Richard Veenstra followed Wessel Nijman and Jeffrey de Zwaan in winning his match in the first round of the Austrian Darts Open. However, it did not go without a fight for 'Flyers'.
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The Dutchman happened to be facing Ricky Evans. Neither player had originally qualified for this Euro Tour tournament, but moved on after Luke Humphries and Gary Anderson canceled.
The two reserve players provided a match of fine quality. Veenstra threw an average of 97.24, compared to 94.71 for Evans. However, it was the Englishman who managed to take a 4-2 and 5-4 lead.
Veenstra then made it 5-5 with a 12-darter, after which Evans could start the last leg. After a 180, 'Rapid Ricky' was on top after four innings. Evans missed three matchdarts on tops, after which Veenstra struck with a brilliant 104 finish.
Danny Lauby graced his debut on the European Tour with a victory. The American triumphed 6-4 against Ryan Joyce featuring a high checkout of 121. Brendan Dolan also reached the last 32 at the Austrian Darts Open by beating Hannes Schnier 6-3. The in-form Northern Irishman sealed a win with a 98.3 average, three 180's and 50% on the doubles.
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VICTORY FOR VEENSTRA! 🇳🇱
Richard Veenstra produces a trio of ton-plus checkouts to deny Ricky Evans in a real rollercoaster clash, surviving three match darts in the decider!
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