Great topic this, and a nice conclusion to what was a faboulous tournament.
1. Was the new format a success or a failure?
I think it was more of a sucess than a failure really. Above all things, all the matches had the chance to b tlevised, which was great, we got to see some great matches, and those were not played in a cubicle like in previous ocasions. The best of 11 format is allright, though the best of 17 really creates another atmosfere to the 2nd biggest tournament we have, but still, I think it was nice to have the format this way.
2. Was the return to York the right choice?
Definately the right choice, great crowds for almost all sessions, a good place to stay and visit, unlike Telford which many people dont like because there is nothing there really
3. What was your favourite match of the tournament?
I had several, but the one that was the best for was definately the final. The way Allen came back at Judd in the 2nd session was frightenning, making 4 centuries in the match, almost 5, and the way Judd played too, a great great final, one to be remembered.
4. Which players disappointed you?
The player that disappointed me the most was, as you would expect, Ronnie. he had loads of chances to win the match, especially in the 10th frame, couldnt take them, and so was beat. Had he gone through, I expected him to at least reach the semis, if not the final, or even better, winning the whole thing. selby also disappointed because of the way he played against Day, and couldnt take that form into the Fu match, although I liked Fu to win. Williams also could have gone far, but couldnt make it in the end.
5. Which players surprised you in a good way?
The players that impressed me the most were Walden and Fu, 2 qualifiers who did very well in this tournament, especially Walden, who was playing great snooker, but just had a bad 2ns session in the semi.
6. What will Trump achieve in 2012?
With this win, I expect him to climb a few more places in the rankings(not much more to climb mind you) and win at least 1 or 2 ranking tourneys, maybe the german Masters, who knows.... if he plays like this, then he can definately win at least one more at the end of the season.
7. What was your overall favourite moment?
favourite moment? hard to pick, maybe when Robbo asked for a comfort break, and he and Judd both rushed out of the arena
8. How much did you enjoy this tournament overall?
Great tournament, the format worked nice, and because we got to see all the matches televised, it added that special feeling... Also, because almost of the seeded players went through to the 2nd round, made it even more special.