Ricky Evans has sent a clear message to the darts world after a convincing 6–3 victory over Daryl Gurney at the Baltic Sea Darts Open in Kiel. The Englishman, long known for his lightning-fast playing style and energetic walk-ons, insists there is a serious competitor behind the entertainment. The win secured Evans a place in the third round of a PDC event for the first time this season.
Evans, the world number 49, produced a highly solid display against Gurney, including two ton-plus finishes. His brilliant 121 checkout was one of the highlights of the match, and he was particularly clinical on the doubles, converting six of his nine attempts. “I am struggling but I am coming back, trust me. When I am playing well these people are in danger. I am not playing well yet but my confidence is up. I’m believing again so who is to say I can’t do anything,” Evans said after the match.
The victory over his friend Gurney gave him extra satisfaction. “It’s nice to get one over Daryl. I get on really well with him. He’s probably not going to talk to me for a couple of days but who cares? I won. I am really happy with the way I played. I finished well and on to tomorrow,” Evans added.
Despite his popularity, Evans is fed up with being seen as a gimmick. “I am trying to prove to people that I am not just a gimmick. I am not just a laugh. I am not just a speed person. I am not just a fast clown,” he stated. He has been approaching matches in a more measured way: “I am not playing fast and I am not being silly as well. I am doing the right things. I am not celebrating silly. There is a dart player here somewhere and I am proving to people.”
Evans will face James Wade in the third round. He believes the most important person he needs to convince is himself. “I am proving to people and myself more than anyone. I am coming back slowly and watch out everyone,” he warned.
