Smith edges past Gurney to reach Grand Slam of Darts Quarter-Finals

Smith averaged 101 and hit 50 percent on the doubles in a polished performance from 'Bully Boy' en route in a high quality game which also included a 100.5 average from Gurney.

'Bully Boy' was 2-1 down in the early going including going a break down; despite that he was only 3-2 down at the interval having hit an 11-darter to do so.

Gurney produced his third 180 but this was only for Smith to hit double 16 for a 14-darter and a 4-3 deficit. Despite that, a second maximum and a 100 checkout saw Smith break back for 4-4 and from there he hit four consecutive legs to make it 6-4 including with a 110 checkout.

Gurney stopped the rot but despite that, Smith broke again to restore a two-leg cushion at 7-5 up. He made it three ahead with a 14-darter to lead 8-5 and 61 percent on doubles which was proving the difference.

Smith squandered darts late on and Gurney went one behind with a break of throw. Gurney this time was punished for missed doubles as Smith took out 69 to move 9-7 up.

From there, the St Helens ace claimed victory to move through as his chance to win a first major title continues in Wolverhampton.

Click here to view more information on the Grand Slam of Darts, the only cross-code tournament on the PDC calendar.

Dave Chisnall (102.02) 10-3 (96.47) Ryan Harrington
Gabriel Clemens (98.34) 9-10 (96.47) Glen Durrant
Michael Smith (101.56) 10-7 (100.49) Daryl Gurney
22:15 Peter Wright v Rob Cross

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