In one of the top ties on paper to begin proceedings tonight, it was Josh Rock who sealed his spot in the Last 16 of the Gibraltar Darts Trophy with a 6-3 victory over Michael Smith recording his first ever win over 'Bully Boy'.
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Rock who will play in the World Youth final next month after an incredible 2022 campaign took down the former champion with a 94 average and 54.5% on the doubles.
Breaking to begin the tie with a 74 checkout for 2-0, he consolidated before Smith came back with a 93 checkout and broke himself before hitting 108 for 3-3.
Once again though, Rock ramped it up pinning a 14 and 15 darter with the latter being a 70 checkout to break before sealing the deal on double 20 from a 57.
While after becoming a father for the first time, Luke Humphries will look to return to form with the impending birth no longer on his mind and he returned to winning ways with a 6-3 win over Kenny Neyens.
Neyens was poor yesterday but ramped it up in an 88 average as he played his part in a superb tie with four 180's and 42% on the doubles but it was 'Cool Hand Luke' who produced when it mattered most.
This with a 99 average, five 180's and 60% on the doubles in an accomplished display and he is through to tomorrow.
Samuel Gill is the Chief Content Officer (CCO) of DartsNews.com, a role he has held since 2020. He is responsible for editorial governance across the platform, including setting content standards, overseeing accuracy and consistency, and guiding long-term editorial strategy across professional darts coverage. Since joining, he has contributed more than 10,000 articles and editorial pieces, playing a central role in the development and daily operation of the site.
Based in Leicester, Samuel has extensive experience in darts media and has been closely involved in coverage of the professional darts circuit for several years. Within the UK darts community, he is a recognised figure known for his consistent editorial output and ongoing reporting on major tournaments and developments across the PDC calendar.
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ROCK BATTLES PAST BULLY BOY! 👏
Josh Rock's incredible 2022 campaign continues, as the Northern Irishman records a first career win over Michael Smith to book his place in Sunday's last 16!
#ET13 | R2
Up next 👉 Humphries v Neyens
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