Pinner's Martin Gould admits Scottish Open opponent Noppon Saengkham 'was a joy to watch'

World Number 19 Gould drew Thailand’s Noppon Saengkham in the first round of the tournament and eventually bowed out 4-3 in a thrilling encounter.

The 36-year-old potter did win three frames in a row in the game, but also lost the first three games without scoring a point, leaving him to will for some family assistance.

“First three frames I just sat in my chair and watched and he didn’t miss a ball,” said Gould.

“He looked like he was hitting it really nice and I didn’t get a look in – I think I had about three shots in the first three frames.

“He had an attempt at a max in the first and second, then he’s had a 122 and I’m thinking, ‘can I play please?!’

“I felt like phoning home and telling my mum and saying ‘he won’t let me play’.

“He was enjoyable to watch and it was kind of like watching Ronnie [O'Sullivan], he was never out of position and everything was pinpoint.

“He had a couple of tricky shots but he played them perfectly and it was a joy to watch.

“He missed one ball in frame four and I’ve made a 100 then I’ve made 60, then I edged a nip and tuck sixth frame.”

Despite the defeat Gould is having a fine season and played some impressive snooker in Scotland.

The experienced cueman was beaten 6-3 by eventual winner O’Sullivan at the Betway UK Championship in York last week, and was taking a philosophical approach to his defeat.

“It would’ve been nice to carry on from where I finished off last week but it wasn’t to be and I’ve got to take my hat off to a phenomenal player,” he added.

“My season’s been alright and the last three events I’ve played in I’ve had two quarter-finals and a semi.

“I’ve probably lost to the top three players in the world, [Mark] Selby , [John] Higgins and Ronnie but I’ve had a few good victories along the way.”

Watch the Scottish Open LIVE on Eurosport, Eurosport Player and Quest with Andy Goldstein and analysis from Jimmy White and Neal Foulds