James Wade has crashed out of the 2018/19 World Darts Championship after Ryan Joyce triumphed in a 7-set match to progress to the quarter-finals.
It was a remarkable victory for Joyce who turned the game after five missed matched darts for Wade allowed him take out the double 4 and tie. From there he marched on to victory.
Wade was clearly frustrated by the result and half-heartedly congratulated Joyce before appearing to remonstrate with an official. He did not shake any officials hand.
JAMES WADE IS OUT | Relentless Ryan Joyce battles through a 7-set barnstormer to progress into the quarterfinals of the William Hill World Darts Championships! #WHdarts pic.twitter.com/ibNN1Zdq8C
— PDC Darts (@OfficialPDC) December 28, 2018
The tournament has been a controversial one for the 35-year-old. He was criticised for some aggressive behaviour towards Seigo Asada in the second round and darts fans were relieved to see the back of him come today's outing.
Dissapointed to see James Wade didn't shake hands with the officials after the match. Not much appreciation for Ryan Joyce's performance either... #WHDarts
— Josh Green (@JoshGreenMedia) December 28, 2018
James Wade classless in defeat there. Standard. #WHDarts
— Jack Davies (@JackDavies_59) December 28, 2018
James Wade, you major gobshite. Bye now 👋 #PDCWorldChampionship
— Steven McDonnell (@StevenMcD13) December 28, 2018
However, the story of the game is Ryan Joyce. He previously worked packing clothes but joined the PDC Tour this year, qualified for his debut World Championship, was 1000/1 at the start is now in the final eight.
He will join history maker and Fermanagh man Brendan Dolan, who beat Holland’s Benito van de Pas 4-1 at London’s Alexandra Palace earlier today to also march on to the quarter-final.
