COUNTY star Ross Muir was in action at the UK Snooker Championships in York this week.

Muir, from Musselburgh, faced experienced Northern Irishman Joe Swail in the first round on Tuesday, and had to come from behind to book his place in the second round.

The 21-year-old county star made an excellent start against Swail, who has played in 10 major ranking semi-finals, as he raced into a 2-0 lead in the early stages.

Veteran Northern Irishman Swail levelled, though, before turning the contest on its head to lead 5-2.

Muir managed to level the scores, before the players were forced off for almost three hours to allow a scheduled evening match to take place, before returning to complete the decider, which was won by the former Musselburgh Grammar School pupil.

Muir was delighted with his performance, and told Courier Sport: "I'm really pleased to beat a player like Joe, especially after being 5-2 down.

"To come through the way I did is a sign of my resilience, and that gives me a lot of confidence."

Despite the 21-year-old admitting his game "is not at top form", he feels the changes he made following a first round 4-1 defeat in the Northern Ireland Open earlier this month, have helped.

He said: "I've really tried to get my head down and concentrate on my game.

"It's not at its best but after the Northern Ireland Open I have been trying to focus on correcting the errors in my game.

"My preparation [for the UK Championships] has not really been ideal, so it's really pleasing for me to beat a guy like Joe."

The world number 70 quickly turned his attention too two-time former champion Ding Junhui of China – his opponent in the second round at the weekend, after he edged past Brazilian Igor Figueiredo on Tuesday.

Muir believes it is "quite likely" their match will be televised live on the BBC, but is relishing the prospect.

"It is where every player wants to be, but I try not to think about it [television] too much.

"When I'm playing, I just concentrate on my game."

He also revealed what he believes it will take to cause an upset against the former champion.

"I've just got to go out and play my natural game.

"I know I've got the game to beat Ding because I've beaten him before.

"I'm relishing the prospect and looking forward to the weekend."

Their second round match will be played on either Saturday or Sunday, with schedules yet to be confirmed by organisers.