Mark Williams aims to calm Crucible expectations

Mark Williams says he will not allow himself to get carried away despite a comprehensive victory over Mark Allen at the World Championship in Sheffield.

The 36-year-old secured his place in the semi-final against John Higgins, who beat Ronnie O'Sullivan, following a 13-5 win over Northern Ireland's Allen.

Williams went on to win the 2003 title the last time he reached this stage.

"Let's not get carried away. I haven't been to the semi-final for a while," said two-time world champion Williams

"I'm going to get out there and enjoy it. Fingers crossed I will give my best and hopefully things can happen."

World number three Williams led 11-5 overnight against Allen and needed less than an hour to secure the two frames needed to seal his place in the last four.

Higgins came through an intense encounter with O'Sullivan, overcoming his great rival 13-10.

Williams said before Higgins wrapped up victory that it made no difference which of the three-time world champions he faced.

"You only want to avoid them [during] the first couple of rounds," said Williams.

"I've played Ronnie in the second round [in] two of the last three or four years [and] probably that's why I haven't gone further in the tournament. [Williams lost 13-7 in 2008, and 13-10 last year, and also lost to O'Sullivan 13-11 in the quarter-finals in 2006].

"You know you are always going to play someone difficult in the semi-final.

"They're both as good as each other and it would be nice to watch them sweat it out and see who wins."

Williams has won both of his Crucible clashes with Higgins, both in the semi-finals.

In 1999, Williams beat Higgins 17-10, and in 2000, Williams won 17-15.