Robertson to gain revenge for Masters final defeat last year

Neil Robertson is dominating the world of snooker at present and he can see off the return of Ronnie O’Sullivan to land odds of 5/1 in the Masters.

Robertson lost 10-6 in the final to Mark Selby last year, having won the event in 2012, but comes into the tournament in rude health after turning the tables on Selby in the UK Championship last month.

Bet on Neil Robertson to win Masters at 5/1

In doing so, the Australian, who is based in Cambridge, became the first overseas player to win the big three (completed by the World Championship) and he is looking forward to the Alexander Palace event which begins on Sunday.

Robertson said: “I’m the first overseas player to win all three and I also won the Grand Prix, which used to be the other BBC tournament.

“I’ve got to set tough targets to keep myself motivated. I’m only 31, I’ve still got a lot of my career ahead of me and I want to keep building my legacy.”

Robertson’s half of the draw includes O’Sullivan, who is a four-time winner of this event.

Neil Robertson won the Masters in 2012

The man from Chigwell favours this event due to its proximity, although he didn’t play in it last year as he took a break from the game.

The unpredictable but supremely talented player is seeded two this year and is the 11/4 favourite to win.

However, despite some excellent results in 2013, most notably a fifth Crucible title, the Essex man doesn’t have the fear factor that he used to possess, as evidenced by his 6-4 defeat to Stuart Bingham last month.

Bet on Joe Perry to beat Stephen Maguire at 11/8

Defending champion Mark Selby’s snooker has not been flowing of late and he faces a tough match in the second round should he triumph over Mark Davis.

He will face the winner of Stuart Bingham and John Higgins, and looks opposable at a price of 13/2.