Sunday 4 November 2012

Trump leads the way

Judd Trump continues to show he is snooker's brightest young star.

His 10-8 victory against Neil Robertson clinched him the first International Championship title and proved in a week when the focus was all about the future - that he is leading the way.

Judd is bold and he is brave on the table. He has instant star qualities but you can add ability to perform under pressure to his growing list of attributes.

When the Aussie led the final 8-6, you feared he was about to be outfoxed by the classy all-rounder and final specialist. Robertson had lost just one competitive final before today.

But when it mattered most, Trump found an extra gear and reeled off four straight frames to secure the £125,000 top prize and another trophy for his cabinet.

Judd has had largely his own way this week. Fergal O'Brien and Aditya Mehta rolled over easily. Mark Allen came out all-guns blazing, which suits him a treat and Peter Ebdon failed to serve up the resilience predicted. 

Robertson managed to ask Judd some difficult questions, but again he had the answers. He stuck by his game, went for his pots and, importantly, played some of his best safety.

Trump has been accused in the past of being a one-trick pony but here he has shown a completeness that will help him retain his number one status for the long haul.

Some people suggest Trump must show his opponents more respect, but this would be losing his approach to the game that makes him so special.

Judd plays the game with a youthful fearlessness. It's an absolute joy to watch because he has the ability to pull it off.

I hope he never changes because he's box office at its best.

Well played Judd.

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