Snooker: O'Sullivan in impressive early form

Ronnie O'SULLIVAN was today setting out to seal his place in the second round of the Betfred.com World Snooker Championship after launching his title bid in impressive style.

The three-time champion was at his best as he took a 7-2 lead over Dominic Dale, the Vienna-based Welshman last night.

Meanwhile, seven-time winner Stephen Hendry admitted he "got out of jail" against Joe Perry after winning 10-9 in the first round.

Hendry said: "If I win this thing I might still contemplate retirement. I've got a big decision to make at the end of the season."

But, in a mixed day for Scots, China's Ding Junhui clinched his place in the second round with a 10-2 victory at the expense of Jamie Burnett while Stephen Maguire, the world No.?7 from Glasgow, crashed out in a late-night finish as he suffered a 10-9 defeat against qualifier Barry Hawkins..

Peter Ebdon, the 2002 champion, is making his 20th consecutive appearance at the Crucible, having made his debut in 1992.