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 on Wednesday.
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.
The 26-year-Old Ding calmed down at the crucial moment and played a tightly defensive game to avoid making errors. 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."
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