Gurney strikes to end Evans' Matchplay hopes again

Ricky Evans’ hopes of progressing in the PDC’s Betfred World Matchplay were ended in the first round in Milton Keynes on Monday night.

The Kettering darts star qualified for one of the key events on the calendar for the second year in a row.

But, for a second year in a row, he fell victim to world number seven Daryl Gurney, who wrapped up a 10-5 success behind closed doors at the Marshall Arena.

There was little to choose between the pair during the first 10 legs as they became embroiled in a battle, which saw ten consecutive holds of throw.

However, things changed after the second interval.

It was one-way traffic as Gurney enjoyed a hot-streak of five consecutive legs and the two-time TV champion from Northern Ireland punished Evans’ six missed double attempts to book his place in the last 16.

“I’m thankful to get the win because that’s the kind of game I would have lost a few years ago,” Gurney, who was a semi-finalist in the Matchplay in 2017 and 2019, conceded.

“Whenever I have a break I seem to play better, but those 14 or 15 weeks I had off was the biggest break I’ve ever had and it was welcome.

“I need to sharpen up but I’m very glad to be in the next round. There’s something about this event – I always hang in there and give myself an opportunity.”

Evans had hoped to gain some revenge on the same opponent who beat him at the same stage on his Matchplay debut last year. But it wasn’t to be.

“I tried my best and had my chances but it wasn’t my day. Roll on the next one,” Evans wrote on Twitter.

“Good luck @Superchin180 (Gurney) for the rest of the Matchplay. Huge Respect.”

With darts, like every other sport, having to change course after the Covid-19 lockdown, it now looks set to be September before Evans can return to the PDC ProTour as the next few stages of the Premier League, which had previously been postponed due to the pandemic, are set to be played throughout August.