Ladbrokes World Darts Championship – Thursday Round-Up

James Wade and Simon Whitlock are both still in contention to win the Ladbrokes World Championship after reaching the quarter-finals at the Alexandra Palace.

The MODUS pair both progressed from the last sixteen on Thursday to boost their chances of becoming World Champion in 2012.

Wade is the tournament’s most consistent player, having lost just one set en route to the last eight. He put on another solid display to defeat Steve Farmer 4-0, setting up a quarter final clash with John Part.  The Machine has looked comfortable throughout the championship, and victory over the former World Champion would take him within touching distance of a seventh major title.

Whitlock produced a stunning last set to halt a brave comeback effort from Michael van Gerwen. The Wizard had led three nil before the Dutchman managed to get level. The Australian then won all three legs in the decider to progress to the next round, where he faces Premier League winner Gary Anderson. Whitlock hit twelve 180s and posted a finishing success rate of over forty percent in his last 16 victory. He is statistically the best performer in the tournament.

Paul Nicholson exited the competition at the last 16 stage, despite producing a moment of class when he hit a sensational 170 finish. He lost to Belgian number one Kim Huybrechts.

Wade will play Part in the second match of Friday afternoon’s session, whilst Whitlock takes on Anderson to kick off the evening session.

www.modusdarts.tv will provide updates and reports throughout the day.

By Chris Murphy