The DPNZ Tour witnessed a weekend of high drama and exceptional darts in Auckland! Ben Robb, already a dominant force, further extended his lead by clinching Tour 7, showcasing his consistent top form. However, Sunday brought an unexpected twist as Robb was eliminated early, paving the way for a thrilling Tour 8 final where the young Jack Sheppard emerged victorious, securing his first title of the season after an incredible comeback. These results significantly impact the race for a spot in the prestigious PDC World Championship and the ANZ Premier League.
Ben Robb Continues His Dominance with DPNZ Tour 7 Victory
After six tournaments, Ben Robb was already leading the DPNZ Tour with three titles to his name. He continued his impressive run in Auckland, securing his fourth title of the year at DPNZ Tour 7. Robb demonstrated remarkable consistency throughout the event, remaining undefeated in the group stage.
A Flawless Path to the Final
In the knockout stages, ‘Big Rig’ maintained high averages, often scoring above 90, as he steadily advanced to the final. His semi-final clash against Haupai Puha was particularly notable. Despite falling 2-0 behind, Robb rallied spectacularly, winning six consecutive legs to seal a decisive 6-2 victory.
The Nail-Biting Final Against Jonny Tata
The final saw Robb face Jonny Tata. Robb quickly established a commanding 3-0 lead, showcasing his clinical finishing with checkouts of 72 and 100. However, Tata mounted a strong comeback, winning the next three legs to level the score at 3-3. The seventh leg proved pivotal: Tata had two darts at double 15 for the lead but missed. Robb seized the opportunity, producing a crucial 76-finish to break throw and regain the advantage. He then extended his lead to 5-3. Tata fought back with a 13-dart leg, but Robb closed out the match with a 15-darter and a spectacular 116-finish, securing a 7-4 victory.
Tour 8 Shakes Up the Leaderboard: Robb’s Early Exit and Sheppard’s Rise
Sunday brought a dramatic shift in fortunes. Ben Robb, the previous day’s champion, suffered an unexpected early exit at DPNZ Tour 8. He was defeated in the last 32 by Sam Nathan. Robb had held a 3-1 lead and even had match darts, but Nathan remarkably won the final three legs to claim a stunning 4-3 victory.
Sheppard’s Sensational Comeback in the Semi-Final
Robb’s early departure opened the door for Jonny Tata to potentially capitalize, but his journey also ended in the semi-finals. Tata held a 4-2 lead against the young Jack Sheppard, but Sheppard displayed incredible resilience, winning the final four legs consecutively to secure a 6-4 win and reach his second final of the season. Jaymie Hilton-Jones was the other surprise finalist, setting up an exciting showdown.
First Title Glory for Jack Sheppard in a Thrilling Final
The DPNZ Tour 8 final between Jack Sheppard and Jaymie Hilton-Jones was a true spectacle. Hilton-Jones started strong, winning three of the first four legs with finishes of 62, 92, and a 14-darter to take a 3-1 lead. Sheppard, however, quickly erased the deficit, leveling the score at 3-3 after six legs. The match remained tight, with both players holding their nerve. In a crucial moment in leg 11, Hilton-Jones executed a vital 94-finish to break Sheppard’s throw, giving him a 6-5 lead and putting him one leg away from the title. But Sheppard showed his class under pressure. He immediately broke back with a brilliant 13-darter, setting up a decisive final leg. Starting the leg on his throw, Sheppard hit a crucial 180 and ultimately closed it out in 21 darts, clinching his first DPNZ Tour title of the season!
DPNZ Tour Standings and What’s Next
With four tournaments still to play, Ben Robb maintains a significant lead in the DPNZ Tour standings. Jonny Tata’s consistent performance, reaching a final and a semi-final, keeps him firmly in second place.
Weekend Results at a Glance
DPNZ Tour 7 – Quarter-finals:
- Jonny Tata 5-2 Anthony Benitez
- Mark Cleaver 5-1 Jordan Bennett-Davies
- Ben Robb 5-3 Jaymie Hilton-Jones
- Haupai Puha 5-2 Nevin Filimoeatu
DPNZ Tour 7 – Semi-finals:
- Jonny Tata 6-3 Mark Cleaver
- Ben Robb 6-2 Haupai Puha
DPNZ Tour 8 – Quarter-finals:
- Jonny Tata 5-3 Craig Caldwell
- Jack Sheppard 5-3 Mark Cleaver
- David Bowers 5-3 Clinton Julies
- Jaymie Hilton-Jones 5-2 Craig Pullen
DPNZ Tour 8 – Semi-finals:
- Jack Sheppard 6-4 Jonny Tata
- Jaymie Hilton-Jones 6-3 David Bowers
The Race for the World Championship and Premier League
The stakes are high as the tour progresses. After 12 tournaments, the number one ranked player in the DPNZ Tour standings will secure a coveted spot in the upcoming PDC World Championship. Additionally, the top two players will qualify for the prestigious ANZ Premier League, making every remaining leg crucial for these aspiring darts stars.
Source: Based on an article from Darts Actueel.
