Statement displays continue for Thornton in straight sets win over Mitchell as Gates dumps out Adams at World Seniors Darts Championship

Robert Thornton saved the best display of the First Round for last on Friday night and on Saturday, the statement wins keep coming for the defending champion at the World Seniors Darts Championship.

Facing Scott Mitchell who many fancied to win the tournament, he showed that 'The Thorn' is still the player to watch during the latter stages on Sunday. He produced a 90 average in seeing off 'Scotty Dog' 3-0.

It was close throughout despite the scoreline but Thornton was ruthless at the right moments. There was only one break of throw in the opening set and it went the way of Thornton with a superb 66 checkout to lead.

He followed it up with the best leg of the tournament to start set two with two 180's and a 41 checkout for an 11-darter. Mitchell hit an 80 checkout to break after a 116 checkout and go 2-1 up but had nothing to show for it as Thornton sealed it in a decider to go one set away.

Mitchell started with a 120 in the next set but a 15-darter, 14-darter and 88 checkout on the bull in a row from Thornton saw him seal it.

But the incredible displays keep on coming at the Circus Tavern with Leonard Gates usurping that highest average with an effort of 96.90 in seeing off Martin Adams 3-0 in a straight sets win to also claim his spot in the Quarter-Finals.

Fans at the Circus Tavern will rejoice at being able to see 'Soulger' dance to the oche at least once more after dumping out 'Wolfie'

Turning the opening set on its head after a slow start, Gates produced checkouts of 101 and 107 to come from 2-0 down to claim it and lead.

He further strengthened his grip on the tie with a 91 checkout to make it 2-0 including a superb 11-dart leg to break. To begin set three, Gates turned on the style with a 122 checkout despite Adams being well back and a 60 checkout saw him seal it after Adams missed a dart at double 20 to send it all the way.