CWM'S Mark Williams joined another former winner, John Higgins, in slipping out of the Embassy World Championship at Sheffield's Crucible Theatre last night.

Second seed Williams lost 13-12 to Ian McCulloch in a see-saw encounter, the world number 17 from Preston eventually coming through a tense decider to book a quarter-final against Alan McManus starting today.

Although disappointed to have lost in round two for the second consecutive year, Williams has the compensation of standing to collect £161,000 if the maximum break he made in his first match is not equalled.

"Ian played very well, very consistently, and every time I missed he punished me," said two-time champion Williams. "If he keeps playing like that there's no question he can win the tournament.

"I'm an excellent winner but also a very good loser and I couldn't have played a better match in defeat."

McCulloch has until now been regarded as something of a journeyman within the sport but could be on the verge of a major breakthrough.

"Wins like that don't just come over three sessions but through 10 years of hard practice," said McCulloch.

"It makes all the extra hours I've spent on my exercise bike and on the practice table worthwhile. If that's what I have to do to be successful I'll do it."

Fellow Welshman Matthew Stevens wrapped up his emphatic victory over fans favourite Jimmy White, winning 13-5.

Shaun Murphy had earlier created another shock when he produced a stunning performance to win 13-8 against Higgins.

Murphy now faces six-times former champion Steve Davis.

Another high-profile casualty was Jimmy White, who gave his fans one last hurrah before he was sent tumbling out by Matthew Stevens.

Peter Ebdon edged Stephen Lee 13-9.