Michael van Gerwen, Andrew Gilding, Michael Smith, and Rob Cross secured victories on Wednesday night in Blackpool. The first two quarter-finals of the World Matchplay continue on Thursday on Sky Sports Action from 8pm and Sky Sports Main Event from 9pm.
Van Gerwen will face Andrew Gilding in the quarter-finals after an 11-8 win over Joe Cullen. Gilding advanced with a dominant performance against Krzysztof Ratajski. Rob Cross impressed with an 11-6 win over Ryan Searle, while Michael Smith overcame a tough challenge from Chris Dobey to win 11-9.
Second Round Results:
- Krzysztof Ratajski 5-11 Andrew Gilding
- Rob Cross 11-6 Ryan Searle
- Michael van Gerwen 11-8 Joe Cullen
- Michael Smith 11-9 Chris Dobey
Van Gerwen, aiming for his fourth title, started strong against Cullen with a 151 checkout to lead 4-1. Despite Cullen’s late comeback, Van Gerwen sealed the win and expressed his excitement for the next match against Gilding.
Gilding secured his first World Matchplay quarter-final with a win over Ratajski, showcasing his skill with 110 and 127 combinations. He looks forward to facing Van Gerwen, confident after their previous encounter in the UK Open.
Rob Cross delivered an outstanding performance against Ryan Searle, averaging 106.99 and demonstrating his top form. He is set to face Michael Smith, with whom he had a memorable final in 2019.
Smith had to fend off a resilient Chris Dobey, who had previously defeated him at the same stage last year. Despite Dobey’s impressive finishes, Smith held his ground to keep his title hopes alive.
What’s Next:
The World Matchplay continues at the Winter Gardens with the first two quarter-finals on Thursday. Ross Smith faces James Wade, while Luke Humphries takes on Dimitri Van den Bergh in a repeat of the UK Open final. The world’s top players compete for the Phil Taylor Trophy and £800,000 in prize money.
Credit: Sky Sports
