Price reveals staying calm fired him into World Matchplay semi-finals

GERWYN PRICE admits staying “calm” was the key to reaching his second World Matchplay semi-final.

The world No7 averaged 102.78 and fired in TEN 180s to beat Ross Smith 16-12 in a nail-biting contest at the Winter Gardens.

Price, 41, is aiming to become the first Welshman to lift the Phil Taylor Trophy after losing the final in 2022, following previous near misses from Ritchie Burnett and Jonny Clayton.

The eight-time major winner has previously spoken about wanting to unleash his old roaring self on stage but changed his approach against Smith.

He said: “I don’t know what it is. I am trying to keep myself calm, and it worked today.

“But on other occasions I need to let myself go. Unless it comes naturally, it doesn’t happen.

“I am thankful I played pretty decently tonight, and I did hold it together.

“I know the way Ross plays. That is the way I want to play, but sometimes it just doesn’t happen.

“Credit to Ross, he has played fantastic this season. It was an up-and-down game.

“We were really good in stages but also really poor. I am going to get better and better as this tournament goes on.”

The Iceman will face either James Wade or Gian van Veen on Saturday evening in Blackpool.

He added: “To be honest, they are similar players. They are both slow and methodical.

“James is one of my best friends on tour and we get on fantastically. I wish him well, and Gian as well.

“It is going to be a tough one for me.”

Price surged into a 12-8 lead before Smith hit back with four straight legs to drag the tie level.

The former world champ responded by halting the comeback, then produced sensational 121 and 91 checkouts to restore his advantage at 15-12.

Price kept his composure to finish the job, taking out 56 for victory.

Words: Aaron Nijjar

Image: Taylor Lanning