Super Clark aims to make his mark

12:27am Friday 6th June 2008

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BOLTON darts ace Matt Clark is hoping last night's victory over former world champion Steve Beaton can be the catalyst for a long run in the Blue Square UK Darts Open at the Reebok Stadium.

Clark, nicknamed Superman, overcame Beaton 6-4 on the main stage to serve notice of his potential and book a third-round date with 10th seed Andy Hamilton tonight.

"I am delighted to come out on top against Steve and I am glad I avoided the big two, Phil Taylor and Raymond van Barneveld, in the draw," said Clark who is in good form after winning a tournament in Holland last month.

"The crowd really got behind me last night and I hope that continues. I think they know I live in Bolton now and their support was fantastic.

"Hopefully I can continue to give them something to cheer about.

"If I get on a roll, anything can happen."

Clark will not have it his own way against Hamilton, however. The Stoke-born ace was a semi-finalist in last year's world championships and also reached the final of the Grand Slam of Darts earlier this year.

However, it turned into a disappointing night for Tyldesley pub qualifier Dave Johnston.

The night started well for the 27-year-old when he beat Stuart Pickles 6-3 in the first round.

Johnston looked in good form as he rattled in two 180s in a victory that was never really in doubt.

However, he fell at the second hurdle when he was beaten 6-2 by fellow qualifier Alan Casey.

"I am bitterly disappointed," said Johnston who missed out on £1,000 prize money.

"I was pleased to get through the first game but I didn't play well enough to go through again.

"I should be beating players like that but I was hitting too many 60s. I can't put my finger on why that is."