HUMPHRIES SET FOR EPIC CLASH WITH SMITH

By Aaron Nijjar 

LUKE HUMPHRIES is looking to boost his confidence at the European Darts Trophy as he gears up to face old foe Michael Smith. 

World No. 1 Humphries beat Boris Krcmar 6-4 to enter the last 16 at Göttingen.  

‘Cool Hand’ put on a sensational performance as he averaged over 101 and sealed the match with a terrific 134 Tops Tops finish.  

Krcmar was stellar in defeat as he averaged over 102 and smashed in two ton plus checkouts in a high-class affair.  

Seven-time major winner Humphries has now set up a clash with former World champion Michael Smith in round three.  

Humphries and Smith have met 18 times and have won nine matches each setting up a blockbuster clash tomorrow (Sunday).  

The Cheshire thrower admitted he cannot afford to underestimate ‘Bully Boy’ ahead of their match.  

He said: “He’s not been playing his best and he’s openly admitted that.

“I won’t come up on the stage thinking I’m playing the C game Michael Smith. 

“I will be coming up on the stage tomorrow thinking I’m playing the A game Michael Smith.

“If you think anything less is going to happen you set yourself up for a fall.

“I’m looking forward to playing him he suits my rhythm and I suit his rhythm.

“It’s going to be tough game. Hopefully I can come out on top.” 

World Masters champion Humphries admitted he is hoping to have a good run in the competition in order to increase his confidence after going winless in three matches at the Premier League.

He added: “I just need to have a good run. That’s what I need.

“I need something to give me a little confidence because it’s lacking a little bit.

“But I do believe I am playing well and I feel good.

“That’s the most important thing.” 

Image by Taylor Lanning.