2024 UK Open: Ricky Evans Reaches His First-ever PDC Major Semi-Final

In the second quarterfinal showdown of the 2024 Ladbrokes UK Open, Butlin’s Mainstage witnessed a clash of contrasting personalities. The lively and energetic Rapid Ricky Evans faced off against the more reserved former World Champion, Rob Cross. If you’re following the action closely, now is a great time to bet on darts and get involved in all the latest PDC fixtures.

Evans, known for his fast-paced playing style, last reached a televised PDC quarterfinal in 2019 during the European Championships. Coincidentally, it was Rob Cross who emerged victorious against him on that occasion, setting the stage for an intriguing rematch.

In contrast to the electrifying performance by Luke Humphries, the early stages of this match failed to reach the same breath-taking standard. Cross secured the first leg, but both players struggled with their doubles, allowing Evans to snatch the second leg with a disappointing 24-dart break of throw.

However, Evans swiftly raised the tempo, living up to his reputation as the fastest player in the world. With lightning speed, he checked out 74 in just two darts, enroute to securing a narrow 3-2 lead going into the first mid-match interval. Despite Evans' rapid throwing pace, both players were likely hoping to find their rhythm as they maintained averages below 83 at this stage of the match.

Image credit: PDC

The level of play remained stagnant over the next few legs, with both players exchanging holds of throw. A notable moment came in the seventh leg when Cross missed six darts at double 10, a potential turning point in the match.

With the score line deadlocked at four legs each, both players continued to struggle on their doubles, resulting in the same dismal checkout percentage of 22.2%. This was significantly lower than their tournament averages, raising questions about whether the pressure of the mainstage was affecting their performances. 

As frustration mounted, both players left the stage angrily at the second mid-match interval. The disappointing quarter-final clash stood tied at 5-5, leaving much to be desired in terms of excitement and quality of play.