Bunting admits rankings pressure is getting to him

STEPHEN BUNTING admits he gets caught up in the “emotion of the rankings” after finally grinding out a crucial win.

The world No9 edged Brendan Dolan 6-5 in round two of the Flanders Darts Trophy despite the Irishman averaging 101.76.

Bunting, 41, has endured a difficult campaign while waiting for his first title of the season and failing to reach a quarter-final on the big stage.

The Liverpudlian revealed the pressure can creep into his game during matches on the oche, even hitting the winning D16 with his eyes shut.

He said: “He is a fantastic player. I know he can be dangerous. I didn’t know he was going to be that dangerous.

“I looked up and he was averaging over 100, so I knew I was going to be in a game.

“My luck recently has been losing them sort of games. So, credit to myself, pat on the back.

“There is one out of the way. Hopefully people will stop talking about the European Championship qualification now.

“I closed my eyes. Sometimes you can get caught up in the emotion of a game. At the start of the game, I felt like I was playing brilliant.

“I have my Mrs here and my manager. I want to put a show on for you fans as well. Sometimes I get caught up in the emotion of the rankings and everything else that is going on.

“I can say as much as I want I don’t look. But of course you do. Thankfully I have won the game and the money is on my ranking.

“There is no pressure now I can just enjoy it. I have been playing some good darts and not getting the wins.

“It is about time I start playing bad and getting the wins.”

Bunting returns to action in Antwerp on Sunday afternoon and will face Nathan Aspinall in round three.

Words: Aaron Nijjar

Image: Taylor Lanning