Snooker referee berates supporter after mobile phone incident during Neil Robertson match

The Australian beat Hossein Vafaei 4-1 at the Welsh Open
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Neil Robertson secured his place in the Welsh Open third round with a 4-1 triumph over Hossein Vafaei, though the Australian's progress was momentarily derailed by an unwelcome interruption from the crowd.
The two-time Welsh Open champion found his concentration shattered during the third frame when a spectator's mobile phone began ringing at a crucial moment.
Despite the disruption causing visible frustration for Robertson, who had already defeated teenager Michal Szubarczyk in the opening round, the experienced player managed to regain his composure and close out the match convincingly.
The incident prompted a stern response from the match referee.
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Robertson found himself trailing early after Vafaei claimed the opening frame of their encounter.
The Australian responded emphatically, edging the second frame on the final black ball to level the contest at 1-1.
It was during the third frame that the controversial moment unfolded, with Robertson preparing to pot what appeared to be a straightforward red by his exceptional standards.

Neil Robertson remains on course for Welsh Open glory
|PA
A phone suddenly rang out among the spectators just as the former world champion was already committed to his stroke.
Unable to withdraw from the shot in time, Robertson watched his attempt miss the target, leaving him visibly agitated as he returned to his seat.
Robertson managed to defuse the tension momentarily with a quip, telling those present: "It's for me."
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Five quirky facts about snooker | PAThe referee subsequently delivered a firm warning to spectators, instructing them to switch off their devices to prevent any further disruptions.
TNT Sports' commentary team expressed surprise that Robertson had not attempted to pull away from his stroke mid-execution.
"I'm surprised actually that Robertson didn't try and step away from that shot," the commentator observed, adding: "He's so annoyed because in these venues, even though there's hundreds of people in there, it is very quiet.
"A ringing mobile phone shatters concentration."

Hossein Vafaei had no answer to Neil Robertson's brilliance at the Welsh Open
|PA
Robertson channelled his frustration into a commanding finish to the match, recovering to take the third frame despite the earlier disruption.
The Australian then produced back-to-back century breaks to seal victory in emphatic fashion, compiling efforts of 100 and 118 in the final two frames.
His impressive response to the setback demonstrated the composure that has seen him lift the Welsh Open trophy on two previous occasions.
Robertson will now face home favourite Jak Jones in the third round, with the Welshman standing between him and further progress in the tournament.










