JOHN HIGGINS READY FOR TOUGH BATTLE AGAINST MARK ALLEN AT WORLD SNOOKER CHAMPIONSHIP
Snooker legend John Higgins is gearing up for what he expects to be an intense showdown against Mark Allen in the second round of the World Snooker Championship. Both players sailed through their first round matches, with Allen defeating Robbie Williams 10-6 and Higgins triumphing over Jamie Jones by the same scoreline. The stage is now set for a thrilling clash in the last 16, and while Higgins acknowledges the challenge posed by the world number three, he believes the pressure will be on Allen.
Higgins, a four-time world champion, criticized Allen’s track record at the Crucible, where the latter has only managed to reach the semi-finals twice. The Scottish player described Allen’s performance as “nowhere near good enough” and suggested that the Northern Irishman will be desperate to improve upon his previous results. Despite recognizing the talent of his opponent, Higgins remains confident and ready to take on the fight.
Allen, who reached the semi-finals at the Crucible last season, is well aware of the significance of this match. With top players such as Mark Selby and Luca Brecel already eliminated from the tournament, Allen sees this as a golden opportunity to secure his first World Snooker Championship title. However, he also acknowledges the pressure that comes with such high expectations.
In a recent interview, Higgins hinted that this could potentially be his last World Championship, indicating that he will give it his all in this final attempt. Meanwhile, speculation has been growing about the future of snooker, with rumors of a breakaway tour emerging next season. Both Higgins and Mark Williams have dismissed the notion of retirement, affirming their commitment to continue playing snooker. However, the question of where they will be playing remains unanswered.
When asked about his preference for his next opponent, Allen expressed his desire to face Higgins. The two players have had numerous memorable battles over the years, and Allen relishes the opportunity to compete against one of the sport’s all-time greats in the prestigious arena of the World Snooker Championship.
The stage is set for an electrifying clash between Higgins and Allen, as they both aim to progress further in the tournament and etch their names in snooker history.
