UFFCULME'S Sam Baird has won his first qualifying match for the World Championships in Sheffield with a 10-6 win over Stephen Rowlings.

The match was played over two sessions, with Baird coming back from 3-1 down to lead 6-3 after the first session with the help of a 103 break.

His next opponent is journeyman pro Joe Delaney, who reached the televised stages of the world championships in 2007. They meet over two sessions today (10am & 7pm).

If all goes according to plan, Baird could be facing six-time champion and snooker legend Steve Davis in the final qualifying round this Sunday.