Snooker: Bradford's James Wattana, fighting to stay in the top 16, reaches another important stepping stone tonight.

The 29-year-old Thai, who is ranked 15 in the world but has dropped to 25 in the provisional list for next season, faces Dennis Taylor in the second round of the £370,000 Regal Welsh Open in Cardiff.

Wattana, who has won three ranking tournaments, ended a near-year long victory drought on Monday, defeating world No 99 Robert Milkins 5-4.

It was the Thaiphoon's first win in a ranking tournament since he defeated Stefan Mazrocis in the British Open last March.

Taylor is not foolish enough to re-think his decision to retire, despite his fine opening victory.

However, the 1985 world champion is determined to enjoy the final few months of a professional career that began nearly 30 years ago.

And, given the Thai star's poor form this season, it is not inconceivable that he could go on to reach the last 16.

After beating world No 17 Gary Wilkinson, the 50-year-old Ulsterman said: "Last week's Nations Cup has given me an appetite for the game again.

"And I will be trying my hardest until the end of the season. I've made no secret of the fact that I want to go out at the world championship in Sheffield.

"But to get to the Crucible I know I face some tough qualifiers for that to happen."

Joe Johnson renews his acquaintance with Steve Davis in another second round match today. The 46-year-old Yorkshire-man met Davis in both the 1986 and 1987 world finals, Johnson winning 18-12 in their first clash, but losing the second 18-14.

Davis, 41, and to a lesser degree Johnson, continue to defy father time and a succession of opponents old enough to be their sons.

Davis is fighting to save his top 16 status, having dropped to 18 on the provisional listings and is delighted by his draw.

Johnson came through after a fine victory on Monday over UK and Grand Prix semi-finalist Dave Harold.

Defending champion Paul Hunter is also in action today against world No 187 Allister Carter who shocked No 20 Fergal O'Brien in the first round.

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