Gary Anderson and Michael van Gerwen rolled back the years with vintage performances on Day 13 of the Paddy Power World Darts Championship, as the final round two matches before Christmas delivered high drama at Alexandra Palace.
Anderson stole the spotlight with a superb display against Connor Scutt, averaging close to 106 to reel off three straight sets and post the tournament’s second-highest average so far. The two-time World Champion now faces Jermaine Wattimena in what promises to be a compelling round three clash.
“Connor is a fantastic player. He’s a grafter,” reflected Anderson.
“Jermaine over the last 18 months has gone to a different level. He’s been absolutely fantastic over the last few years, so that will be another tough game.
“I can still do it though. People think it’s a young man’s game, but it’s not!”
Van Gerwen was equally authoritative in a 3-1 victory over William O’Connor, averaging over 100 and landing 63% of his doubles. After O’Connor threatened a comeback, the Dutchman closed the contest in style with back-to-back 121 and 127 checkouts.
“I was sharp, I was ready today, and that’s what you want,” said Van Gerwen.
“Of course there is still room for improvement, but I’m more critical of myself than anyone.
“I put a lot of effort into this match, and I think from here I can do even more damage.”
Van Gerwen will next face debutant Arno Merk, who continued his fairytale run by knocking out Peter Wright in straight sets.
“I’ve just beaten a two-time World Champion and a legend of the game,” said an emotional Merk.
“This is the biggest win of my career by far. I can’t believe it. I’m overwhelmed!
“If I play like I did today and I take my chances, I can be dangerous for anybody, so let’s see what happens.”
Elsewhere, Justin Hood produced one of the games of the tournament to eliminate sixth seed Danny Noppert in a sudden-death thriller, averaging 103 and hitting 11 maximums.
“I can win it. It’s as simple as that,” Hood declared.
“I believe I can improve on that tonight… but it’s nice to prove a point to myself that I can do it on the big stage.”
Josh Rock impressed with a dominant whitewash over Joe Comito, while Callan Rydz, Wattimena, and Ryan Meikle also advanced following dramatic encounters.
The tournament resumes on December 27, with reigning champion Luke Littler returning to defend his crown against Mensur Suljovic.
Source: PDC.TV
