After a tight game, a masterful break in the eighth frame helped Marco Fu defeat world No.1 Stephen Hendry in a 5-4 victory to reach the last 16 of the 2007 World Snooker China Open yesterday in Beijing.

The Hong Kong cueist attributed his stunning comeback victory to his pre-game psychology.

"I told myself to keep calm, even in the last frame, for overmuch losing previously?reminded me to be self-possessed and to build a win without any pressure," Fu said of his performance at the after-match press conference.

Hendry started horrendously, going down 3-1, but battled back with three strong breaks of 108, 53 and 54 to go into a 4-3 lead. The Snooker King then hit a 58 run and seemed sure to win.

This was counting without a long red by Fu who began a 72 clearance, which saw him score some improbable pots including the last red along the side cushion into a baulk corner.

The decider then came to the wire but Fu clinched it with a break of 63.

"I felt confident because I prepared well for the match," said world No.22 Fu. "Six Chinese players won their matches yesterday, I'm very happy to see the young talent coming through."

Despite his win, Fu still heaped praise on Hendry, saying: "In my mind, he remains a great player and audiences have much higher requirements for him."

Stephen Hendry

(China Daily March 28, 2007)