‘You Think I’m Cheating?’ – English Open Clash Descends Into Accusations as Rory McLeod and David Gilbert Clash Over Referee’s Ruling
The “gentleman’s game” of snooker was anything but during a heated opening-round match at the 2020 English Open between Rory McLeod and David Gilbert. The fourth frame was marred by a tense, protracted argument over a “free ball” ruling, resulting in McLeod being accused of trying to intimidate the referee.
Trailing 2-1 in the eventual 4-2 match, McLeod questioned referee Mark King’s decision not to award him a free ball after Gilbert committed a foul by brushing the cue ball.
McLeod’s Claim: McLeod argued he was snookered because the black ball was impeding his view and path to both sides of the green ball. A free ball would allow him to nominate any other ball to hit.
The Referee’s Stance: Referee Mark King stood firm, insisting that McLeod was not impeded. King even used a red ball placed next to the green to visually demonstrate that the balls were far enough apart for McLeod to hit the green without fouling the black.
Rejected Appeals: McLeod requested that the tournament director or another referee be called down for a second opinion, but King swiftly rejected both requests, refusing to budge on his ruling.
The argument escalated when McLeod tried to solicit support from his opponent.
Gilbert’s View: McLeod asked David Gilbert for his honest opinion. Gilbert instantly sided with the referee, confirming he had a clear view of the green.
The Insult: McLeod then told Gilbert: “Dave, I expect more from you mate.”
The Retort: Gilbert instantly took offense at the implication, firing back: “What? You think I’m cheating then?”
Despite the tension, McLeod ultimately allowed Gilbert to take the shot instead (which is the player’s right after an opponent fouls), and McLeod went on to win that frame and the match, 4-2. Post-match, the verbal conflict continued:
Gilbert publicly accused McLeod of disruptive behavior and poor etiquette:
Intimidation: “He tries to be intimidating all the time, but it wasn’t a free ball… He tried to put the pressure on the ref.”
Lack of Integrity: Regarding McLeod’s implied accusation, Gilbert stated: “I’m not a cheat in any kind of way… I think he’s bang out of order for saying that [I lacked integrity], but I’m not too bothered either.”
Borderline Play: Gilbert asserted that McLeod “tries borderline with pretty much everything at times—he’s always commenting, always tutting, tapping and takes so long over such basic shots.”
McLeod immediately hit back, accusing Gilbert of “horrendous” etiquette:
The Etiquette Failure: “It was clearly a free ball – I asked Dave to come round and have a look and he just flat refused to… The etiquette he had in that match, not just in that incident, was horrendous.”
Denial of Intimidation: McLeod strongly denied the accusation: “Why would I try and intimidate him? That’s just not my way… I don’t try and push the line and anything and I’m as fair as they come, you can just look at my history.”
The match became a focal point of debate, highlighting the intense pressure and occasional breakdowns in sportsmanship that can occur even in snooker. Referee Mark King’s refusal to back down despite the player’s persistent requests was praised for maintaining authority, while the feud between the two players dominated headlines after McLeod secured the victory.