Jonathan Liew's report
Littler and Van Veen set up final showdown
Luke Littler will face Gian van Veen in Saturday’s world championship final after two contrasting semi-final wins on Friday.
After losing the first set, Littler won six in a row to see off Ryan Searle 6-1, reaching his third final in three appearances. The world No 1’s focus remains on becoming a back-to-back champion, and not the record £1m prize.
“It’s a massive prize, but it’s the trophy on the stage, it’s not the money,” Littler said. “Ever since the Grand Slam I have just said I want to go back-to-back. So hopefully I can lift the trophy again and think about the money after.”
Van Veen won an instant classic against Anderson in a see-saw match that finished just before 11pm. The Dutchman led 4-1 before two-time champion Anderson fought back, with Van Veen eventually prevailing 6-3 in a thrilling tussle.
Both men averaged over 102, they both took out a 170 finish and Anderson hit more 180s, but it was Van Veen’s finishing which got the job done as he booked his first appearance in the final, having lost his opening match on two previous visits to Alexandra Palace.
“I am so happy,” he said on stage. “Winning this game ... 10 years ago or five years ago, I was struggling playing darts. I was crying at the table and look at me four years later. It’s all been worth it.” PA Media
