Snooker: The jury may still be out on Stephen Hendry's chances of winning a record equalling sixth UK Championship on Sunday, but he at least gained a hard-fought verdict against Dublin's Michael Judge last night to complete the Bournemouth quarter-final line-up.

The 31-year-old Scot trailed the world number 46 by 6-4 at his lowest point, but recovered well to take the last five frames with breaks of 97, 91, 105 and 58.

He also made a vital 33 clearance to draw level at 6-6. "That got me going but I can't keep waiting until it gets to that stage before my brain kicks into gear," said the seven-times world champion.

"I must have given Michael at least 10 chances a frame. He never played as well as he can and I'm sure he will be disappointed he didn't win the match with the chances I gave him."

Hendry now plays world number five Stephen Lee for a place in the semi-finals. Lee, earlier in the day, knocked out Essex professional Brian Morgan 9-7.

Tennis: Former British Davis Cup hero David Lloyd has rescued Tennis Ireland's attempt to stage next month's national indoor senior and junior tennis championships, reports Pat Roche.

Tennis Ireland's end-of-year showpiece was thought to be in jeopardy when ownership of the Riverview complex in Clonskeagh changed hands earlier this year.

But, the reconstructed Lloyd complex, one of a number of facilities fronted by the former player around Europe, will support the championships.

Besides putting its 11 indoor courts at the disposal of the Irish tennis body, Lloyd's Riverview will also sponsor the tournaments, which start on December 27th.

The new centre was reconstructed at a cost of £6.5 million and includes a heated outdoor swimming pool as well as an indoor pool.