Jonny Clayton admitted he was glad to get one back against Luke Littler in a stunning victory at the World Masters after losing their previous encounter last year.
Littler appeared to be a man on a mission this week on his return to the UK after storming through to the quarter-finals with a commanding victory over Andy Baetens.
A different test was expected in his quarter-final against Clayton, who won the World Masters title back in 2021.
Both players got off to a fast start with high averages, but Clayton was the better of the two on the doubles.
Jonny Clayton defeated Luke Littler 4-2
GETTY
The Welshman continued to dominate on the doubles as Littler was left scratching his head on how to stay in the match.
Clayton eventually won 4-2 to progress to the semi-finals, dumping the world champion out in the process.
Speaking after the match, Clayton was delighted to get past the world No 2.
"Obviously Luke didn't play his A-game, but it's a battle and I got it over the line," Clayton said.
"He's a cracking guy, great darts player and he's got a big future ahead of him.
"He's given me a big lesson the last two times I've played against him so I've had one back.
"It went my way, it was my day."
Littler will now swiftly have to turn his attention to the 2025 Premier League season, which kicks off next week.
Luke Littler was unable to cope with Jonny Clayton
PA
The teenager is the defending champion after a stunning victory over Luke Humphries last year.
And former darts star Glen Durrant believes Littler will be favourite once again to defend his crown.
“When I walked in on that night I saw Littler and when he wants to win it, he wins it," Durrant said.
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Jonny Clayton won the World Masters title in 2021
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“I think that if he gets to the playoffs, which I’m pretty certain he will. I think he wins, I think he becomes a two-time Premier League champion.
“I don’t think we will see anyone really dominate again. The players out there now, getting into the top 16 now, that top 16 are protected right now and there’s players there from 64 to 70 who are desperate to get in there.
“I think gone are the days of seeing a Phil Taylor or a Van Gerwen winning tournament after tournament. The TV majors will be spread, but for the big ones, the two Lukes will be up there.”
