Robert Owen has celebrated his first PDC World Darts Championship win which could have another string to its bow come the Third Round if he makes it that far in keeping his Tour Card.
Owen also known as 'Stack Attack' celebrated wildly as he saw off Niels Zonneveld who has been part of a contingent in good form ahead of the Ally Pally showpiece but the Welshman kept his hopes alive of not going to Q-School by hitting a 121 checkout to win it.
He also came from a set down in a real comeback clinic as he moves through. A late addition to the line-up, he now faces Gabriel Clemens who has form on the great stage but hasn't played well for most of the year.
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Zonneveld was commanding to start the tie sweeping the opening set in three unanswered legs to send Owen into some bother early doors in this must win tie. But Owen decidingly hit back. As was the case to win it, it was a ton plus checkout with his back against the wall that did it.
He hit a 101 in the deciding leg to restore parity at 1-1. He grabbed the match by the scruff of the neck from there. It was successive sets as he claimed the third 3-1 to move in front 2-1. Albeit this after Zonneveld missed chances in most legs to claim a foothold himself including the one that Owen claimed for the lead.
Owen went 2-1 up and one away in what was the last set of the match. But Zonneveld sent it all the way. He left 76 to attempt to get a shot for the match himself. But Owen produced a superb 121 checkout on the lesser spotted double 14 instead of the bull.
A checkout loved by his compatriot Jonny Clayton albeit a different route, another Welshman plays later in Gerwyn Price and he will hope that Owen's win rubs off on him in his opener this evening.
OWEN SEALS IT IN STYLE!
— PDC Darts (@OfficialPDC) December 16, 2024
What a way to win it!
Robert Owen produces a brilliant 121 finish to see off Niels Zonneveld and celebrate his first victory on the Alexandra Palace stage!
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