Rampant Ross Smith produces sublime display to down Josh Rock in World Matchplay opener

Ross Smith produced a statement display in one of the games of the day at the World Matchplay to open proceedings up in Blackpool on Sunday afternoon against Josh Rock.

Smith will now face off against Gerwyn Price in the same section as Nathan Aspinall and with the latter in no form at all, it will be a big chance for the Deal ace who has often performed well in majors without getting the wins and being edged out. That wasn't the case with a 10-4 win this afternoon.

After a tentative start, Smith hit the front with a 75 checkout for 2-1 on double 12 last dart and continued to add to his lead with sublime combo finishing and also seeking out the treble 20 in most visits. He hit a 70 checkout for a 15-darter on double 16.

A 12-darter on double 16 saw Smith go further ahead at 4-2 but Rock wasn't done hitting back with a 62 checkout for 4-3. A slim double seven for Smith saw him lead 5-3 and at the break he was up 6-3 and surging towards the finishing line with a 13-darter.

His lead increased with an 81 checkout and he followed it up with a 14-darter for a 68 checkout and an 8-3 lead. Rock stopped the rot. But he was slapped in the face with two ton-plus checkouts for the win.

Smith was utterly deadly as he hit a 160 and 120 in a row to seal the win and move on. 'Smudger' delivers in a tough opening tie and moves onto Price. Given his opening display, he could yet be a dark horse.