Anderson and Suljovic break record for longest final with thriller at World Matchplay
NewsMonday, 30 July 2018 at 15:15
As well as providing a thrilling conclusion to the World Matchplay, Gary Anderson and Mensur Suljovic broke a record in the process for the longest final in the history of the tournament.
Never before was a final in the World Matchplay completed with the length of forty legs. It was a befitting end to the tournament though with the drama and tension heightened between two of the best in the game. Only twice before there was a tiebreak in the final in Blackpool. In 1998 and 1999, Rod Harrington won the World Matchplay after extra time. First defeating ‘The Rocket’ Ronnie Baxter 19-17. A year later Peter Manley was defeated with the same figures. The shortest final was played in 2009. Then Phil Taylor was 18-4 which was far too strong for Terry Jenkins
Photo: Pieter Verbeek/PV-Darts
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- Was watching an old World Masters final the other day between Eric Bristow and John Lowe, the crowd respect for both players on throw was first class, not a sound. You can imagine now the idiots who were whistling on De Deckers throw proudly boasting about it on social media. I blame the PDC to a certain extent though doubt they really care as they win regardless of which player wins or loses.Mysstree16-11-2024
- @UndartedWaters I totally agree with your thoughts! I totally respect Kirk but in this instance I was disappointed with his lack of crowd control. I even turned to my husband and said "Could you imagine this happening if Russ Bray was the referee tonight? At least there would have been a crowd admonishment- Ladies and Gentleman please." I so felt for Mike DeDecker...MamaVenus15-11-2024
- Many fans had a sour taste in their mouth by the end of this match. Mike was cruising to victory, playing beautiful darts, when the whistling started in earnest, particularly on his doubles. You could see in Mike's face that it was really affecting his concentration. The referee should have asked for order, just to show that the whistling is unacceptable, and Luke Littler could also have done his part to quieten down the crowd instead of "taking full advantage.:" I put that down to his age though. He needs some good advice on this from his management team and/or more seasoned players. It's got to be about who's best on the night, not who is being harassed by the crowd. Luke Littler played well to get back into the game and win, but it was a hollow victory. If he goes on to win the tournament, that triumph too will be tainted because of this match.
UndartedWaters15-11-2024 - Agree. Van der voort will be the one taking a break when he loses his tour card. Everyone saying about how bad Wright's last 18 months have been, and in that time he's won several Euro tours and the European Championships.Matilda6215-11-2024
- When Littler has at least five ranking Majors he’s in the discussion, until then, forget it.Mysstree14-11-2024