KEN DOHERTY booked his place in the semi finals of the Thailand snooker Open in Bangkok yesterday, but admitted that he will have to improve his form to progress further. The Dubliner reached the last four of a ranking event for the second time this season with a 5-1 rout of Jamie Wood man and now faces world number one Stephen Hendry.

Doherty, the 26 year old world number nine, said afterwards: "I'm doing enough to win but I will have to play better in the next round." Well on course to regain his top eight ranking next season, Doherty dropped only the third frame as he followed up his victories of 5-2 and 5-1 in the previous rounds.

"I didn't play particularly well and Jamie's inexperience at this level gave me the chances I needed. I suppose a win is a win, but it's a pity I'm not scoring heavier," said Doherty.