Higgins breaks rank over impressive record
John Higgins is usually cool as you like when the pressure is on at the Crucible.
However, Higgins sunk the final red, yellow, green and brown and only needed the blue to win the match.
Had it gone in, he would have moved into a 12th career semi-final – but his “golden chance” was squandered.
It was the first time in 11 matches – and first since 1996 – where Higgins had lost a decider at the Crucible.
Higgins, whose father-in-law was seriously ill on the eve of the tournament, said: “I had the chance on the blue, it was difficult.
“You are struggling to see pockets at that point in the game. He potted a great, blue, pink and black.
“I felt good going into the last frame. That is tough. I had my chance but never took it. No complaints.
“I have had a good season. The atmosphere, god, it was incredible, we had a standing ovation. He has pipped me again.”