Jimmy aims to deliver on big stage

Bexhill snooker star Jimmy Robertson admits he has seized up on the big stage so far this season – but is confident of pushing on at the International Championship in China later this month.
By The Newsroom
Published 18th Oct 2014, 14:00 BST
Jimmy Robertson is preparing for a plum tie against Judd Trump at the International Championship in ChinaJimmy Robertson is preparing for a plum tie against Judd Trump at the International Championship in China
Jimmy Robertson is preparing for a plum tie against Judd Trump at the International Championship in China

After exiting the Bulgarian Open in the fourth round 4-3 to Michael White, Robertson kicks-off his bid in Chengdu with a tough opening round match against former UK champion Judd Trump on Monday October 27.

And world no.52 Robertson, who runs O’Sullivan’s Snooker Club in Bexhill with his family, admitted to under-performing of late in the bigger tournaments, but feels his game is in good shape.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“Snooker-wise it’s going well at the minute,” said the 28-year-old. “It’s just that at the venues I’m not performing as well as I do in the qualifiers.

“I’m not sure why, I need to figure it out. My game is definitely there in the qualifiers and in practice, but then I’m freezing a bit in the venues. Hopefully I can get over that.

“Bulgaria was better, but I was disappointed I threw the match away rather than him winning it. I had a golden chance to win 4-2 and I messed up a simple clearance on the black.

“I’ve been on the tour for quite a few years now without really setting it alight, so I want to try and push on now and have a run in a tournament.”

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Robertson’s fourth round defeat in Bulgaria was his best showing so far this season and followed a disappointing exit in the first round of the Shanghai Masters.

He is due to warm up for Chengdu at next week’s Haining Open in preparation for his clash with Trump a week later. And though he admits superstardom is a long way off for now, a trip to China is a step in the right direction.

He added: “Obviously everyone’s dream is to win tournaments and be a top player, but at the moment, as I’m quite far away from that, I’m just trying my best in every tournament.

“Getting a result in China would kick-start my season. I’ve never qualified there before so it’s exciting. I’ve got Judd Trump in the first round so that will be a big match.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“I know if I can go to the venue and play my game there I’ve got every chance of beating him and winning a few matches.

“I beat him last year in Holland, and I practise with him every now and again and grew up with him on the junior tour so we’re friendly away from the table.

“I’ve been to most of the other places in China, but this is the big one so I’m looking forward to it and will put the hours in at home to get myself ready.”

British Eurosport is the Home of Snooker, showing 19 tournaments per season including the World Championship, UK Championship the Masters and all other ranking events. Available on Sky, Virgin Media & BT TV or online/mobile via eurosportplayer.com #eurosportsnooker

Related topics:ChinaBexhill