Duff and McEwan into the semi-finals after epic victories over Howson and Painter at the World Seniors Darts Matchplay

Neil Duff and Jim McEwan have become the first two men into the semi-finals of the 2023 World Seniors Darts Matchplay courtesy of victories in their respective quarter-finals over Richie Howson and Kevin Painter.

Richie Howson, so often a bridesmaid in these World Seniors events was determined to be the one celebrating this time around and entered the first interval leading 4-2. You don't win World Championship titles as Neil Duff has done however, without an immense fighting spirit. The Northern Irishman fought back and in some style too, levelling up at 5-5.

With the tie becoming very tight, Duff produced a moment of magic in the 14th leg, firing in a 151 checkout to level up at 7-7. Neither player could really press home an advantage but and as the match entered overtime, it was the Northern Irishman who managed to get a vital break of throw and nudge in front at 10-9, leading for the first time. With Howson unable to save his skin in the final leg, victory was Duff's.

Kevin Painter and Jim McEwan were up next and similarly to the opening quarter-final tie, it was an incredibly tight affair. 'The Artist' had managed to draw up a narrow lead at the interval 4-2, but McEwan refused to give in.

Extra time was once again required as the pair scrapped their way closer to the finish line on level terms. It was McEwan though, who managed to thrive under the pressure of overtime, winning two clear legs and taking a 9-7 victory.

Livestream

The World Seniors Darts Matchplay will be televised all weekend on TNT Sports. Elsewhere however, for a fee of £9.99, interested parties can watch the entire weekend via a live stream at www.247.tv/live/darts.

Prize money

The World Seniors Darts Tour (WSDT), organizer of the World Seniors Darts Matchplay, announced that the winner of the event will receive £10,000. In addition, the winner will also go home with a trophy. Last year, it was won by Robert Thornton, who was too strong for Phil Taylor in the final 12-10.