Higgins impresses in beating Day

World champion John Higgins took a step towards the semi-finals of the Malta Cup after a 4-2 win over Ryan Day.

Higgins is now top of Group One after two qualifying wins out of two and faces Ali Carter on Wednesday as he aims to reach the knockout stages.

Carter powered to a 5-1 over Alex Borg, while, in other group matches Graeme Dott and Ding Junhui drew 3-3.

Dominic Dale made it two successive victories after he beat compatriot Mark Williams 4-2.

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"I've not had the best of seasons, so it's nice to get a few games under my belt in Malta," said Higgins.

"I've been trying a few things with my technique, but the standard is so high these days that it's all on the day that matters."

Masters champion Mark Selby must win his last two group matches to stand any chance of reaching the semi-finals after losing 4-2 to defending champion Shaun Murphy.

"I've not put the hours in since I won the Masters," said Selby, who was beaten 4-2 by Stephen Hendry in his first match..

"I've done a few exhibitions with John Higgins, but I've not really played," added Selby.