'I'm lost for words': Lisa Ashton elated after sealing maiden Women's World Matchplay crown

Lisa Ashton etched her name into Women’s World Matchplay history after a dramatic last leg shootout with Fallon Sherrock. This saw Ashton pick up her first ever Matchplay title at the Winter Gardens in Blackpool.

Sherrock who won the inaugural title in 2022, came back from 2-0 and 4-3 down, and had 11 match darts over two legs but was unable to get it over the line. This was Sherrock’s third final, losing both in the last two years. Ashton had an impressive run in the Matchplay, where she stunned reigning champion Beau Greaves in a 5-3 upset, even taking out a 140 finish in the fourth leg.

In the final, Ashton survived 11 match darts after a Sherrock comeback but responded with a 14-dart leg and a two-dart finish of 64 to pick up the title.

Ashton reflected on her historic triumph: “I’m so happy. I have to say a huge thank you to the crowd who supported me and got me through that today. I’m lost for words. My form has been a bit up and down, but today it all clicked. I never gave up and I’ve finally done it.”

Ashton got off to a great start in the final, landing checkouts of 85 and 68 in the first two legs. However, in leg 10 Sherrock missed 8 match darts before Ashton hit tops to take it to a decider. Sherrock who lost the final last year to Beau Greaves wasn't too crestfallen. “I’m quite proud of myself. I think I’ve played better here than I have in the last few months, so whatever I’m doing its working”

“I feel like every time me and Lisa play, we bring the best out of each other, and she played really well today.”

Fallon Sherrock kicked off her campaign with a 4-3 over stage debutant Gemma Hayter, who trailed 3-0 at one stage in the game. Sherrock also avoided match darts herself in the semi final as Van Leuven squandered the chance to reach her first final at the Matchplay.