BELFAST, Northern Ireland — The home crowd at the Waterfront Hall erupted as local hero Mark Allen survived a major scare against Ben Woollaston, clinching a dramatic 4-3 victory to book his place in the last 16 of the 2023 Northern Ireland Open.
The Antrim native, who has never won his home tournament despite being a perennial favourite, was pushed to the absolute limit in a tense and tactical encounter that went down to the final black ball. Allen’s progression was part of a successful day for Northern Irish snooker, as compatriot Jordan Brown also advanced, setting up a tantalizing third-round clash with former World Champion Shaun Murphy.
Allen Edges Nail-Biting Decider
The match between Allen and Woollaston was a classic example of the fine margins that define professional snooker. Allen, the world number four, appeared to be cruising after establishing a 2-0 lead with breaks of 54 and 73. However, Woollaston, a seasoned and dangerous opponent, dug deep, winning three frames on the spin to turn the match on its head and lead 3-2. The sixth frame was a scrappy affair, but Allen held his nerve to force a decider that had the Belfast audience on the edge of their seats.
The final frame was a nerve-shredding battle of attrition. Both players had opportunities but were hampered by pressure, with the frame eventually coming down to the colours. With the scores tied, a safety exchange on the black ball ensued. It was Woollaston who blinked first, leaving a difficult long pot which he missed, allowing Allen to step in and pot a pressure-filled black into the middle pocket to seal the win. A visibly relieved Allen commented after the match, "I'm just relieved to get through. Ben made it so tough and I felt the pressure out there. The crowd got me over the line."
Brown Books Murphy Showdown
While Allen was battling on the main table, Jordan ‘The Antrim Ferrari’ Brown was efficiently dispatching China’s Ma Hailong 4-1 on Table Two. Brown, who famously won the 2021 Welsh Open against all odds, looked composed and confident throughout the match. He compiled breaks of 92 and 85 on his way to a convincing victory, showcasing the form that makes him a threat to any player in the draw. His reward is a high-profile meeting with the ‘Magician’ Shaun Murphy, who himself looked in imperious form with a 4-0 whitewash of John Astley.
Brown acknowledged the challenge ahead but expressed confidence in his own game. Speaking to reporters, he said, "Shaun is a top, top player and I'll have to be at my very best. But I've beaten the best before and I know what I'm capable of. Playing here in Belfast gives you an extra few percent, and I plan to use that." This sets up a fascinating all-Irish clash with significant narrative, pitting the established star Murphy against the popular home underdog Brown.
The Belfast Crowd's Unwavering Support
A recurring theme of the tournament has been the incredible atmosphere generated by the local fans, who have turned out in force to support their snooker heroes. The roar that greeted Allen’s match-winning black was deafening, a clear indicator of how much a home victory would mean to the Northern Irish sporting public. This passionate support provides a tangible boost but also brings its own unique form of pressure.
Mark Allen has been open about the mental burden of playing in front of expectant home crowds. In a recent interview, he elaborated on the complex dynamic, stating, "It's a double-edged sword. The support is phenomenal and can carry you through tough moments, but the desire to win for them, to finally get my hands on that trophy here, can sometimes be overwhelming. You have to try and channel that energy positively."
Looking Ahead: The Last 16 Draw
With the third round complete, the last 16 draw is set, featuring a mix of snooker's established elite and in-form challengers. The presence of two Northern Irish players ensures the home crowd will remain fully invested in the tournament's outcome. The key last 16 matches now set include:
- Mark Allen vs. Chris Wakelin
- Jordan Brown vs. Shaun Murphy
- Judd Trump vs. Ricky Walden
- Jack Lisowski vs. Tom Ford
World number one Judd Trump, the 2023 champion, continues his title defence with a tough match against Ricky Walden. Trump has been in scintillating form this season and remains the man to beat. For Allen, his path does not get any easier; a confident Chris Wakelin awaits, a player who has proven he is more than capable of causing an upset on the big stage.
A Pivotal Moment for Home Hopes
The progression of both Allen and Brown marks a significant moment for snooker in Northern Ireland. For years, the tournament has been defined by the quest for a local winner. Allen, with his gritty victory, has kept the dream alive for another day, demonstrating the resilience and fighting spirit that has taken him to the top of the game. Brown, meanwhile, continues to build on his giant-killing reputation and now has a prime opportunity to create another memorable chapter in his career.
As the tournament moves into its business end, the focus intensifies. The question on everyone's lips in Belfast is whether this will finally be the year a home player lifts the Alex Higgins Trophy. Allen summed up the collective feeling perfectly: "It's why we play the game. To win in front of your own people, there's nothing better. I'm still in the fight."
