Duncan Bezzina (left) receives the trophy from Żaren Coleiro.

Duncan Bezzina had the better of Brian Cini in a thrilling final to clinch the fourth snooker ranking tournament organised by the Malta Billiards and Snooker Association (MBSA).

Friday’s final, best of nine frames, produced some high-quality snooker as the two players compiled a series of breaks, including a run of 101 points from Bezzina who edged Cini 5-4.

Bezzina, who represents Senglea’s La Vincitrice Band Club, had a difficult start as the England-based Cini ticked off with a break of 88 points on his way to winning the opening two frames (101-0, 68-37).

Two-nil down, Bezzina hit back to grab the initiative after winning three straight frames (63-34, 74-44, 74-40) but Cini levelled matters after taking the sixth (58-2).

Cini went 4-3 up (92-13) but Bezzina set up a decider as his century break in the penultimate frame (101-31) made it 4-4.

The Senglea cueist had the final say by claiming the ninth and final frame 77-18.

The final was controlled by referee Joe Debono.

After the game, MBSA president Frans Bugeja thanked the participants and those who attended the final at the 147 Snooker Hall in Ħamrun, including professional player Tony Drago.

Bugeja then invited Żaren Coleiro, an avid snooker follower, to present the trophy to Bezzina.