"It's vital to keep my momentum and my motivation going.

"But Fergal will make it hard for me. I know it's going to be a tough match.

He's a hard, determined and gritty performer and won't give me an inch," added Doherty, now installed as second favourite for a �175,000 first prize behind Stephen Hendry.

Doherty also has his eye on the �80,000 sports car available to any player compiling a 147 break.

Glimpse

The former world champion was just one ball from picking up the keys 12 months ago in the final against Matthew Stevens.

"I had a glimpse of the car on my first day here and it immediately brought back bad memories," said Doherty.

"Besides, I didn't like the colour last year. This time it's a red one, my favourite colour," grinned the Manchester United supporter.

Breaks of 52 and 107 gave Doherty a flying start but Hamilton replied with 119 to reduce arrears.

It was to be his last success as Doherty replied with runs of 51, 47 and 48 to reach the quarter-finals for a fifth successive season.

It's vital to keep my momentum and my motivation going

Ken Doherty