Joe Cullen admits it is time he conquered the big stage after another first-round exit at the Ladbrokes World Championships.

John Part’s clinical finishing proved decisive in a 3-0 victory on Saturday night – leaving Wyke’s Cullen still looking to break his Alexandra Palace duck.

Cullen said: “I’ve had three full years (on the pro tour) now and I’m not happy where I am in the rankings. I should be higher.

“But you’ve got to do it on the big stage, that’s where it really matters.

“I don’t think I’ve ever played really badly but just not done enough.

“I’m really disappointed. John’s a three-time world champion but it was a good draw.

“I’m not being disrespectful but I’d rather face him than a Taylor, Barney or Lewis and John will admit himself he hasn’t had the best of years.”

It was a tight match but Part’s 56 per cent check-out ratio kept Cullen at arm’s length. The 22-year-old fired three maximums but his highest finish was only 52.

Part took out three from over 100, clinching the match with a 108.

The Canadian said: “Joe’s a good opponent and we were pretty even but I think experience was the big difference.”

After swapping breaks to start the match, Cullen missed six doubles in the fourth leg to drop the opening set. He began the second with a 180 but Part still took the leg from 127, holding on to win 3-2.

Cullen started the third set with another maximum but again dropped the leg and Part sealed victory with another ton-plus check-out.