Kyren Wilson and David Gilbert are all square at 4-4 after an intriguing opening session of their Cazoo World Championship semi-final clash.
Both players are hunting maiden Crucible crowns, but are already accustomed to the fabled one-table setup at the Theatre of Dreams.
Wilson is contesting his fourth World Championship semi-final, after an impressive 13-9 defeat of John Higgins in the quarters. Gilbert is appearing in the semis for a second time, having beaten Stephen Maguire 13-8 in the last round
When play got underway this afternoon it was Wilson who claimed the opener with a fine break of 73.
Gilbert restored parity by taking the second and then had a good chance to take the lead in the next. However, his run ended on 40 and Wilson stepped up with 87 to move 2-1 ahead. Gilbert then crafted a superb break of 104 to head into the mid-session all square at 2-2.
When play resumed, a run of 91 gave Gilbert the lead for the first time in the match at 3-2. The next two frames were traded to leave Gilbert 4-3 ahead, before a dramatic last of the session.
Wilson embarked on a 147 attempt and having potted 11 reds and 11 blacks, the balls were well situated. However, he failed to find good position on the 12th red and overcut an attempt to the left middle to end his run on 88. That brilliant break was enough to end the session level at 4-4.
They will return tomorrow morning at 10am to play the second session of this best of 33 encounter.