Stephen Maguire, the world No2, brushed aside Ian Preece 5-0 on the opening day of the Welsh Open at the Newport Centre.

The 27-year-old from Glasgow, who is aiming for his fifth ranking tournament triumph, was untroubled as he eased past the Welshman in the best-of-nine-frames first-round match in 1hr 25min with a highest break of 78.

Maguire, who along with the world No1, Ronnie O'Sullivan, was the only player to win two ranking tournaments in the 2007-08 season, was unstoppable. The 27-year-old edged the opening frame before breaks of 55, 69, 78 and 59 secured an easy victory.

"I was surprised to win 5-0 and play the way I did," said Maguire. "He had two decent chances in the first two frames but after that I didn't give him a shot. Today my safety and long potting was good, so hopefully I can push on and do well."

Preece, who lives only a mile from the venue, is still awaiting a major breakthrough 10 years after winning the world amateur title at the age of 16.

Joe Swail beat Mark Allen 5–3 after his Northern Ireland compatriot had twice missed a testing black for 4-4. The 39-year-old reached the semi-finals of the event in 1993 and 1999 and will meet Shaun Murphy or Barry Pinches in the next round.

Matthew Stevens provided a Welsh win when he recovered from two down with three to play to beat Andy Hicks 5-4.