Gurney edges past Wright in high quality thriller to complete World Matchplay semi-final lineup

Daryl Gurney is the last player through to the World Matchplay semi-finals after edging past Peter Wright in a thrilling battle.

Gurney held his nerve to end the unbeaten run of Wright and also survive a 104 average from his opponent. 'Superchin' himself hit a 101.8 average.

In terms of scoring, it was an excellent affair with nine 180's for Gurney compared to an astonishing twelve for Wright but it is the Northern Irishman who will go on to face Rob Cross.

It was very even to start off with Wright and Gurney locked in at 5-5 with Snakebite producing a 120 checkout to level up the contest. It was very high quality as well; with a 107.7 average for Wright compared to 102.6 for Gurney.

It continued to be very much level as neither Gurney or Wright buckling but it was the former player who had his nose in front at 8-7.

'Superchin' broke through to go 9-7 up to put Wright potentially in trouble especially after he missed multiple darts at doubles.

It was Gurney though who faltered at the finish this time around as Wright went back to one behind breaking again.

The Northern Irish ace broke again regaining his two leg cushion at 10-8 with a 72 checkout but it was four consecutive breaks of throw as Wright once again went to one behind.

Another interval came by where there was nothing to choose between them with Wright levelling up at 10-10. 'Snakebite' missed more chances though to break and Gurney held throw again at 11-10.

It was going the distance with it at 12-12 with a 106 average for Wright and an astonishing twelve 180's. Wright looked to potentially tee himself up for a lead by smashing in a 124 checkout to hold at 13-13 but Gurney finally took a break at 15-13 to go to within one of the win.

He held his nerve from there to claim the victory in a thrilling battle.

Click here for more information about the World Matchplay, including the prize money breakdown, schedule and format.

Friday schedule

Quarter Finals
Rob Cross (101.83) 16-14 (96.08) Stephen Bunting
Peter Wright (104.57) 13-16 (101.86) Daryl Gurney

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