Maflin the Maximum Man
Kurt Maflin hit the first maximum of the new season at the PTC in Sheffield
Only two player guests, his opponent and the referee were privileged to watch Maflin's magical 147 break live in the tiny booths at the EIS, but players and officials were clustered round the live scoring watching as Maflin rolled in the break.
Although Maflin has made a maximum before in a tournament this was his first in a professional event and become the 71st official maximum in the record books.
The 147 rounded off a 4-0 win for the Norwegian star over Poland's Michal Zielinski, and Maflin made 80 and 59 in frames two and three.
Elsewhere the first PTC continued to throw up some shocks and surprises as the keen young Amateurs, who've all been practicing hard through the summer break, claiming more professional scalps.
Nick Jennings, known as the "Otter Potter", from Hampshire, wrapped up 4-2 win over David Gilbert, despite runs of 71 and 94 from Gilbert.
Jordan Brown, a rookie pro last season who lost his place, smacked in 136 in the opening frame of his match against Anthony Hamilton and went on to wrap up a 4-1 victory with a run of 75.
Irish International Robert Redmond pushed Mark Davis all the way before bowing out in the decider.
There was little joy in the Craigie household as brothers Stephen and Sam both lost to professional opponents.
