SHEFFIELD, England, 23 April 2005 — Seven times former champion Stephen Hendry thrashed Anthony Hamilton 13-3 with a session to spare to book his place in the quarterfinals of the world championship yesterday.
Despite the margin of victory, Hendry said he had struggled to find his best form.
“In patches I felt good, but when the score goes to 9-2 and 10-2 it’s very difficult to stay focused,” said the 36-year-old Scot.
“It’s nice to finish a session early. I now have a few days to work on the practice table and get back to the way I was cueing before the tournament.”
Hendry, who last won the title in 1999, welcomed the news that the championship will remain in Sheffield until at least 2010. He said: “I’m delighted. I don’t think any player wanted to see it leave Sheffield.”
Hamilton was disappointed at his failure to put Hendry under any pressure, saying: “It would have been nice to compete, but I wasn’t really ready for this match. If it’s not there, it’s not there.”
Hamilton believes defending champion Ronnie O’Sullivan is still the man the beat in the tournament. “Someone has to put pressure on him,” said Hamilton.
