Cross edges out Bunting in World Matchplay thriller to reach Semi-Finals for the first time

R0b Cross is through to the World Matchplay semi-finals after coming through an absolute thriller with Stephen Bunting to begin the second night of Quarter-Final action at the Winter Gardens.

Cross was very much ahead in proceedings but got pegged back at 10-10 and the duo consistently held with no player giving an inch but it was the former World Champion who left it late to see off 'The Bullet' who put up a really valiant effort in his best run in a while.

'Voltage' in his brilliant display hit a 101 average and an astonishing 13 180's including a high checkout of 170 and in moving through, will now face either Peter Wright or Daryl Gurney in what is bound to be a scintillating tie no matter the outcome.

Cross had a good start heading into the interval at 6-4 up including a 170 checkout but this was cancelled out by Bunting who hit a 97 checkout to make sure he was still only just behind. 'Voltage' surged though in front smashing in three consecutive legs to put his average above the 100 mark and to move 9-4 in front with a sublime seven 180's.

It seemed like he was easing towards victory. Once again though Bunting was only a few behind though at the interval with 'The Bullet' adding two legs in quick succession. Cross went 10-7 up but was left frustrated by Bunting who pegged him back again to go 10-10 and really throw the match wide open.

This back and forth continued between the pair with the duo locked at parity at 14-14. Who was going to surge to victory or were we going to overtime? This wasn't needed though as Cross smashed in a 149 before hitting double 16 to go on the brink and finally he broke to defeat Bunting in a thrilling tie.

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
20:45 Peter Wright v Daryl Gurney

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