Jack Lisowski on why he is living dream at Masters with ‘perfect’ victory over John Higgins – ‘Best fans in the world’
He is nicknamed ‘Jackpot’ but was more like Jumpin’ Jack Flash at the Masters on Monday night. When he puts his best foot forward, the frames are over in a flash.
At a jumping Alexandra Palace in London, the bewitching left-hander finally found peace of mind in putting his best cue forward before an animated and expectant 2,000 Ally Pally crowd perched high above the capital.
The Masters
‘Unforgivable at this level’ – Higgins laments another poor display
AN HOUR AGO
“It’s massive to win my first match here, such a special feeling,” said Lisowski. “I thought I was clinical tonight, to beat someone as good as John is a dream.
“I made a few decent breaks when it really mattered and stopped him from building momentum. The break in the last frame, that was such a good feeling and it’s why we play snooker.
‘A born crowd pleaser’ – Lisowski wraps up Masters win over Higgins with 93 break
“I worked very hard for this tournament and that showed on the table. It’s the best crowd, anywhere in the world.
“They have so much energy and they are so enthusiastic, it’s the perfect place to play. I try to entertain people, I want them to enjoy it.
“It’s high tariff stuff but when it comes off, it’s lovely.”
Lisowski at his attacking best is a part of snooker royalty so it was fitting he crowned his maiden victory at the palace with a display full of pomp and ceremony.
He next faces Iranian trailblazer Hossei Vafaei – a man lavishly nicknamed the ‘Prince of Persia’ – in a cultural exchange of regal cue skills with a semi-final spot awaiting the winner on Thursday evening.
At the age of 31, Lisowski has yet to win a ranking event. He has finished runner-up on six occasions since 2018, but that will unfortunate stat will not matter if he can land the Masters.
It is a tournament defined by the waft of unique nostalgia 16 years after it departed the old Wembley Conference Centre, scene of Higgins’ riveting 10-9 final victory over Ronnie O’Sullivan in 2006 before Wembley itself was forced to make way for fresh folklore.
Cheltenham favourite Lisowski was born to run in such favourable conditions.
‘He’s looking cool here’ – Lisowski’s impressive century break in Higgins Masters clash
“But it will be business on the table, I’ll try to take him out.”
– – –
Snooker
‘A good omen for 2023’ – Trump warms up for Masters with stunning Championship League win
06/01/2023 AT 20:38
UK Championship
‘He doesn’t look well at all’ – White concerned by Robertson after shock exit
14/11/2022 AT 07:58
Read the full article Here
