Michael van Gerwen was full of respect for Callan Rydz after emerging victorious in a 5-3 thriller at the World Darts Championship, but one aspect of his play did annoy him.
MVG is hellbent on winning a fourth world title and has reached the semi-final with a statement win over Rydz at the Alexandra Palace on New Year's Day.
Rydz put in a stellar display and even had a better average that the Dutchman with 103.88 to his 103.10.
He also finished the contest with more maximums with 17 180s to Van Gerwen's 14 in a high-octane blockbuster at the Ally Pally.
Michael van Gerwen emerged victorious against Callan Rydz in an epic tie
Reuters
Even the final leg saw both players registering outrageous scores of 125 and 140 for Rydz and 18p and 140 for MVG before the latter won the tie with a double-16.
The 35-year-old let out an almighty roar after planting the winning double, perhaps the biggest sign that he had been pushed to the brink.
And speaking to Sky Sports, Van Gerwen admitted he was left annoyed by Rydz because he could not shake off the Geordie.
He said: "He gave me everything. He didn't stop hitting trebles. When I was 4-2 up I thought I broke him but he never gave up.
"I was getting annoyed at a point! But I did it when I had to and I'm really happy with my performance.
"My game is in a good place. We are only in the semis, so it doesn't mean anything yet.
"The game had everything, it had drama, 180s and to be part of games like this gives you a lot of joy.
"It's one of the best performances I have done in a long time. I'm over the moon.
Callan Rydz annoyed Michael van Gerwen with his impressive scoring
Reuters
"I've had a tough year and been battling everywhere. I'm still here and believe in my own ability. This means a lot."
Van Gerwen sets up a mouth-watering tie against Chris Dobey, who looked electric against Gerwyn Price earlier in the afternoon.
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Michael van Gerwen is gunning for a fourth world title
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Hollywood claimed a 5-3 victory over the Welshman in another pulsating clash, in what was a very entertaining day of darts at the Ally Pally.
With reigning champion Luke Humphries out, the Sid Waddell Trophy is up for grabs with Luke Littler, Peter Wright and Stephen Bunting all gunning for the title.
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