Rocket ready for epic showdown with Robertson

Ronnie O’Sullivan has been made to work hard to reach the final of the Hong Kong Masters and his credentials could once again be tested when he faces a rejuvenated Neil Robertson.

Eight top-class players accepted the invitation to turn out in Hong Kong and O’Sullivan’s decision to play at the Queen Elizabeth Stadium was an early indicator that the five-time World Champion was in the mood to strut his stuff.

Racing Post Sport’s Dave Clark advised punters before the invitational event to support O’Sullivan at 5-1 and the Rocket should prove a tough nut to crack.

O’Sullivan came from 4-2 down to defeat John Higgins in a decider in his curtain-raiser – despite posting a highest break of just 65 – before beating countryman Judd Trump 6-5 in yesterday’s semi-final.

The Rocket raised the bar in downing Trump, mustering breaks of 128, 126, 87 and 85, but Robertson looks in much better shape than he was last term and could keep it tight.

The Aussie stunned world number one Mark Selby in his opener before outclassing home hope Marco Fu 6-4 in the last four and this match could go long.

Recommendation
Over 9.5 frames
1pt 6-5 Hills

Advised by Dave Clark on July 19
R O’Sullivan
2pts 5-1