Menzies’ Upset Victory
Cameron Menzies delivered a significant upset at the World Matchplay, defeating Luke Humphries 10-7 in the first round at the Winter Gardens in Blackpool. Menzies, appearing in only his second World Matchplay, secured his first victory on the Winter Gardens stage with a notable performance.
The match saw Menzies, described as one of the game’s more unpredictable players, take on the 2024 champion Humphries. Menzies sealed his win with a 170 checkout, stunning the former world champion.
The contest began with seven consecutive breaks of throw. Menzies achieved a 129 checkout, while Humphries responded with a 167 finish. Menzies then established a substantial lead, moving 8-3 ahead.
Despite Humphries winning the next four legs, Menzies regained his composure, securing a 98 checkout before ultimately sealing his career’s biggest win with the sensational 170 finish. Menzies expressed his delight, stating he finally won a game at the Winter Gardens and that beating Humphries was his biggest win in the PDC.
Match Dynamics and Reactions
The match featured several shifts in momentum. Menzies initially secured a 3-2 lead with a double-double 129 finish. However, Humphries, known as ‘Cool Hand’, then achieved six consecutive breaks of throw, including a magnificent 167 checkout, to level the score after the first interval.
Menzies then embarked on a four-leg run, extending his lead to 7-3. Although Humphries mounted a comeback, winning four of the next five legs, Menzies ultimately secured the victory with his inspired 170 checkout.
Wayne Mardle commented on Menzies’ performance, calling it his best ever win. Mardle highlighted Menzies’ ability to handle the pressure and emotional swings during the game, noting that Menzies held it together beautifully despite various challenges, including being broken back early and Humphries’ strong spell of four legs.
Menzies acknowledged the stress he experienced, particularly with doubles, but emphasised the significance of the win. He admitted that he shows a lot of emotion and tries to remain composed, understanding that Humphries would have a strong period in the match.
Other First Round Results and Upcoming Matches
Following his victory, Menzies is set to face Ross Smith in the second round. Smith advanced after defeating debutant Kevin Doets. Smith took an early 5-0 lead, which included a 10-dart leg and a 160 checkout. Although Doets reduced the deficit to 6-4 and produced a 161 finish, Smith ultimately secured his win with a 120 Shanghai finish.
In other first-round action, Gerwyn Price overcame a significant challenge from Martin Schindler, winning 11-9. Price, who trailed 4-0 and 6-2, recovered to lead 9-8 before Schindler forced a tie-break with a 121 checkout. Price then broke throw and completed the turnaround with a 100 checkout.
Price admitted that he played one of his worst games of the season and credited the crowd for his survival. He will now face Rob Cross in the second round. Cross secured his spot with a convincing 10-3 victory over Danny Noppert, leading 5-0 at the break and maintaining his advantage with a 97.41 average and a 128 checkout.
The 2026 Betfred World Matchplay continues at the Winter Gardens until July 26. Upcoming second-round matches include defending champion Luke Littler against Nathan Aspinall, Michael van Gerwen facing Dirk van Duijvenbode, and Gary Anderson competing against Jonny Clayton. Stephen Bunting will also play Josh Rock after surviving a close match against Niels Zonneveld.
Source: skysports.com