News

James Wade progressed to the knockout stages of the Grand Slam of Darts after an excellent victory over Tony O’Shea on Tuesday evening.

Wade averaged just shy of 100 in a 5-1 defeat of three-time Lakeside World Championship finalist O’Shea in their decisive Group G match in Wolverhampton.

Recently crowned Masters champion Wade got off to a flying start on Saturday, winning his opener 5-1 against Jamie Caven.

But a 5-4 loss to Mervyn King 24 hours later left ‘The Machine’ in need of a victory in what was effectively a knockout tie against O’Shea.

Wade prevailed and set up a clash with reigning BDO World Champion Stephen Bunting, who he will meet on Thursday.

“I’m very happy to be through because I was nervous before and during the last group game,” admitted Wade, who has won eight major PDC titles.

“After losing to Mervyn I thought I was out.

“Tony O’Shea is a legend of darts and one of the players that used to beat me all the time when I was serving my apprenticeship in this sport.

“It was a daunting game so I’m happy with how I played and it helps my confidence for the rest of the tournament.”

By Chris Murphy