HETA DEFIES MIND GAMES

By Aaron Nijjar  

DAMON HETA made a strong start to the UK Open, defeating Kim Huybrechts 10-2 before setting up a clash with Connor Scutt.   

‘The Heat’ averaged a solid 91.31 and dismantled the Belgian who put in a below par performance by his standard.  

World No.10 Heta lost the first leg of the match, but then cruised to a 6-1 lead and never looked back in the fourth round. 

Following his victory, Heta revealed Huybrechts attempted mind games during their bout.  

He said: “I felt pretty on edge at the start. And then obviously, I started getting the wind and I was cruising at one minute. Then yeah, there was probably a bit of niggle.  

“I just think he tried to get in my head to be honest and I welcomed it, because it just gave me another edge! I just got the job done so happy days.” 

Although, Heta doesn’t seem to hold any animosity over his opponents perceived attempt at mind games though.   

He added: “It was frustrating times. I’m getting ahead, nothing was happening for him, so he’s just tried something and it didn’t work.  

“At the end of the day, I got the job done and and that’s all that matters.” 

The Australian thrower reached the semifinals of the major last year before losing out 11-6 to the eventual tournament winner Dimitri Van den Bergh. 

Heta admitted he loves playing at the event in Butlin’s Minehead Resort.  

He said: “I love the draw I get really antsy and a bit nervous in my hands and I’m like: ‘Who’s got who?’  

“And then you’re watching the balls go down and your name’s not out yet, and you’re thinking who’s in. I just enjoy it mate. It’s such a good format and it should never change.”    

Heta will face Schutt today (Saturday) in Round Five after the Englishman surprisingly beat Gerwyn Price in the last 32. 

Image by Taylor Lanning.