"It’s now a New Year, a new start": Ross Smith looking to 'hit the ground running' at Masters

Ross Smith had the best year of his career so far capped off with European Championship glory but in one of the best games of the past PDC World Darts Championship saw it not go his way against Dirk van Duijvenbode in a thriller.

Smith faces Damon Heta as a new season starts at Masters and it is a clash he is relishing as he looks to start off the new year well.

“It’s now a New Year, a new start and I want to get off on a good note and hit the ground running,” said Smith.

“Damon is such a top pro and a really lovely guy. I really admire him for what he’s done. He has come over from Australia and really worked hard at it.

“I always play well against Damon, it’s always a cracking game. My last two have been belters against him, so hopefully that sticks in his mind and I can do it again!”