Smith admits difficulty in playing close friend White: "But I wouldn't have been happy if I'd lost that match"

Michael Smith is through to the fifth round at the UK Open diminishing injury concerns with a 10-4 win over close friend and practice partner Ian White.

Smith said that while it was difficult to play a close friend, he had a job to do up there which he is pleased he did.

“It was difficult being up there against one of my best mates and my practice partner, but I had a job to do,” admitted Smith.

“Ian made it 4-7 and he had darts for 5-7. If that had gone in, it could have been a different story, but I took out the 124 on the bull and then the 167 and 100 followed.

“I pulled it out from somewhere. Ian is a really good friend, but I wouldn’t have been happy if I’d lost that match and hopefully I can go all the way now.”