 doesn't feel that big of a win. If I was playing like I was six months ago it would have felt epic because every win was a pint of blood. The wins in this tournament have been pretty easy so it makes a change. 'In the last five years every match has been like a pint of blood. There's been no enjoyment whatsoever, even when you win you're not looking forward to the next match. This tournament I'm scoring heavily so it is sort of enjoyable. 'Snooker's put me in places you wouldn't even want to imagine - some of the things that go through your head on a daily basis sometimes. It can really get to you and snooker is one of the hardest games in the world.' Craigie faces Mark Allen in the quarter-finals (Image: VCG via Getty Images) Craigie has a tempestuous relationship){kind=link}
Sam Craigie is through to the UK Championship quarter-final and has opened up on his frustrations with Mark Selby and his admiration for Ronnie O’Sullivan
Sam Craigie’s sensational snooker has forced him to relocate hotels in York – and he is now targeting UK Championship glory.
Tyneside star Craigie reached his first Triple Crown quarter-final with a stylish 6-4 victory over Ryan Day, after brushing past defending champion Zhao Xintong in the first round following two impressive qualifying wins.
Craigie has credited his superb resurgence on his ruthless practice regime reintroduced by his father and brother Stephen – also a snooker player. The talented 28-year-old has battled demons on and off the table during his time on tour, describing life in the sport as a ârecipe for depression’. But confidence is at an all-time high after three centuries in his fine win over Welshman Day.
And after packing his bags and finding a new hotel room, Craigie will meet the season’s in-form player Mark Allen in an enticing last-eight clash. The battle at the Barbican Centre represents a meeting between two of snooker’s most free-flowing cueists.