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Gerwyn Price’s wait for a first-ever darts World Matchplay title continues after he exited this year’s competition in the last 16.

Price, from Markham, was beaten 11-9 by Ross Smith in Blackpool on Tuesday July 16.

Both players got off to a slow start before a captivating contest ensued, with Price nudging ahead at 8-6.

Smith then found top gear, winning five of the last six legs to to reach the World Matchplay quarter-finals for the first time – where he will play against James Wade.

“It means everything to me to be in the quarter-finals,” said Smith. “I used to watch this tournament as a kid and I’ve worked really hard to get here.

“In the first part of the game neither of us were at the races, so I was trying to fire myself up.

“I kept telling myself to fight, I dug deep and got on with it.”

Price began his World Matchplay campaign on the weekend, cruising to a 10-4 victory over Daryl Gurney.