NEIL HOPE made a winning debut in his first indoor World Tour event.
The 25-year-old England junior outdoor and indoor international and qualifier, who was competing in the first round of the Welsh International Masters at Llanelli, beat Hong Kong's Noel Kennedy 2-0.
The Westlecot bowler and 2002 Young England Bowler of the Year stormed to a 12-3 success in the first set over the world ranked No 12
But in the next Hope came from 4-0 down to draw level at 6-6 but then found himself 8-6 down with one end to go and facing a tie-breaker.
However, Hope produced a superb last wood to take out one of Kennedy's bowls and collect a three for a last gasp 9-8 set win and a 2-0 success.
Hope now faces former world champion, Welshman Robert Weale, the world No six, in front of the television cameras today in the second round.
A total of 32 bowlers began the competition on Sunday and Hope is one of only two non-seeds left in the last 16.
The victory over Kennedy earns him valuable world ranking points and the possibility of more to come.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article