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Bunting Claims Victory at International Darts Open
Stephen Bunting’s impressive comeback was solidified with an 8-5 win over Nathan Aspinall in the final of the International Darts Open, marking his second title in Germany within just four days.
After ending an eight-match losing streak earlier in Berlin, Bunting ignited his Premier League season and maintained that momentum, ultimately claiming his first European Tour title in Riesa.
At 39, Bunting quickly established a 3-1 advantage in the final. However, Aspinall countered effectively, leveling the match with remarkable finishes, including a stunning 130 checkout. Aspinall had previously shown promise, aiming for his second consecutive European Tour title after winning the European Darts Trophy in March. Yet, Bunting was able to up his game when it mattered most, denying Aspinall’s aspirations.
Before the final, Bunting had a commanding 6-2 victory against Karel Sedlacek in the quarter-finals, which set the stage for a gripping semi-final against world No. 1 Luke Humphries. Bunting prevailed in a nail-biting 7-6 match, showcasing his skill under pressure.
Aspinall made his way to the final by eliminating the last three champions of the tournament, Gerwyn Price (twice) and defending champion Martin Schindler, yet he could not replicate his earlier success in Gottingen.
Bunting Reflects on His Success
Bunting told PDC TV: “Can I play here every week? I love coming to Germany and playing in front of these fans – and it’s extra special coming away with a trophy. People were writing me off, but I was confident in my abilities in the Premier League. I knew it was just a matter of time, even though the longer it went without a win, the more challenging it became. The Premier League has been a crucial aspect of my recent achievements.”
He added, “I’m thrilled to have moved up to world No. 4; this is monumental for me. My approach is firm: I feel unstoppable and ready to keep pushing myself. After a great win over Nathan, I felt buoyed with confidence, and now winning again here feels extra special. I might even have to snap a photo with the trophy tonight!”
Aspinall Expresses His Feelings Post-Match
Aspinall shared his thoughts with PDC TV: “I ran out of steam. My arm feels completely fatigued. Stephen definitely deserves credit; I contributed to his recent successes too!”
He continued, “Just two weeks back, I had made only one final in the past decade, and now I’ve reached back-to-back finals, so I’m proud of my performance.”
International Darts Open Results
Final
Stephen Bunting 8-5 Nathan Aspinall
Semi-finals
Stephen Bunting 7-6 Luke Humphries
Nathan Aspinall 7-4 Martin Schindler
Quarter-finals
Luke Humphries 6-3 Wessel Nijman
Stephen Bunting 6-2 Karel Sedlacek
Nathan Aspinall 6-2 Josh Rock
Martin Schindler 6-2 Peter Wright
Upcoming Premier League Matches
The Premier League is set to continue at the AO Arena in Manchester on Thursday, April 10, featuring a highly anticipated matchup between local favorite Luke Littler and Gerwyn Price, alongside Michael van Gerwen’s clash with Chris Dobey.
Fixtures: Night 11 at AO Arena, Manchester on Thursday, April 10
Quarter-finals
Chris Dobey vs Michael van Gerwen
Nathan Aspinall vs Rob Cross
Luke Littler vs Gerwyn Price
Stephen Bunting vs Luke Humphries
Watch Night Nine of Premier League Darts, live on Sky Sports Action from 7pm – stream with NOW.
Source
www.skysports.com