Michael van Gerwen has survived a scare against Madars Razma to earn his place in the second round of the European Championship.
In a thrilling contest which saw Razma average 104.92, the Latvian led 5-4 and missed a dart for an 80 checkout before Van Gerwen took the match into a decider.
The 11th leg was dramatic, as Razma missed another dart at double top - this time for a 142 finish - before Van Gerwen stepped in to record a 68 checkout for a 12-dart leg against the throw.
VAN GERWEN WINS A THRILLER! 🇳🇱
— PDC Darts (@OfficialPDC) October 27, 2023
WHAT. A. MATCH! 💥
Michael van Gerwen wins an absolute CLASSIC against Madars Razma, surviving two match darts before sealing the deal with a 12-darter in the decider!
Heartbreak for Razma! #ECDarts | R1
📺 https://t.co/krogNobpfQ pic.twitter.com/HcFkwbUlDY
There were a number of surprises on Friday night as the likes of Joe Cullen, Josh Rock and Jonny Clayton all bowed out of the tournament at the first hurdle.
Cullen lost 6-3 to Krzysztof Ratajski, Daryl Gurney got the better of fellow Northern Irishman Rock by a 6-2 scoreline and Clayton rued a miscount during the latter stages of his match with Jose De Sousa before succumbing to a 6-4 defeat.
Recently-crowned World Grand Prix champion Luke Humphries again showcased his excellent form in a 6-1 triumph over Brendan Dolan.
Dutch youngster Gian van Veen produced a performance that further enhanced his growing reputation as they thrashed Damon Heta by the same scoreline, averaging 107.34 in the process.
James Wade took advantage of a below-par Dirk van Duijvenbode to prevail 6-3, while in the final match of the evening, emerging German star Ricardo Pietreczko marked his debut by knocking out defending Ross Smith by a 6-3 scoreline, setting up a showdown with Van Gerwen.
Darren Plant
