Sweet wrappers, crisp packets and the dreaded mobile phone are often the scourge of professional snooker players when down on their shots.
Occasionally, and it is only occasionally, spectators do get a little wild and that was the case during Mark Allen’s clash with John Higgins at the World Championship on Sunday afternoon.
With Allen about to take a shot in the 13th frame, he was halted in the middle of his backswing by a scream from the crowd.
It was not clear what was shouted out, but it caught the attention of Allen who stepped up off his shot and referee Paul Collier exclaimed “who was that?”
It would appear the offending voice was identified, as Collier followed up by saying: “Can you escort him out please?”
A delay ensued, before a round of applause greeted the exit of the person in question.
His exit was welcomed by Joe Johnson in the Eurosport commentary box.
“Just as the player was down on his stroke, very ungentlemanly,” the 1986 world champion said.
The Crucible is an intimate venue and the ruckus also halted play on the adjoining table.
David Hendon was covering the Jack Lisowski versus Stuart Bingham match, and the doyen of the Eurosport commentary box said what many were thinking.
“It’s possible one gentleman has enjoyed the afternoon refreshments a little too much,” Hendon said.