By Dan Warren BBC Sport at The Crucible

Match report

Matthew Stevens paid tribute to the tenacity of Graeme Dott after the Scot reached the World Championship final with a 17-15 win over the Welshman.

"It was a great match to be involved in and though I asked questions of him, he handled himself brilliantly," he said.

"I felt confident throughout the match. I couldn't get a rhythm early on, but produced my best snooker at the end.

"But he's so gritty under pressure, and his shots were tremendous. Hats off to him, I hope he does well in the final."

Stevens insisted he enjoyed the closing stages of the match, despite ultimately crashing out of the tournament.

"I felt fine. I was really relaxed. It's great to be involved when it's one table in the semi-final," he said.

"I only got in front once, at 11-10, but I just could not get two or three frames clear at any point.

"But I thoroughly enjoyed the match. I am happy with the season I have had, and to reach the semi-final here."