Sports Digest: Athletics | Snooker

The 27-year-old Scot’s hopes appeared to fizzle out due to injuries after taking silver at this event in 2004.

But, after working her way steadily back to fitness, the cross country specialist is keen to make the most of her second chance. “There are a lot of names missing but we still want to be competitive,” Smith said.

Scottish prospects Luke Traynor and Rhona Auckland have strong medal shots in the junior races.

SNOOKER

Selby on top and in final

MARK Selby returned to the top of the world rankings last night, qualifying for his first williamhill.com UK Championship final in the process.

It took just five of the nine available frames for the 29-year-old to convert his 6-2 mid-session lead in his semi-final with Mark Davis into a winning 9-4 score, finishing well ahead of schedule and giving himself time to rest ahead of today’s final with Shaun Murphy.

He will start that match knowing he has regained the No.1 spot he lost to Judd Trump five weeks ago.

HOCKEY

Indoor season off to a flyer

INVERLEITH started their challenge for the indoor division one title with back-to-back wins over PSL Clydesdale (12-2) and Western Wildcats (7-3).

New-look Grange beat newcomers Harris 6-2 in their opening match of the season while champions Grove Menzieshill opened with two  convincing wins, a 9-1 mauling of Wildcats and a crushing 21-1 win over Clydesdale.

Sports Digest: Athletics | Snooker | Hockey