13/02/2024

Gary Anderson wins Players Championship 2 with Ryan Searle consigned to final defeat for second day running

Gary Anderson has won the second Players Championship tournament of the season. After an excellent day, he defeated close friend Ryan Searle in the final. Anderson managed to record a tournament average of 101.80, while his first-9 average was even at 114.59.

Anderson began the day with a 6-3 victory over Daniel Klose before having to concede only two legs against Adam Gawlas (6-0), Daryl Gurney (6-2) and Andy Baetens (6-0). Against Baetens, Anderson even posted an average of 117. He then handled Raymond van Barneveld (6-3) and Peter Wright (7-5) for a place in the final.

Searle recorded victories over consecutively Callum Goffin (6-3), Brett Claydon (6-4), Adam Hunt (6-2), Arron Monk (6-1), Niels Zonneveld (6-4) and Martin Lukeman (7-6) to qualify for the final.

Prize Money breakdown for 2024 Players Championship season with increased prize pool of £3,750,000

The first two legs were a breeze for Anderson, before Searle managed to take the next three legs. With a 17-darter and a 10-darter, The Flying Scotsman then retook the lead. Searle then evened the score with an 11-darter for 4-4.

With a 15-darter and a 134 finish, Anderson then took a 6-4 lead. Searle threw out 149 for 6-5, before Anderson made it 7-5 with a 12-darter. The two-time world champion was then on his way to taking the title with a nine-darter, but he missed the double 12. A 10-darter then allowed Anderson to clinch the title.