Darts: Bernie Smith millimetres from big win at darts world championships

Bernie Smith during day seven of the William Hill World Darts Championship at Alexandra Palace. Photo / Getty

New Zealander Bernie Smith has come within millimetres of reaching the second round of the darts world championships in London.

Christchurch plasterer Smith went down 3-2 to Englishman Justin Pipe, having fought back from 2-0 down and set himself for victory in the decider.

Leading two legs to one in the fifth set, Smith had two chances to check out with doubles and secure victory but missed on both occasions.

Pipe, ranked 27th, fought back to win that leg and ultimately take out the match 3-0 3-1 1-3 2-3 4-2.

He books a second-round clash against compatriot and 16-time world champion Phil Taylor.

That honour was denied 53-year-old Smith, who followed compatriot Cody Harris this week in bowing out in the first round at Alexandra Palace.

Smith, who won the Oceanic Masters in New South Wales in October, had few problems advancing through a qualifying match earlier on Thursday morning (NZT).

He outclassed 19-year-old Chinese opponent Xiao Chen Zong 2-0 to book the final spot in the 64-man main draw.