Ding Junhui has gained the upper hand in the so-called China Derby in the first round of the World Snooker Championship in Sheffield, England. He beat compatriot Liang Wenbo 10-8 to book a place in the next round.

China's Ding Junhui (R) and his compatriot Liang Wenbo are seen during the first round match of 2009 World Snooker Championship in Sheffield, England, April 21, 2009. Ding finally pulled through to clinch the match 10-8. [Zeng Yi/Xinhua]

There was a lot of anticipation as Ding Junhui and Liang Wenbo came into this match as the two best Chinese snooker players in the sport's premiere event. Ding Junhui is more established, having won snooker's three ranking tournaments.

Liang Wenbo is an up and coming star and is just one year younger than Ding. He's played at a consistent level compared with Ding, and most experts didn't expect Ding to have an easy time of it. The best-of-19 frame first round was played in two sessions, with Ding leading 5-4 going into Tuesday's decisive round.

Ding staged a quick start to take two frames in a row and extended the lead to 7-4. The 14th frame was the match's turning point, as Ding made several errors and was penalized 7 points. After taking this frame, Liang suddenly found his magic touch and went on to win the next three frames and overtook Ding at 8-7.

The balance of the game seemed to tilt toward Liang, but he didn't convert his chances, lost his rhythm and made several errors. It was the more experienced Ding who showed his prowess by sweeping the next three frames to win the match 10-8.

(CCTV April 22, 2009)