Wade rocks Rock at the Grand Slam to book his place in the semi-finals “He’s a good lad, a great player and we’ll see what he’s doing in five years time”

On Friday night, James Wade defeated Josh Rock in a fight of youth and experience. In an exciting tie, ‘the Machine’ won 16-15 to advance to the semi-finals.

“To hit the doubles like I did at the end, there’s not many players who can do that,”

“I got a bit lucky, Josh was way better than me tonight. I’m still not at my best but I’ll always keep fighting. I don’t think there’s anyone better than me in those high-pressure situations, but I have to be good in those moments because other players score better than me.”

Wade rocks Rock at the Grand Slam to book his place in the semi-finals "He
Wade rocks Rock at the Grand Slam to book his place in the semi-finals “He’s a good lad, a great player and we’ll see what he’s doing in five years time” (PDC)

Wade was pegged back by Rock after taking an early lead and was forced to mount a remarkable, back-to-the-wall comeback from 15-12 behind.

“To hit the doubles like I did at the end, there’s not many players who can do that,” Wade said delightedly post-match. “I got a bit lucky, Josh was way better than me tonight. I’m still not at my best but I’ll always keep fighting. I don’t think there’s anyone better than me in those high-pressure situations, but I have to be good in those moments because other players score better than me.”

When asked if Rock will learn from his setback,  Wade replied, “This is going to sound unprofessional but I don’t care what Josh does,” is Wade’s response. “He’s a good lad, a great player and we’ll see what he’s doing in five years time.”