"I’ve had enough of being a nearly man": Ross Smith prepares for James Wade test with fire in his belly

Ross Smith is looking to shake the nearly man tag despite being a major champion and ascend to the highest heights of his career by becoming World Matchplay champion.

A desire buoyed by a superb display against Gerwyn Price in which the former European Champion will now use as fuel to the fire of his darting desire in his next match against the multiple major champion who has been the surprise factor of this tournament.

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“It was an amazing game to play in,” reflected Smith, who averaged 98.7 to dump out the 2022 runner-up.

"I have so much respect for Gezzy. He’s an unbelievable player, he’s a World Champion, so I’m really happy with the win and my performance in the second half [of the game].

“It was difficult to find my rhythm early on, but you have to grab yourself by the scruff of the neck and go: ‘Come on, let’s dig deep now.’“I want to kick on and do something. I’ve had enough of being a nearly man or losing out to a top player 6-5 or 7-6.”

But the belief is always equivocal for Smith who really does believe he can go on a run over the next few days and end up with the Phil Taylor trophy.

“I honestly believe I can win this,” continued Smith. "I wouldn’t be here if I didn’t feel I could win it. I have won one major, and there’s nothing stopping me from winning another.

“Last year I feel like I probably played better than I have this year, but this year I’ve been more consistent.

“I’m grinding results out now. Look at people like James Wade - he knows how to dig deep and grind results out.“I’ve been playing the game for 20 years but I’m still learning, and I think that’s important.”

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