Mark Williams has stormed into the semi-finals of the UK Championship after beating Fergal O'Brien 9-2 on Thursday.

The current UK Champion blitzed the final seven frames to set up a potentially explosive clash with Ronnie O'Sullivan.

The Irishman had earlier levelled the tie at 2-2 with a break of 64 but was then hit by some blistering snooker from his opponent.

O'Brien had chances to reduce the deficit but it was the experience of Williams that helped him complete the victory.

Williams' highest break of the evening was an 81 in the fifth frame.

Williams' meeting with O'Sullivan is a repeat of last month's Grand Prix final and the Welshman was in reflective mood after the win.

"I missed a lot of shots, but you can't play well in every match," said, Williams, who has still dropped only six frames in three matches.

"It should have been 4-4 after the first session yesterday, so I was delighted with 6-2.

"It doesn't really bother me that it's Ronnie next. I try to focus the same whoever I play."