News

James Wade booked his place in the last 16 of the Grand Slam of Darts with a game to spare after defeating Gary Anderson 5-3 on Sunday.

The former finalist, who had overcome another Scotsman in Peter Wright in his opening match, hit finishes of 120 and 100 in another clinical victory.

“The key to the win was taking advantage of Gary’s errors on the finishing, and a couple of ton-plus finishes is always nice,” said Wade, who will face Wesley Harm in his final Group B game on Tuesday.

“I’m working very hard on my approach to matches at the moment and my mindset during games. I’ve confirmed my place in the knockout stages now but I want to be professional in my last game against Wesley Harms and go through with a 100 percent record.”

Wade took the first leg before doubling his advantage with a solid 120 checkout but Anderson hit back, winning the next two legs to draw level.

‘The Machine’ then fired in a 110 finish but missed two darts at double top in leg six, allowing Anderson to restore parity once again.

Seven-time major winner Wade then pegged double nine before landing an 84 finish to seal his place in the knockout phase.

By Chris Murphy