Dec 19, 2023 at 7:16 AM Update: 2 days ago
Gian van Veen finds it difficult to accept his early elimination at the Darts World Cup. The debutant gave up a 2-0 lead in the first round on Monday against Leung Man Lok, who had already booked his return flight to Hong Kong.
“I didn’t expect this either. Man, man, man…” said 21-year-old Van Veen afterwards. Viaplay. “I don’t know where it went wrong. I was lucky to take the second set. You are 2-0 up and you lose 2-3. Unfortunately, unfortunately.”
Van Veen was considered the big favorite prior to the match. The number 45 in the world had his breakthrough this year and reached the semi-finals of the European Championship, among other things.
Until recently, 24-year-old Leung was only active in Asia. He took into account a loss against Van Veen, as his return flight from London to Hong Kong was scheduled for Tuesday. “So I have to cancel that now,” Leung said with a smile.
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Summary: Talent Van Veen loses at World Cup debut
Van Veen: ‘Scoring ability not good’
Leung achieved an average of 96.26 per three arrows at Alexandra Palace. He threw 180 no less than eleven times. Van Veen only managed three 180’s and an average of 87.53.
“The doubles went well, but the scoring ability was not good enough today,” Van Veen concluded. “He deserved to win. I’m really disappointed about this. You have to show it, especially at this tournament.”
Leung will face German Gabriel Clemens in the second round on Thursday. Two Dutch people will take action on Tuesday. Wessel Nijman and Michael van Gerwen take on Steve Beaton and Keane Barry respectively.
Beeld: Getty Images
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