Luke Littler Advances as Humphries and Van Gerwen Suffer Early Exits at Belgian Darts Open
Defending champion Luke Littler cruised into the third round of the Belgian Darts Open, while Luke Humphries and Michael van Gerwen both suffered shock defeats.
Littler wasn’t at his dominant best but still secured a 6-3 victory over Ryan Searle. The world champion averaged 94.36 to Searle’s 95.48 at the Oktoberhallen in Wieze but proved far more clinical on the doubles. Littler capitalized on his opportunities, hitting double 20 with his first match dart to finish with a checkout percentage of 42.9%, compared to Searle’s 25%.
“It didn’t really happen for myself or Ryan out there,” Littler admitted. “But I’m just happy to get through and hopefully improve tomorrow.”
Humphries and Van Gerwen Crashed Out
World No. 1 Luke Humphries fell to home favorite Mike De Decker in a 6-4 upset. De Decker, who survived two match darts in the previous round against Thomas Lovely, produced a 122 checkout and averaged 100.45, while Humphries struggled at 92.61.
Meanwhile, Michael van Gerwen was also sent packing after a 6-4 loss to Boris Krcmar. The three-time world champion managed a stunning 136 checkout, but his overall average wasn’t enough to overcome the Croatian.
Price, Heta, and Ross Smith Impress
In contrast, Gerwyn Price was in scintillating form, averaging 112.42 in his 6-2 victory over Gian van Veen, who himself averaged over 105 in defeat.
The afternoon session saw some dominant performances, including a 6-0 whitewash by Damon Heta over former world champion Michael Smith. Ross Smith also delivered a sensational display, averaging 112.60 in a 6-2 win over Rob Cross.
Luke Woodhouse produced some breathtaking finishing as he defeated Gary Anderson 6-2, hitting consecutive checkouts of 124, 110, and 170 in the opening three legs.
Littler vs. Woodhouse Next
Woodhouse’s reward is a clash against Littler in the next round. The reigning world champion acknowledged he’ll need to raise his level, saying: “I’ve just got to play better. I’m sure Luke will be up for it. May the best man win.”
Other Notable Results
There were also victories for Daryl Gurney, Dave Chisnall, Jonny Clayton, Stephen Bunting, and Ritchie Edhouse, who edged out Nathan Aspinall in a deciding leg.
