White has adopted a cleaner living approach

He decided a few months ago, out of his own volition, to stop serious drinking and gambling as well as cut down on smoking to give himself a realistic prospect of prolonging his career.

Runner-up at the British Open and a semi-finalist at this year's Grand Prix, White attributed his promising early season to "clean living".

He was on good form up until this week, only to be unlucky enough to encounter an opponent on a crest of a wave.

Having recently compiled a 147 maximum and a total clearance of 143 earlier this week, Dyson weighed in with a 144 to level at 6-6.

He then dominated the next three frames to streak to victory while White only totalled 10 points in the last four frames.

Methodical approach

Dyson faces a tough match on Friday against world number nine Fergal O'Brien, a Dubliner whose methodical approch will provide a test of his concentration and staying power.

It has always been clear that Dyson has the basic ability, but as the years went by the danger increased.

"I don't feel 30 years of age because in the snooker sense I can discount seven years of my career," said Dyson.

As if to personify dedication, Steve Davis qualified to play Stephen Hendry in the last 32 by beating Bradley Jones 9-5.

"A while ago I wasn't enjoying the game," said Davis. "Practice was a chore and even matches didn't stir me."

Nevertheless, with his supreme professionalism, he worked through the spell and is relishing the chance to beat Hendry in a world ranking event for the first time in seven years.

"Steve has given me a good hiding and it's throughly expected that he will give me another - but I'm still looking forward to it," said Davis.