STEPHEN Bunting became the third St Helens darter to reach the last 16 of the Paddy Power World Darts Championship at Alexandra Palace.
Bunting – a semi-finalist in 2021 – complete a second straight-sets demolition of the tournament to see off Florian Hempel 4-0.
He posted an average of 101/15 and hit seven 180s on his way to victory.
This comes after the Windle-based thrower saw off Ryan Joyce 3-0 in Round 2.
🗣️ "I'm the underdog, so there's no pressure on me!'
— PDC Darts (@OfficialPDC) December 28, 2023
Hear from Stephen Bunting after yet another ton-topping performance as he sets up a fourth round clash with Michael van Gerwen... pic.twitter.com/0agHewH1HI
He will now face three-time World Champion Michael van Gerwen in the next round.
Reigning champion Michael Smith and Dave Chisnall qualified for the last 16 yesterday.
BRILLIANT BRILLIANT BUNTING! 👏
— PDC Darts (@OfficialPDC) December 28, 2023
What. A. Performance! 🔥
Stephen Bunting produces another ton-topping average to dispatch Florian Hempel and set up a mouth-watering last 16 showdown against Michael van Gerwen!
📺 https://t.co/f3RU9WTIoD#WCDarts | R3 pic.twitter.com/96pnIGjApI
Bunting said: "To win this tournament you have to bring your best game and that is what I keep trying to do.
"I'll have an early night tonight and be ready for tomorrow's game.
"I will prepare the way I do. But Michael starts favourite, I am the underdog so there is no pressure on me."
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