Ashley set for clash with Joe Perry

A SECOND monthly tournament win this season at Copnor Snooker Club has installed Ashley Smith (pictured) as favourite to clinch a date with a top-16 professional.

All Cuestars Section ranking winners will play a frame against world number 13 Joe Perry at Finals Day at Jesters Snooker Hall, Swindon, on Sunday, May 17.

Smith saw off his main title rival Daniel Compton 2-1 in the March final.

Match official Steve Toms said: “It was one of the best I have refereed since I joined the section.

“But nerves still played a huge part and it showed in this final.”

A nip-and-tuck first frame was won by Compton after a good safety battle on the final black. Rankings leader Smith levelled and took the decider on the colours.

Second-placed Compton is only eight points adrift of Smith with two to play. Luke Dixon is 12 points further back in third.

Report by Tim Dunkley, picture by Steve Toms.