Luke Littler Powers into World Masters Quarter-Finals with Commanding Win Over Ross Smith
Luke Littler delivered a dominant performance to secure a 4-1 victory over Ross Smith, advancing to the quarter-finals of the Winmau World Masters in Milton Keynes. The world champion showcased his formidable skill, setting the tone early with a blistering 116 average in the opening set.
Littler's Clinical Display Seals Quarter-Final Berth
After a narrow escape in his previous match, Littler appeared focused and in control from the outset. He claimed the first set convincingly, demonstrating why he holds the world title. Smith, a former European champion, attempted to mount a challenge in the second set, landing two maximums, but a crucial bust on a 59 finish allowed Littler to capitalise. The young star pinched the leg with an impressive 84 checkout on the bullseye, followed by a swift 13-dart hold to establish a 2-0 lead.
The match continued to favour Littler as he maintained his momentum in the third set. Another maximum early on helped him move through the gears, and he sealed a 3-0 advantage by nailing double top. Smith managed to halt the onslaught temporarily, taking the fourth set after Littler missed an 85 finish for the match. However, Littler responded emphatically in the fifth set, opening with a clinical 120 finish. Smith showed great composure to force a decider with a 101 checkout, but Littler held his nerve, finishing 92 on double eight to secure his place in the last eight.
Littler Targets First Masters Title with Game-by-Game Approach
Reflecting on his performance, Littler expressed satisfaction with his improvement from the previous night's match. "It was far better than last night, that is what I had to do against Ross," he told ITV4. "The stats go to show that he had a brilliant game once again, but I am glad to get through." Looking ahead to finals day, where he aims to claim his first Masters title, Littler emphasised a measured approach. "Obviously it (winning the tournament) is on my mind, but you have got to beat the board, beat your player and take it game by game." He will next face Josh Rock, who defeated Rob Cross 4-1 to reach the quarter-finals for the first time.
Humphries Hits Nine-Darter in Thrilling Victory Over Woodhouse
In another standout match, defending champion Luke Humphries delivered a moment of perfection with a nine-dart finish during his hard-fought battle against Luke Woodhouse. Despite the flawless leg in the second set, Humphries faced a stern test as Woodhouse mounted a thrilling comeback. After Humphries moved 3-1 ahead, Woodhouse produced a run of maximums to break and take the fifth set, pushing the match to a decider. Humphries eventually clinched victory after missing several match darts, taking out 54 on double 10.
"I would rather win the game and not hit a nine-darter than hit a nine-darter and lose, so I am just glad I did both," Humphries remarked. "It was a really close game." Meanwhile, former Masters champion Stephen Bunting was eliminated after a 4-0 defeat by Dutchman Danny Noppert, who won eight of the nine legs.
Afternoon Session Delivers Dramatic Comebacks and Tight Contests
The afternoon session at the Marshall Arena featured several gripping encounters. World Championship runner-up Gian van Veen came from behind to defeat Nathan Aspinall 4-2, showcasing his resilience. Gerwyn Price produced a remarkable recovery, overturning a 2-0 deficit to beat compatriot Jonny Clayton in a last-set decider. James Wade also fought back to edge past veteran Gary Anderson 4-3 in a closely contested match, while former Masters winner Chris Dobey held off Damon Heta to progress in a deciding set, highlighting the tournament's competitive intensity.
