Clayton Edges Mansell in Sudden-Death Thriller
In a pulsating second round clash at the PDC World Darts Championship, Jonny Clayton held his nerve to secure a sudden-death leg victory over a defiant Mickey Mansell. The seventh seed from Wales was pushed all the way by his Northern Irish opponent in a compelling encounter at London’s Alexandra Palace.
Clayton, a former Premier League winner, found himself trailing early on as Mansell took the first set against the darts. The Welshman responded emphatically, winning six consecutive legs to lead 2-1 in sets.
I knew I was in for a tough battle against Mickey. He’s been playing some incredible darts lately and I had to dig deep.
– Jonny Clayton
Mansell Fights Back
Despite a barrage of wayward darts, Mansell refused to relent. He capitalized on some low scoring from Clayton to level the match at 2-2 in sets, setting up a deciding fifth set showdown.
Mansell seemed poised for an upset, firing in back-to-back finishes of 136 and 154 to move within a leg of victory. But with his tournament life on the line, Clayton showed his class.
- 70 checkout to hold throw
- 114 finish to level at 2-2
- 10-dart leg to lead 3-2
Sudden-Death Drama
Three match darts came and went for Clayton, allowing Mansell to force a sudden-death leg. With the advantage of throw, the 2021 Masters champion held his focus to close out the match on double five and punch his ticket to round three.
That was one of the most intense matches I’ve ever been involved in. All credit to Mickey, he pushed me to the absolute limit. I’m just relieved to still be in this tournament.
– Jonny Clayton
Elsewhere at Ally Pally
In other second round action, Krzysztof Ratajski ended the hopes of Philippines debutant Alexis Toylo. Andrew Gilding reached the last 32 for the first time with a 3-1 win over Martin Lukeman, while young gun Josh Rock whitewashed compatriot Rhys Griffin 3-0.
| Player | Opponent | Score |
| Krzysztof Ratajski | Alexis Toylo | 3-1 |
| Andrew Gilding | Martin Lukeman | 3-1 |
| Josh Rock | Rhys Griffin | 3-0 |
The £2.5m tournament continues on Tuesday as former champion Gary Anderson begins his quest for a third world title. Can anyone stop world number one Gerwyn Price and three-time winner Michael van Gerwen? The drama is only just beginning in the race for the Sid Waddell Trophy.
