Ritchie Edhouse delivered an outstanding performance in the opening round of the European Championship, continuing his impressive form by defeating Michael Smith in a thrilling last-leg decider, finishing 10-9.
Edhouse has emerged as one of the season’s revelations, qualifying for all major tournaments and climbing from the fringes of the top 64 into the top 40. This marks his first appearance in a TV quarter-final, achieved in dramatic fashion after coming back from a 4-1 deficit against ‘Bully Boy.’
Smith started strong, building a 4-1 lead with two 180s and a solid 95.2 average. However, Edhouse fought back fiercely, winning four of the next five legs, including an impressive 152 checkout, to level the score. Smith tried to maintain his momentum, but Edhouse stayed in the hunt, tying it at 7-7 with a 72 checkout and again at 8-8 with a crucial last-dart double 18.
The match culminated in a nail-biting finish, with the score tied at 9-9. Edhouse clinched the victory with a 13-darter on double 20, leaving Smith trailing.
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Edhouse will now face the winner of the highly anticipated match between Michael van Gerwen and Gary Anderson, which promises to be another exciting contest. With opportunities ahead, Edhouse is poised to capitalize on this momentum.
