“CHUFFED to bits and over the moon” – that was the reaction of Cardigan darts ace Jamie Lewis after pulling off a great 10-7 win over Justin Pipe in round one of the PDC Bet/Victor World Matchplay tournament at the Winter Gardens in Blackpool on Sunday.
The 23-year-old world rated number 33 claimed a memorable 10-7 win over the world number 16 and meets world number one Michael van Gerwen of Holland in the second round.
Pipe started confidently with a 13-darter and a 71 finish but his young opponent threw superb darts to take the next five legs and a three frame lead.
Pipe, from Taunton, took two of the next three legs to reduce the arrears and after Lewis took out 128 the more experienced Somerset star pulled back to 8-6 with a 116 checkout.
Refusing to be rattled Lewis finished on double 20 and double four to clinch the match and set up a clash with van Gerwen.
Lewis, who is guaranteed £10,000 for reaching the next stage, said “In the past I have not performed to my ability on TV but I hope this win gives me confidence and I’m looking forward to meeting Michael van Gerwen.”
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