JOE Cullen has made a bright start to the Betfred World Matchplay in Blackpool, recording his highest-ever average at the major tournament in his round one win over Mike de Decker.
The Bradford man’s 10-7 victory saw him average three figures for the first time ever at the Winter Gardens, with 100.67, and he also hit the most 180s of any player on Saturday night.
The Wyke native made a lightning start against his Belgian opponent, with finishes of 143 and 84 propelling him into a 4-1 lead at the first interval.
But De Decker gave note of his prowess with a stunning 164 checkout to close to within one.
Cullen was not unnerved by that, and responded with four straight legs, the last of those culminating in a 126 finish on the bull.
At 8-3 down, De Decker roared back to only trail 8-6, and though the Bradfordian won the next leg, he then missed three match darts to let the Belgian back in.
Fortunately for Cullen, he did not lose his nerve, and closed out victory in the next leg.
Afterwards, a satisfied Cullen tweeted:
Always good to get through the first round of a major 👍🎯 pushed all the way by Mike, but very happy to be I. The next round! Thanks for all the support @Winmau @ModusDarts180 @CelElectrical @lpdetecting @PalioFlooring @bi_folds https://t.co/jqegZAuVtN
— J O E C U L L E N (@rockstar_13_) July 15, 2023
Cullen, the 13th seed, faces a tough test tomorrow evening, as he takes on fourth seed Gerwyn Price in the last-16.
The Welshman made it through by thumping Stephen Bunting 10-3.
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