Luke Littler’s decision to use new darts in the latest Premier League Darts meeting paid off after an incredible comeback against Rob Cross. The two rivals opened the night in Glasgow, with Cross seemingly destined for a big win as he seared into a 5-1 lead.
But then the teenage sensation went through gears, levelling the contest at 5-5 after Cross missed three match darts.
And with his opponent looking deflated, Littler comfortably took the decider as he nailed double 20 at the first time of asking.
The remarkable comeback ultimately justified Littler’s decision to a different set of arrows in Scotland. And he started well enough despite the change, hitting tops to take the opening leg.
But it was then that ‘Voltage’ took command, and at 5-2 up missed an opportunity to wrap up matters. The crowd, clearly exasperated at the prospect of an early finish, booed loudly before Cross failed to hit double 18.
There were more jeers at 5-4 when he blew two more chances on the same double. In contrast, the atmosphere was electric as the reigning champion stormed back into contention.
Order your souvenir 48-page publication celebrating Luke Littler’s historic World Championship win now. Buy now on our online shop!
He eventually averaged 104.59 and crucially, checked out on six of nine attempts at a double. And the result meant Littler’s hold over Cross continued, beating him for the fourth successive match in the Premier League.
Littler’s decision to use new darts came after his erratic start to his 2025 season. Having landed his first world title in spectacular style January, he’s since failed to win a tournament.
Indeed, victory meant the youngster avoided an opening match defeat in the campaign for the second successive week after losing to Michael van Gerwen in Belfast last Thursday. And he’ll now have an immediate chance for revenge against ‘MVG’ in tonight’s semi-final.
However, the Dutchman looked in imperious form has he followed Littler into the final four. He hammered Stephen Bunting 6-1 as the Scouse fan favourite narrowly avoided a whitewash.
The remaining quarter-finals will see Gerwyn Price take on Nathan Aspinall and Luke Humphries play Chris Dobey. ‘Cool hand Luke’ will take the oche as the early Premier League leader after winning the first tournament in Northern Ireland.
