STUART Kellett will attempt to beat Michael Smith for the first time when they meet in the Coral UK Open fourth round later this afternoon.
The Northwich thrower progressed to the last 32, equalling his best run at the event three years ago, after back-to-back wins on Friday at Minehead.
His reward is a head-to-head with Premier League newcomer Smith, who has risen to eighth place in the world rankings.
Many thanks for all the good luck messages 👍 will give it my all 👊 Massive good luck to the mighty Cheshire this weekend 🎯 enjoy guys
— Stuart Kellett (@StuKellett) March 5, 2016
They have met on three previous occasions in floor tournaments, with the St Helens star emerging as victor each time.
However Kellett takes to the oche in positive mood after seeing off last year’s World Youth Championship runner-up Nathan Aspinall (6-5) and emerging Dutchman Joey ten Berge (9-7) at Butlin’s Resort.
His next encounter is third on the card for board three, following Joe Cullen’s encounter with Alan Norris and a clash between Mark Webster and Dirk van Duijvenbode.
The competition’s fifth round, for the last 16 players, is scheduled for Saturday evening.
At this stage in 2013, the Cheshire regular succumbed to Jelle Klaasen.
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