WANDERERS boss Sam Allardyce crashed out of his first ever foray into the world of competitive darts with his head held high.

Big Sam stepped up to the oche to play professional Peter Castle in the first round of the UK Open regional finals at the Royal Oak pub in Chorlton, Manchester.

Keen darts fan Allardyce entered the competition to promote the UK Open Finals -- due to take place at the Reebok Stadium from May 30 to June 1.

But the "The Dark Dudley Destroyer" -- as he christened himself -- could not stop Castle powering to first-round victory in front of a packed crowd on Saturday afternoon.

He won 5-0 in the best of eight legs clash .

Allardyce, however, remained upbeat and stepped off the oche to rapturous applause in front of club chairman Phil Gartside. More than 100 other competitors also played on the day.

Today Big Sam said: "There was a lot of pressure on me as there were a lot of people there, but I thoroughly enjoyed the experience. All credit to Peter. He played very well indeed. I just hope it will give the sport a boost and encourage people to come to the Reebok to watch the finals.

"I think I will be sticking to management though and concentrating on getting all three points against Spurs tonight."

Overall winner was Mark Dudbridge who beat Bob Anderson 2-0 in the final. He now goes through to the UK Open Finals at the Reebok.

Tickets are now available for the event. Call 0871 871 2932