Michael Judge shook off his close season rustiness to make a winning debut at the Regal Masters qualifying event in Stirling tonight. The Irish number three defeated home hope Graeme Dott 5-3 after a summer which lacked the usual focus.
"I tried to get back to practice about a month ago but I felt miserable," smiled Judge. "It was too hot to practice. Then a cousin of mine got married and we had a few celebrations. Having said that, the way I played there is no reason why I can't go on and win it."
The sixth frame proved to be the turning point as Dott missed the black for a 4-2 lead. Judge potted it and made a couple of half centuries in the closing two frames for a good opening success.
Earlier, Drew Henry defeated former world finalist Nigel Bond 5-1 and next faces Alan McManus or David Gray. Bond, currently down to 23rd on the rankings, lost four frames in a row as both players struggled in their first competitive matches since last April.
"Normally I would have played a few qualifying matches by now but because I'm in the top 32, that's not happened this season," said Henry. "Not that I'm complaining. I've had a couple of consistent seasons now and I'm looking to keep it going and break into the top 16 for the first time."
Only one player will qualify from Stirling to complete a 12-man line-up in the final stages of the Masters in Glasgow next month.
Filed by Sinéad Kissane
