John Higgins to face Woollaston in Welsh Open final

Multiple world champion Higgins showed glimpses of his best snooker as he beat Belgian sensation Luca Brecel 6-4, ending the teenager's sensational giant-killing run in which he took out players including world number one Mark Selby and Ricky Walden.

"I really enjoyed the game because I felt as if I was back playing the way I know I can," said Higgins.

"Luca is a great talent - he reminded me of the way Judd Trump played in the World final in 2011. He showed no nerves and looks as if he loves it out there. I said to him he'll be here forever, playing in these big matches. He's a great young boy with a great future.

"I've been struggling for the last couple of years so hopefully I can keep on playing the way I did today."

Woollaston's victory over Mark Williams ensured that it would not be a meeting of two former world champions, Woollaston beating the Welshman 6-5.

The match came down to a deciding frame that saw Williams miss a chance with a red to the centre pocket after Woollaston's opening break of 30 had dried up.

And the 27-year-old Woollaston pounced on Williams's error, rolling off a break of 60 to make his first ever ranking final.

"I was proud of the way I held myself together in the last frame, after I had messed up the chance to win 6-4," said Woollaston.

"Mark didn't play his best, which was lucky for me. I played well from 3-3 to 5-3, and then felt the pressure after that. It's amazing to get to the final, the best thing that has happened to me in snooker.

"John Higgins has always been my favourite player - he won the World title the first time I watched it in 1998. But I want to beat him tomorrow.

"When I'm practising in the club I dream of playing in a final against one of the top players. That will become reality tomorrow. At times that dream felt miles away, although I have always believed I could do it."