(VIDEO) Nine-dart Smith after close win: ‘I knew I was going to win the match’

Michael Smith was one of the big talking points on day two of the 2022 UK Open as he hit a nine-darter in beating Mensur Suljovic 10-9. He spoke to Dartsnews after his game with the Austrian.

‘‘That was a tough game. I knew Mensur has not been on the greatest form of late, but he is quality player. He used to try his little things, with his slowing up. Now he just plays his normal game.’’

The match with Suljovic was a rollercoaster one, with ‘Bullyboy’ hitting a nine-darter while behind, before going ahead 9-6 and eventually closing it out in a decider. Winning his ninth leg proved to be an important moment for Smith.

‘‘Once I got to nine legs I knew I was going to win the match because I had the darts in the final leg. I can’t say I held my nerve in the last leg because it was terrible, but I did hold my nerve with the last dart, so I was pleased with that one.’’

The sparkling performances in Minehead come at a welcome time for Smith, who has struggled somewhat in the Premier League recently before winning his first game of the season last Thursday. He explains how the UK Open fuels him for the upcoming weeks.

‘‘You don’t want to keep looking at the table and see yourself sat at zero points. I want to be winning the nights, not just games. The UK Open is building my confidence now, I’m starting to hit 180’s again and my doubling is not too bad. If I can put it all together in once match I should go far.’’