Limping Maguire gets past Castle at Barbican

He may be safely through to the last 64, but 2004 champion Stephen Maguire limped through his Betway UK Championship opener in more ways than one.

The 38-year-old Glasgow potter was permitted to wear trainers in his first-round tie with Billy Castle after fracturing his ankle in China and having endured a closelyfought tussle with the world No 115, eventually prevailed 6-4.

But the five-time ranking event champion admitted he was just happy to get over the line at the York Barbican, and is looking forward to getting plenty of rest before his next match at the weekend, and beyond.

“It was tough,” the world No 14 said. “My foot’s sore just now because I’ve spent a long time on my feet but it’s getting better.

“Billy beat me last time, so I knew he was a good player and he did well. I’m just glad to get that match over and done with.

“I can’t stretch too much or put pressure on it so whenever it comes to a shot where I have to lean over balls it gets awkward.

“But I’ve got a few days now to get rested and get ready for the next round. I’ve not had much time to practise but the UK Championship is massive, and I always want to do well here.

“Being in the top 16 ahead of the Masters is on my mind but this tournament is important as well and I’m just focused on getting back to my best.”

Elsewhere, Larkhall’s Graeme Dott cruised through to the second round with a 6-1 win over veteran Barry Pinches, and the 2006 world champion insisted he was pleased to get through a somewhat frustrating encounter.

Having struggled with a neck injury in recent times himself, Dott believes he is over the worst of his troubles and is looking forward to continuing a so-far promising campaign.

He said: “Playing Barry is always tricky because he’s so experienced and he’s on the slow side which makes it that bit more difficult.

“I played OK and didn’t miss many easy shots. I got a bit frustrated because every frame seemed to take an age, but it was the way it was, and it was good to keep a decent spell of form going.

“I’m still getting physio on my neck but I’m managing to play fine.”