Nathan Aspinall finally had to work hard Friday night to qualify for the second round at the International Darts Open. 'The Asp' was ahead 4-1 and 5-2 against Owen Bates, but could only beat Bates after a decisive leg.
''At 4-1 I thought it was game over,'' Aspinall admitted afterwards. The Englishman then saw that his compatriot fought his way back into the match handsomely. ''Credit where credits due. Owen is a fantastic player. I think he went 12, 11 and then the 170 checkout. I think the best player won in that game, but he played really well. He pushed me all the way and credit to him.''
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Bates even got two more chances to beat Aspinall in the 11th leg. ''You need a bit of luck in this game. Hopefully that's a bit of luck that I need to kick me on. I can't wait to go to bed. Hopefully tomorrow (Saturday, ed.) I'll feel refreshed and ready for a big day against Jonny (Clayton, ed.).''
Aspinall also looked back on a funny moment in the eighth leg. The reigning World Matchplay champion threw a 180 and celebrated exuberantly. Bates responded by also throwing a 180 score himself, followed by a primal cry. ''I gave it big when I hit the 180 and then he did it. I loved it, absolutely loved it. I thought fair play to him,'' Aspinall said.
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