Smith claims victory in ‘St Helens Derby’ against Bunting to reach European Championship Quarter-Finals

Smith missed multiple match darts but avenged this by falling over the line. It was a pretty good performance from ‘Billy Boy’ who hit a 94.5 average, four 180s and three ton-plus checkouts.

The World Championship finalist started brilliantly going 3-0 up with ease which included a brilliant 158 checkout from ‘Bully Boy’. Despite that when Bunting got off the mark he reduced the deficit to just 3-2 behind to ask the question.

Another ton plus gave him the momentum again though with him hitting a 124 checkout. Bunting was also at it smashing in a 146 checkout.
Smith kept him at arms length though going into the interval at 6-4 but Bunting had done enough to keep himself in contention as a thrilling end to proceedings approached.

A three leg lead was cemented though at 7-4 up by again nothing could be done with it as Bunting took out 104 checkout. Smith went on the verge of victory but missed match darts saw Bunting continue to chip his way towards a decider. This wasn’t forthcoming though as Smith claimed victory.

Click here for more information on the European Championship, which takes place in Gottingen this weekend.

Vincent van der Voort (96.63) 10-5 (94.29) Chris Dobey
Michael Smith (94.56) 10-7 (90.75) Stephen Bunting
Gerwyn Price v Nathan Aspinall
Jeffrey de Zwaan v Jermaine Wattimena

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