who took the opening two frames. The Rocket responded with a 72 break to put himself within one frame of victory though Parrott refused to buckle as he clawed his way back to 12-9. But the gap proved just too much for the 1991 title winner as O'Sullivan won the 22nd frame to clinch victory. Ronnie O'Sullivan was full of praise for John Parrott after a hard-fought 13-9 win put him in the semi-finals. "John is a lovely gentlement and a great sportman. He gave me some really nice words of encouragement at the end," said third-seeded O'Sullivan. "This is as good a result as I have had in my career. I know John would come at me today because he's a gutsy fighter." "I'm just happy to be in the semis. You can't always turn it on. It's then that you must show grit and determination." Former champion John Parrott was far from downcast after his 13-9 quarter-final defeat by Ronnie O'Sullivan. "I was happy with the way I played and to be honest it was a privilege to have played in that match," he said. "The way Ronnie played yesterday was just fantasic. If he plays like he can he's got a marvellous chance to win." "People say it's a travesty that Jimmy (White) has never won the title but as far as I'm concerned it would be a greater travesty if Ronnie didn't."
M Stevens (Wal)	(2-6), (5-11), 5-13	S Hendry (Sco)
Scores: 59-71 (59, 71), 4-75 (69), 39-75, 64-65, 0-109 (109), 63-0, 106-6 (100), 11-83, 17-80, 24-102 (60), 78-0 (58), 51-62, 41-81 (81), 63-49, 46-63 (58), 67-44, 0-125 (104), 35-82 (78) Stephen Hendry soon claimed the two frames he needed to complete a 13-5 quarter-final win. Hendry started the final session 11-5 ahead and immediately cleared the table with a century break to put himself within a frame of the winning line. The end came in the next for Stevens as the six-times world champion knocked in another break of 78. The Scot now meets Ronnie O'Sulivan in what promise to be a mouth-watering encounter for a place in the final. Stephen Hendry was content with his performance after he had beaten Matthew Stevens 13-5. "I played very wel but you have to get better with every match if you are going to win here and that is what I am doing," said the six-times champion. "Some of my play today was vintage but I need to score more heavily. At least I'm proving I'm far from a spent force." Hendry now meets Ronnie O'Sullivan and he added: "Against Ronnie if you don't take your chances he'llblow you away." Stephen Hendry had a lucky escape after a thief broke into his hotel room - but left his beloved cue behind. A leather jacket, a video recorder and several items of clothing were taken in the raid on the hotel where Hendry is staying during the World Championship. His cue - the one that has brought him six world titles and many others during his career - was on the bed but was ignored by the intruder. "I thought it was a wind-up when I saw the cue was still there!" said Hendry.

John Higgins (Sco)	(3-5), (8-8), (10-14), 10-17	Mark Williams (Wal)
Scores: 72-45 (72), 53-64, 19-105 (104), 58-43, 1-101 (101), 132-0 (132), 39-73 (66), 0-92 (92), 60-34, 104-0 (104), 0-88 (88), 62-61 (61 Williams), 15-67 (67), 78-51, 127-0 (127), 1-70 (51), 0-75 (75), 0-89 (60), 28-64, 0-90 (90), 68-32, 27-83 (71), 54-70 (54 Higgins), 71-1 (71), 0-119 (84), 21-81, 42-67 Mark Williams reach his first world final as he shattered John Higgins' hopes of retaining his title with a 17-10 triumph at the Crucible. Williams was clearly determined not to let a 14-10 overnight lead go - and he set about his task with relish. His potting and cue power were breathtaking at times - while Higgins, looking lost, could do little right. Williams deserved it in the end and he become the first Welshman to reach the final since Terry Griffiths in 1988. Mark Williams has little doubt that he can became world champion after beating John Higgins. Fearless Williams said: "I'm not afraid of playing anyone. I'm very confident and I'm really enjoyed it out there." "I feel very relaxed and I'm certainly not going out worrying about losing. The pressure got to me in last year's semi but I'm better for that." "It's good to come here and keep the form I've ben showing this season. My break-building and safety are solid." John Higgins paid a generous tribute to Mark Williams despite seeing his title dreams torn apart by the Welshman. Higgins said:" That's the best anyone has ever played against me. He played superbly and if he keeps that form up he's certainly got a great chance." "I did feel intimidated because I was missing some long pots and I know if I missed, Mark wouldn't." "It made me get uptight as well. It's not the worst moment of my career but I won't watch the final. It's too hurtful."
Ronnie O'Sullivan (Eng)	(2-6), (7-9), (12-12), 13-17	Stephen Hendry (Sco)
Scores: 0-127 (126), 0-82 (82), 0-86 (86), 82-30 (78), 58-62 (50), 40-90, 46-62, 72-17, 87-0 (67), 122-0 (122), 135-0 (135), 67-24, 16-73 (57), 81-7, 38-70, 1-78 (66), 0-104 (104), 69-34, 81-0 (81), 84-44 (84), 0-101 (101), 0-108 (108), 134-0 (134), 110-0 (110), 114-9 (70), 32-87 (75), 0-123 (78), 40-71, 45-82 (50), 31-93 (86) Stephen Hendry has a record seventh world title in his sight after beating Ronnie O'Sullivan 17-13 in one of the best matches ever seen here. The standard of snooker was incredible at times as the pair produced brilliant breaks again and again. O'Sullivan was so close to a maximum in a morning which featured five tons - and they were all squared at 12-12. O'Sullivan edged ahead 13-12 but Hendry showed amazing resilience to bring the Rocket down to earth. Ronnie O'Sullivan was just two balls away from a maximum during his semi-final. He had levelled at 12-12 in after an unbelievable morning's play. He was 12-10 when he came to the table and he looked certain to repeat his feat of two years ago - but agonisingly missed the final pink to the middle." It would have been worth 147,000 pounds and the disappointment was etched on his face for all to see - with a 134 break little consolation. Stephen Hendry could not hide his delight after reaching the final - but admitted he faces a real battle to make his mark in the record books. Hendry takes on Mark Williams and said: "I'm so glad to be back where I should be. I thought I played fantastic." "I didn't think I was going to miss a ball ever but the job's not done yet and I'm not getting carried away." "Mark has been awesome so far and he's beaten me in three other finals which really did annoy me." Ronnie O'Sullivan waved goodbye to his title dreams - and then placed a big question mark over his conqueror Stephen Hendry's chance. O'Sullivan said: "Stephen's still a great player but he's not the player he was. He wwill have to play better to win the title." "If you put him under pressure he goes. I never did that - I get a buzz out of pressure and I think Mark does." "I was angry enough tonight but I wasn't good enough."

