Craig Steadman can justify favouritism in Barnsley

Qualifying
9.30am Thursday

It’s the penultimate day of International Championship qualifying at the Barnsley Metrodome on Thursday and, as has been the case throughout the week, there may not be many upsets.

The best-of-11 format gives the classier performers time to find their stride and finding a decent bet is not easy.

However, Craig Steadman looks a worthy favourite to topple an out-of-sorts Mark Joyce, whose only competitive appearance since the Paul Hunter Classic in August saw him crushed 5-1 by Joe Perry in the China Championship.

Steadman has won both of their meetings and the early signs this season suggest he is performing as well as ever.

The 37-year-old showed his talent in a 4-0 thumping of Barry Hawkins in the European Masters last week and should be in better heart than his struggling opponent.

Recommendations
C Steadman
1pt 9-10 Betfair

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