Menzies’ Historic Win at Winter Gardens
Cameron Menzies delivered a significant upset at the World Matchplay, defeating 2024 champion Luke Humphries 10-7 in the first round on Monday night. The match, held at the iconic Winter Gardens in Blackpool, saw Menzies secure his first victory on this stage with an inspired 170 checkout.
Menzies, known for his entertaining and unpredictable style, raised the Empress Ballroom roof with his performance. The Scot expressed his delight, stating that no one, including himself, had given him much hope for a win at the Winter Gardens. He acknowledged Humphries as a great player and admitted to feeling stress during the match, particularly at the doubles. Menzies described this win as his biggest in the PDC, a moment he plans to cherish.
The match featured a series of back-and-forth moments. After seven consecutive breaks of throw to start the contest, Menzies established an 8-3 lead. This early dominance included a brilliant double-double 129 finish. Humphries, the World No 2, responded by taking the next four legs, showcasing his resilience. However, Menzies regained his composure with a 98 checkout before sealing the victory with his sensational 170 finish.
Wayne Mardle commented on the match, calling it Menzies’ best-ever win. He highlighted Menzies’ ability to handle the pressure, especially after being broken back early twice and seeing his lead reduced. Mardle noted that Menzies found another level of play when Humphries had a strong spell, demonstrating a composure not often seen from him. This experience, Mardle suggested, will allow Menzies to handle future challenging situations with confidence.
Other Key Matches and Upcoming Fixtures
Following his triumph, Menzies is set to face Ross Smith in the second round. Smith secured his spot by overcoming debutant Kevin Doets. Smith initially stormed to a 5-0 lead, which included a 10-dart leg and a 160 checkout. Although Doets fought back, Smith ultimately sealed his victory with a 120 checkout.
In another first-round encounter, former World Matchplay finalist Gerwyn Price survived a scare against Martin Schindler, winning 11-9. Price trailed 4-0 and 6-2 before mounting a comeback, eventually leading 9-8. Schindler managed to force a tie-break with a 121 checkout, but Price broke throw immediately and completed the turnaround with a 100 checkout. Price admitted that he played his worst game of the season and credited the crowd for his win, stating he would have lost without their support. He will now face Rob Cross in the second round.
Cross, the 2019 champion, began his campaign with a convincing 10-3 win over Danny Noppert. Cross led 5-0 at the break, maintaining his advantage throughout the match. He averaged 97.41, pinned a 128 checkout, and finished with an impressive 52.6 per cent on the doubles.
The 2026 Betfred World Matchplay continues at the Winter Gardens until July 26. Tuesday’s schedule includes several high-profile matches. Defending champion Luke Littler, who opened his title defence with a 10-6 win over Niko Springer, will take on Nathan Aspinall. Stephen Bunting will play Josh Rock after surviving three match darts in his win against Niels Zonneveld. Three-time World Matchplay winner Michael van Gerwen is scheduled to face fellow Dutchman Dirk van Duijvenbode. Additionally, Gary Anderson, the 2018 champion, will compete against 2023 runner-up Jonny Clayton, having recorded a remarkable 109.96 average in his 10-2 demolition of Ryan Joyce.
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Source: skysports.com
