Robertson on a charge

The 27-year-old stormed back from 14-7 down to draw level at 14-14 with 2005 champion Shaun Murphy, midway through the final session of their semi-final, with three more frames needed to win.

As they went to the interval it was Robertson with the momentum after winning seven consecutive frames to salvage his previously desperate situation.

He had launched his fightback by taking the final three frames of this morning's session with breaks of 66, 68 and 101.

And, despite proving unable to string together any such substantial scoring runs this evening, the man from Melbourne extended his streak.

He was winning the tactical battles and gradually, in short bursts, gathering sufficient points to take frames beyond Murphy's reach.

He was also winning the mental battle - Murphy appearing unimpressed by Robertson showing off once frames were safe.

The crowd had been on Robertson's side from the start of the session and their man was threatening to complete the most unlikely triumph.

The late Eddie Charlton, who lost the 1975 final to Ray Reardon, was the last Australian to grace a World Championship showpiece - seven years before Robertson was born.

As they left the arena for a 15-minute break, Robertson strode backstage with a confident smile while Murphy walked out with his arms folded.