Dutch darts sensation Kevin Doets continued his phenomenal run of form, securing a dominant 6-2 victory over Ryan Joyce to reach the quarter-finals of the Austrian Darts Open. This impressive win marks the second time in his career that Doets has advanced to the last eight of a European Tour event, building on an already stellar week that saw him clinch his maiden Players Championship title. His performance against Joyce was a clear display of skill and unwavering focus, leaving no doubt about his intent to go deep into the tournament.
Doets’ Unstoppable Momentum
Kevin Doets is currently enjoying a remarkable period in his darts career. Fresh off winning his very first Players Championship title in Hildesheim, the Dutchman has carried that winning momentum directly into Graz. His journey to the Last 16 of the Austrian Darts Open was paved with convincing victories:
- He defeated fellow countryman Chris Landman with a 6-3 scoreline.
- He then overcame the challenge of Ryan Searle, winning 6-2.
These wins set up a highly anticipated clash with Ryan Joyce in the last 16, who had himself dispatched Belgium’s Mike de Decker with a 6-3 win.
A Clinical Performance Against Ryan Joyce
The encounter between Kevin Doets and Ryan Joyce began with both players holding their throw through the first four legs. Joyce managed a solid 14-darter, but Doets immediately responded with a 13-darter and an impressive 80-finish to keep the scores level.
The turning point arrived in the fifth leg:
- First Break: Doets seized the initiative, breaking Joyce’s throw in just 14 darts.
- Consolidation: He then consolidated this crucial break in the very next leg, also in 14 darts, establishing a significant 4-2 lead.
Doets’ superior scoring power became increasingly evident, as he consistently outscored his opponent. The statistics highlighted a stark difference, with Doets boasting an average almost 20 points higher than Joyce.
This scoring dominance translated into further pressure on Joyce:
- Second Break & Match Point: “Hawkeye” Doets secured a second break of throw, sealing it with a clinical 68 checkout to reach match point at 5-2.
- Missed Opportunity for Joyce: Despite having a chance to break back immediately, Joyce faltered, missing three crucial darts at a double.
- Victory Secured: Doets capitalized on the opportunity, closing out the match with a 17-darter to complete a resounding 6-2 victory.
Key Match Statistics:
A clear picture of Doets’ commanding performance:
- Kevin Doets: Average 94.66 / Checkout Percentage 54.5%
- Ryan Joyce: Average 81.67 / Checkout Percentage 33.3%
What’s Next for Doets?
With this impressive win, Kevin Doets now advances to the quarter-finals, where he will face the winner of the upcoming match between darts stalwarts James Wade and Luke Woodhouse. Fans eagerly await to see if Doets can maintain his sizzling form and continue his deep run in the Austrian Darts Open.
Source: Based on an article from Darts Actueel.
