Murphy to face Doherty in final

Murphy is trying to win the third title of his career this week

Shaun Murphy staged a remarkable comeback to beat Ding Junhui and reach the final of the Malta Cup.

Defending champion Murphy has suffered some agonising final-frame defeats this season but came through this time.

The Englishman trailed 3-0 before a break of 137 gave him a foothold, but from 5-4 down he needed breaks of 80 and 75 to seal the victory.

Dubliner Ken Doherty upset Scottish world number one John Higgins 6-2 in Saturday's first semi-final.

Higgins took the first frame but Doherty hit breaks of 76, 90 and 70 to rattle off the next three before Higgins pulled one back.

Doherty wrapped up victory with a 118 clearance and breaks of 59 and 59 to secure a second Malta Cup final place in three seasons.

"I was hitting the ball really well, I didn't miss one for three frames. It was a fantastic feeling," said Doherty.

"I do like to play John, he makes you raise your game. It's great win for me, but I'm not going to get carried away with the result."

Murphy, meanwhile, was delighted with his comeback against Ding.

"You can never count anyone out at this level - the match isn't over until you're shaking hands.

"I wasn't that bothered at 3-0 behind because I hadn't played badly," he said.

"The first chance I got I made the 137 break, so I came in at the interval and was absolutely fine. I was very much of the belief that I could go on and win the match."

Murphy predicted another tough match against Doherty - a battle of two former world champions.

"For the connoisseur he's one of the best players that's ever played the game. He scores well and his tactical play is second to none," he added.

"I'm hitting the ball well, playing well and I'm sure Ken and me will try and knock the proverbial out of each other."