Michael van Gerwen believes his latest clash with Gary Anderson could become one of the defining matches of the Paddy Power World Darts Championship, as the long-time rivals prepare to meet at Alexandra Palace on Tuesday night.
The three-time World Champion faces the Scottish great for the 77th time in a rivalry steeped in history, with a quarter-final place at stake. Van Gerwen holds the edge in their head-to-head record, leading 51-22 with three draws, and also boasts the stronger World Championship pedigree, having won three of their four Ally Pally encounters, including the 2016/17 final.
Their most recent meeting also went the Dutchman’s way, as Van Gerwen averaged 108 in a 5-2 victory at last month’s Grand Slam of Darts. Yet despite those numbers, the world number three expects nothing less than a classic against an in-form Anderson.
“I expect a lot from that game because Gary’s playing some fantastic darts,” said Van Gerwen, who has overcome Mitsuhiko Tatsunami, William O’Connor and Arno Merk to reach the last 16.
“Everyone says ‘the old Gary’s back’. He’s averaging 102, 103 and I’m averaging about 99, 100 and I’m just doing OK, so that’s a good sign for me.
“I’m really looking forward to playing Gary. When you play him, there’s always room for fireworks.
“We have had so many great battles, and I hope we will have another great battle here. If I can’t enjoy games like this anymore, that’s the day I will retire!
“I think it will be one of the best games to watch in the next round.”
Anderson arrives in North London as one of the tournament’s standout performers, averaging over 100 in wins against Connor Scutt and Jermaine Wattimena, following an earlier deciding-set victory over Adam Hunt. Despite his form, the 55-year-old insists he is playing without pressure.
“I’m just here to cause a headache,” claimed the two-time World Champion.
“Michael knows what he’s going to get with me. It’s just which one turns up!
“I’m at a time now where, if I win then great, if I lose I get to go home, so it’s a win-win situation no matter what.”
Source: PDC.TV
