Earlier in the day, this season’s British Open winner and Xi’an Grand Prix finalist Murphy progressed to round three with a 4-2 win over Elliot Slessor.
“While there were no big centuries I was pleased that when I did get my chance I was able to take it,” said Murphy.
“I’m chasing some of my own personal goals, working hard between matches and between tournaments. There’s plenty left in the tank so as long as I’m in the tournament I’ll keep punching.
“It’s a long time since I played in a one-table set-up here, it’s not been a happy hunting ground for me for nearly two decades but it’s not been for the want of trying.
“I can’t wait to try to go further in the tournament. It’s one of my favourites, I love it here in Belfast, the people, the crowd, the venue.”
World number 15 Gary Wilson booked a last-16 meeting with world number one and four-time NI Open winner Judd Trump by beating Martin O’Donnell 4-2 and China’s Si Jiahui whitewashed Stephen Maguire 4-0.
Trump is aiming for a first title since winning the UK Championship last December and a first semi-final appearance in a ranking event this season.
Jack Lisowski, ranked 29, upset four-time world champion Mark SeIby 4-2 and will play Thepchaiya Un-Nooh next, after the Thailand cueist defeated Mark Davis 4-1.
He Guoqiang was a 4-2 victor over fellow Chinese player Wu Yize, with defending champion Kyren Wilson or Ryan Day his next opponent.
Zhou Yuelong emerged a 4-2 winner over David Grace to secure his berth in round three.
