Dennis is taking aim at UK Open

SWINDON ace Dennis Smith says he has found his ‘killer instinct’ ahead of his opening match at the Blue Square UK Open in Bolton tonight.

The thrower, nicknamed ‘Smiffy’ reckons the reason he is in relaxed mood is because he is on a hot streak of form and is enjoying being at the oche again.

Former quarter-finalist Smith, who will take on either Ken Mather, Gary Stephens or Robbie Parker in the second round this evening, said: "I’m looking forward to it more than I did last year.

"I had a real bad year last year but I’ve had a good start this year.

"I had a really good World Championship and kicked off really well in the Players’ Championship.

"I feel really comfortable going into the tournament. I’ve got my killer instinct back and I’m enjoying darts.

"I expect the old nerves will kick in once I’ve got into the venue but at this present moment I’m looking forward to it."

Swindon throwers Johnny Haines, Paul Cook and Mark Cox will also open their campaigns tomorrow, with Cox set for a meeting with five-time PDC World Championship semi-finalist Wayne Mardle, should he see off Les Fitton.

Smith added: "Paul Cook is a very good friend of mine and I play in the leagues with John and Mark.

"They are good players in their own right.

"Mark’s got a bit of a dodgy draw. He (Fitton) will definitely be on the ball tomorrow night because the last thing he will want is to lose to a qualifier."

Big names including defending champion James Wade and world number one Phil ‘The Power’ Taylor will enter the Sky Sports-televised £200,000 event - known as the FA Cup of darts - at the third round stage.