World Matchplay Darts: Humphries and Wade Secure Semi-Final Spots

Last updated: 19 July 2024 by Leon Marshall

In a night of high drama at the World Matchplay, Luke Humphries and James Wade delivered stunning performances to secure their spots in the semi-finals. Humphries’ masterclass against Dimitri Van den Bergh and Wade’s vintage display against Ross Smith set the stage for an electrifying showdown in Blackpool.

Betfred Our top tip van Gerwen at 3/1 VISIT SITE!

Humphries Dominates Van den Bergh

Top seed Luke Humphries made a significant mark in the World Matchplay semi-finals, overpowering Dimitri Van den Bergh with a commanding 16-10 victory. The world champion showcased his prowess, averaging 101.21 and achieving a remarkable 164 finish.

The match started with Humphries breaking Van den Bergh in the opening leg and establishing an early lead of 3-0 with four maximums. Despite Van den Bergh’s efforts to close the gap, Humphries maintained his dominance, taking an 8-7 lead into the mid-session break.

Van den Bergh, who had defeated Humphries in the UK Open final earlier this year, briefly levelled the match at 4-4 but was unable to sustain the momentum. Humphries’ resilience and skill were evident as he executed a 115 checkout followed by a series of successful legs, pushing the score to 11-8.

Humphries’ remarkable 164 finish was a highlight of the match, igniting the crowd and boosting his confidence. He won five consecutive legs, including a mimic of Van den Bergh’s ‘chicken celebration’, to seal his place in the semi-finals for the second consecutive year.

Not bad for a World Champion 😉

In all seriousness, Dimi pushed me hard!

That was another tough test, one I'm delighted to get through, and I'm looking forward to Saturday already after some rest!

💙@ModusDarts180 @reddragondarts @cygroup2 @TaylorMaxwellCo @VibePay Radamec pic.twitter.com/tC9enUPy8v

— Luke Humphries (@lukeh180) July 18, 2024

Reflecting on his performance, Humphries said, “After the first five legs I felt deflated and tired, which can happen in random games – I just did not feel the real Luke Humphries up there tonight. But I said to myself ‘just stick in there, work hard and don’t let your mind play games with you’. I worked incredibly hard in that last session to get over the line, and it was a great performance in the last few legs.”

James Wade Rolls Back the Years

James Wade, the 2007 champion, displayed a vintage performance, defeating Ross Smith with the same 16-10 scoreline. Averaging 100.30 and hitting 13 maximums, Wade secured his place in the semi-finals for the first time in nine years.

Wade, often known for his composure and precision under pressure, started strong, matching Smith’s early lead and eventually taking control of the match. His clinical finishing and consistent scoring were pivotal, landing crucial checkouts of 120 and 121 to gain a substantial lead.

Smith, who started impressively with an average of 114 in the opening legs, could not maintain his momentum as Wade’s experience and skill began to shine. Despite Smith’s best efforts, including a remarkable 161 checkout, Wade’s relentless scoring ensured he stayed ahead.

Wade’s ability to finish under pressure was on full display as he missed four darts for a 10-5 lead but quickly recovered to take control once again. Winning three of the next four legs, Wade extended his lead to 12-7, showcasing his resilience and tactical prowess.

I'VE BEEN THROUGH THE S**T OF LIFE"

💙James Wade reveals mental and physical health problems and says he believes he is a top ten player

It's Wade's first Matchplay semi-final since 2015, and he has the belief he can win!

🎥FULL INT.👇🏼https://t.co/xB252dkIJP pic.twitter.com/s5n6qvDIFf

— Darts Now (@DartsNow_) July 18, 2024

Reflecting on his performance, Wade said, “I feel really good after that. I enjoyed the game, it was a great game and I’m just glad that I played a little bit better than Ross on the night. My scoring was good but I’ve been playing a lot better in practice so it’s not something I’m surprised by. I know I can play a lot better than that.”

World Matchplay Quarter-Final Results and Highlights

The quarter-final results set the stage for thrilling semi-final matches:

James Wade 16-10 Ross Smith: Wade’s consistent scoring and clinical finishing were key to his victory.

Luke Humphries 16-10 Dimitri Van den Bergh: Humphries’ impressive averages and critical checkouts ensured his win.

Michael van Gerwen vs. Andrew Gilding: Van Gerwen, the three-time winner, faces Gilding, who has been dubbed ‘the assassin’ by Van Gerwen himself.

Michael Smith vs. Rob Cross: Another fascinating quarter-final showdown to determine the semi-finalist.

Friday night at the Betfred World Matchplay sees more quarter-final action, with Michael van Gerwen pursuing his fourth title against Andrew Gilding, followed by a rematch of the 2019 final between Michael Smith and Rob Cross.

Both Humphries and Wade will look to continue their impressive runs, while fans anticipate another thrilling day of darts at the Winter Gardens in Blackpool. Humphries, coming off a strong performance against Van den Bergh, will face a rejuvenated Wade, who rolled back the years to secure his place in the semi-finals.

Betfred Our top tip van Gerwen at 3/1 VISIT SITE!

Luke Humphries is the current favourite at the best darts betting sites with odds of 4/5, demonstrating his strong form and high expectations. Michael van Gerwen follows closely with odds of 3/1, showcasing his reputation as a formidable contender. Rob Cross stands at 6/1, while Michael Smith has odds of 17/2, indicating a balanced yet challenging field. James Wade, with odds of 11/1, and Andrew Gilding, a longshot at 66/1, round out the list, underscoring the dynamic and unpredictable nature of the tournament.

The semi-final matchups promise high drama and exceptional skill, as all four competitors vie for a spot in the final. The stakes are high, and the excitement is palpable as the World Matchplay reaches its penultimate stage.