Snooker: Williams Falls at First Fence

Mark Williams, twice world champion, became the eighth member of the top 16 to fall at his first fence in the Grand Prix, beaten 5-3 by Fergal O'Brien, a former world No9 who is trying to reclaim similar heights from a low starting point for the season of No44.

Williams started with a break of 123 but from 2-2 O'Brien compiled frame-winners of 65 and 74 in his characteristically meticulous style. Two frames later, from around level pegging, he cleared from yellow to pink for victory.

Asked whether he was happy with a six-week break before his next tournament, the UK Championship at York, Williams replied: "Last time I said something, the World Professional Billiard and Snooker Association tried to discipline me."

Only five ranking tournaments compared with last season's eight have been announced although negotiations to restore the Malta Cup and the Irish Masters to the list are still continuing.

"I don't want to sit at home twiddling my thumbs," said Stephen Hendry, reflecting on Ronnie O'Sullivan's decision to play in a new $8m (£4.5m) pool circuit. "Eight ball is not my game," said Hendry. "It's doubtful I'll go but I haven't ruled it out." Jimmy White and Tony Drago, though, hope to try their luck in the US.

"To win is paramount, performance is secondary," said Hendry of first-round matches in general after his 5-1 win over Dominic Dale. "I'm flying on the practice table - the form will come."

The world No72 Andrew Norman, who took a summer job as a delivery driver to make ends meet, reached a ranking last 32 for the first time by beating the Australian left-hander Neil Robertson 5-1.