Allen ready for Doherty clash

Crucible rookie Mark Allen will be fully prepared for his first appearance at the Sheffield venue.

The former IBSF world champion meets 1997 world-title winner Ken Doherty in an all-Ireland first-round clash in the 888.com World Championship.

And while it promises to be a daunting baptism for the 21-year-old, Allen is eagerly looking forward to his debut.

'When I'm back home I practise all the time with Joe Swail,' said the Antrim-born player.

'He's been to the semi-finals a couple of times and knows what the Crucible is all about.

'He's told me it will be completely different from any other atmosphere I've experienced before and how close the crowd will be.

'But he's just told me to go out and enjoy it and to treat it like any other match. I have never beaten Ken in a major tournament before, though I have won a few matches in local events back in Ireland.

'He's a great player and was provisional world number one before the China Open. But I know I will get chances. Whether it's a few or many I don't know but it will be up to me to take them.'