CWM'S Mark Williams made it three Champions Cup semi-final appearances in a row today by beating Paul Hunter in the penultimate match of the group stages.

But the world number one will need to raise his game if he's to go on and lift the trophy for the first time.

The former world champion made a top break of just 43 in his 5-2 success over Benson and Hedges Masters winner Hunter at the Brighton Centre.

"I'm getting used to playing like that," agreed Williams - whose second successive victory takes him top of Group B.

"But I'm not too worried. To be honest I wouldn't have been bothered had I been on my way home. I'd still be smiling," he said.

As it stands Williams will line-up against Group A runner-up Peter Ebdon in Saturday's second semi-final. But that situation could change if John Higgins beats so far winless Stephen Hendry this evening.

Then Williams would tackle Ken Doherty for a place in Sunday's best of 13 frames final. Hunter, who finishes his campaign with just one victory to his name, led for the only time by capturing the opening frame.

Williams then reeled off four frames in a row including his run of 43 in the third. Hunter pinched frame six on the colours. But Williams took a scrappy seventh to confirm his place in the penultimate round and make it six wins out of six against Hunter.

Williams' only defeat in the competition came last Saturday when he lost 5-4 to Scotsman Higgins.