Gunnell aims to pocket prize tie

Adrian Gunnell was today attempting to provide Telford with home town interest when snooker's Pukka Pies UK Championship heads to Shropshire, writes JAMES GARRISON.

Gunnell was facing twice World Championship finalist Matthew Stevens in the final round of qualifying at Prestatyn over the best of 17 frames today.

The prize for the winner is a clash with Ronnie O'Sullivan in the first round proper, which gets underway at the International Centre on Saturday.

Gunnell defeated Stevens 9-7 at the same stage two years ago, but faces a stern challenge against arguably the most talented player at the qualifiers.

But the Telford cueman's confidence will be high after a 9-3 victory over Thailand's Atthasit Mahitthi on Saturday.

Gunnell lost the opening frame but won the next before stealing two frames - one when he required a snooker and the next with a clearance of 47 - to lead 3-1.

The 37-year-old continued his strong performance to open up an 8-1 advantage and, while Mahitthi won the next two, Gunnell soon got over the finishing line.

"It was a really big win for me," said Gunnell.

"With only six ranking tournaments and big ranking points for the UK Championship, it's vital to win that first game."