Maguire - Belfast Brings Out The Best in Me
Stephen Maguire is depending on inspiration from the Belfast crowd later this month when he participates in the Northern Ireland Trophy tournament.
The Glaswegian, currently ranked world number two is the defending champion. He won the title last year after spectacularly beating Ding Junhui, Neil Robertson, Shaun Murphy and fellow Irishman Fergal O'Brien 9-5 in the final.
Maguire is eager to perform in the tournament, which is to take place from Aug 24-31.
'The Belfast Waterfront is an unbelievable venue and we had big crowds for virtually every match.' said Maguire. 'That sort of arena and atmosphere makes me play better - it brings the best out of me. You see all the people watching and getting involved, and it makes you want to put on a good match for them.'
The 27 year old snooker star explained how last years tournament felt...
'It was so important to me to win it last year because I hadn't won a tournament for three years and I'd forgotton what it was like to pick up a trophy. I had one of the hardest draws you can get, playing all of the up-and-coming players around my age, and I had some cracking matches.'
Maguire also won last season's Honghe Industrial China Open, and is anticipating good things for the forthcoming competition.
'I want to stay in the top two in the rankings and win at least one more tournament.'
The defending champion spoke with assurance about his recent injuries. He has suffered a suspected crack rib during a friendly game of badminton last month.
'There are a couple of shots I can't play at the moment, but it should be perfect by the time we go to Belfast, I'll have no excuses.'
32 other snooker professionals as well as 16 qualifiers will be battling it out on the baize, at the Belfast Waterfront. Leading contenders for the title are current world champion Ronnie O' Sullivan, Shaun Murphy, Mark Selby, John Higgins, Stephen Hendry, Steve Davis, Ken Doherty, Joe Swail, and Mark Allen.
Councillor Tom Hartley - The Lord Mayor of Belfast said, 'This tournament has grown in status and prestige over the last four years, and is now one of the most eagerly anticipated dates on the snooker calender. I know the players view it as a great honour to win this title, and Belfast City Council is delighted to be working with World Snooker to stage this magnificent tournament once again.'
Ticket prices start at £8.50. To book call 02896 334455 or visit www.waterfront.co.uk