(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Mark Allen Clinches Thrilling 9-8 Victory Over Zhou Yuelong at BetVictor English Open
Mark Allen ended a 19-month wait for a ranking event win, defeating Zhou Yuelong 9-8 in a dramatic final at the BetVictor English Open in Brentwood.
Allen, who had fought back in every round of the tournament, showed his trademark grit and determination. He led 7-3 before Zhou staged a remarkable comeback to take an 8-7 lead, only for Allen to claim the final two frames and lift the trophy.
This marks Allen’s 12th ranking title, tying him with Shaun Murphy for 10th on the all-time winners list. The victory also propels him back up the world rankings to seventh place and puts him atop the BetVictor Home Nations Bonus standings, with a potential £150,000 prize up for grabs across the four events.
A Week of Comebacks
Allen’s journey to the final was full of fightbacks:
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Defeated Ding Junhui 4-3 from 3-0 down in the last 16
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Beat Elliot Slessor 5-4 after trailing 4-0 in the quarters
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Overcame Jak Jones 6-5 from 5-3 down in the semis
In the final, Allen started strongly, holding a 6-2 lead after the first session. Zhou fought back in the evening session, winning five consecutive frames to lead 8-7. However, Allen’s decisive 61-point break in the final frame secured victory in a nail-biting conclusion.
Players React
Allen said, “It means a lot. To win any tournament these days is good, especially coming from behind so many times this week. I was tired tonight, but I realised my chance at 8-7 and found some form. I’ll sleep well tonight.”
Zhou reflected on the close defeat, saying, “It was a good experience. Mark played very well, and I’m happy I pushed him to the limit. I’ll learn from this.”
Allen’s victory completes a week of remarkable resilience and adds another highlight to his illustrious career, with only the Welsh Open and World Championship remaining as major titles he has yet to win.
