Smith not looking to make statements at World Darts Championship: "I'll leave all the bar setting to MVG, Gezzy and Wright"

PDC
Tuesday, 28 December 2021 at 10:00
WLDCHAMPS RD3 MICHAEL SMITH10A
Michael Smith saw off William O'Connor in another quality display for 'Bully Boy' to reach the Last 16 at the PDC World Darts Championship but he wasn't pleased with letting the Irishman back in.
"I was until I started giving the game back. 3-1 up I thought I was playing really well, finishes were going in. Scoring was going in at the right times and I know if I'll watch it back, you'll see I took my foot off the pedal. Even though in the game, I never felt it did. Just relieved I got over the line," said Smith post match.
For Smith though, he is aiming not to shout about his wins and wants to be like Jonny Clayton in his nature.
"I'm not setting the bar, I'm not doing nothing. I'm just playing the game, I'll leave all the bar setting to Michael and Gezzy and Peter. They can do all the things they want to do, I'm just here to play darts like Jonny (Clayton) does. He's a model professional, he's won four tournaments this year. He won't tell you he's won four, he's so quiet and relaxed and gets on with his game. That's how I want to be."
World Championship draw
Many see Smith as having a rough draw at the World Darts Championship but he points out the same occurs in most tournaments and he comes through.
"It's the same when you go back to the Grand Slam, every year I get the Group of Death and I always come through and it's the same here. I'm not bothered who I play as long as I'm playing, that's the main issue."