Joy Of Six For Carter

Ali Carter qualified for the winners’ group of Championship League Snooker as he defeated Dominic Dale in the Group 6 final at Crondon Park in Essex.

He now joins Judd Trump, Stephen Maguire, Ronnie O’Sullivan, Mark Williams and Mark Selby in a strong line up for the winners’ group, with one more spot to be decided.

Chelmsford’s Carter said: “I like it here, it is only ten minutes from my home so it is convenient for me. I was pleased with the way I played; I made a few centuries and won some good matches. They are two very long days and I was quite tired at the end. I am delighted to get through to winners’ group but that’s going to be a tough one.”

Three time ranking event winner Carter qualified at his first attempt while Dale can return on Monday 29th February for a final attempt. He will be joined by beaten semi-finalists Michael Holt and Mark Davis, fifth place finisher Kyren Wilson as well as new players Stuart Bingham, Matthew Selt and Liang Wenbo.

Earlier in the day, Irish veteran Fergal O’Brien recorded his first ever competitive 147 when losing to Mark Davis. At 43, he becomes the oldest ever player to make an official maximum.

Semi Finals
Dominic Dale 3-0 Michael Holt
88-0 (88), 79-0 (79), 134-0 (134)

Ali Carter 3-0 Mark Davis
103-1 (56), 100-0 (100), 64-36 (Carter 32)

The Final
Ali Carter 3-1 Dominic Dale
55-70(Carter 45), 95-0 (78), 87-42 (Carter 67, Dale 42), 66-26