Darts Tips

Danny Noppert pulled off what was considered an upset against Michael van Gerwen on Thursday night, but given how ‘The Freeze’ has played on the big stage this year, the outcome was no big surprise.

The Dutchman looks likely against anyone outside the world’s top two. He answered an opening leg 170 checkout from Mighty Mike with one of his own two legs later, and took control of the match with consistent scoring and over a 50% success rate on the outer ring.

Noppert has won each of his last five quarter-finals in televised ranking events, three of which came this season. It’s been a superb week for Lukas Wenig, but it likely ends here.

Josh Rock was slightly fortunate to get through his last 16 tie with Connor Scutt, posting an average of just 89. That was not in keeping with previous efforts from the Northern Irishman, who was statistically the best player in the group phase.

His two meetings with Luke Littler this year have brought out his top form, even in defeat. He produced ton-plus averages in both matches and was particularly impressive in their World Matchplay meeting, which Littler edged 17-14 after Rock had led 9-6.

Not afraid to go toe to toe with the reigning champion, Rock can notch at least 11 legs in this race to 16 and cover the total legs line, which looks a touch too low.