China's Ding beats Scot McManus at snooker worlds

Sheffield, April 25 (IANS) China's Ding Junhui beat a late surge from Scottish veteran Alan McManus to win 10-5 at the first round of the World Snooker Championship here.

Ding, who was shocked at the opening round last year, came into the second session leading 7-2, only to see McManus win three frames in a row to make it 5-7 Wednesday, reports Xinhua.

The 26-year-Old Ding calmed down at the crucial moment and played a tight defensive game. His tactics paid off and he took the next three frames and the best-of-19 clash.

Ding, who won the PTC Grand Finals last month, will next face 39-year-old Mark King for a place in the quarterfinals.

"Alan played very well this morning and it was a tough match," said Ding. "My concentration was not all there and when I got chances I was missing some of them.

"I just want to forget about this match and concentrate on the second round. I need to get good practice in and get a good rest. I do not really feel pressure when I play at the Crucible. All I try and do is to learn from my experience. I came to win the title so I will be doing all I can."