Beating Ronnie O'Sullivan was a boost - Shaun Murphy

Murphy is aiming to become the third player to retain the UK title

Shaun Murphy believes beating Ronnie O'Sullivan in the recent Premier League final has boosted his confidence for the defence of the UK Championship.

Murphy followed victory over the world number one with a 9-5 first-round win over Gerard Greene in Telford.

"To win that really buoyed me coming into this tournament," the 27-year-old, who plays Ding Junhui or Mike Dunn in round two, told BBC Radio 5 live.

"I've never beaten O'Sullivan before, so the pleasing factors were twofold."

The world number three, down to four in the provisional rankings, was satisfied with his performance against Greene.

"I am not one of those players who slates himself after not playing his 'A' game," Murphy said.

"A good day for me is when I win and it is job done and into round two."

The 2005 world champion had a chance for a maximum break in the 13th frame, but missed the 12th red and said that tight pockets may have cost him the chance of a 147.

"These new tables from China, the middle pockets are really tight from that type of angle," he added.

"You will see a lot of pots like that missed this week."

Murphy is looking to become only the third person, after Stephen Hendry and Steve Davis, to retain the UK title.