Danny Noppert has qualified for the quarterfinals of the World Grand Prix Darts in Leicester, defeating Stephen Bunting in four sets: 3-1.
Noppert started the match strongly, holding his throw and ultimately winning the first set by converting 33 in the deciding leg.
In the second set, Bunting also held his throw, leading to another deciding leg. Bunting’s poor start allowed Noppert to seize the initiative, and despite Bunting’s chance to win the set from 67, Noppert remained composed and secured the second set with a 20-finish.
Noppert’s performance dipped in the third set, missing doubles and constantly playing catch-up. Although his scoring was decent, Bunting consistently stayed ahead, winning all three legs.
The fourth set was tense. Despite struggling with back pain, Bunting recovered from a 2-0 deficit in legs. Noppert missed a match dart before ultimately clinching the match in the fifth leg. In the quarterfinals, Noppert will face either Joe Cullen or Gary Anderson.
Van Duijvenbode only other remaining Dutchman
Besides Noppert, only Dirk van Duijvenbode remains in the tournament. He will play Daryl Gurney on Thursday for a place in the quarterfinals of the World Grand Prix.
The World Grand Prix is unique as players must hit a double to start each leg. The field consists of the top sixteen in the world rankings and the sixteen best players of the season. The quarterfinals are scheduled for Friday, with the semi-finals and final on Saturday and Sunday. The winner will receive £120,000 (€138,000).