Mark Allen hangs on to beat Judd Trump and win World Grand Prix after dramtic final-frame decider
Mark Allen v Barry Hawkins during the Cazoo Master 2023
In-form Mark Allen admits he was fortunate to beat Judd Trump after a nervous finish resulted in a brilliantly close final of the World Grand Prix with Allen almost squandering a 7-2 lead.
The 36-year-old, who won the UK Championship in November having also triumphed at the Northern Ireland Open, appeared to be coasting to another title after opening up a five-frame advantage.
However, Trump piled on the pressure with seven of the next nine but Allen eventually edged to a 10-9 victory which he admits was unconvincing towards the end.
"I don't know about nerve as I was shaking like a sh***ing dog there," the Northern Irishman told ITV4 after taking the £100,000 first prize in Cheltenham.
"I actually said to Judd at the end he had me completely gone. It's not often I go, I feel like I'm good under pressure.
"He put me under all sorts of pressure and I absolutely fell over the line.
"I'm very proud of myself I got over the line but I've felt better."
Allen opened up an imposing 6-2 first-session lead having won all four post-interval frames thanks to breaks of 88, 63 and 77.
Another 88 on the evening resumption put him three away from victory before his opponent produced back-to-back century breaks, including a tournament-equalling best of 140, to get it back to 7-4.
Allen's response was to post 141 for a new high-break mark but Trump hit back with the next four frames, including clearances of 87 and 55, to set up a tense finish.
Trump, who won the 2023 Masters last week, forced a final-frame decider with a break of 76 but Allen clung on for a nervy win.
Recommended Offers
£30 Matched Free Bet if your first Acca loses + 100 Free Spins
New UK customers only. Min Stake: £5. Maximum Free Bet: £30. First bet on a Football, Horse Racing, Tennis, Cricket or Basketball multiple with 3+ selections. Overall odds: 3.00 (2/1) or higher. Free Bets are available upon settlement of the qualifying bet. 100 Free Spins on More Unusual Suspects (£0.10 per spin) credited on settlement of qualifying Acca bet. No wagering requirements on free spin winnings. Debit Card deposit only (exclusions apply). This offer is valid 7 days after the new account is registered.
18+ BeGambleAware.org. Full T&Cs apply #ad
Get up to £50 Welcome Bonus
New customers only. Opt-in required. 100% Match Bonus up to £50 on 1st deposit of £10+. 50x wagering & game weighting applies. Debit Card deposits only (exclusions apply). This offer is valid for 7 days from your new account being registered.
18+ BeGambleAware.org. Full T&Cs apply #ad
Get £10 in Free Bets
New customers only. This offer is valid for 7 days from your new account being registered. Min Deposit: £10. Free Bet awarded: £10. 1 x £10 must be wagered at odds of 1.75+ to unlock Free Bet. Debit Card deposits only (exclusions apply). Free bet will expire 7 days after the 1st deposit.
18+ BeGambleAware.org. Full T&Cs apply #ad
