Bunting Survives Sudden-Death Decider on Debutant’s Big Night
The World Matchplay returned to the Empress Ballroom in Blackpool with a memorable opening-night contest, as ninth seed Stephen Bunting narrowly avoided an upset against a spirited Niels Zonneveld, eventually prevailing 13-12 in a sudden-death leg.
On his tournament debut, the 27-year-old Dutchman showed few nerves, relishing the occasion at the Winter Gardens. Zonneveld was the stronger scorer in the initial phases, keeping his more experienced opponent under constant pressure. However, missed opportunities on the doubles ultimately proved costly, allowing Bunting to stay in the contest and force a tie-break. In a dramatic conclusion that went the full distance, it was the Englishman who held his nerve in the final leg to progress.
Littler and Aspinall Lay Down a Marker
Elsewhere, the evening’s other ties saw two dominant performances from a pair of tournament heavyweights. Defending champion Luke Littler began his campaign for a second successive title with a formidable display, defeating Niko Springer 10-6. Littler was in imperious scoring form, recording a 109 average as he sent a clear statement to the rest of the field.
Nathan Aspinall also looked in fine touch, beating his close friend Joe Cullen 10-5 in a high-quality encounter. Aspinall produced a superb 167 checkout early in the match to seize the initiative and finished with an average of 105.32. The performance underlined his credentials as a contender, a view shared by many darts betting sites which had him among the favourites. The victory sets up a tantalising second-round clash with the defending champion, Littler.
The first round continues on Sunday with a double session of play, beginning at 1:00pm.
