After a tight game, a masterful break in the eighth frame helped Marco Fu defeat World No. 1 Stephen Hendry 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, since winning early on 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 which 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. "Even in the last frame I felt calm. 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)