CLASSY CROSS RETURNS TO WINNING WAYS IN COPENHAGEN

ROB CROSS got back to winning ways at the Nordic Darts Masters. 

Former world champion Cross beat Sweden’s Andreas Harrysson 6-4 on Friday night to advance into the quarter-finals at Copenhagen.  

‘Voltage’ averaged 93.91 and pinged in a stellar 76 checkout by hitting two D18’s to seal the match. 

World No. 9 Cross was all smiles as he spoke about his return to Denmark’s capital. 

He said: “Yesterday, I walked 14 and a half miles around the city, so it’s been nice and I enjoyed it.  

“It’s a great place just to go out, really. Fill your lungs up with a bit of air. I’ve enjoyed my time here. I enjoyed my time last year and it’s always a privilege to come back.” 

Four-times major winner Cross reached the final of the World Series tournament last year and is determined to go one step further this time. 

He added: “Just a great tournament, a great place in the world and the World Series always offers itself.

“But to win it this weekend, it would mean a lot. I’ve had a little bit of time off, a few difficulties, but, at the same time, it would mean a lot to me.” 

Cross admitted he feels refreshed after having a break away from the oche.  

He revealed: “I enjoyed the match, I’m not going to lie. I’ve walked in this weekend, I’ve just come off of probably two and a half weeks off, I’ve not really picked them up.  

“A little bit lazy, I suppose. But I needed that. A little bit of a freshen up, but to win that match there, I’ll be better tomorrow now. That’s 100 per cent. 

“I’m where I’m at, you know, if I’ve not really been playing, where do you (know where your game is?)

“I could have gone out there tonight and hit 120, or I could have gone out there and hit a 48, to be honest. I’m very happy just to get over the line and keep pushing.” 

The Sussex thrower praised the Copenhagen crowd for creating a fair and respectful atmosphere.  

He said: “To win this would be fantastic. The crowd’s amazing. There’s no booing out there, there’s only fairness and credit to the Copenhagen people that come out and watch.  

“I appreciate that. That could have been even tougher for me with a few boos, a few whistles. That could have really swung the game in his favour, I suppose.  

“Not having that gives me the comfort. We all feel it sometimes when they’re not quite going, if the crowd gets on your back, darts can be tough.  

“They are very appreciative, but to win it this week, it would mean a lot to me.”

Image by Taylor Lanning.