Ebdon notched up a 132 break in the first session

In a match of outstanding quality, Ebdon came close to a maximum 147 break but just failed to pot the 13th black.

Then, with Ebdon leading 7-6, Higgins missed a straightforward red and the Englishman stepped in to take a decisive two-frame advantage.

Ebdon will now meet the winner of Saturday's second semi-final between Graeme Dott and Stephen Hendry.

Interview: Peter Ebdon

"I've never been as proud of myself in my entire career," said Ebdon, who is into his second UK final having lost 10-3 to Hendry in 1995.

"In many ways I have to rate it as the best win I've ever had because it means so much to me to beat John in a long match.

"I have so much respect for John. He's a wonderful human being, a fantastic ambassador for snooker and probably the toughest match player I've ever played.

"The quality of the match was mind-blowing. I just felt he wouldn't crack and I felt strong in myself that I wouldn't crack either.

"It was like the irresistible force meeting the immovable object and it was a pleasure to be involved in such a high-quality match."

Higgins also acknowledged the excellent quality of the contest and paid tribute to his opponent.

"It just didn't go my way," said the world number four. "My concentration just went out of the window at a crucial time.

"But take nothing away from Peter. He played very well all through the match and thoroughly deserved to win."