Gerywn Price and Daryl Gurney squared up to each other during a feisty World Matchplay clash at Blackpool’s Winter Gardens. The two were competing in the first round of the competition, with Price edging past Gurney by virtue of a 10-7 victory.
Price, who entered the tournament as one of the favourites for the title, was all over his opponent in the early stages and established a healthy 5-1 lead over Gurney. However, the Northern Irishman was able to stunt Price’s momentum, eventually clawing the score back to 8-7.
Gurney even had darts to level things up at 8-8, but wasn’t able to find the double seven bed, meaning Price stepped up, took the leg to make it 9-7 and went on to hold his throw for the win. However, it was after Price had thrown his match darts that things started to bubble over.
The Welshman celebrated in typically bold fashion, with Price letting out his characteristic screams after securing progression into the second round. Gurney didn’t look best pleased by Price’s theatrics, with Super Chin appearing to roll his eyes while Price was celebrating.
What’s more, while sharing a handshake, the two seemed to exchange words, with Gurney moments later going on to tap Price on the shoulder. Price wasn’t in the mood for sticking around, with the former world champion collecting his belongings and marching straight off stage.
Gurney stayed on the stage for a little longer and even spent a moment speaking to the match referees, no doubt sharing his verdict on what had just gone down. Regardless, it’s Price who will take his spot in the second round, with the Iceman set for a clash against familiar foe Chris Dobey.
Speaking after the contest, Price said: “Five, six, seven years ago, that game could’ve got away from me. I’ve learned to keep my emotions intact, I think in two or three legs, my head would’ve blown off. But I’ve learned to keep it in.”
Dobey brushed past Ricardo Pietreczko 10-5 during the opening match of night two, meaning he’s now made it beyond his opening match in each of the previous three Matchplay tournaments. The action continues all week from the iconic venue in Blackpool.