91�ȱ�

Reanne Evans has failed in her bid to become the first woman to play in the main draw of the World Championship.

England's 10-time ladies' champion, 29, put up a thrilling fight but lost 10-8 to 1997 world champion Ken Doherty in the first qualifying round.

Evans said: "I'm happy to have stuck in there with a player who has been world champion and has so much experience."

"It was such a tough game and she played out of her skin," said Doherty following his win in Sheffield.

Evans, who played left-handed and right handed shots during the match, had led twice in the opening session but Doherty edged 5-4 ahead.

At 9-8 in the second session, Evans almost levelled, with Irishman Doherty needing snookers to win the frame.

"She was there today because she deserves it," said Doherty. "She's a good player and she should be given more chances on the tour."

Evans, from Dudley in the West Midlands, added: "There's no reason why I can't beat people like Ken if I play a bit better."

In other games, Graeme Dott, who was champion in 2006, won 10-4 against fellow Scot Mark Owens.

England's Peter Ebdon, world champion in 2002, beat China's Lu Ning 10-6 and Scot Alan McManus, twice a Crucible semi-finalist, won 10-5 against England's Michael Wasley.

Each of the first-round winners must get through two more qualifying rounds to reach the main draw, which starts on 18 April.