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Page last updated at 11:46 GMT, Thursday, 23 April 2009 12:46 UK

'Rubbish' Lee rues Crucible exit

Stephen Lee
Lee is looking forward to a break after an 'up and down' season

Stephen Lee admits he deserved to be knocked out of the World Snooker Championship by Ryan Day, because he was "rubbish".

The Trowbridge based player lost 10-4 to the world number eight, despite winning the opening frame.

Lee told BBC Wiltshire: "I made a good clearance in the first frame but didn't turn up for the rest of the match.

"I played a really good match against Judd Trump in the qualifiers, but I've come here and played rubbish."

Lee had no complaints with the final score. "He looked the better player throughout the day and he's come out on top so good luck to him," he added.

The result means Lee will have to continue to qualify for all the major tournaments next season as he remains outside the top 16 players in the world.

He admits the mental side to the game is something he continues to struggle with.

"I've just got to work hard and accept it when form doesn't turn up, but I can't do that and over the years it's really taken a toll on me.

"It's difficult when you spend so many hours practising in a darkened room with a little light above the table, but that's snooker."



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see also
World Championship draw
07 Apr 09 |  Snooker
World Championship latest scores
15 Apr 09 |  Snooker
Lee looking for return to top 16
20 Apr 09 |  Snooker
Lee wins to secure Crucible place
10 Mar 09 |  Snooker
Lee links form to coach Adamson
28 Aug 08 |  Snooker
Beaten Lee considers retirement
20 Apr 08 |  Snooker


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