Danny Noppert wins high-octane thriller against Gian van Veen at German Darts Grand Prix after Michael Smith sees off Menzies

Danny Noppert and Michael Smith have advanced to the last sixteen at the German Darts Grand Prix in Munich. Noppert in particular impressed after a spectacular battle with Gian van Veen.

Van Veen gave Noppert no chance of a break in his first four legs. With four 12-darters he kept his own legs. Noppert countered with a 78 finish and a 12-darter, making it 4-4 after eight legs.

In the ninth leg, Van Veen was nicely on double 16 after four visits, but Noppert prevented Van Veen from reaching match point with a clutch 147 check-out. GVV The Giant' broke back immediately with a 14-darter and could start the last leg himself. Van Veen got a matchdart, but missed his chance on double 16 from 102. Noppert then decided the match by hitting double 18. Van Veen recorded an average of 108.51, compared to 104.61 for Noppert.

Michael Smith will also return to the stage of the German Darts Grand Prix on Monday. 'Bullyboy' triumphed 6-4 against Cameron Menzies after a strong match. Smith threw an average of 102 and a finish percentage of 75 percent.