HUMPHRIES HOLDS BACK IN LIM ROUT

LUKE HUMPHRIES admitted he did not want to “destroy” crowd favourite Paul Lim after cruising into round three of the World Darts Championship.

World No2 Humphries swept Lim aside 3–0 in round two at Ally Pally, dropping just ONE leg in the entire match.

‘Cool Hand’ produced a ruthless performance, averaging 97.18 and landing 50 per cent of his doubles to dispatch the 71-year-old Singapore legend.

But Humphries insisted he never wanted to humiliate a player he holds in such high regard.

He said: “The first two sets I knew I had to come out fighting because the crowd were going to be on his side.

“When I went 2–0 up everything was going great. Obviously the third set wasn’t as good.

“I kind of didn’t want to destroy him 9–0 — that wasn’t what I wanted to happen.

“I wanted to win 3–0 in sets but I am glad he got a leg in at the end.

“I thought he played alright the first two sets but I was just really good on my scoring and finishing.

“It was just a pleasure to play him again. I’m a fan of his — unfortunately he played me when I had business to do tonight.”

Humphries reckons the atmosphere in the arena made the night even more emotional.

He added: “That was the most amazing atmosphere I have been a part of when they were calling his name out.

“It was hard because against someone you really like and you’re 6–0 up in legs, it’s hard because you don’t want to destroy people all the time.

“There are certain players you want to. There are certain players you don’t want to, and he is one of them.”

The Cheshire thrower hopes Lim can extend his incredible career on the big stage.

He continued: “For me it was a game I had to win but he is just a legend and I love him to bits.

“Hopefully that is not the last time we see him on this stage and he comes back next year.

“Keep him away from me and let him beat other people.”

Humphries now turns his attention to a far-sterner test against Gabriel Clemens, warning the next match will be very different.

He said: “If you’re in the last 32 of the World Championship you are a dangerous player regardless.

“I know it is going to be a tough game for myself. It won’t be like what I have just played.

“I know it will be a lot tougher against Gabriel. I know I need to win my first two sets like I do and then keep on it.

“I am looking forward to that one.”

Image by Taylor Lanning.