EVANS INSPIRED BY LATE SISTER IN ALLY PALLY THRILLER

RICKY EVANS says his late sister helped him pull off a dramatic World Championship win after surviving a chaotic sudden-death thriller against James Wade.

’Rapid’ edged out ‘The Machine’ 3–2 at Ally Pally in one of the matches of the tournament, sealing victory in a tense fifth-set decider to book his place in round three.

But behind the box-office drama, the Kettering thrower revealed the emotional inspiration that helped him hold his nerve when it mattered most.

He said: “I don’t want to get too emotional my sister hit that winning double for me there.

“Elisha we’re going girl we are going!”

Evans also embraced the madness of the contest, insisting drama is what darts is all about.

He added: “Imagine coming to darts and winning 3-0 — what’s the point? Make it interesting.

“It makes it exciting. What’s the point in throwing boring? Throw slow, throw fast — make it interesting.

“I tell you every year I’m weird, but I am box office.

“I’ll be honest, I genuinely thought, ‘You’ve had your chance now — Wadey is going to rip you another one here. Oh well — who is still going!”

World No40 Evans also joked that the win means his trademark Christmas walk-on gear will now be ditched after booking his place beyond the festive period.

He continued: “The problem is I’m going to have to walk on to something that’s not Christmas now.

“I may walk out to Like a Prayer by Madonna. Who cares? I’m still going, boy!”

The match was packed with controversy. Evans was left on 20 but missed darts at double 10 and double five. Frustration spilled over as he underarmed a dart at single five — only for referee Charlie Corstophine to immediately rule the throw as not counting.

Evans regrouped on his next visit to clean up the five, then offered a knowing thumbs-up to the official as he edged 3–2 ahead in the sudden-death set.

Wade responded in trademark fashion, landing a classy 94 checkout before firing in a 17-darter to move 4–3 in front.

But Wade then missed a match dart at tops and Evans capitalised by taking home the leg.

The 35-year-old then pinned a nerveless 80 checkout before sealing an unforgettable win with a ruthless 12-darter to spark wild celebrations.

Image by Taylor Lanning.