Allen claims £100,000 Players' Championship prize

The Antrim-based player beat Ricky Walden 10-6 in the final in Manchester to land the £100,000 top prize.

It’s the first ranking tournament that Allen has won on European soil, with both of his previous successes coming in China, in 2012 and 2013.

The local player had led 6-3 at the interval - having trailed 3-1 - but Walden looked to have set up an exciting finale when he pegged Allen back to 7-6.

But two half-century breaks helped Allen close out victory, which he wrapped up with a 67 break.

Mark said: “From 3-1 down I found a bit of form. I won six frames on the spin and got my confidence back.

“But tonight I was very nervous. I just wanted to get out there and get the job done. It means so much to me.

“I just want to win tournaments. I think I am good enough to compete at the highest level. I just haven’t showed it.”