Welsh world number one Gerwyn Price has missed out on a place in darts' World Grand Prix final after a shock defeat by Nathan Aspinall. Stockport-born Aspinall was thrilled to reach the showpiece event yesterday evening (October 8) while preventing his opponent from booking a third straight final appearance as he won 4-2 in Leicester.
Aspinall, the world number 16, has bounced back from a serious wrist injury sustained last year and has been in fine form this tournament, beating Michael Smith, Danny Noppert and Martin Lukeman en route to his maiden World Grand Prix final. He told Boyle Sports: “Every game [was a roller-coaster]. I think I should have won the game 4-1. It wasn’t to be.
“Nerves took its toll in the end, you know there’s only so many times you can shake into a triple 20, but fair play to [Price], he started poor by his standards but when he needed to he took some amazing shots. But irrelevant of how the game went, to be in a final, I’m absolutely on cloud nine.”
Aspinall took an early lead with a 14-darter and a 113 finish to win the first set. Markham-born Price responded, nailing 121 on the bullseye to claim the second set but was in trouble by the fourth, missing two at double 16 and opening up a 3-1 lead for his opponent. The Welshman bounced back from a 2-1 deficit to claim the fifth set after Aspinall missed a match dart at double 16, and led the sixth after three legs before Aspinall levelled then secured his ticket to the final with a 13-darter.
Van Gerwen, meanwhile, dominated his semi-final match-up with world champion Peter Wright, losing just one leg in the 4-0 victory. The Dutchman nailed the bullseye for a 167 checkout in the opening leg and was in full control of the contest from then on.
READ NEXT:
- Tyson Fury confirms he'll fight in Cardiff on December 3
-
Russell Martin thrilled for defender as Swansea City do what they haven't done for three years
For stories from where you live, visit InYourArea.
Find recommendations for eating out, attractions and events near you here on our sister website 2Chill
Find recommendations for dog owners and more doggy stories on our sister site Teamdogs
