It really had to come from the toes, but after a blood-curdling denouement, Dirk van Duijvenbode has qualified for the third round at the PDC World Darts Championship. The Dutchman survived a match dart in his match against Karel Sedlacek, missed the double 12 for a nine-darter and then won against the Czech after extra time. People who made use of their free bets to put Dirk van Duijvenbode on a win, had a very tough time watching this match. Loads of times they would’ve giving up on him.

Great first set Dirk van Duijvenbode

After one set, nothing seemed that Van Duijvenbode still had to go very deep to be able to return to Alexandra Palace after the Christmas break. With an average of more than 108, he took the first set 3-1. But his level then quickly dropped, with the result that Sedlacek took the second and third set. The third set was certainly a painful one for Van Duijvenbode, who had missed two set arrows. Then ‘Aubergenius’ took the score in sets equal set four with 3-1.

Thrilling final set

Then came a blood-curdling final set, in which Sedlacek took a 2-1 lead and got one match dart in the fourth leg. That was after Van Duijvenbode had missed seven chances at 2-2. But much to his relief, Sedlacek missed his match dart on the bullseye by wide. Van Duijvenbode forced extra time via double 4 and the Dutchman immediately took the lead with a 14-darter for a break. He then finished it off with a 15-dart finish.