Newly-engaged Castle books another date

But last year’s runner-up was pushed all the way in the quarter-finals by an inspired Paul Tavender at Bitterne Conservative Club.

“I will win it this year,” vowed Castle, who eased past Terry Azor (Chandlers Ford Central) 2-0 in the last-16.

While Tavender (Park Gate RBL), who had never been this far in the competition before, reckoned he “played all right” in his shock 2-0 victory over Mitch Wade (Eastleigh Rail).

The last-eight clash took just 39 minutes playing time.

Tavender’s breaks of 26 and 35 forced Castle to concede with three reds left in the first frame.

After squaring the match, Castle compiled a 43 break in the decider and Tavender missed chances to lay the required snooker on the pink.

“Paul played better than me,” insisted the 20-year-old Churchills star. “It’s the best I’ve seen him play.”

Cuestars Championship Tour player Castle got down on one knee to girlfriend Betsie Kempster, 20, on Christmas Eve.

Three days later, his long-term coach and mentor Ken Jones died.

Castle was among the hundreds of mourners who packed out Wessex Vale crematorium last week for a celebration of Ken’s life.

In the second semi-final on February 21, Drew Farminer faces title-holder Mike Finn.