“Mark Allen’s 9-8 victory over John Higgins in the Northern Ireland Open final was oddly symbolic of his career. The likeable Antrim man was in command before losing control as all looked lost before raw fighting spirit saw him claim glory against the odds. If Allen can meet the demands of such a raucous home crowd in Belfast, he has the ability to challenge for a world title, writes Desmond Kane.”
Can Allen emulate fellow Northern Irish icon Higgins by winning world title?
