Darts sensation Gemma Hayter proved her dominance at the WADC Winmau Championship South, securing an impressive “daily double” by winning both Event Five and Event Six. This double victory not only added two more titles to her name but also significantly extended her lead at the top of the championship standings. Despite facing formidable opponents, including a thrilling 5-4 final against Vicky Pruim and a decisive 5-0 win over Eve Watson, Hayter showcased incredible skill and resilience throughout the weekend.
Gemma Hayter’s Unstoppable Weekend Triumph
Fresh off her World Master title, Gemma Hayter continued her winning streak, seizing two more championship crowns at Bradmoor Farm, Aylesbury. These latest victories mark her second and third titles of the current campaign, solidifying her position as a force to be reckoned with in the darts world. The competition was fierce, with top players like Fallon Sherrock making their Championship debut, but it was Red Dragon’s Hayter who consistently rose to the occasion.
Event Five: A Battle to the Finish Line
Hayter’s journey to the Event Five title was anything but easy, culminating in a nail-biting 5-4 victory in the final against the in-form Vicky Pruim. The match was a true test of nerves and skill, going down to the very last leg.
Here’s a look at Hayter’s path to the final:
- She started strong, shutting out Rose Mort 4-0 with an impressive 95.43 average.
- Further victories followed against Debbie Dexter and Lauren Broomfield.
- In the quarter-finals, she defeated Eleanor Cairns 5-3.
- A comfortable 5-2 win over Tracey Dean secured her spot in the final.
Vicky Pruim, her final opponent, also had an exceptional run, including a dominant 5-1 semi-final win against Fallon Sherrock. The final between Hayter and Pruim was a rematch of their recent World Matchplay meeting, and it lived up to expectations. The highlight was an 11-darter from Hayter – a term in darts meaning she finished a leg in just 11 throws, showcasing incredible precision. Both players had opportunities to seal the win, with darts for victory missed by each, before Hayter ultimately pinned the winning double to claim the £500 first prize.
Event Six: Overcoming Early Hurdles for a Decisive Win
Hayter’s quest for a double could have ended in the very first round of Event Six, as Deta Hedman missed multiple opportunities to knock her out. However, Hayter persevered, demonstrating her mental toughness, and went on to win the event with a dominant 5-0 victory over Eve Watson in the final.
Hayter’s route to the Event Six final involved:
- A narrow escape against Deta Hedman in the opening round.
- Overcoming challenges from Chelsea Campbell and Steph Clarke.
- Whitewashing talented youngster Macy Gibbons to reach the semi-finals.
- Defeating Rose Mort 5-1 with an 81.41 average to secure her place in the final showpiece.
Eve Watson also had an incredible run to the final, notably stunning Vicky Pruim with a sublime 97.70 average in a 5-1 quarter-final win, and then defeating darts legend Trina Gulliver MBE 5-2 in the semi-finals. However, in the final, Hayter was simply peerless, averaging over 83 and sealing her second title of the day with a remarkable 14-darter.
Hayter Strengthens Lead in Championship Standings
These back-to-back wins have significantly bolstered Gemma Hayter’s position at the top of the WADC Winmau Championship South standings. She now holds a commanding 127-point lead over Trina Gulliver, with Eve Watson and Lou Pearson trailing in third and fourth place respectively, 12 points behind Gulliver.
The Action Continues
The excitement isn’t over yet! Darts fans can look forward to more thrilling action as Events Seven and Eight are scheduled to take place on Sunday, promising further battles and potential shifts in the championship race.
Source: Based on an article from Darts World Magazine.
