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Michael van Gerwen booked his place in the semi-finals of the William Hill Grand Slam of Darts with a magnificent performance on Saturday evening, while fellow Dutchman Raymond van Barneveld also progressed into the last four in Wolverhampton.

van Gerwen hit two stunning maximum finishes of 170 in a 16-12 triumph over 2010 champion Scott Waites, with the Dutch sensation averaging over 106 in a brilliant match.

“I was very happy to win the match,” said van Gerwen, who faces Dean Winstanley in the semi-finals.

“I was not happy with some of my legs because I missed quite a few darts a doubles.

“But winning the match is the most important thing and I can focus on the semi-finals now and another very tough match.”

“Hitting two 170s is very special so I am happy but tomorrow is another day and I am looking no further than my next game.”

van Barneveld saw off BDO World Champion Christian Kist with a 16-10 triumph, hitting twelve 180s in the process.

‘Barney’ averaged over 100 in the victory, which keeps the five-time World Champion on course to win a major title for the first time since 2007.

“I’m really pleased to be through,”said van Barneveld, who faces Andy Hamilton in the semi-finals on Sunday afternoon.

“It was important for me to win this game and I’m pleased it was shown live in Holland for people to see it.

“I have to rest now ahead of the semi-final which will be a tough match but if I can keep playing like this I can win it.

“To win a big trophy like this after five years would be an emotional moment for me.”

By Chris Murphy

van Barneveld 16-10 Kist (match report)

van Gerwen 16-12 Waites (match report)