BUNTING CALLS FOR WHISTLING TO STOP!
05/04/2025 By Aaron Nijjar
By Aaron Nijjar
STEPHEN BUNTING has called for an end to disruptive crowd behaviour after recording a dramatic 6-4 victory over Darius Labanauskas in the second round of the International Darts Open in Germany.
Former Masters champion Bunting averaged a scintillating 104.91 and produced a stunning 170 checkout whilst 4-2 down in the match to kick start an incredible comeback.
The result sees Bunting climb to a career-high of world number four in the PDC Order of Merit.
Labanauskas looked in control early on in the contest but was visibly affected by a vocal section of the crowd.
The Lithuanian was heckled by whistlers in the arena throughout the bout.
‘Lucky D’ averaged a stellar 101.40 in defeat.
St Helens thrower Bunting called for the whistling to stop from fans following his victory.
He said: “Can we just have a few things right. We are all here to enjoy the darts and have a good time.
“Whistling when people are throwing must stop.
“I know you are all here to support me.
“But come on, Darius played a fantastic game there. We need to give him all the support he can get.
“He has come a long way. We are all here trying to earn our money.
“He did not deserve that from the minority.
“Darius is a fantastic player and really good friend of mine.
“I feel so disappointed for him and I was just lucky to win.
“It’s just a few idiots in the crowd.
“I love playing in Germany and it was an honour to win the Premier League night here the other day.
“Generally the crowds in Germany are so good and hopefully I can pick up one of these European Tours.”
Bunting has now set up a third-round clash with Scotsman Cameron Menzies who edged out James Wade 6-5 in a thrilling contest earlier on in the afternoon session.
World No. 37 Menzies is in great form after reaching the final of the Players Championship 10 earlier this week at Leicester on the ProTour.
‘The Bullet’ added: “I’m walking around with a bit of a swagger and confidence. I have a tough game ahead of me but I am looking forward to it.”
Image by Taylor Lanning.
