'Local hero' Dobey ecstatic for Newcastle Premier League Darts homecoming: "This will be the one that I've dreamed of"

Chris Dobey is greatly looking forward to his reception in Newcastle, where he will play a home match in the Premier League Darts on Thursday night. In front of his own crowd, 'Hollywood' will take on world champion Michael Smith.

It is not the first time Dobey has been allowed to take the stage at the Utilita Arena. During the 2019 Premier League Darts, Dobey was allowed to make his appearance in his hometown as a 'Challenger.' That went quite nicely. He managed to hold Mensur Suljovic to a draw after a fine match.

Last time he walked out to Local Hero which is synonymous with the city and he will likely repeat the feat on Thursday.

“Everybody knows this is the big one for me, playing in front of a home crowd,” said Dobey.

“It’s going to be surreal. Any game where you’ve got a home crowd on your side is something special, so I’m going to enjoy every moment.”

“I kept telling people that I can’t keep playing that well without getting results,” he added.

“I’m delighted with the way I’m playing, and hopefully I go one better in Newcastle. It would be very special.

“This will be the one that I’ve dreamed of. I will knuckle down and hopefully I can perform on the night.”