Drago eliminates Song after falling 1-3 behind

Tony Drago's snooker season got off to an auspicious start in Prestatyn yesterday after coming from 1-3 down to beat China's Liu Song 5-3 in the second round of the Northern Ireland Trophy.

Song was looking for his second Maltese scalp after beating Alex Borg 5-3 in the opening round on Saturday.

However, Drago proved a different proposition as he won four successive frames in the second session to book a place in the next round against Marcus Campbell.

Song had looked well on his way to upset Drago. He potted a couple of half centuries on his way to leading 3-1 at the break.

But Drago relied on all his experience to lift himself from the unfavourable situation and work his way into the next round.

The Northern Ireland Trophy is the opening ranking tournament of the season. The final stages will be played between August 13 and 20 in Belfast.

Originally, Drago's third qualifying round opponent was Paul Hunter but the latter is out for one year due to health reasons.