Stephen Maguire is hoping Portomaso’s luxurious Hilton hotel and conference centre triggers some happy memories as he struggles to regain the form which won him the Malta Cup two years ago.

Andy Hicks has had four days to reflect on his post-match bust-up with Quinten Hann at the Embassy World Championship that rocked the sport.

JOHN HIGGINS was a man in a hurry as he swept into the second round of the Irish Masters in just 53 minutes yesterday.