Boiko Battles Back to Reach Final Shenzhen Open Qualifying Round
Ukrainian continues impressive start to the new season
Iulian Boiko maintained his excellent early-season form with a superb comeback victory over Stan Moody to reach the final qualifying round of the Shenzhen Open.
The 20-year-old Ukrainian recovered from losing the opening two frames before winning five in succession to seal a 5-2 victory. Boiko produced breaks of 59 and 54 during the turnaround and will now face Yuan Sijun on Wednesday, with a place in September’s venue stages in China at stake.
Boiko has enjoyed an impressive start to the campaign, having already picked up two wins in last month’s China Open qualifiers before topping his group in the Championship League. This week’s victories over Phil O’Kane and Moody have further underlined his strong form.
Big names progress
Several of the sport’s leading names also booked their places in the next round with impressive displays.
Fan Zhengyi produced breaks of 119, 73, 69 and 63 as he comfortably defeated Jimmy White 5-1.
Marco Fu also advanced in style, compiling breaks of 124, 117 and 60 to claim a 5-1 victory over fellow Hong Kong player Onyee Ng.
Former world champion Luca Brecel showcased his scoring power in a 5-3 win over Julien Leclercq, making two centuries of 114 alongside further breaks of 91, 84 and 64.
Other standout performances
Elsewhere, Antoni Kowalski whitewashed Fergal Quinn 5-0, recording the highest break of the match with a superb 121.
Ben Mertens was another impressive winner, making breaks of 120, 86, 64 and 62 in a convincing 5-1 success over Matthew Stevens.
Chatchapong Nasa edged through a thrilling deciding frame against Sahil Nayyar, securing a 5-4 victory after potting the final blue, while China’s Deng Haohui defeated Tom Ford 5-3 with a highest break of 71.
Final qualifying places on the line
The Shenzhen Open qualifiers conclude on Wednesday, with players battling for the remaining places at the venue stages in China this September. Boiko will be aiming to continue his excellent run when he faces Yuan Sijun, while a host of established stars also look to secure their qualification.
