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RAYMOND VAN BARNEVELD 7 – 7 Adrian Lewis

Raymond van Barneveld secured a draw with world champion Adrian Lewis in sensational style in Aberdeen. The Dutchman took out a stunning 126 finish to seal a point for the second consecutive week.

‘Barney’ hit four 180’s in another thrilling match before hitting 19, treble 19 and bull to grab the draw  when under immense pressure from the world number two. Van Barneveld, who drew with Simon Whitlock last week, was pleased to share the spoils once again.

Photo: Lawrence Lustig/PDC

He said: “I’m happy with the point again. Adrian played well and he played a brilliant leg at the end. I had to take the 126 out. I told him it was payback for Dusseldorf, when he beat me with a 121. I started off well again before Adrian started playing brilliant darts, it was really similar to last week and I’m delighted to have got the draw.”

Van Barneveld won the first leg against the throw and soon doubled his lead, hitting his first 180 in the process. Lewis came back strongly though, winning four legs in a row to lead at the break.

‘Jackpot’ then held his throw to open up a three leg lead before ‘Barney’ reduced the deficit with a tidy 76 finish. The Dutchman then took out 77 to grab a crucial break of throw before hitting another maximum on his way to restoring parity at five legs apiece.

Van Barneveld hit a third 180 but was unable to prevent Lewis from edging back in front. The five-time world champion hit maximum number four before hitting double four to level the match once again. Lewis took out 140 to go back into the lead in the penultimate leg of the match before ‘Barney’ pulled of his sublime 126 checkout with Lewis waiting to pounce on 51.

By Chris Murphy