World Number 8 Powers Through Opening Round

Fresh off his English Open triumph, Mark Allen delivered a clinical performance at Cheltenham's Centaur Arena, dispatching Chinese opponent Jiang Jun 4-1 in their first-round clash. The Antrim Ferrari showcased why he's considered one of snooker's most dangerous break-builders, compiling runs of 89, 73, and 101 in a one-sided affair.

Match Highlights

• Frame 1: Allen established early dominance with a 89-point clearance
• Frame 3: Century break (101) sealed psychological advantage
• Resilient Response: Jun avoided whitewash with 68 clearance in fourth frame
• Decisive Finish: Allen closed match with 73 break in 22 minutes

Road to Redemption Continues

The victory extends Allen's remarkable resurgence following his 19-month ranking title drought, which he ended dramatically in Sunday's English Open final. His 67% long-pot success rate against Jun signals ominous form for upcoming opponents.

Next Challenge: Allen faces Hungarian teenage sensation Bulcsu Revesz on Wednesday - a potential banana skin match against the World No.87 who shocked Ali Carter in qualifying.

Tournament Context:

• First British Open since 2021 revival
• £478,000 total prize fund
• Last 64 stage concludes Thursday