Bet of the day: John Higgins to beat Jamie Burnett 6-4

“It’s harder. I obviously want Jamie to win but, in a way, you don’t really like playing the Scottish boys because you are all mates and it is tough to play each other,” Higgins stated after outpotting Captain carter.

“I am feeling good. I am very happy, and delighted, to be through and I am enjoying it.

“The last couple of years, really struggling at tournaments, you don’t know what’s going to be happening but to come this year, and be competing again, it’s a good feeling.”

Higgins has ruthlessly overcome his fellow countryman on all eight occasions they have collided on the baize since their maiden meeting way back in 1996.

Higgins has history on his side

Higgins is a tempting 5/1 to record a two-frame victory over Burnett with a 6-4 result, and recent history suggests he will do just that.

In the previous three clashes, the Wizard of Wishaw has disposed of Burnett by two frames, including a 6-4 triumph in this Celtic battle at the 2013 UK Championship last 32. With that in mind, odds of 5/1 are extremely flattering and should not be ignored.

The potting pair most recently met during an Indian Open baize battle in March earlier this year, when Higgins rallied to a 4-2 victory in their short format match-up.

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Coral’s top tip: Back John Higgins to beat Jamie Burnett by two frames again in a 6-4 win at 5/1.