Warrington's Luke Littler sets up semi-final showdown in Blackpool
The world champion fired a record-break 18 maximums to see off Andrew Gilding 16-14 at Blackpool's Winter Gardens.
The 18 year old was on course for a regulation win after opening up a sizeable lead in the quarter-final, first at 12-8 and again at 14-9.
But Gilding responded by winning three consecutive legs and pegged him back to 15-14, but the teenager held his nerve for a 16-14 success.
In doing so, the Nuke set a new Matchplay record by hitting 18 maximums to set up a semi-final showdown.
Speaking to Sky Sports, Littler reacted to his victory: "That last leg I just had to stay focused and get over the line.
"He won a few on the bounce when I was sat on 15 legs but I just had to do a professional job in the end.
"I didn't really panic.
"Andrew started to win a few legs, but that last leg against the darts as well, I just had to get over the line.
"Andrew does what he does. He never goes out of rhythm. It's the same throw by throw and try and match him."
The teenager will now go on to face Josh Rock in the semi-finals in Blackpool tonight (26 July).
It's after the Northern Irishman beat 2023 runner-up Gerwyn Price 16-11.
It's expected to be an exciting clash as Littler and Josh Rock prepare to put their friendship to one side and deliver 'fireworks'!
The Blackpool Winter Gardens are intrinsically linked with the World Matchplay darts tournament, which has been held annually in the Empress Ballroom at the venue since its inception in 1994, with only one exception in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
This prestigious event is a highlight of the Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) calendar, and the Winter Gardens' iconic status and historic architecture contribute to the tournament's unique atmosphere and ambiance.
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