Matt Selt insists there was no one more delighted than him to witness Ronnie O’Sullivan wrap up their UK Snooker Championship clash with an historic 13 perfect break of his career.
Selt was never in this fourth-round clash in York, despite O’Sullivan uncharacteristically missing routine pots in the first two frames.
But from then on the Rocket clicked into gear and ended the 6-0 whitewash on a record-breaking note by making a 147 clearance – and Selt admits he was privileged to be there to watch it.
“I’m more happy than he is that he made that 147 in the end,” said Selt. “It was a great experience and I had the best seat in the house to watch it on, sitting in my chair.
“When he’s got up for the yellow I could barely sit down I was shaking that much for him. I’m delighted that he’s made it and it’s more experience for me playing him like that.
“Unfortunately I felt it was always going to be 6-0 after I went down to 3-0. I had as many chances as I wanted to have in the match so I deserved to get beat by that score. I’m in good spirits but there’s no other way I could beat him, it was my own fault.
“What can you do? I had my chances, didn’t settle and I just didn’t play well. I can’t moan or anything.
Watch Ronnie's 147 vs Matt Selt last night
“There were definitely nerves out there, I had a couple of chances early in the first frame and I think I missed a black on its spot, and didn’t settle from there. I’m not really too sure why to be honest.”
Despite the humbling loss Selt, 29, can reflect on a best-ever run at the UK Championship, having been knocked out in the first round in his two previous attempts.
And he believes his time in York could well herald a further upturn in fortunes as he bids to crack the world’s top 32.
“The first win was pretty easy – a bit like Ronnie’s against me – and I beat a few good players on the way so I’m pleased to get to the last 16 for the first time,” said Selt, who is currently No.44 in the world rankings.
“And though I’m disappointed hopefully it’s a step in the right direction, it’s been a pretty good season so far.”
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