Bingham dominated Zhang in their previous encounter.

Stuart Bingham is feeling optimistic as he prepares to face Zhang Anda in the UK Championship. While he knows it won't be an easy match, Bingham can't help but think back to their last meeting where he "absolutely hammered" Zhang. Bingham secured his spot in the second round with a close 6-5 win over Mark Williams, while Zhang impressed with a 147 break in his 6-3 victory over Lei Peifan. The two will now face off for a chance to advance to the quarter-finals and potentially face off against John Higgins or Judd Trump.

Bingham is feeling confident after making it through the qualifying rounds and defeating a three-time world champion. He also can't help but remember his dominant 4-0 win over Zhang in the Scottish Open last year, where he racked up impressive breaks of 119, 89, 68, and 65. Bingham knows that in order to come out on top again, he'll need to bring the same level of skill and focus to the table.

"I'm in the draw, so of course I believe I can win it," Bingham confidently stated. "But, I know it won't be an easy task facing Mr. Maximum Man in the next match. We've had some good battles in the past, particularly in Scotland last year. I remember knowing I had to be at my best to beat him and I did just that. I'll need to bring that same level of ability and determination to come out on top again."

Zhang Anda has also been on a hot streak recently, going from a journeyman player to a ranking event winner and a top 16 player. Bingham knows firsthand how talented Zhang is, having seen him play back in their training days at the Grove Academy in Romford. Bingham has always been impressed by Zhang's skills and is not taking him lightly in their upcoming match.

"He's always been a great player," Bingham acknowledged. "I remember even back in the day when we were training together, you could see his talent. It just took him a little longer to reach his full potential. He's a great, great player and I know I'll have to be at my best to beat him again."

Zhang is also feeling confident after his impressive performance against Lei Peifan, which included a maximum break. This was his third time achieving a perfect 147 score, but this one felt different to him. "This time I felt different because the UK Championship is such a big event," Zhang shared. "I'm just very happy and I can't wait to see what I can do against Bingham."

While Zhang may have appeared cool and collected during his match, he admits that watching the video back makes him feel a bit nervous. But, he's ready to bring his A-game and continue his impressive run at the UK Championship. Both players are looking forward to their upcoming match and are determined to give it their all on the table.

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