Colin Lloyd was a relieved man after booking a second-round place in the Stan James World Darts Matchplay tournament.

The Witham ace overcame debutant Dave Smith 10-6 in Blackpool last night.

Lloyd said: "I was a bit twitchy up there, because even though Dave came through the qualifiers I know what he is capable of.

"I've just gone off the boil in the last seven or eight weeks.

"I started the season on fire but a little bit of inconsistency is creeping in.

"I know I haven't played my best there but a win's a win and I've still got the chance to get better as the week goes on.

"I know most people think I bottle it in TV tournaments but I honestly believe that if I get to the final I will win it because I won't put myself under any pressure."

Lloyd, nicknamed 'Jaws', was below his best and lost the opening leg, and Smith moved 2-1 up before a burst of five wins in the next six legs saw him create a 6-3 cushion over the Leeds qualifier.

Published Tuesday July 27, 2004

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