SCOTT DONALDSON’s UK Championship run was ended by Ding Junhui – as both players received a standing ovation from the York crowd.
It has been an emotional time for the Scotsman, , Stuart Bingham and Mark Allen over the past week to reach the last 16.
Scott Donaldson received a standing ovation from fans following the death of his fatherCredit: PA
The ace was knocked out of the UK Championship by Ding JunhuiCredit: PA
He had also broken down in tears on live stream as he qualified just two months after the death of his father.
Yet his comeback from 5-3 down was ruined by Ding – the three-time – who edged 6-5 in a thriller at the Barbican centre.
Ding, 38, finished the contest with a stunning 109 break – his second century of the 11 frames – and that confirmed his spot against world No.1 Judd Trump in Friday’s quarter-finals.
It started with a magnificent long red that showed his enduring class.
The pair hugged each other and the crowd acknowledged a superb encounter.
Donaldson, 31, said: “The fight was good. That is what these top guys do.
“When the pressure comes on, really on, that is what they do. It’s unbelievable.
“You have to take so many crazy risks against them to beat these guys. I missed three or four shots that I should have gone.
“It’s a tough game. I am proud of the way I fought. My game is going in the right direction. I had lost myself in the last three or four years.
“I know under pressure I can produce something half decent. This is my last tournament of the season. I will chill out now.”
The Chinese star said: “In the decider, I thought that if he missed a ball, I would have my chance to catch him.
“I was 5-3 up. I had an okay safety, not the best, and he took the red. I waited for my opportunity. He broke off and then took another frame for 5-5.
“I have played him a few times. He’s a talented player. He showed in the last three frames that he is top class.
“I’ve got Judd Trump now. It doesn’t come any tougher. I’m ready to play him. I feel good about my game.”
World champion Zhao Xintong was denied a second Triple Crown title this year as he lost 6-2 to fellow countryman Zhang Anda.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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