Mark Williams should prove too streetwise for Saengkham

Semi-finals
Eurosport 2, 12.30pm Saturday

Mark Williams took full advantage of the chances that fell his way against Jack Lisowski in the last eight of the World Open and the Welsh Wonder should tee up another shot at silverware by blasting his way past the inexperienced Noppon Saengkham.

The world champion clawed his way back from 3-0 down against the lively Lisowski, capitalising on the youngster's mistakes, and should also prove too streetwise for his Thai challenger, who has lost his only two previous semi-final appearances.

Williams was perhaps a fortunate winner in his battle with Lisowski but he is expected to have fewer problems this time.

The Thai cueman is a gritty performer and his victories in China this week have tended to be lengthy contests.

Saengkham thumped home hope Xiao Guodong 5-1 to reach the last four but the opening two frames took 77 minutes and he prevailed on the final black each time.

The problem for Saengkham is Williams is a specialist in winning frames of that nature and his scoring hasn’t been heavy enough this week to suggest he’s capable of an upset.

The handicap line looks spot on and those eager for a wager should consider splitting their stakes on 6-3 and 6-4 Williams wins.

Saengkham is good enough to keep the score respectable but lacks the tools to surprise the world champion.

Recommendations
M Williams to win 6-3
1pt 4-1 Betfair, Paddy Power
M Williams to win 6-4
1pt 5-1 Betfair, Paddy Power

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