Doherty makes short work of tricky challenge

KEN DOHERTY inflicted a Crucible debut nightmare on rising star Barry Hawkins when he cruised into the second round of the 888.com World Championship in Sheffield yesterday.

Hawkins, ranked number 29 in the world, has made rapid strides over the last couple of years to secure a top-ten place for next season, but will quickly want to forget his first appearance on snooker’s biggest stage.

There was no sign of the trauma ahead when Hawkins won the first frame of the match, but Doherty then reeled off 10 in succession to prevail 10-1 and book a possible clash with Matthew Stevens.