Gary Anderson crushes Chris Joyce in World Matchplay thriller

Gary Anderson produced a masterclass in Blackpool to thrash Chris Joyce 10-3 in the World Matchplay first round on Thursday night.

The two-time champion hit 12 maximums and averaged 101.44 as Joyce managed just three legs in reply. Anderson, 46, moved into the last 16 with ease after breaking his opponent’s throw in the first leg.

What happened in the match?

Anderson started like a house on fire, sealing the first leg with a 140 checkout before Joyce could muster a single dart. The Scot then reeled off six straight legs to race into a 7-0 lead inside 20 minutes. Joyce finally broke through for a break of throw in the eighth leg, but Anderson responded immediately with a 116 finish to restore his seven-leg cushion.

The final scoreline flattered Joyce, who never threatened to derail Anderson’s march. The Belfast man managed just one double in the first six legs and never looked like forcing a decider.

Why it matters for Gary Anderson

This was Anderson’s most convincing display since his 2021 World Matchplay triumph. His average of 101.44 sits well above his season norm, while his checkout rate sat at 46%. The win keeps him in the mix for a third Blackpool title, though he’ll need to raise his game further against tougher opposition.

For Anderson, the result also silences critics who questioned his consistency this year. The Scot has endured a patchy run since the World Championship, yet his ability to produce on the big stage remains undiminished. His next opponent awaits in the second round after Luke Humphries and Damon Heta avoided first-round upsets.

What comes next for Anderson?

Anderson will face the winner of Luke Humphries and Damon Heta in the second round on Friday. Humphries, the world No 1, arrives in Blackpool on a 10-match unbeaten streak, while Heta has lost just once in his last 12 matches.

A clash with either would test Anderson’s newfound sharpness. His head-to-head record against Humphries reads 2-5, while he’s beaten Heta once in their last three meetings. The Scot knows he can’t afford another slow start if he’s to go deep in this year’s tournament.

How Anderson turned the screws

Anderson’s precision under pressure set the tone early. He landed 12 of his first 15 trebles, including a run of six in a row midway through the match. His finishing was clinical too-he converted 5 of 6 break chances and never faced a dart in reply.

Joyce, ranked 18th, struggled to find rhythm from the oche. His highest checkout was 81, and he managed just two 100-plus averages in the match. The Belfast man admitted afterward he was outplayed by a player in career-best form.

The win moves Anderson to 12-5 against Joyce in their head-to-head, extending his dominance over the Northern Irishman. With the crowd behind him, the Scot now turns his focus to Friday’s potential blockbuster.