Noppert frustrated but goes home with head held high: ''I should have won this match''

Danny Noppert seemed well on his way to the last 16 at the World Darts Championship on Wednesday afternoon, but still lost 2-4 to Alan Soutar after a 2-0 lead.

After two sets, there was nothing going for The Freeze at all. Noppert opened strongly and easily took the first two sets. But the match tilted in the third set and the game then slipped out of the hands of 'The Freeze'.

''I started so well this match. This is it, for this World Darts Championship. Now back to my family nicely. I don't know what was wrong with me. I should have won this match,'' Noppert responded directly in front of Viaplay's camera afterwards.

Especially the way Noppert lost was a bummer for the UK Open champion. But still wanted to remain positive. ''There are a lot of darters here and everyone wants to become world champion. I try to keep thinking positive. That gives me strength. I'm heading towards the next tournament with my head held high."

''This is of course a setback, but over the whole year I am super satisfied. And four years ago I still dreamed of being at the World Darts Championship. I'd rather think like that than talk myself into the pit."