Nathan Aspinall is determined to make his mark as he resumes his Paddy Power World Darts Championship campaign on Saturday afternoon.
Aspinall will take on Andrew Gilding for a place in the fourth round at London’s Alexandra Palace, having kicked off his campaign with victory over Leonard Gates before the Christmas break.
The 33-year-old overcame the American in four sets, with Gates unable to replicate his impressive first round upset against Cameron Menzies.
‘The Asp’ has not been at his brilliant best in 2024, enduring a two-month injury lay-off in the summer, having suffered a straight-sets defeat to Ricky Evans at last year’s World Championship.
However, Aspinall is renowned for his resilience and mentality, which other top players in the sport have referenced in the past.
“It was a tough game of darts, but I felt good coming into the tournament,” claimed Aspinall, reflecting on his win over Gates.
“I have received a lot of scrutiny this year because of bad form, so I want to prove how good I am.”
The Stockport native just missed out on Play-Off qualification in the 2024 Premier League, finishing fifth in the eight-player roadshow.
After making his debut at Ally Pally in 2019, Aspinall has also reached the semi-finals on two occasions, losing to Michael van Gerwen and Michael Smith in his respective last four ties.
Since 2020, Aspinall has not progressed beyond the third round, although he’s determined to make amends over the coming days.
“I am a good darts player, but some people don’t see me as a good darts player,” declared the former UK Open champion.
“No one else is as tough as me mentally. This means more to me than anyone else in the world.
“After the 12 months I’ve had it was a big game against Leonard, and I was proud of myself for getting through.”
Aspinall will face Gilding in Saturday afternoon's headline act, after the former UK Open champion ran out a 3-1 winner against Grand Slam runner-up Martin Lukeman in round two.
Gilding - featuring in his sixth World Darts Championship - is also bidding to break new ground in the capital, as he eyes a place in the last 16 for the first time in his career.
2024/25 Paddy Power World Darts Championship
Saturday December 28
Third Round
Afternoon Session (1230 GMT)
Ryan Joyce v Ryan Searle
Scott Williams v Ricardo Pietreczko
Nathan Aspinall v Andrew Gilding