Ebdon opens up six frame lead over Fu

Peter Ebdon is closing in on his third appearance in the 888.com World Championship final after producing near-faultless snooker in the second and third sessions against Marco Fu to open up a 15-9 lead.

Ebdon’s performance was in total contrast to the turgid exhibition from both players who adopted a no-risk policy during the opening eight frames which occupied nearly four hours.

The 2002 world champion cued superbly and gave a magnificent example of break-building as he reeled off three centuries and eight other 50-plus breaks in the 16 frames fought out today at the Crucible Theatre.

Now Ebdon needs only two more frames in the best of 33 contest to set up a meeting with Ronnie O’Sullivan or Graeme Dott in Sunday’s final.