Snooker: Leslie and fellow Scots on song in Sofia with run of victories

BONNYRIGG'S Michael Leslie was one of four Scottish players who made a perfect start to the group stages of the European Snooker Championships being held in Sofia, Bulgaria. Leslie, 18, won his opening six matches to lead his group and secure qualification for the last 32 stage which starts tomorrow.

His run of victories included success against former European amateur and world under-21 champion Kristjan Helgason of Iceland, overcoming a 3-1 deficit for a 4-3 victory.

Leslie will now play Andrei Orzan (Romania) today knowing that victory will ensure he is one of the top seeds for the knockout stages.

Leslie's 100 per cent start was also matched by Perth duo Scott Donaldson and Bobby Cruickshanks who also top their respective groups, whilst Paul Jamieson of Dumfries has also qualified for the knockout stages of the Masters event.

Donaldson, 17, continues to impress, making two century breaks in his opening five matches.