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Michael van Gerwen wowed the Winter Gardens with a wonderful nine-dart finish in an explosive performance, as he saw off Steve Beaton in Blackpool.

Image courtesy of Lawrence Lustig/PDC

The 23-year-old Dutchman hit six ton plus finishes in a 13-9 triumph to set up a quarter final clash with James Wade, who was impressive in a convincing 13-4 success over Mark Walsh.

“It was a special moment for me,” said van Gerwen, on hitting his second televised nine-darter.

“I have been playing really well on the floor which has given me a lot of confidence and tonight it all came together on TV.

“James is a classy player so I will have to play great again to beat him, but everyone has seen what I can do.”

Wade, who won nine consecutive legs in his triumph over Walsh, said: “I did alright tonight and I’m glad to get through.

Image courtesy of Lawrence Lustig/PDC

“Michael is a confident young lad and I was pleased for him but I’m here to do a job.”

There was disappointment for Raymond van Barneveld however, the Dutchman failed to reach the quarter-finals in Blackpool for the first time ever after suffering defeat at the hands of Terry Jenkins.

By Chris Murphy

See some of the world’s top darts players in action at The Untouchables,Eastbourne on Friday 19 October.