MASTERS: Remarkable Perry comeback sets up final with Rocket Ronnie

Perry was trailing 5-2 in his semi-final against last year’s runner-up Barry Hawkins, but won the eighth frame despite needing a snooker.

He followed that up by winning the next three, including a break of 70 in the decider, to take the match 6-5 against his best friend on the circuit.

The Fenland Potter described the win at the Alexandra Palace as the best of his career.

Perry said: “I really can’t believe it. When Barry potted the ball to leave me a snooker, I was thinking about what to say to him and wish him all the best for Sunday. This game is mad, it never ceases to amaze.

“It is the best win of my career. I have to go out against O’Sullivan and play to the best of my ability. You don’t know what can happen. From the go, I will go out there to win and not just enjoy the occasion.”

Hawkins added: “I am devastated. After the eighth frame he started playing better and made an unbelievable break in that last frame.”

Perry (42) had never before reached the semi-final of this prestigious event.

He beat world number two Stuart Bingham and Chinese ace Ding Junhui, both by 67-1 margins, to reach the last four.

He will start as long odds underdog against O’Sullivan in today’s final (January 22, from 1pm). O’Sullivan beat Marco Fu from Hong Kong 6-4 in his semi final.

Watch the London Masters LIVE on Eurosport 2, featuring daily studio analysis from Ronnie O’Sullivan, Jimmy White and Neal Foulds.