Ronnie: I have to improve

The two-time world champion raised his game just in time to beat the in-form Australian after falling 9-8 behind from a position of 8-3 up.

"I was pleased I got through," O'Sullivan said. "Neil pots the balls well, looks dangerous amongst the balls. He was quite intimidating at time - he was hitting the ball so sweetly, always hitting the back of the pocket with a thudd.

"It was a weird type of game. I wasn't that comfortable in the game, my long potting wasn't that good, my safety was average and anything from six foot or more I was miles out.

"When you're not potting long balls it's like losing your serve in tennis because you have to work harder to get chances.

"If you can't pot long balls you're not going to win titles. I was aware of that so when I was in amongst the balls I made the most of it.

"I was very pleased to get through that match but there is room for improvement. That was a big building block game today and I was delighted to get through."

Robertson said he was pleased with his fightback and proud of his attacking mentality.

"I played really well today and I'm proud with how I came back from 6-2 down this morning," he said. "I didn't bother trying to slow the game down and make people turn off their TVs, I tried to give it a go. I did my best but unfortunately I lost really closely."