ROCK FIRED UP AS NORTHERN IRELAND CRUISE THROUGH
14/06/2025 By Aaron Nijjar
JOSH ROCK was fired up by Devon Petersen’s antics after Northern Ireland crushed South Africa to storm into the World Cup of Darts quarter-finals.
‘Rocky’ and Daryl Gurney averaged 88.66 and hit 38 percent of their doubles in an 8-2 win to set up a showdown with the Republic of Ireland on Sunday in Frankfurt.
Despite being dominant, the duo took their time to get over the line, missing five match darts between them before Rock took out double two.
World No. 17 Rock revealed Petersen poured drink over Gurney’s dart case — something the Antrim thrower felt was unnecessary.
He explained: “Bulling up, Devon started talking and it got me fired up.
“He poured a wee bit of drink over Daryl’s case, which I think is a wee bit disrespectful in my eyes.
“But we got the win, which is the main thing.”
Former world youth champion Rock admitted he feels extra pressure on the big stage when representing his nation.
He said: “We’re all up here for a reason — which is playing for your country.
“It puts extra pressure on you. Playing for your country is a massive passion for me.
“Not many people have the opportunity to do it.”
Two-time major winner Gurney shrugged off the incident and heaped praise on Rock’s performance at the oche.
He added: “Josh is a little more fired up than I am.
“I’m more older now and more relaxed. I’m keeping all my energy for the next games.
“Then I will start to help Josh with all his 180s thrown.
“He has a strong back!”
