Lisa Ashton’s Dramatic World Matchplay Win: A Deep Dive into the 2024 Final
The world of professional darts witnessed a stunning upset and a display of incredible resilience at the 2024 Women’s World Matchplay. lisa Ashton, a four-time world champion, clinched the title in a nail-biting final against Fallon Sherrock, prevailing 6-5 after Sherrock agonizingly missed 11 match darts.This victory wasn’t just about the £10,000 prize money; it secured Ashton coveted spots in both the Grand Slam of Darts and the PDC World championship.But what made this match so captivating, and what does it signify for the future of women’s darts?
this article will dissect the dramatic final, explore the significance of Ashton’s win, and delve into the rising prominence of women in the professional darts scene. We’ll examine the key moments, the psychological battle, and the implications for both players’ careers.
The Thrilling Final: A Leg-by-Leg Breakdown
The final at Blackpool’s winter Gardens was a rollercoaster of emotions.Sherrock initially seemed poised for victory, leading 5-4 and having multiple opportunities to close out the match. However, a remarkable display of composure from Ashton kept her in the game.
Here’s a fast recap of the crucial moments:
Sherrock’s Missed Opportunities: Leading 5-4, Sherrock faltered on eight darts at double, allowing Ashton to level the score. Ashton’s Response: “The Lancashire Rose” capitalized, hitting double 10 to force a deciding leg.
The final Leg Drama: A stunning 180 from Ashton was answered by a brilliant 165 from Sherrock, leaving 36.
Ashton Seals the Deal: After sherrock missed three further match darts, Ashton calmly hit double top to secure the championship.
| player | Average | Highest Checkout | Match Darts Missed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lisa Ashton | 92.71 | 100 | 0 |
| Fallon Sherrock | 94.28 | 165 | 11 |
Did You Know? Fallon Sherrock’s historic win at the 2019 PDC World Championship, becoming the first woman to win a match, significantly boosted the profile of women’s darts.
The Significance of Ashton’s Victory
Lisa Ashton’s win is more than just another title. It’s a testament to her enduring skill and mental fortitude. at 54, she continues to compete at the highest level, proving that age is no barrier to success in professional darts. This victory also provides a notable boost to her career, guaranteeing her participation in two major tournaments.But beyond the individual accolades, Ashton’s triumph is a powerful statement about the growing competitiveness of women’s darts. It demonstrates that women are capable of challenging and defeating the best players in the sport.
Pro Tip: To improve your own dart game, focus on consistent practice, particularly on your doubles. Mental resilience is also key – learn to shake off missed opportunities and stay focused on the next dart.
The Rising Tide of Women in Darts: A Changing Landscape
The presence of players like Lisa Ashton and Fallon sherrock is transforming the landscape of darts.historically a male-dominated sport, darts is now witnessing a surge in female participation and success. This shift is driven by several factors:
Increased Visibility: Sherrock’s breakthrough performance in 2019 brought women’s darts into the spotlight.
Growing Professional Opportunities: The creation of dedicated women’s tournaments, like the World Matchplay, provides more opportunities for female players to showcase
