Nathan Aspinall Signs Off New Shirt in Style with 10-5 Win over Joe Cullen

Nathan Aspinall Signs Off New Shirt in Style with 10-5 Win over Joe Cullen

Nathan Aspinall kicked off his World Matchplay campaign in style, debuting his new shirt with a 10-5 win over Joe Cullen on Saturday.

What happened?

Aspinall fired in a 105.32 average and 16 180s in the process, taking out a huge 167 checkout along the way. The Stockport ace was in top form, dispatching his good friend Cullen with ease.

Why it matters for Nathan Aspinall

Aspinall's performance was a welcome boost for the 2019 UK Open champion, who has been out of the Premier League and World Series this season. Despite not being in top form, Aspinall showed no signs of rust, taking out some impressive checkouts to seal the win.

What comes next?

Aspinall will now face Luke Littler in the second round, after Littler kicked off his title defence in stunning fashion with a 10-6 win over Niko Springer. Aspinall will be looking to cause an upset, but Littler's performance so far suggests he is the man to beat.

Aspinall was pleased with his performance, saying: "I have not been playing that much, but I didn't expect to play like that. I am very happy with my performance, how I finished, and how I conducted myself on the stage."

Aspinall's new shirt was a talking point among fans, but he was focused on the game at hand. "I have got a pretty easy game next, I think, so I think I will be alright," he said.

Littler's win over Springer was a statement of intent, and he will be looking to continue his winning form against Aspinall. The World Matchplay is shaping up to be an exciting tournament, with some big names already making their mark.

The World Matchplay continues on Sunday, with some big matches on the schedule. Will Aspinall be able to cause an upset against Littler, or will the defending champion continue his winning form? Only time will tell.

Bunting survives huge scare

Stephen Bunting defied a stirring comeback from Niels Zonneveld to defeat the Dutchman in a marathon last-leg decider. Despite leading 8-5 and looking comfortable, Bunting was forced to survive match darts before eventually getting over the line.

Bunting forced a deciding leg and broke the throw to tee up a second-round tie with Josh Rock. Rock made a winning start for the second year running in Blackpool, beating Luke Woodhouse 10-4 despite a sub-91 average.

The Northern Irishman dispatched an out-of-sorts 'Woody' who missed 20 darts at double during the contest. "The two of us weren't firing on all cylinders, but at the same time, I'm very happy to have won," said Rock.

"This is one of my favourite venues. There was more in the tank tonight, but it just didn't happen.