Heta shrugs off “struggles” as he bids to end wait for first title of the year

DAMON HETA insists his form is finally clicking into place as he bids to end his wait for silverware at the Australian Darts Masters.

The world No20 averaged a superb 102.39 to beat fellow countryman Joe Comito 6-2 in round one.

Heta, 38, has endured a difficult campaign on the big stage, failing to reach the quarter-final at the opening four majors of the season.

But his fortunes have started to change in recent weeks, with The Heat reaching the Players Championship 25 final and making the semi-finals of the European Darts Open.

Heta insists he is feeling comfortable with his game again.

He said: “I think I just felt too comfortable. I was having a bit of fun up here. I have known Joe for many years and I know what he is capable of.

“He got those few legs and I was like, he can build on that confidence. I shut it down a little.

“I just enjoyed myself and the crowd was on my side, so I will take that all day.

“I wouldn’t say struggles. I would say I haven’t been getting results. I feel like as of late things have been pretty good for me.

“If it has been a bad year and I have qualified for the World Matchplay, then it has not been too bad, I imagine.

“To play like I have been lately and tonight, for instance, I am very happy and I feel very comfortable when I come to do things like this.”

Heta has a chance to land his first title of the year on home soil, with Jonny Clayton standing between him and the last four in Wollongong.

Words: Aaron Nijjar

Image: Taylor Lanning