Aspinall edges past King to claim maiden World Matchplay win

Nathan Aspinall suffered two first round exits before tonight at the World Matchplay but is in the winners' circle at last after a tense opening win 10-6 over Mervyn King.

Aspinall averaged 94.59, hit five 180's and 40% on the doubles en route in a polished display.

Aspinall claimed a commanding lead at the first interval sitting on a 4-1 lead over King with a 97 average.

But on return, King kicked into gear reducing the deficit to 4-3 with a break and a hold but at the interval, King missed two darts to draw level and Aspinall punished to make it 6-4.

He missed further darts on return and Aspinall headed further towards the finishing line at 7-5 up.

King stayed in touch with a hold at 7-6 down but Aspinall found an extra gear to go 9-6 up with a break of throw and suddenly on the verge. A 72 checkout sealed the deal though for the Stockport ace who moves into the second round.