Despite the Magician’s dominance, it wasn’t until he earned a 2-1 win over 1994 Masters winner Alan McManus in the second last round of matches, that he secured his progression. Breaks of 95 and 59 were enough to see Murphy seal the deciding frame win. He followed that up with a 2-0 defeat of Shoot Out champion Michael Holt.
Joining Murphy in the second phase is Leicester’s world number 70 Louis Heathcote, who recorded a crucial 2-0 defeat of 1997 World Champion Ken Doherty to claim second place in the group. Heathcote fired in a break of 113 in the decisive frame, to leave himself with an unassailable advantage over nearest rival McManus.
Both Heathcote and Murphy will return in March for the second phase of the £420,500 ranking event
The event continues on Sunday with Thepchaiya Un-Nooh and Zhou Yuelong headlining Group L. Fans can watch the action live on Matchroom Live website.
For live scores click here and for the group tables click here.
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