The German Darts Grand Prix saw an early upset as the red-hot Wessel Nijman, enjoying a fantastic season, was surprisingly knocked out in the first round by Andrew Gilding. Despite Nijman’s impressive form, ‘Goldfinger’ Gilding delivered a clinical performance, securing a 6-4 victory and ending Nijman’s hopes in Munich prematurely. This unexpected result highlights the unpredictable nature of top-tier darts.
The German Darts Grand Prix, a highly anticipated European Tour event, traditionally ignites the darting action over the Easter weekend in Munich. This year, one of the most talked-about first-round encounters featured Dutch sensation Wessel Nijman against England’s Andrew Gilding.
Nijman’s Strong Run Halted
Wessel Nijman arrived in Munich brimming with confidence. His 2024 season has been nothing short of spectacular, boasting three Players Championship titles and a Euro Tour victory. This impressive form positioned him as a player to watch. Andrew Gilding, nicknamed ‘Goldfinger’, secured his spot in the tournament after several seeded players withdrew, making him a dark horse contender.
The Match Unfolds: Gilding’s Blistering Start
The match began with a shocking display of dominance from Andrew Gilding. Nijman, uncharacteristically, started very slowly, allowing Gilding to seize control immediately:
- Gilding swiftly claimed the first three legs, taking a commanding 3-0 lead. He finished these legs in 18, 18, and 16 darts respectively, showcasing early precision.
- Nijman finally got on the scoreboard, holding his throw with a 17-darter to make it 3-1.
- A crucial moment arrived when Nijman had a chance to ‘break’ (win a leg against the thrower) and narrow the gap further. However, he missed a 68-finish on the double, allowing Gilding to hold his nerve and secure his own leg for a 4-1 advantage.
Nijman Fights Back, But Gilding Delivers the Knockout
Just when it seemed Gilding might run away with the match, Nijman found his rhythm and launched a spirited comeback:
- At 4-2, Gilding had three darts at ‘tops’ (double 20) to extend his lead to 5-2, but failed to convert.
- Nijman capitalized immediately, breaking Gilding’s throw with a sharp 15-darter.
- He then confidently held his own throw in just 13 darts, remarkably leveling the score at 4-4. The momentum had swung.
However, the comeback was not to be completed. Gilding, showing resilience, ensured there would be no deciding leg:
- ‘Goldfinger’ held his throw with a 56-finish to regain the lead, reaching match point at 5-4.
- The decisive moment came in the very next leg. Gilding produced a moment of brilliance, sealing the match with a magnificent 140-finish in just 12 darts. This clinical execution secured his 6-4 victory and ended Nijman’s tournament.
Match Statistics: A Closer Look
While Nijman’s double percentage was impressive, Gilding’s consistent scoring proved too much in the end:
- Andrew Gilding: Average 91.63, Double Percentage 30%
- Wessel Nijman: Average 91.25, Double Percentage 57.1%
Despite a strong percentage on his doubles, Nijman’s slower start and missed opportunities proved costly against a determined Andrew Gilding. For Nijman, it’s an unexpected early exit, but for Gilding, it’s a significant first-round triumph in Munich.
Source: Based on an article from Darts Actueel.
