Clash of the Titans: Donner and Walker Face Off in Epic Snooker Showdown (Part One)
Ashley Walker and Steve Donner with referee, Nathan Cooper
Thrilling Showdown Between Top Snooker Talents: Walker Edges Donner in Nail-Biter
The dust has settled on a highly anticipated clash between two of the county’s top snooker talents, and it’s time to reflect on an enthralling encounter at Alfreton Snooker Centre. Months of build-up, chatter, and excitement culminated in a showdown that lived up to expectations. With the date set, backers secured, and both players in superb form, the stage was perfectly prepared for this spectacle.
Ash Walker entered the match fresh off a record-breaking 143 in the Chesterfield & District Snooker League, while Steve Donner carried similar momentum, boasting a high break of 136 in the Harry Anderson Memorial competition. Expectations of high-quality play and potential big breaks were sky-high.
Both players devoted ample practice time ahead of this best-of-19 clash, and confidence was high. Yet, with a packed crowd and high stakes, it was natural for some nerves to creep in as the 5 p.m. start approached.
A Tense Start
Donner broke off to begin the match, and early signs hinted at some tension, particularly for Donner. Missing several trademark long pots in the opening exchanges, Donner allowed Walker to capitalise and secure a 2-0 lead. For Walker’s supporters, an early cushion was critical, knowing how quickly Donner could rack up points if he found his rhythm.
Donner soon found his groove, taking the next two frames, including a rapid 54 break in the fourth, to level the score at the first short break. The crowd, swelling to over 60 enthusiastic fans despite the wet November weather, was treated to a display of grit and skill as the players regrouped during the interval.
Momentum Swings Back and Forth
The action resumed with Ash edging ahead after a 48 break, only for Steve to respond with a polished 57, evening the score once more. As the pair split the next two frames, the contest seemed destined for a nail-biting conclusion. Donner then seized a two-frame lead for the first time, looking increasingly composed.
Walker, however, refused to be rattled. He clawed back the deficit with a tight win in the 11th and 12th frames, but an impressive 83 break—the match’s highest—in the 13th but Steve back in front. The back-and-forth continued, with both players trading frames. As the tension mounted, Walker edged closer to victory by taking the 15th and 16th frames, putting himself one frame away from the win.
A Thrilling Finish
Donner wasn’t finished yet, responding with a tidy 49 break to bring the score to 9-8 and keep his hopes alive. But the decider fans had hoped for wasn’t to be. Ash rose to the occasion in the 18th frame, delivering a composed match-winning contribution to secure a 10-8 victory. Well done Ash!
Celebrations and Plans for a Rematch
The two players exchanged a warm handshake and embrace to a raucous ovation from the packed Alfreton Club. While the match didn’t feature the massive breaks both players are known for, it delivered tension, quality, and excitement in abundance.
With plans already in place for a rematch in the new year, fans will undoubtedly be eagerly awaiting the next chapter in this thrilling rivalry. Stay tuned for updates!
“We were delighted to host this closely contested match and we thank everyone who turned up to support the event. We hope to host more of these in the future.”
“Thanks for the game, it was played in good spirit...We go again!”
“We had to dig deep and full respect for that. All in all, we put a game on. We go again in the new year!”