Teenage darts sensation Luke Littler staged a remarkable comeback to defeat Gary Anderson 16-15 in a thrilling Grand Slam of Darts semi-final on Sunday afternoon.
The 17-year-old showed extraordinary resilience to overcome a significant deficit and book his place in the final against Martin Lukeman.
In a match that went down to a deciding leg at the Wolverhampton venue, Littler demonstrated why he’s considered one of darts’ most exciting prospects.
The young star recovered from losing seven consecutive legs to secure victory with a clinical 14-dart finish on double 12.
Littler initially appeared in control, building a 7-4 lead in the early stages of the contest.
However, the Flying Scotsman found another gear, producing his tournament-best 167 checkout as he dominated the fourth session.
Luke Littler could not believe that he had mounted such a comeback
Sky Sports
Anderson’s remarkable surge saw him win seven legs in succession, storming into a commanding 12-8 lead.
The momentum continued to favour the veteran Scot as he extended his advantage to 13-9, leaving Littler struggling to find his trebles.
But the teenager refused to surrender, mounting an impressive fightback to level the match at 14-14 in what became a display of high-quality showmanship from both players.
Speaking after his fourth major semi-final victory this year, Littler admitted his frustration at falling behind.
“It frustrates because I know I can come back and win games like this, but it would be better if I could go into the lead like Gary,” he told Sky Sports.
The teenager revealed his admiration for Anderson’s clinical finishing during the match.
“When he’s taking out century finishes when I’m on a double and he’s taking out doubles with his last dart, I’m like ‘Gary, just miss’,” Littler said.
“I’ve got to stay focused, be myself and I’m sure Lukeman will be up for it and I will be too. This is one of the best games I’ve won.”
Littler’s performance throughout the tournament has been exceptional, with his lowest average this week standing at 102.
Luke Littler was congratulated by Gary Anderson after his remarkable comeback
Sky Sports
The teenager had already made history in the quarter-finals, breaking the record for the largest margin of victory in his 16-2 win over Jermaine Wattimena.
Victory in tonight’s final could see Littler rise to PDC number 5 in the rankings.
The championship match against Martin Lukeman, who defeated Micky Mansell 16-12 in Sunday’s first semi-final, is scheduled to begin at 19:45.
Anderson graciously embraced his young opponent after the match, acknowledging defeat to one of darts’ brightest talents.
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