Luke Littler has produced yet another star-making performance to record a 4-1 victory over Raymond van Barneveld in the World Championship last 16.
The clash between the 16-year-old debutant and the five-time world champion was one of the most anticipated in the sport for some time, and it did not disappoint.
Littler produced what was largely a nerveless performance, posting a 105.01 average against the Dutchman who put together a strong display of his own.
At times, though, it felt like Littler was unplayable, taking out six of his first 10 double attempts and defying a 105 average from Van Barneveld in the second set.
In the third, Littler averaged in excess of 110 himself, but missed doubles in the fourth allowed Van Barneveld to get on the board and threaten a comeback against an opponent who was bidding to, yet again, enter new territory.
Instead, Littler averaged 112.89 in the fifth, turning down the chance to try to finish with a 170 checkout before taking out double 15 first dart on his next visit.
SENSATIONAL LITTLER DOES IT AGAIN!! 🤯
— PDC Darts (@OfficialPDC) December 30, 2023
A truly incredible performance from Luke Littler as he DEMOLISHES his darting idol Raymond van Barneveld 4-1.
Simply breathtaking from the 16-year-old who storms into the Quarter Finals!
📺 https://t.co/f3RU9WTIoD#WCDarts | R4 pic.twitter.com/HI0vHux223
Brendan Dolan is awaiting Littler in the quarter-finals after the Northern Irishman held his nerve to overcome Gary Anderson by a 4-3 scoreline.
Dolan, who defeated Gerwyn Price in the previous round, established a 2-0 lead and was on the brink of making that three until Anderson finally found his groove.
Nevertheless, despite moving 3-2 in front, Anderson could not get over the line, the Scot winning just two legs in the closing two sets, and Dolan and Littler now each have an opportunity to record the biggest win of their careers.
In the final match of the evening, Luke Humphries came from 2-0 and 3-2 down and survived two matches to dramatically beat Joe Cullen in a sudden-death leg, hitting a 12-darter and 100 checkout to book a showdown with Dave Chisnall.
