Mark Davis admits he will have to be on top of his game to stand any chance of pulling off a shock victory against John Higgins in the British Open today.

The 31-year-old from St Leonards secured a third round clash with the world No.4 by beating Alan McManus 5-4 in a thriller at the Brighton Centre on Tuesday.

But after watching Higgins compile a maximum 147 break in his 5-1 second round win over Michael Judge, a feat which earned him £20,000, the world No. 35 knows he will need to play even better to reach the quarter finals.

Davis said: "I saw John score his maximum on television and wish I hadn't been watching as it just showed how good he is.

"I think John is the best in the world when he is on top of his game but is doesn't mean I can't beat him.

"It is a tough draw but I am playing pretty well at the moment so I am looking forward to it.

"I've played him once before a few years ago and lost 5-1, but I had my chances in that match so this time I will have to take them.

"I've got nothing to lose. As I am the local lad there will probably be a few people there supporting me so hopefully I can give them something to cheer."

Report by Stephen Hollis