25th November 2006

Exeter snooker player Dan Hine followed-up last months victory with another emphatic win in round two of the West of England Billiards & Snooker Foundation, Exeter Bronze Waistcoat tournament. Hine for the second time in a row went through the field undefeated. The final proved to be a one sided affair with Hine recording breaks of 41 & 32 and Rogers failing to take his chances having run out of concentration.

The semi final saw the fast improving Jay Bullen eventually run out of steam after an impressive show in the round robin stages, Bullen found Rogers too hot to handle losing 2-0. In the other semi final favourite Hine won through 2-1 but not before he was given a run for his money by Will Blackmore who’s dress code was worthy of a professional.

The round robin stages were dominated by Hine and Bullen, both qualifying early with a string of wins. There wasn’t much to choose between the rest if the pack, Rogers just edge third place ahead of Blackmore in fourth. The surprise of the day was former Exeter champion Adam Gallen failing to qualify for the first time in this competition, this is testament to how the rest of the field is improving.

The only hint of a defeat came in a close fought final of high standard in which Hine narrowly defeated reigning champion Adam Gallen, also from Exeter. Gallen looked ever bit the winner, building a lead with some excellent potting in the early stages. In the latter half of the game Hine had a spate of good fortune following a couple of rash shots that left difficult positions for Gallen to deal with. However, the final result was decided with Hine taking full advantage after a couple of uncharacteristic missed chances by Gallen.

The tournament was sponsored by GWRSA (South). Tournament Director Mel Berry, Tournament Director and club representative said "Hine is living up to favourite status but it’s early days yet and the others are improving with competition. He will have to keep focussed especially in the knockout stages"

Report by Steve Canniford