The European Darts Trophy in Göttingen delivered an afternoon packed with drama, stunning comebacks, and a few surprises. Local hero Lukas Wenig came agonizingly close to a dream win, only to be overcome by a resilient Jermaine Wattimena. While many top players like Damon Heta, Danny Noppert, and Chris Dobey secured their spots for Sunday with impressive performances, the tournament also saw its first seeds tumble, including former World Champion Rob Cross. Get ready for an action-packed Sunday as the remaining stars battle it out!
Afternoon Session Highlights: Upsets and Close Calls
Wattimena Stages Epic Comeback Against Local Favorite Wenig
The Göttingen crowd was on the edge of their seats as local darting talent Lukas Wenig came within a whisker of a major upset. Leading 4-2 and needing just one dart at a double to take a commanding 5-2 lead, Wenig unfortunately missed twice. This opened the door for the tenacious Dutchman, Jermaine Wattimena, who seized the opportunity with both hands. Displaying incredible resilience and relentless scoring, including a remarkable eight maximums (180s), Wattimena fought back fiercely to secure a dramatic 6-5 victory. This win guarantees him an all-Dutch clash on Sunday, facing either Niels Zonneveld or Michael van Gerwen.
Heta Dominates, Noppert Freezes Evans
- Damon Heta’s Strong Showing: The Australian, Damon Heta, secured his first European Tour victory since last August. After an even start against Lithuania’s Darius Labanauskas, Heta took control, powering through to a 6-3 win with a robust average over 100. He now prepares to face either Kevin Doets or Cam Crabtree.
- Danny Noppert’s Clinical Performance: Former UK Open champion Danny Noppert, known as ‘The Freeze’, lived up to his nickname by swiftly dispatching Ricky ‘Rapid’ Evans. Noppert showcased ruthless efficiency, conceding just a single leg in a clinical 6-1 display. This sets up a Sunday showdown against either Gerwyn Price or Joe Cullen.
Smith Edges Chisnall, Van Duijvenbode Sends Cross Packing
- Ross Smith’s Gritty Victory: In a compelling all-English encounter, Ross Smith narrowly defeated eight-time Euro Tour champion Dave Chisnall 6-4. A crucial break of throw in the ninth leg gave Smith the platform needed to secure his passage. He now awaits a potential clash with compatriot Stephen Bunting or Germany’s Niko Springer.
- First Seed Falls: Rob Cross Eliminated: The European Darts Trophy saw its first major upset as Dirk van Duijvenbode edged out former World Champion Rob Cross in a thrilling contest. Van Duijvenbode initially raced to a 4-1 lead, but Cross fought back valiantly to level the scores. However, ‘Voltage’ couldn’t secure the decisive break, allowing the Dutchman to hold firm and progress. Van Duijvenbode will now face Mensur Suljovic or Karel Sedlacek.
Other Notable Victories
- Wessel Nijman Continues Ascent: Another Dutchman, Wessel Nijman, emphatically booked his place for Sunday, continuing the recent struggles of Mike De Decker. Nijman delivered an excellent performance with an average over 100, winning convincingly. He could face top young talent Gian van Veen or Poland’s Krzysztof Ratajski next.
- Chris Dobey’s Polished Display: ‘Hollywood’ Chris Dobey started his campaign with a professional performance, easing past Luke Woodhouse. Dobey capitalized on Woodhouse’s frustration with his double finishing, securing a comfortable win. His next opponent will be the winner of the Josh Rock versus Paul Krohne match.
- Ryan Searle Powers On: ‘Heavy Metal’ Ryan Searle once again got the better of two-time PDC major winner Daryl Gurney. Searle’s consistent darting acumen shone through, ensuring his place in Sunday’s action. He will next face either crowd favorite and German number one Martin Schindler or Richard Veenstra.
The Story So Far: Seeds and Standouts
The afternoon session saw relatively few shocks, with only Rob Cross and Mike De Decker, both highly credible talents, failing to advance. This sets the stage for a thrilling Sunday, with many top seeds still in contention. The evening session promises more excitement, including another chance for a home-grown German player, Paul Krohne, to make his mark.
Looking Ahead: Sunday’s Potential Match-Ups
The following players have secured their spots for Sunday’s action, with their next opponents to be determined from the evening session’s remaining matches:
- Jermaine Wattimena vs. (Niels Zonneveld or Michael van Gerwen)
- Damon Heta vs. (Kevin Doets or Cam Crabtree)
- Danny Noppert vs. (Gerwyn Price or Joe Cullen)
- Ross Smith vs. (Stephen Bunting or Niko Springer)
- Dirk van Duijvenbode vs. (Karel Sedlacek or Mensur Suljović)
- Wessel Nijman vs. (Gian van Veen or Krzysztof Ratajski)
- Chris Dobey vs. (Josh Rock or Paul Krohne)
- Ryan Searle vs. (Martin Schindler or Richard Veenstra)
Source: Based on an article from Darts World Magazine.
