My guess is that you have got a ripped version of the game. Snooker 2002 has got FADE protection, when playing the ripped version after you save a game (or in your case get a fair way through the game) all shots appear like golf shots and fly off the table.
If you have a DVD burner, you can backup your orignial using PrimoDVD/RecordNow Max for a good copy (FADE only affects ripped games).
I know this because I have this game and ripped it during my CD-Writer-only days
