Announcements

ST HELENS darter Michael Smith has progressed into the Betfred World Matchplay quarter finals for the first time after a thrilling victory over Max Hopp.

Smith started the tournament in Blackpool wearing his specially-designed shirt to highlight St Helens Autism Support, and also featured a message to family member “Our Little Bobby”, who has the condition.

The Clock Face-based darts ace, who is a keen Saints fan and sponsor of Dom Peyroux, had always wanted to incorporate the club’s Magic jersey into his playing top.

He also wanted to create a shirt to show his support for autism awareness.

His wife Dagmara posted: “When we found out Saints were running rugby training sessions for autistic kids, it all clicked together.

“We would love to help St Helens Autism support raise so much needed money.

“It’s a beautiful cause so close to our hearts.”

He will wear this shirt in the first round of every televised tournament. This one will be auctioned off at the end of Matchplay.

Smith will now play Mervyn King in the quarter final after a gripping 12-10 win.

Hopp started the better in the battle of the former World Youth Champions as he took a 4-1 lead, before Smith nailed a 130 checkout to start a run of five successive legs to go 6-4 in front.

It remained nip and tuck but in the tie break he smashed in his sixth 180 of the contest on his way to a 13-darter to wrap a thrilling victory.