Gould hits century to make winning start in Hong Kong

Martin Gould made an outstanding break of 136 in the deciding frame to win his opening match at the General Cup in Hong Kong on Monday.

Pinner’s world number 24 held his nerve to see off the challenge of China’s Zhang Anda in the first of three round-robin matches this week.

Gould made an explosive start with a break of 135 in frame two but saw his 3-1 lead eroded in the best-of-seven encounter.

Zhang, ranked 48 places below Gould, hit back with some solid potting but the west Londoner saved his best for last with his second century.

Gould faces Michael White on Tuesday and Joe Perry on Wednesday in his last tournament before next week’s UK Championship.