CHRIS DOBEY admits it was a “special night” in Newcastle but now needs to kick on for Premier League success.

The Bedlington thrower sent the Utilita Arena with a stunning win over World Champion Michael Smith.

But now he faces a crunch clash with Nathan Aspinall in Berlin this Thursday as he bids to reach the top four in his debut season.

On his Newcastle homecoming, he admitted: “The walk-on was something special.

“It means a lot to me being a big Newcastle fan, having them come and do that with the flags for me was breathtaking.

“I didn’t expect it to be like that. I just had to take a moment when I got on stage to get my head around it.

“Normally I go to St James’ and it’s for everybody. Tonight that was for me and that meant a lot. I was just glad to get that first win under my belt.

“I was feeling the pressure 100 per cent, I can’t lie. I’m normally as calm as anything but I felt it. I think you can see in my performances, I wasn’t settled, but I loved every minute.

“I was very nervous, obviously to have my little boy meant more than anything. He doesn’t go much but it was a big thing for me tonight. I’m just happy I got the win tonight for the fans.”

Dobey won the opening night of the Premier League but has found it tough going since, despite playing well.

He’s now in fifth place, just two points behind Smith in the table, before the vital match with Aspinall in Germany.

He added: “I know there’s a lot more to come from me. I know I can play better.

“Results will show eventually. I’m happy with the way I’m playing.”

Words by Phil Lanning.