Luke Littler has stormed into the semifinals of the World Matchplay, defeating Josh Rock 16-7 to set up a meeting with Dirk van Duijvenbode. Van Duijvenbode secured his place in the semifinals by overcoming Gary Anderson 16-13 in a thrilling match. Littler, who is seeking to become the first player to successfully defend the title since Michael van Gerwen a decade ago, impressed with a 109.57 average, 17 180s, and a 53% success rate on the doubles. 'It was another brilliant game for myself.
I've gone 109, 113, 109 again [averages] so I've just got to keep it going,' Littler said. Littler and Rock had previously met at the semifinal stage of this tournament last year, with Littler winning 18-15. After a closely contested opening 10 legs, Littler took control, winning five legs in a row and eventually securing the win. Van Duijvenbode held off a remarkable comeback from Anderson, who had averaged over 114 to take five legs in a row.
'To be fair, the break couldn't come at a worse moment. You just know Gary loves the game. He never gives up,' Van Duijvenbode said. The Dutchman found his form when it mattered most, pinning D10 for a crucial win.
The quarterfinals continue on Friday, with Gian van Veen facing James Wade and Gerwyn Price taking on Ross Smith.