Simon Whitlock produced a strong performance to defeat Dave Chisnall for the first time, while Raymond van Barneveld also reached the quarter-finals of the PartyPoker.net European Championship after triumphing in a terrific match against Michael van Gerwen in Germany. 
Whitlock overcame the challenge of Chisnall, taking a 10-5 victory thanks to some clinical finishing.
‘The Wizard’ hit ten out of 13 double attempts to set up a last eight clash against Colin Lloyd.
“I played really well again,” said Whitlock. “I have struggled against Dave in the past so I’m thrilled to get that monkey off of my back.
“I’m feeling good, throwing well and I’m really confident. I can’t wait to be back on that stage tomorrow.”
van Barneveld came out on top in a sensational battle with fellow Dutchman van Gerwen, taking a 10-9 victory in the match of the tournament so far.
Both players averaged over 100 and produced some fabulous two and three dart finishes, before ‘Barney’ prevailed in the deciding leg.
“It was a fantastic match,” said van Barneveld, who faces Kim Huybrechts in Sunday’s quarter-finals.
“Michael played awesome but there can only be one winner and I’m happy that it was me.
“The confidence is coming back and I’m looking forward to tomorrow. I’m very happy with the way I’m playing.”
The PartyPoker.net European Championship concludes on Sunday with the quarter-finals taking place in the afternoon, before the semi-finals and final are played in the evening.
By Chris Murphy
Image courtesy of Lawrence Lustig/PDC
