Farnworth snooker star Craig Steadman has rediscovered his enjoyment for the baize – and all it took was the promise of a Christmas present.
And not only has he revived his enjoyment but his form as well, with a 4-1 win over 1997 world champion Ken Doherty on day two of the Dafabet Scottish Open.
Doherty is ranked 15 places higher in the world rankings but Steadman, 35, was impressive throughout, starting in excellent form with a break of 100.
The Lancashire potter hasn’t been in the best of form in recent weeks, exiting in the first round of the Betway UK Championship to Jamie Jones a few weeks ago.
“Given my current form and my current mood towards snooker I’m delighted with that win – I played really well,” he said.
“The last few matches I’ve played I’ve not really felt much, not nervous or anything, which isn’t a good thing, I’ve played flatly and I’ve not really enjoyed the last couple of tournaments.
“After the UK I had a few days where you’ve got to do something about that and change it, and I made the decision to get a new cue ordered.
“Not because I need one, just because I need, well, you know like when you’re a kid and you get a new present you’ve got to go and play with it.
“I just needed a bit of something, it’s not come yet, I’ve only just ordered it but just since then and stupidly as it sounds, because I know that’s coming then at least I’ve got something to look forward to!
“It has given me a bit of a boost, I’ve practised this week and I’ve enjoyed things a bit more!
“I felt nervous again today and it’s worked for me hasn’t it!”
Watch the Scottish Open LIVE on Eurosport, Eurosport Player and Quest with Andy Goldstein and analysis from Jimmy White and Neal Foulds
