'He has a lot on his plate': Michael van Gerwen's personal situation could be a factor in Rock clash says Van der Voort

In the latest episode of the World Matchplay Turns Through podcast from Sportnieuws.nl, Vincent van der Voort and Damian Vlottes took a look back at a dramatic day in Blackpool that saw Danny Noppert bow out, James Wade execute a textbook performance, and Gian van Veen continue his steady evolution on the big stage. The duo also looked ahead to Wednesday night’s action featuring Dutch stars Michael van Gerwen and Dirk van Duijvenbode.

Van Veen Shows Maturity in All-Dutch Clash

The evening opened with an all-Dutch encounter between Gian van Veen and Danny Noppert. Van der Voort admitted his pre-match prediction was “a little bit true,” as Van Veen pulled away to win 11–6 despite a strong start from Noppert.

“Noppert started better,” Van der Voort said. “In that third leg, he gets 150 around his ears, and then also 120. It was closer than the score suggested.”

Despite the win, Van Veen was highly self-critical in his post-match assessment: “I just started the match downright badly. Even though I was ahead 7–2 at one point, I still felt like things weren't going well.”

It was Van Veen’s clinical finishing that proved decisive. “He didn’t score great, but he took all his chances,” Van der Voort said. “That’s maturity. A year ago, he would’ve lost a match like that.”

Wade Masters Nijman in Classic Display

Next up was James Wade, who dismantled Wessel Nijman in typical fashion—slow, methodical, and relentlessly effective.

“He plays the game perfectly,” Van der Voort said admiringly. “He knows exactly what he’s doing. From walking up to the oche to waiting at the board... it’s all strategy.”

Nijman struggled to find any rhythm. “He has a little kink in his throw. If that’s even slightly off, the darts go everywhere,” Vlottes observed. Despite Wade’s impressive 104 average, Nijman was simply outmatched. “Today, he just didn’t have it,” added Vlottes.

Still, Van der Voort found a silver lining for the young Dutchman: “He’s shown he can win on the big stage with a good average. That gives him something to build on.”

Bunting Survives as Anderson Falters

Stephen Bunting had a scrappy night but ultimately edged past Gary Anderson, who missed key opportunities.

“Bunting was beatable today,” Van der Voort said. “But Anderson missed at crucial moments. And if you’re not putting the hours in, you pay the price.”

Bunting, however, made it clear he has more in the tank: “Everyone will have to be better,” he said. The Englishman knows improvements are needed if he’s to mount a serious title challenge.

Clayton Overcomes De Decker’s Resistance

Johnny Clayton also progressed to the next round, though Mike de Dekcker didn’t make it easy. Van der Voort pointed to De Decker’s turbulent period as a factor: “Mike is in a tough phase. He’s moved, changed equipment... none of that helps. You lose confidence, and then it’s hard to perform on a stage like that.”

Wade’s Walk-On Sparks Controversy

James Wade’s performance wasn’t the only thing that drew attention. His extended walk-on time raised eyebrows—particularly Van der Voort’s.

“It lasted almost a minute and a half,” he said. “The PDC needs to do something about that. You’re supposed to walk straight to the stage when your music starts. No more autograph sessions.”

Despite his frustration, Van der Voort underlined the importance of players like Wade to the sport. “Without characters like Wade, Price, Van Duijvenbode, or Dirk, there’s nothing to watch. It’s those personalities that make the difference.”