Robertson Scrapes Through
Neil Robertson finally adjusted to Premeier League rules and clinched the last of the four play-off spots in the PartyCasino.com sponsored event.
The world champion sealed his spot in dramatic circumstances as he beat Shaun Murphy 4-2 at Venue Cymru in Llandudno.
If the Australian, who took over as world number one last month, had drawn or lost the match then the last place in the final four would have gone to Mark Williams.
However, breaks of 67, 116, 124 and 52 helped Robertson to the important victory.
Two-time Masters Champion Mark Selby needed just a draw to be assured of the last spot but blew his chances, slumping to a 5-1 defeat against Ronnie O’Sullivan.
The 'Rocket' topped the league, remaining unbeaten in his six matches with three wins and three draws.
That opened the door for Robertson and he took his chance, despite only arriving at the venue 20 minutes before the start of the match after missing a train connection.
It is the second time in two years that Robertson has nearly missed the start of a Premier League match after only just arriving on time at Preston last year.
Robertson said, “In some ways I didn’t deserve to get through due to my preparation. I’m delighted to have got through but this will give me a kick up the backside.
“I can’t wait for the finals weekend and I’ve said I would produce my best form if I got to the finals. I’m playing Ronnie O’Sullivan and it will be a fantastic match.”
The semi-finals take place at the Potters Leisure Resort in Norfolk on Saturday, November 27 with the final taking place the following day.
He will be joined by O'Sullivan, defending champion, Murphy and Hong Kong's Marco Fu.
