Snooker: Stephen Maguire made it third time lucky at the Crucible Theatre today as he reached the second round of the 888.com World Championship with a 10-6 victory over Mark King.
The fourth seed was unlucky to be drawn against Ronnie O'Sullivan on his two previous visits to Sheffield and lost both times, although last year he pushed the 'Rocket' to a deciding frame.
This time, however, Maguire finally got over the initial hurdle to ensure he will end a disappointing campaign on a brighter note.
It was not exactly vintage stuff from the former UK champion, but seven half-century breaks indicated his game is in solid shape.
"All I've been thinking about for weeks has been this match," said the 25-year-old Scot, who will meet Alan McManus or Marco Fu in the second round. "I'm chuffed to bits because I love winning matches, whether it's the World Championship or just in the local club."
King's chances disappeared when he missed the final black off its spot in frame 14, which meant he trailed 9-5 instead of 8-6, and the Essex player admitted that had been pivotal.
"I played well in patches but missed a couple of balls that cost me," said the 32-year-old. "I didn't disgrace myself though."
The two matches that began in the morning and afternoon sessions were one-sided affairs, with two-time former champion Mark Williams opening an 8-1 lead over Anthony Hamilton.
Paul Hunter, who has been battling against cancer for the last 12 months, trailed 7-2 to Neil Robertson ahead of tonight's conclusion.
The Yorkshireman has understandably found competing tough since he was diagnosed with his illness but played better than the scoreline suggested, especially considering his lack of matchplay.