Robertson beats Davis to make world semis

Steve Davis's Run comes to an end at the hands of Robertson

After beating John Higgins, Davis, 52, struggled throughout this quarter-final but after trailing 12-2 on Tuesday took the match into a final session.

The six-time champion, making his 30th Crucible appearance, won the opener with a 59 and had chances in the next.

But the Australian stayed cool with a century to set up a semi-final with England's Ali Carter.

With Robertson needing just one frame with two to play on Tuesday night it was a miracle 'The Nugget' was even appearing for the final session.

After grinding out those last two frames to reduce the lead to 12-4, the arena had the opportunity to give Davis yet another rousing reception 31 years after the six-time champion first walked out for this tournament.

The arena was even treated to the master of ceremonies, Rob Walker, embarrassingly introduce the snooker legend as Dennis Taylor - something Davis responded to by putting on some spectacles upside down.

Reflecting on Walker's gaffe, Davis said: "It was a fun moment in what was a situation where I could stand a bit of fun.

"Its just so exciting to play well and on the odd occasion when its right. It's just an amazing feeling. I still love the buzz."

The smile of Romford's finest turned serious after his introduction as he plotted an unlikely comeback and his afternoon began brightly as he got within seven frames of the Australian with a cool break of 59.

Davis, the oldest player to reach the last eight since the late Eddie Charlton, seemed intent on fighting for everything and looked set to get the deficit down to six but the world number nine had other ideas.

After Davis grabbed the initiative with a 27-point lead, the 28-year-old left-hander hit back and showed no repeat of the lack of concentration he admitted to at the conclusion of the second session.

A 107 break ensured Robertson reached the same stage as last year - a world championship campaign that included another defeat over Davis in the first round.

While Davis waves goodbye to Sheffield for another year, Robertson continues his fine form after starting the season by being crowned Grand Prix champion.

After trailing 0-4 and 1-7, Davis added that his disappointing start had been crucial.

"Sometimes matches are won or lost early on and I think I lost it in the first session. I had a rotten, rotten session. It started with a kick," he said.

Robertson, hoping to become the first Australian world champion, said he would have to raise his game.

"I was a little bit disappointed I didn't wrap it up last night. But all credit to Steve for taking it to the extra session," Robertson said.

"I was very relieved to get through because I haven't played very well at all. I'm over the moon to get to the semis considering the way I've played so I'll have to improve a lot to get to the final."