Mark Allen on slow-play snooker critics - 'I couldn't care less what Stephen Hendry or anyone else says'
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Updated 23/01/2023 at 14:05 GMT
Mark Allen was criticised by some people for his slower and less attractive style throughout the World Grand Prix, which he won on Sunday. Allen noticeably changed his game to play with minimal risk and more safety which paid off as he triumphed for a third time this season. Stream top snooker action, including the Shoot Out, live on discovery+ and on eurosport.co.uk.
'The ultimate goal' - Allen targets world title to 'top off last 12 months'
Mark Allen has hit out at his slow play critics and made a dig at Stephen Hendry after his dramatic victory over Judd Trump at the World Grand Prix.
Following his shock 6-0 defeat to Barry Hawkins at the Masters, Allen changed his style for the World Grand Prix with a more tactical game.
After holding off a Trump fightback in the final, Hendry said some of Allen’s play “has not been pretty to watch” but credited the Northern Irishman’s ability to find a way to win and become the champion in Cheltenham.
In a series of tweets Allen said: “So happy to have added the World Grand Prix to the trophy collection.
“Always a pleasure doing battle with Judd Trump. He had me completely gone at the end there but I dug deep to win.
“Also, I promise I’m gonna make a conscious effort to play faster and go for my shots in my next event. Thanks to Stephen Hendry for the words of wisdom.
He added: “For anyone that didn’t get it, I couldn’t care less what Stephen Hendry or anyone else says about my speed and style of play. My next event is the shootout so I HAVE to play fast.”
Allen extended his big lead in the one-year ranking list and is now the world No. 3 behind Ronnie O’Sullivan and Mark Selby.
He’s had a stunning season, defending his Northern Ireland Open title, winning the UK Championship for the first time with an incredible comeback against Ding Junhui and won the World Grand Prix on Sunday.
The 36-year-old is the highest ranked player in this week’s Shoot Out, which can be watched live and exclusive on Eurosport and discovery+.
Despite winning three ranking titles this season, Allen thinks he never played as well as he did during his run the British Open final at the start of October.
“To be honest it is more important having a B game,” added Allen. “You probably play your very best a couple of times a season, or a handful of times a year.
“You need to have that B game and sometimes your C game to get through. If you can nick those matches when you aren’t at your best it turns your season around.
“Two years ago I had a terrible season, because I lost almost every decider I played. I wasn’t getting on the right end of those close games, I’ve got on the right end of nearly every one this season. It makes a huge difference.”
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Stream top snooker action, including the Shoot Out, live on discovery+ and on eurosport.co.uk.
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