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DAVE Chisnall took the spoils in a compelling battle with fellow St Helener Michael Smith in the BetVictor World Matchplay in Blackpool on Tuesday.

Chisnall had produced a sensational comeback from 7-1 down to beat Michael Smith 11-8 and book his place in the quarter-finals for a fifth time.

In an all-borough clash it was Smith who started quickest, racing into a 4-1 lead at the first break before continuing his dominance to move 7-1 up, hitting a 110 finish along the way.

However, Chisnall rallied to reel off ten of the next 11 legs in spectacular style, throwing an impressive 103.02 average to stun Smith and reach the last eight of a televised ranking event for the first time in over a year-and-a-half.

“It’s unbelievable to win in that way,” said Chisnall, who hit ten 180s and two ton-plus finishes.

“I haven’t played great darts for eight months and I started slowly again, and Michael took advantage.

“I’ve had a few good comebacks before but I had nothing to lose at 7-1 and my doubles started going in.

“It’s nice to be in the quarter-finals but I want to push on from here.

“Not being in the Premier League was a kick up the backside but I’ve worked really hard leading up to this event and I feel good.”

Chizzy will now play the tournament’s surprise package Jeffrey De Zwann in the quarter finals on Thursday.

De Zwann has defeated already Michael van Gerwen and Adrian Lewis in the opening rounds.

Meanwhile, Gary Anderson defeated Windle’s Stephen Bunting 10-7 in the opening round of the prestigious tournament.