Carty sets sights on title

SNOOKER ace Ashley Carty ended 2015 on a winning note — and now he’s aiming to end his final season on the national U21 circuit as champion.

The 20-year-old from Thurcroft pocketed £350 after emerging victorious from the third leg of the EASB Premier Junior Tour at Cueball Derby.

He defeated last season's rankings winner Brandon Sargeant in the final to close the gap on current tour leader Joe O'Connor from Leicester and is determined to overhaul his rival in April’s final round of the competition.

Carty struck the first blow with a 69 break in the first frame but his opponent from Stoke hit back with runs of 58 and 38 in the second followed by a 103 to take the lead.

A 58 from Carty in the next squared the match and he ran out a 4-2 winner.

"I knew I had to keep him tight as he's a very good long potter," said Carty. "I just had to battle and dig in for some parts of the match but I also took my chances when I got them.

"I went into the tournament very confident as I've been playing well in practice and I'm just really pleased to end the year on a winner."