Former champion Mark Williams cruises into last 16 at China Open

BEIJING, March 26 (Xinhua) -- Mark Williams, the champion of the 2006 edition, cruised into the last 16 of the 2008 World Snooker China Open after eliminating Marcus Campbell 5-1 here on Wednesday.

Campbell, who edged Chinese cueman A Bulajiang in the wildcard round, had a brilliant start by snatching the first frame with an impressive 66 clearance.

However, Williams demonstrated his "golden" left hand's accuracy and went on a five-frame roll including breaks of 110 and101 to dumped out Campbell.

"I did well in the beginning, but Williams just got better out of him, and I cannot stop him in this match," said Cambell.

"I came here five days ago, and made good preparation for this tournament. I don't want to disappoint myself again," said Williams, who was knocked out in the first round last year.

In the second round, Williams will take on former world champion Peter Ebdon, who beat Jamie Cope 5-1.

Ebdon faced little challenge of Cope and fired in breaks of 62,63, 70, 99 and 74 to enjoy the easy win.

Later on, Shaun Murphy fought eight frames to score a 5-3 win over Dave Harold, while John Higgins defeat Joe Swail 5-4.