Cue man Ashley set for UK Championships

SNOOKER ace Ashley Carty takes to the table in the Betway UK Championship tomorrow aiming to make it second time lucky.

The Rotherham potter's only previous appearance in the game's second biggest tournament ended in a 6-1 beating at the hands of Barry Hawkins as an amateur.

Four years on, Carty is older and wiser and has made a sure-footed start in the professional ranks.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

He's been drawn against world number 19 David Gilbert and the 23-year-old has no complaints with the draw.

“It is the first time I have played Gilbert,” said Ashley. “He was ranked 34 at the start of the season but he won a final in China and he's played well this season. He would be a good scalp and I think it is better to play someone like him who is new to the higher rankings than a player who has been top of the rankings all his life. He's not quite as experienced.”

Carty, from Thurcroft and backed by local firm Celtic Surveys, lost 4-0 to Kurt Maflin in the Northern Ireland Open in Belfast recently but has been cueing well in practice, good enough to believe he could have a good run in the UK finals, being held as usual at the Barbican in York.

“It's all about what happens on the day,” added Ashley. “If I play like I'm capable of playing than I can beat any player, it's up to me.

“Once you get a good win, it gives you confidence and you can get some momentum in a tournament.”

Ashley's match is scheduled to begin at 7.30pm.