Nathan Aspinall enjoyed Owen Bates' exuberant reaction to 180 score: ''I loved it, absolutely loved it"

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.''

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.