Beaton chasing return to big time

Steve Beaton is determined to prove that his best days are not behind him in Dublin this weekend – nine years after winning his last major title.

The 41-year-old was crowned Embassy world champion back in 1996 but has failed to qualify for a major final since joining the Professional Darts Corporation circuit.

However, Beaton reached the semi-finals of the Skybet World Grand Prix 12 months ago, and he continued his love affair with the competition by beating second-round opponent Gary Welding last night.

He will face defending champion Colin Lloyd, a 3-0 winner against Wes Newton, in the quarter-finals tomorrow night.

“I haven’t won anything for a while but I think that if I can just win one tournament it will pick me up a little bit and prove that I can still do it,” said Beaton.

“I think that’s what Phil Taylor thrives on. Even if he loses one match he still believes he will win the next one, and that’s what he does all the time. It’s a great way to be really.”

Beaton is a driving instructor by trade but would like to give darts his full attention.

“I’ve got a job as well as playing darts – I’ve got a mortgage to pay like everyone else,” he added.

“I wish I could get a sponsor and never have to work again. But until I prove myself on TV I don’t justify getting a sponsor.

“It’s up to me to prove this week that I’m worthy of playing against these guys.”

Lloyd, meanwhile, was far from impressed with his display against Newton, admitting that he had to “step it up”.

“I’m only showing flashes of what I can do – but it will come,” said Lloyd. “I’ve got Beaton next and I will be up for it.

“No disrespect to Tom (Kirby) or Wes but I haven’t performed yet. Hopefully that will happen in the next round.”