The International Darts Open (ET7) in Riesa exploded into action with a day of upsets, dominant performances, and nail-biting finishes. The headline act was the sensational debut of 20-year-old Charlie Manby, who stunned former European Tour winner Niko Springer. Alongside Manby’s triumph, Kevin Doets delivered a masterclass whitewash, while seasoned pros like Rob Cross and Joe Cullen fought through intense battles, setting the stage for an electrifying second round as the seeded stars prepare to join the fray.
New Star Rises: Manby’s Dream Debut Rocks Riesa
The opening day of the International Darts Open delivered a truly memorable moment as 20-year-old Charlie Manby announced his arrival on the European Tour. In a stunning debut, Manby faced experienced German player Niko Springer and showed no signs of nerves.
Manby quickly took control, producing an impressive 11-dart leg to establish a commanding 4-1 lead. Despite Springer’s attempts to rally with high checkouts of 92 and 112, the young “Target starlet” remained composed, securing a 6-3 victory – his first-ever win against a German opponent on the tour.
His impressive performance sets up a highly anticipated clash against World Darts Championship semi-finalist Ryan Searle in the second round. Manby’s confidence is soaring:
“As soon as I got up here, I felt at home, so it was a good start… The first one is always the best. I’m just grateful to be here in front of a good crowd, and be on stage again.”
“I think Ryan and I are both top quality players. I know I’m good enough as well, and I’ve got the belief in myself that I need to be here.”
Dominant Displays and Career-Best Form
While Manby stole the headlines, several players showcased incredible form:
- Kevin Doets: A Whitewash Masterclass
“Hawkeye” Doets continued his career-best year, delivering the performance of the day by hammering Tom Bissell 6-0. His average of 102.48 was exceptional, missing only one dart at a double. This dominant win extends his perfect record in the opening round of the European Tour to five wins from five matches. Doets, who claimed his maiden PDC title earlier this month, is now brimming with confidence ahead of his match against Luke Woodhouse. - Rob Cross Clutches Crucial Win
Former World Champion Rob Cross, known as “Voltage,” navigated a fascinating contest against Dirk van Duijvenbode. In a tense match where all 11 legs went with the throw, Cross held his nerve for a 6-5 victory. This much-needed win significantly boosts his chances of qualifying for the World Matchplay. Cross will face Mike De Decker in the second round. - Krzysztof Ratajski’s Consistent Run
The “Polish Eagle,” Krzysztof Ratajski, started strong with a 6-4 win over Cristo Reyes. Ratajski is aiming for his third European Tour semi-final of the year, demonstrating remarkable consistency. He will face Stephen Bunting, who is fresh off his Premier League win, in Saturday’s action.
Other Key Victories and Dramatic Finishes
Day one also saw a host of other exciting matchups:
- Karel Sedlacek secured a clinical 6-0 whitewash over Johan Engstrom, enhancing his World Matchplay qualification hopes.
- Kim Huybrechts, “The Hurricane,” continued his stellar start to the year with a 6-2 win against Daryl Gurney.
- Former International Darts Open champion Joe Cullen staged a dramatic comeback, fighting from 5-3 down to edge past Chris Landman 6-5 in a last-leg decider.
- Seven-time European Tour winner Dave Chisnall battled hard for a 6-3 victory over Liam Maendl-Lawrence.
- German number two Ricardo Pietreczko overcame recent struggles to defeat Maik Kuivenhoven 6-2.
- Niels Zonneveld impressed with 75% on his doubles in a 6-2 win over Keane Barry.
- William O’Connor and Connor Scutt both comfortably defeated Host Nation Qualifiers, with Scutt hitting three ton-plus checkouts.
- In a truly nail-biting encounter, Cameron Menzies saved three match darts to secure a 6-5 win against Michael Unterbuchner.
- Bradley Brooks earned his first European Tour win of the year by beating Andrew Gilding 6-4.
- Ryan Joyce and Madars Razma also secured their spots in the second round with solid performances.
Looking Ahead: Saturday’s Showdown
The International Darts Open continues with a blockbuster Saturday as the seeded PDC stars enter the competition. Fans can look forward to a double-header of action, featuring some of the biggest names in darts.
Key second-round matchups to watch include:
- Ryan Searle vs. Charlie Manby (The debutant’s biggest test yet)
- Luke Woodhouse vs. Kevin Doets (Two players in red-hot form)
- Stephen Bunting vs. Krzysztof Ratajski (A clash of consistent performers)
- Michael van Gerwen vs. Madars Razma (The reigning champion’s entry)
- Rob Cross vs. Mike De Decker (Crucial for Cross’s Matchplay hopes)
The stage is set for an exhilarating day of darts as the competition intensifies in Riesa.
Source: Based on an article from Darts Planet TV.
