A stellar performance from Stephen Bunting saw him defeat American Grand Slam debutant Stowe Buntz 16-8 to reach the semi-finals.
Liverpool’s “The Bullet” was in superb form missing only one double in the first session and averaging a ton plus in the third as he led 9-6.
Following this, Liverpool’s Bunting, fired a remarkable 126 checkout to take his lead to 11-6.
Former BDO lakeside champion Bunting reached his third PDC major ranked televised semi-final in three years.
Although, World number 24 Bunting revealed to Mersey Sport Live he nearly walked away from Darts 3-4 years ago.
“3-4 years ago I was ready to walk away from the game and giving up.
“Obviously seeing sports psychologists and hypnotists put my brain back in the right place.
“I enjoyed being back on the stage I think I belong there, I’m probably better than what my ranking suggests.”
Four-time major winner Rob Cross made it into the semi-finals for the first time in his career.
Cross defeated Australian Damon Heta 16-6.
At one stage the match was all square at 6-6.
But “Voltage” hit a stunning 116 finish and then won a remarkable 10 legs in a row.
The former PDC world champion told Merseysportlive he was lucky to achieve Major success early on his career.
And he maintained Heta has the potential to win one in the future.
“I’ve been very fortunate to have that upbringing in the games so early,” he said.
“Damon will get there he’s too dedicated he’s absolute class he’s a true professional and he works hard.
“As people we all look at numbers and can be judgmental when he’s not bothered, he will probably go win one because he is that good.”
The semi-finals will see Cross take on Bunting and Luke Humphries play James Wade in two all-English clashes in Wolverhampton.
(Image courtesy of PDC)
