Robertson takes heed of advice

Australian hot-shot Neil Robertson enjoyed an impressive 4-0 victory over world semi-finalist Ian McCulloch on the opening day of the Northern Ireland Trophy at the Waterfront Hotel in Belfast yesterday.

Left-hander Robertson rattled in runs of 80, 56 and 73 to set up an eagerly-anticipated second-round showdown with Jimmy White.

World number 28 Robertson had his preparation for the tournament disrupted earlier this month when he was attacked during a night out in east London.

But his performance against McCulloch was impressive and he admitted he is happy to take advice from more experienced players.

“I watched Stephen Hendry’s press conference after losing to him at the World Championships and he said that I could improve by cutting out the risky shots, so I’ve decided to do that.

“I’ve also been working really hard on my positional play and shot selection and I have really improved in those areas.”

It was also a great start for the home support as Joe Swail cruised to a 4-1 triumph over Joe Perry.