Gallant Phil bows out in semis

Phil Harrison’s reign as Foster’s World 8-Ball Pool champion was ended this week

PHIL Harrison’s reign as Foster’s World 8-ball Pool champion was ended this week after he lost out to Mick Hill in the semi-finals.

But the Ely pool ace gave a good account of himself in what was an absorbing tussle with 2004 champion Hill.

Harrison, bidding to become only the second player in 18 years to retain the trophy, lost 10-8 to former England team mate, at the championships in Blackpool.

For Hill, it was revenge for defeat in the 2009 final.

But he was made to work hard by the Ely window cleaner whose match attracted a rare visit to a pool tournament by his mum and dad.

Harrison led 3-1, slipped 6-2 behind but rallied to trail just 9-8 heading in to the tense final frames.

And when Hill’s break in frame 18 sent the cue ball careering to a centre pocket, the Cambridgeshire cueman had extra hope.

But the white ball remained on the table and the 2004 champion cleared up for victory.

“I was swearing under my breath,” said Harrison, “but I am pleased with how I played. In previous years I might have fallen over in the semis.

“I missed a couple of balls but overall I am quite happy. It’s just a pity I couldn’t have got to the final so my girlfriend and son could have seen me play.

“My mum and dad haven’t watched me play since I was a junior so, it would have been great to win for them.”

Harrison collected �2,000 for his efforts and he will be back in 2011 to try and regain the cup.