The Opening Session of the 2024 Dutch Darts Championship Sees Favorites Advance

In the opening session of the 2024 Dutch Darts Championship, held on [DATE], several top players emerged victorious, securing their spots in the second round. Niels Zonneveld, Brendan Dolan, Mickey Mansell, and Andrew Gilding all progressed to the next stage of the prestigious tournament.

Niels Zonneveld Overcomes Spirited Challenge

Zonneveld faced a spirited challenge from Haupai Puha, with the match going down to the wire. After Puha took an early lead, Zonneveld responded with a series of strong legs, including a 52, 68, and 41 checkout to go 3-1 up. Puha refused to go down without a fight, drawing level at 4-4 before Zonneveld held his nerve to clinch the match 6-4 and set up a second-round clash with Dave Chisnall.

“Niels Zonneveld showed his resilience to come through a tough first-round encounter.” – [Source: Official PDC Twitter]

Andrew Gilding Edges Out Damian Mol

Gilding was also made to work for his victory, edging out Damian Mol 6-5 in a closely contested encounter. After the opening four legs went with the darts, a flurry of breaks followed, with Mol taking a 5-4 lead. However, Gilding’s 164 finish forced a decisive final leg, which he ultimately claimed with a 21-darter to book a second-round meeting with Danny Noppert.

Brendan Dolan Cruises Past Owen Bates

In a rather one-sided affair, Brendan Dolan overcame Owen Bates 6-3, despite averaging just 83.55. The former World Grand Prix finalist raced into a 4-0 lead before Bates reduced the deficit, but Dolan sealed the win with a 48 checkout. Dolan’s victory sets up a tantalizing clash with Martin Schindler in the next round, with the Northern Irishman looking to secure his place at the upcoming World Cup of Darts.

Mickey Mansell Defeats William O’Connor

Mickey Mansell also progressed, defeating William O’Connor 6-2. The Irishman’s superior finishing, converting 46% of his attempts compared to just 20% for O’Connor, proved to be the difference-maker. Mansell’s reward is a second-round showdown with former world champion Gerwyn Price.

With the opening session complete, the stage is set for an exciting continuation of the 2024 Dutch Darts Championship as the tournament gathers momentum.

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