Littler and Rock Set for Blockbuster Showdown After Friday Night Fireworks in Blackpool

Teen sensation Luke Littler and rising star Josh Rock will collide in a mouthwatering semi-final at the 2025 Betfred World Matchplay on Saturday, after both produced standout performances to book their place in the final four on a dramatic night at the Winter Gardens.

In what was arguably the most electrifying session of the tournament so far, Littler edged past a resurgent Andrew Gilding in a 16-14 classic, while Rock delivered a performance of the highest quality to oust three-time World Matchplay finalist Gerwyn Price 16-11.

Littler Sets Record, Holds Nerve Against Gilding

The evening’s opener saw 18-year-old Littler create history as he launched a staggering 18 maximums – the most ever by a single player in a World Matchplay quarter-final – to narrowly defeat Gilding in a high-quality contest that had everything.

Littler, who averaged 103.91, looked in command for large parts of the game, but was pushed to the very limit by the former UK Open champion, who landed three sensational ton-plus finishes – including a spectacular 160 checkout – to threaten a remarkable comeback.

After a cagey opening featuring seven consecutive holds of throw, Littler landed a crisp 11-darter to gain the upper hand and moved 12-8 ahead as his scoring power began to overwhelm Gilding. But the 53-year-old Englishman wasn’t done yet, reeling off four of the next six legs to level at 14-14, including a brilliant 127 on the bull to keep the tie alive.

With the prospect of a tie-break looming, Littler held his nerve to deliver a statement finish — firing in back-to-back 180s and closing with another 11-dart leg to seal his place in the semi-finals.

“I just had to stay focused, and I’m so glad to get over the line,” said Littler, clearly relieved. “Andrew is a top player and a major champion for a reason. He never gave up and made it really tough.

“I didn’t want it going to a tie-break, so to finish it with that 11-darter – that was class. The crowd were amazing too, they really pushed me on.”

Rock Rolls Past Price with Career-Best Display

The second quarter-final saw Josh Rock continue his phenomenal run in Blackpool, backing up his second-round victory over Michael van Gerwen with a fearless and clinical performance against former World Champion Gerwyn Price.

Rock averaged over 104, hit a 164 checkout to seal the match, and held his nerve through multiple momentum swings in a fiercely competitive clash.

After a fast-paced opening saw Price take a narrow 4-3 lead, Rock responded with a burst of world-class darts — checking out 110, and producing a spectacular ten-dart leg to turn the match on its head. Price fired back with the first 170 checkout of the tournament, and briefly regained the lead at 7-6, but Rock again upped the ante, eventually pulling away to an 11-8 advantage.

Price fought gallantly, closing to 13-11, but Rock shut the door emphatically with two clinical 15-dart legs and the match-clinching 164 — sending the crowd into raptures and himself into his first ever World Matchplay semi-final.

“I’m on cloud nine at the minute,” Rock said post-match. “I can’t wait to finally play Luke on the big stage. We’ve known each other a long time and we’re good friends off the board — but once we’re up there, it’s all business.”

A Semi-Final Clash for the Future – and the Present

Saturday night’s clash between Littler and Rock isn’t just a match — it’s a glimpse into the future of professional darts. Both players have dazzled throughout the tournament, combining youth with maturity and fearless finishing under the brightest lights.

For fans, it promises a semi-final full of heavy scoring, big moments, and possibly record-breaking drama, especially given the level both men have displayed so far. With one guaranteed to reach their first World Matchplay final, the stakes couldn’t be higher.

The night’s action will begin with James Wade, the only former champion remaining in the field, taking on 2023 runner-up Jonny Clayton in a battle of experience and grit.

Then, all eyes will turn to the Empress Ballroom, where two of darts’ most exciting young guns will fight for a place in Sunday’s final. Whether it’s Littler’s raw scoring power or Rock’s unshakable temperament that comes out on top, one thing is certain — the future of darts has arrived.

Littler and Rock Set for Blockbuster Showdown After Friday Night Fireworks in Blackpool

2025 Betfred World Matchplay

Friday July 25

Quarter-Finals x2

Luke Littler 16-14 Andrew Gilding

Josh Rock 16-11 Gerwyn Price

Saturday July 26 (2000 BST)

Semi-Finals

James Wade v Jonny Clayton

Luke Littler v Josh Rock

Best of 33 legs