2024 World Matchplay: Classy Rob Cross Pounds His Way into the Quarterfinals

Rob Cross, the 2019 champion, faced off against the in-form Ryan Searle on the iconic Winter Gardens stage for a place in the quarterfinals at the 2024 World Matchplay. 

Voltage made his intentions clear right from the start, opening the match with an impressive 10-dart hold of throw against an in-form Ryan Searle. 

Cross's sharp finishing continued in the second leg, breaking Searle's throw to secure an early 2-0 lead. 

However, Searle quickly responded, producing back-to-back 14-dart legs to level the game at 2-2. A straightforward hold of throw then saw Searle take a surprising 3-2 lead into the first mini session.

Cross then reignited the brilliant form he displayed at the start of the match, delivering another stunning 10-darter followed by a 12-dart leg to regain the lead at 4-3.

Although he missed an opportunity to lead 3-0 earlier, Cross established a commanding position by comfortably winning the next two legs, extending his advantage to 6-3. 

Searle, although, fought back by breaking Cross's throw again, reducing the deficit to 6-4 as they headed into the second interval.

The next four legs would be a back-and-forth affair, each player hitting two apiece, giving Cross a narrow but steady 8-6 lead. 

Voltage did put an end to any sort of comeback for Heavy Metal, continuing his brilliant finishing display, winning the next two legs to go one away from a place in the next round. 

Another impressive 11-darter sealed the deal for Cross at 11-6, averaging almost 107 in the process. His best ever three-dart average at the World Matchplay, tournament winning form from him. 

Image credit: PDC