Mark Williams (Wal)	(3-5), (6-10), (9-15), 11-18	Stephen Hendry (Sco)
Scores: 47-82 (62), 6-120 (98), 16-51, 60-77 (56 Williams, 77 Hendry), 75-0, 16-101 (86), 73-16, 92-24 (86), 24-77 (77), 15-76 (76), 65-20, 4-133 (132), 75-49 (64), 67-30, 22-64, 23-100, 85-51 (85), 72-32 (72), 0-78 (78), 84-29, 10-106 (106), 13-71 (55), 62-75 (53 Hendry), 48-60, 45-72 (66), 19-71 (62), 89-0 (89), 73-67, 40-88 (88) Stephen Hendry powered to a record seventh world title as he wrapped up an 18-11 victory over Mark Williams. The amazing Scot eclipsed Ray Reardon and Steve Davis with a superb display to make his mark in the history books and take a final prize of 230,000 pounds. Hendry resumed at 10-6 overnight and had to withstand a fighgtback as the Welshman made it 10-8. Williams came close to a maximum and showed great spirit during the evening before Hendry sealed an historic win. Stephen Hendry celebrated his record seventh world title in style after beating Mark Williams. Hendry punched the air with delight after clinching it and was given a hug and a kiss by his wife and child as they joined him in the arena. He said: "There were times when I thought I might not reach another final so it's unbelievable." Asked what his ambitions were now, he told David Vine: "Give me a chance! Let me enjoy this first." Stephen Hendry basked in the glory of a magnificent seventh world crown and paid tribute to the people who helped him make the dream come true. Hendry was at a real low as his form slumped and he said: "Without a doubt this is my finest hour. This is worth more than the other six titles." "I was going through a hell of a time. My confidence had gone. My wife and my manager gave me a kick up the backside." "Frank Callan's advicce has also been invaluable in helping improve my game." Stephen Hendry has set his sights on an incredible eighth world title after his stunning seven-up at the Crucible. He said: "I believe I'm one of the best players that there has ever been. There isn't a lot else I can do in snooker but I believe I can win this again." "Nobody can criticise me after this. I had a tough draw here and I was tested every match - that makes this even more satisfying." "I can't wait for next season. I want to be world number one again." Magninmous Mark Williams had to adnit he was beaten by the better man on the day after going down fighting 18-11 against Stephen Hendry. He said: "I tried my best but it wasn't good enough. When Stephen's playing like that he's different class." "He was too strong for me and I struggle to keep with him. He's too good a player to write off." "I reckon the only chance of him not winning it again is when he retires - and I hope that's soon!"

第二輪 (25戰制)			複賽 (25戰制)			準決賽 (33戰制)			決賽 (35戰制)
J Higgins (Sco) M King (Eng)	13 4
			J Higgins (Sco) S Lee (Eng)	13 6
S Lee (Eng) A McManus (Sco)	13 7
						J Higgins (Sco) M Williams (Wal)	10 17
M Williams (Wal) N Walker (Eng)	13 7
			M Williams (Wal) K Doherty (Ire)	13 9
N Bond (Eng) K Doherty (Ire)	11 13
									M Williams (Wal) S Hendry (Sco)	11 18
R O'Sullivan (Eng) J Perry (Eng)	13 8
			R O'Sullivan (Eng) J Parrott (Eng)	13 9
C Small (Sco) J Parrott (Eng)	12 13
						R O'Sullivan (Eng) S Hendry (Sco)	13 17
M Stevens (Wal) T Drago (Mal)	13 8
			M Stevens (Wal) S Hendry (Sco)	5 13
J Wattana (Thai) S Hendry (Sco)	7 13

1999 Embassy World Championship

Centuries

1999 Embassy World Championship

Prize

Place	Prize (pounds)
Winner	230,000
Runner-up	135,000
Losing semi-finalists	68,000
Losing quater-finalists	34,000
Second round losers	18,350
First round losers	12,500
1 English pound =	1.61 American Dollars
Highest break	20,000