German Darts Grand Prix: Peter Wright thrashed by Lee Evans as Michael Smith edges through
- Planet Sport writer
- 9 April 2023
Peter Wright crashed out of the German Darts Grand Prix while world champion Michael Smith survived three match darts before moving into the last-16 in Munich.
The out-of-sorts Wright lost six legs on the spin against Lee Evans, who claimed one of the best wins of his career by thrashing the Scot 6-1. He will next face Joe Cullen, who beat Ross Smith 6-5.
Smith was also well below his best and staring at an early exit, with Adam Warner having three successive attempts at a double to wrap up victory.
However, his inability to close out the match allowed the world number one to take out 116 and squeak into the third round courtesy of a 6-5 triumph.
Smith next faces Gerwyn Price in the standout tie of the round on Easter Monday after the Welshman eased to a 6-2 victory over Raymond van Barneveld in a battle of former world champions.
Rob Cross slipped to a surprise 6-3 defeat to Keane Barry, who will go up against Berry van Peer next after the Dutchman defeated Josh Rock by the same scoreline.
Defending champion Luke Humphries brushed aside Jeffrey de Zwaan 6-2 and set up a clash with Jose de Sousa, who beat Steve Beaton.
UK Open champion Andrew Gilding averaged nearly 103 as he dumped out Jonny Clayton with a 6-1 win, with his reward a meeting against Dave Chisnall, who overcame Dragutin Horvat 6-4.
There were also wins for Nathan Aspinall, Jim Williams, Damon Heta, Chris Dobey, Dirk van Duijvenbode and Danny Noppert.
