by Neil Goulding

JAMIE Cope faces Ryan Day today in Glasgow for a place in this season's Royal London Watches Grand Prix semi-finals.

"The Shotgun" held his nerve to clinch a dramatic 5-4 victory over Peter Ebdon, the former world and UK champion, at the Scottish Exhibition and Conference Centre yesterday.

But the world number 19, a Grand Prix runner-up in 2007, was understandably upset with Ebdon's histrionics during the match.

Ebdon threw his cue to the ground at one stage after making a mistake, before falling to the ground theatrically when he was left out of position in the deciding frame.

"It was a long match, and it wasn't very enjoyable to play in," said Cope. "It was just nice to get over the line.

"I tried not to look at what he was doing. It had nothing to do with me.

"It was strange what he did. If he wants to do that he can, but it was a bit off-putting.

"I just tried to ignore whatever he was up to. It's a little bit annoying to play against, but you have to play against these sort of players.

"It does feel good to win, especially after he beat me at the World Championship last season. I feel I should be here. I'm looking forward to the semi-finals now."

Ebdon had breaks of 122, 62 and 46, but Cope reached his fourth ranking quarter-finals thanks to runs of 42, 80, 56 and 68.

As well as defeat, Ebdon missed the chance of a maximum 147 clearance. On 122, having potted all 15 red and 15 blacks, he missed a routine green to a corner pocket – and with it a possible £24,000 in prize-money for the highest break prize.

"I very nearly won a good tough match," reflected Ebdon.

"Jamie's a very good player. He pots balls from everywhere, but it's disappointing to lose.

"It was disappointing to miss the maximum. I had loads and loads of chances, but you've just got to take it on the chin."

Quarter-finals (1.30pm): Ronnie O'Sullivan v Judd Trump, Steve Davis v Ali Carter; (7pm) John Higgins v Ding Junhui, Ryan Day v Jamie Cope.

TV – BBC 2, 1.30pm & 7pm