MATT Clark has a point to prove to the bookmakers when he steps up on the Blue Square UK Open's main stage at the Reebok tonight.

Clark, pictured, who goes into the tournament in good heart after winning an event in Holland last month, faces former World champion Steve Beaton in a mouth-watering second round clash.

And Clark's motivation to win is heightened by the fact that Beaton is odds-on favourite to progress.

"I find it strange that Steve is such a massive favourite when I have beaten him every time in the four or five matches when we have met," said Worsley-based Clark, who is rated at 250-1 to win the tournament.

"I am always confident going into competitions, but I am even more so at the moment because I won in Holland and got to the final of the Antwerp Open.

"I have beaten some big names recently, including Denis Ovens, Michael Van Gerwen, Andy Smith and Peter Manley, so I think if you can beat them once you can beat them twice."

Nicknamed Superman, Clark has been playing in the Bolton leagues for the last couple of years after moving to Worsley from the south, and he is hoping he will get the chance to show local darts fans what he can do.

"Last year was atrocious really," said the 40-year-old. "I didn't get on until about 1am and everyone had gone home.

"I am looking forward to being on the main stage this year and showing what I can do.

"I've got a few tables of supporters coming to follow me and it would be nice to give them something to cheer. The atmosphere at the Reebok is second to none and I want to be able to appreciate it."

Former England international Clark, who lists winning the Canadian Open singles and British Open pairs as his biggest achievements in the game, has been a professional since 1993.

He will be joined on the main stage tonight by Wayne Mardle, who is playing Gary Welding, Kevin Painter, who clashes with Tony Eccles, and Terry Jenkins, who will face a qualifier.