Smith eases past Ashton in opening match, Nentjes claims consecutive wins to top table at halfway stage

Smith eased past Ashton in a 5-1 win which saw 'Smudger' average 99 with three 180's and 5/11 on the doubles including a high checkout of 108 as he set the benchmark to start the night against 'The Lancashire Rose' who didn't play poorly but her doubling was the difference with only 1/8 overall.

Nentjes then faced off against Mickey Mansell - the other member of the group tonight and came through in a thrilling tie 5-4. The Dutch youngster hit a 100 average, three 180's and was clinical on his doubles hitting 5/7.

He did survive late pressure though from the former PDC ranking winner who came from 4-2 down to force a decider but a 15-darter despite Mansell being first to a finish sealed the deal.

He then faced Lisa Ashton and produced an excellent display also in this tie making it maximum points so far with a 5-3 win which included a 95.4 average and four 180's en route. Is Nentjes the player to beat?

Ross Smith (99.67) 5-1 (86.63) Lisa Ashton
Mickey Mansell (99.09) 4-5 (100.17) Geert Nentjes
Lisa Ashton (80.13) 3-5 (97.5) Geert Nentjes
20:45 Ross Smith v Mickey Mansell
21:10 Mickey Mansell v Lisa Ashton
21:35 Geert Nentjes v Ross Smith