Hecklers ruin McCloskey's chances

Originally from Carnhill, the 46-year-old was overall thrilled by his experience throwing against the big boys in such an historic venue, but believes his chance to progress to the quarter-finals of the BDO World Darts Championships was hampered by two hecklers during last Wednesday night's 4-1 defeat to Garry Thompson.

"It was annoying because nerves didn't effect me whatsoever," he claimed. "I'm not making excuses, but they were just two prats that ruined the game for me.

"It didn't ruin my experience at the Lakeside though, I loved playing there. I had no expectations and there was no pressure on me. I definitely believe I had the beating of him (Thompson) and the heckling just put a dampener on it. The match was there for me to win, but it did get to me. It was distracting.

"Every time I went to throw a dart they seemed to be cheering and it effects your concentration. They were Ted Hankey fans which, of course, make it even worse; they weren't even there to support Garry Thompson.

"It's annoying because 90 per cent of the people in the Lakeside were there for the darts and then you get the odd idiot that ruins it for everyone.

"I had a fantastic experience, it was my first time at the World Championships and, hopefully, I'll be back next year," he concluded.