Lloyd nears national double

CURRENT English under-16 snooker champion Mark Lloyd is one step away from completing a rare double.

The 16-year-old, based at Stoke Snooker Club, Gosport, has potted his way to the final of this season’s national under-18 final.

Lloyd progressed through the last-16 knockout at the Northern Snooker Centre, Leeds, beating Riley Parsons (Cannock) 4-0, Chae Ross (Leicester) 4-1 and Ryan Davies (Oldham) 5-2.

He now faces James Pearson (Leeds), a player ranked two places below him on the EASB Premier Junior Tour, in the final in June.

“It was a tough day,” said the England international. “Only time will tell (if I can win). I just hope it comes together when I need it to.”

And he added: “I would like to thank everyone for the support they have given me.”

Lloyd’s fellow Cuestars Gold Tour player Dan Sykes lost 4-2 to Ross in the last-16. The 17-year-old from Chandler’s Ford was 2-0 up against the EASB Premier Junior Tour player and lost the third frame on the final black.

Picture and report by Tim Dunkley. Mark Lloyd with his under-16 trophy.