: Trump Defeats Allen to Reach NI Open Final Against Lisowski
In a dramatic semi-final clash at the 2025 Northern Ireland Open, Judd Trump overcame local favorite Mark Allen 6–3 to punch his ticket to the final, where he will face Jack Lisowski in what promises to be a blockbuster showdown.
Trump’s victory sets up a high-stakes final — and marks another milestone in his storied career. Let’s break down how the semi unfolded, what to expect in the final, and what it means for the players involved.
The Semi-Final: Trump vs. Allen — Turning Points & Tactics
From the outset, the semi was a tense, competitive affair. After two frames, the match was tied 1–1. Trump then took the third frame with a strong 73 break, but Allen responded forcefully, taking frames four and five (with breaks of 68 and 135) to lead 3–2.
That’s when the momentum began to shift. Trump clinched the sixth frame on the colours after a tactical sequence involving a snooker, then followed with an 82 break to tie 3–3. In frame eight, Trump missed a black while leading by 62 — giving Allen a chance — but Allen failed to capitalize, and Trump took the frame.
Going into the final frame, Allen had one last opportunity, but a missed red allowed Trump to seize the frame and seal the match with a 66 break — completing a 6–3 turnaround.
Afterwards, Trump acknowledged Allen’s competitive strength:
“He never makes it easy. His patience and safety game are dangerous. The sixth frame was a big turning point — once I got momentum, I felt my game flow more.”
For Allen, despite the defeat, the match demonstrates his consistency and ability to push top players deep into tournaments — especially on his home soil.
The Final: Trump vs Lisowski — Stakes & Storylines
By winning that semi, Trump not only advanced to the final, but also ensured the match would be his 50th ranking final — a remarkable milestone in any snooker career.
His opponent, Jack Lisowski, is riding a wave of form. Lisowski reached the final by dispatching Zhou Yuelong 6–1 in the semis — aided by three century breaks — bolstering his case for a maiden ranking title.
The final thus pits a veteran champion (Trump) against a perennial contender (Lisowski), each with contrasting narratives:
- Trump is chasing further legacy cementation — already a multiple major winner, and frequently in finals.
- Lisowski, meanwhile, remains one of the most talked-about players who has yet to convert breakthrough performances into ranking titles.
This matchup isn’t just about the trophy — it’s a clash of narratives: sustained supremacy vs breakthrough ambition.
Context & Significance
Trump’s Legacy and Momentum
Trump’s consistency in the Northern Ireland Open circuit is notable: this marks the sixth time in eight years he’s reached the final in this event. It underscores his exceptional adaptability and longevity in the sport.
Reaching his 50th ranking final adds further heft — placing him among elite company in snooker history.
Lisowski’s Pursuit
Lisowski’s path to this final was not easy, but he’s shown flashes of brilliance. The three centuries vs Zhou reflect his scoring capability, and his composure under pressure is earning admiration.
Yet, every time Lisowski nears final stages, the question resurfaces: can he finally break through and win his first ranking title?
The NI Open Stage
The Northern Ireland Open is part of snooker’s Home Nations Series, and it carries prestige, ranking points, and a £100,000 prize for the winner. For Allen, a win would have meant home glory; for Trump and Lisowski, the title holds both financial and legacy weight.
Additionally, beating a home favorite in Allen gives extra narrative spice — Trump has now again proven that he can navigate hostile or partisan atmospheres.
What to Expect: Keys to the Final
In a Trump vs Lisowski final, a few factors may decide who lifts the trophy:
- Scoring vs Safety
- Trump’s ability to build large breaks and shift gears matters.
- Lisowski will need to match or challenge him in high breaks, and avoid punts.
- Momentum & Psychology
- Trump’s semifinal comeback gives him confidence.
- Lisowski must guard against intimidation and seize opportunities early.
- Break Control
- Key safety exchanges and tactical frames will likely be critical.
- Whoever controls the table after mistakes may turn frames in their favor.
- Experience Under Pressure
- Trump has been in many big finals — his composure may be an edge.
- Lisowski has to handle nerves, pressure, and seize his moments.
Final Notes & Outlook
- As of now, the final is set between Judd Trump and Jack Lisowski for the 2025 Northern Ireland Open.
- Trump’s 6–3 semi win over Allen shows he can dig in, respond to adversity, and strike when it matters.
- Lisowski’s form is formidable — his semi performance indicates he’s not just a dark horse, but a serious threat.
- For Allen, the defeat is disappointing, but to fall to Trump — especially after leading 3–2 — is a tough but not shameful exit.
- The final could be one for the ages — class, grit, and high stakes all wrapped into one match.
I’ll keep an eye out for the final result and highlight the key moments when the match takes place. Would you like me to send you match details, analysis, or post-match reactions once the trophy is decided?
Leave a Reply