A SPECTATOR got a telling off after distracting Ronnie O’Sullivan during his World Snooker Championship showdown with John Higgins.
The is looking to book his place in the quarter-finals.
Ronnie O’Sullivan was distracted by a fan at the Crucible Credit: Alamy
The referee was forced to take action Credit: Getty
But the when O’Sullivan, 50, was interrupted by a fan and the referee had to issue a stern warning.
The Rocket, boasting a 4-2 lead at the time, was preparing to pot the black when he was put off his rhythm.
quickly jolted and headed to his seat for a quick sip of water instead of playing the shot.
And the referee intervened, telling the fan: “Can you take the phone down please, it needs to stay down please.”
then alerted stewards to the culprit by pointing into the bustling crowd and saying: “It was him.”
The former world No1 then regained his composure to extend his advantage.
And O’Sullivan put himself firmly in the driving seat by heading into the close of play with a four-frame lead.
BBC pundit reckons Higgins struggled to get to grips with his rival.
O’Sullivan pointed out the culprit Credit: Shutterstock Editorial
Stephen Hendry reckons John Higgins was intimidated against the Rocket Credit: Alamy
The seven-time world champion, 57, said: “John has been put under it tonight. To be honest he’s looking a little bit intimidated.
“That’s not to say he doesn’t come out and do the same to Ronnie on Sunday.
“John hasn’t settled at all. So far he’s not been able to play with his normal rhythm at his normal pace.”
made history by coming face-to-face at the Crucible for the SEVENTH time.
It is now the joint-most frequent clash at the World Championship, alongside Steve Davis v Terry Griffiths and Hendry v Jimmy White.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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