03/09/2023

Hogan knocks Taylor out of World Seniors Darts Matchplay; Set to face Gates who makes history with first Seniors Tour 100 average

After Neil Duff and Jim McEwan set up a first semi-final earlier in the afternoon, Leonard Gates and Paul Hogan booked their own spots in the final four of the 2023 World Seniors Darts Matchplay.

In a battle of the Seniors Tour's two North American success stories, Leonard Gates took on David Cameron. With Gates looking to take a third straight WSDT major victory, the 'Soulger' started in style, taking the opening leg on double 14 after a brilliant 180 set-up shot.

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

The standard was very high in this one as both players were playing somewhere close to their very best. Nothing could separate them and for the third time in three quarter-final ties, extra time was needed to decide which North American would make it into the final four.

Gates was the first to have a match dart, missing double top for a 10-8 win. Cameron was on hand to punish and keep the tie going. Gates would not be denied however, and reeled off the next two legs for an 11-9 victory with a record 101.28 average.

Paul Hogan or Phil Taylor would be taking the last remaining semi-final place. 'Crocodile Dundee' got off to the brightest start, leading 4-2 at the interval. Taylor fought back after the break and courtesy of a ruthless 100 checkout, levelled up at 4-4.

As has been the case throughout the quarter-finals, the match was tight. Despite a brave effort from Taylor however, Hogan just would not be denied, taking an 8-6 win and booking his semi-final place.

"People want to see if I'm gonna win the three in a row, I gotta do it" - Gates dreaming of historic hattrick

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.