Our 14/1 BCR Print Easter Cup tip finished second last night, despite being sent off the 11/4 favourite. Advantage Johnny was beaten by three quarters of a length by 6/1 shot Droopys Noel, who was drawn better in trap three.

There are two weeks to go until the final of the World Snooker Championships takes place at The Crucible Theatre, but the action got underway last weekend.

Defending champion Ronnie O’Sullivan (pictured) is now a stand-out 2/1 with totesport, having eased his way into the second round.

The Rocket has to be opposed by punters and bookies alike, and could be a decent lay if he’s still in contention next week. His price will almost certainly trade shorter, meaning that Betfair customers can effectively bet at odds of 1/2 the field.

O’Sullivan has also won the China Open three times, but he was turned over at short odds against John Higgins (4-5) in the quarters earlier this month.

The three time world champion beat Ali Carter in last year’s final 18-8, who is also through to the second round. Carter can be backed at 10/1 with tournament sponsors Betfred.

Mark Selby was runner-up in this year’s Masters, and makes some appeal at 8/1.

The each way terms aren’t very tempting (1/2 odds, 2 places), but it is always worth keeping an eye out for the in-form outsiders.

Mark King is a huge 150/1 with Sporting Bet, but the odds reflect the fact that he has never won a ranking tournament. He currently holds a winning head-to-head with Ronnie, 6-5.

bookies.com is your best bet for comparing snooker odds:

World Snooker Championship 2009 Winner Betting Odds

World Snooker Championship 2009 Match Betting