Doherty sizes up a shot (Getty Images).
DOHERTY WINS FINAL-FRAME THRILLER
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Ken Doherty came through a nerve-wracking last frame to beat Shaun Murphy in the
closest match of the Embassy World Championship so far.
The 1997 champion came through 10-9 against 20-year-old Murphy, the
youngest competitor at the Crucible this year.
However, to reach round two Doherty had to make a brilliant colour clearance
of 27 after Murphy had bravely doubled the last red but missed the yellow.
"I would have been gutted had I lost that match," said Doherty, who appeared
to be coasting to victory after leading 8-4.
"It means everything to me because I have worked so hard all season.
"To have gone out in the first round would have been devastating. But I'm
still here.
"Shaun potted some great long balls that I wouldn't even have looked at. But
you go for those shots when you are young. The way it was going I didn't think
it was going to be my night.
"But I stuck in there and made a knee-trembling clearance at the end.
"I'm so glad that last black was over the hole otherwise I might have
twitched it.
"There was so much pressure out there. But at 9-9 in the world championship,
that's what it's all about."
Doherty now plays Scotsman Graeme Dott for a place in the next round.
"It was a fabulous match and I wish Ken all the best," said a sporting
Murphy, still looking for his first victory at the Crucible.
"That will probably be the match of the round. I'm very proud of myself
because I have shown all through the amateur ranks that I can come back when the
chips are down.
"I know I can stand up in front of a crowd and play snooker like that.
"Even when I lose I can look at the good parts and take the positives."
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