Breaking: Darts World Matchplay Ensnared in Row as Gerwyn Price’s Celebrations Rile Rival Daryl Gurney; Josh Rock Cruises, Michael van Gerwen Scratches Through; Chris Dobey Kicks Off Third Day with Victory

Price and Gurney Clash in Heated Darts Exchange; Rock and Van Gerwen Advance

In a dramatic turn of events at the World Matchplay, Gerwyn Price and Daryl Gurney engaged in a heated exchange following their first-round clash in Blackpool. The tension boiled over as Price sealed a thrilling 10-7 victory, with Gurney taking issue with his rival’s celebrations.

Price’s Triumphant Finish Sparks Controversy

The game had been a rollercoaster, with Price, the 2022 finalist, racing to a 6-2 lead. Gurney, however, refused to go down without a fight. The Northern Irishman clawed his way back into contention, winning the ninth leg and mimicking Price’s trademark fist-pumping celebration. The pair were then separated by just a leg, with Gurney threatening to level the match at 8-8.

Price, displaying his renowned resilience, held his nerve and closed out the win on double 12. The pair shared a robust handshake, but Gurney couldn’t let the matter rest, engaging in a heated exchange with Price on stage. The incident quickly became the talk of social media, with fans reacting to the intense moment.

👀 It’s all getting a bit heated on stage 👀 Gerwyn Price beats Daryl Gurney after a thrilling contest ‼️ pic.twitter.com/uEaTKrmf3d

— Sky Sports Darts (@SkySportsDarts) July 21, 2025

Josh Rock Blazes Past Ross Smith

Meanwhile, Gurney’s compatriot Josh Rock had a much more straightforward evening. The 24-year-old stormed to a 10-5 victory over 14th seed Ross Smith, averaging an impressive 104 to gain revenge for last year’s first-round loss. Rock, who won the World Cup of Darts with Gurney last month, will now face the challenge of three-time winner Michael van Gerwen in the next round.

Van Gerwen Advances Despite Struggles

Van Gerwen, though far from his best, managed to scrape past veteran Raymond van Barneveld in a gruelling 10-6 win. The Dutchman admitted to Sky Sports, “I made it so difficult for myself… I didn’t play a lot of tournaments, and that makes it hard.” Despite the struggles, the three-time winner remains optimistic, stating, “I think it’s the start of something nice.”

Dobey Pulls Away Against Pietreczko

In the opening match of the third day, sixth seed Chris Dobey secured a comfortable 10-5 victory over Germany’s Ricardo Pietreczko. Dobey pulled away from the German after a tight start, leaving Pietreczko with a mountain to climb.

Looking Ahead

With the first round nearing completion, fans are treated to a mouthwatering clash in the next round between two of darts’ brightest young stars, Josh Rock and Michael van Gerwen. The stage is set for an enthralling tournament, with more drama sure to unfold.

Did you know? Darts, once considered a pub game, has seen a surge in popularity and investment, with major sporting bodies now recognizing it as a legitimate sport.

Pro tip Want to improve your darts game? Practice your mental game as much as your physical. Controlling emotions, like those displayed by Gurney and Price, can make or break a game.

FAQ

Q: Who will win the World Matchplay?
A: It’s too early to tell, but with stars like Michael van Gerwen, Gerwyn Price, and Josh Rock still in the running, it’s anyone’s game.

Q: Can darts become an Olympic sport?
A: While it’s not on the current Olympic program, darts has made significant strides in recent years. It’s not out of the question for the future.

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