Clinical finishing helps Humphries progress

The Newbury player came up against South Africa's Devon Petersen

LUKE Humphries stormed into round two of the World Darts Championship after a 3-1 win against Devon Petersen at Alexandra Palace, London, on the opening night of the competition.

The Newbury man averaged 91.05 in his victory over the South African, taking out four ton plus finishes in the process.

Humphries checked out with a 105, 106, 116 and 160 at different stages of the match to help him take control of proceedings.

During the win, the recently crowned youth champion managed to hit a maximum on four occasions, while also registering a total of seventeen 140's.

"It was a tough game," said Humphries after the game, "I think Devon pretty much outscored and I think the 105 [checkout] in the first set one me the game.

"Although I feel he outscored me, my doubles were much better and I know if I can add that, along with my scoring, I will be much better.

"There is a lot more expectation on my shoulders this year because last year it was all just about getting through the first round and enjoying it.

"After my results throughout this year, and last year, it was important I could prove to people that it wasn't just a flash in the pan," he added.

The 24-year-old will now face world number 18 Jermaine Wattimena in round two on Saturday (tomorrow) afternoon.

We'll have more reaction to this in next week's Newbury Weekly News - out on Thursday.