Merseyside’s Dave Chisnall and Michael Smith are both in action today, as they take to the stage for their opening round matches of the 2019 Grand Slam of Darts.
First up is Dave Chisnall, who has a tough test ahead against Jamie Hughes. ‘Chizzy’ has been playing some fantastic darts recently, and must fancy his chances this weekend. The 39-year-old goes into this opening fixture as favourite, and will be hopeful of getting the victory and progressing in the tournament.
On the other hand, St Helens’ Michael Smith hasn’t been on the top of his game in recent times. Despite moving up to number four in the world, ‘Bully Boy’ will feel he can play a lot better.
The 2019 World Championship runner-up takes on BDO World Champion, Glen Durrant. ‘Duzza’ himself has been climbing the Order of Merit at a rapid rate, and will fancy his chances of upsetting the odds and beating Smith.
Again, the Merseyside man goes into the match as a marginal favourite, and will be expecting to brush Durrant aside with minimal fuss.
Elsewhere in the opening round, world number two, Rob Cross, faces Lisa Ashton, the only woman who is competing in the tournament.
Last year’s winner Gerwyn Price also features, with Northern Irishman Daryl Gurney and popular Scotsman, Gary Anderson, in action.
World number one, Michael van Gerwen, ‘Snakebite’ Peter Wright and James Wade are some of the other notable names stepping up to the oche this weekend in Wolverhampton.
Both Michael Smith and Dave Chisnall will be hoping to play their best darts across the weekend, with both arrowsmiths believing they can bring the Grand Slam trophy back to Merseyside.
Keep up to date with all our social media channels, @merseysportlive for updates on the weekends darting action.
Photo – Sven Mandel – Creative Commons Licence
