MARK Webster’s epic run at Wolverhampton was brought to a halt by a five-time world champion.
The Denbigh ace tackled Raymond van Barneveld in the quarter-finals of the Singha Beer Grand Slam of Darts and it was the Dutchman who prevailed 16-12.
Van Barneveld finished 121 and 161 as he opened up a 10-4 lead over Webster, who hit a 110 checkout in reply as he halved the gap.
The Dutchman then took out 146 as he moved 13-8 up, with Webster hitting back to 13-12 but crucially being unable to level as van Barneveld hit tops for some breathing space, a 124 finish and an 11-darter to seal victory.
"I'm really happy," said van Barneveld.
"I worked hard for this and I was very focused but I could never relax.
"Mark's a fantastic player and he kept coming back all the time and I was worried in the last five or six legs, but the 124 finish was a mental break-point I think.
"He hit ten 180s, but you prefer to hit doubles and mine went in big-time tonight.
“It was my night tonight and maybe it's my week because I feel comfortable and I'm happy with the way I'm playing.”
Webster reached the last-eight following a brilliant win over current world champion Gary Anderson in the second round.
For more, see this week's Free Press.
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