Luke Littler holds nerve to edge out Ryan Joyce and book quarter-final spot
The IndependentSign up to our free sport newsletter for all the latest news on everything from cycling to boxing Sign up to our free sport email for all the latest news Sign up to our free sport email for all the latest news SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. But I said in that last leg, ‘Hold your own for once in a game at least’.” Littler began the night with two maximums on his first visit to the oche for each of the opening two legs as he cruised to the first set, although his inability to hit doubles saw him lose the second. I think I went into 10th gear – I had to dig deep Luke Littler A vintage Michael van Gerwen performance saw the three-time champion produce some ominous form as he averaged 102 in his up-and-down 4-2 win over Jeffrey de Graaf. The Dutchman, whose last title came in 2019, took the first set in just seven minutes, but after doubling his lead he lost his way as De Graaf, who shocked Gary Anderson in the second round, found his form to win six of the next seven legs and level things up at 2-2. “I think it’s a lesson learned for myself and other darts players.” Callan Rydz secured a quarter-final spot – he will play Van Gerwen – for the second time in his career with a 4-3 comeback win over Robert Owen.