LUKE LITTLER’S 12-match winning streak in Wieze was ended by Niels Zonneveld.
The World No.1 had never lost a game on that stage after two previous title victories.
Luke Littler has admitted he hates playing afternoon matchesCredit: Shutterstock Editorial
The world number one threw away a 3-1 leadCredit: Shutterstock Editorial
But Littler, who admits he hates afternoon matches, was caught cold by ‘Triple Z’ in an epic contest which the Dutchman clinched with a brilliant 147 finish.
All seemed to be going to plan as ‘The Nuke’ led 3-1 but Zonneveld produced a wonderful 106 kill to go 5-4 in front.
However he then missed two match and Littler incredibly saved himself with a blockbuster 136. But Zonneveld saved his best to last with a cool 147 to move into the quarter-finals.
It ended Littler’s excellent run in Wieze having won both in the previous two years, despite a strong 103 average.
Zonneveld said: “I know of course that is a world class player at this moment.
“I thought before the match, just play your own game. Just play what you can.
“It’s more difficult than I thought before the match. When you can win the match you are thinking about it. It was really hard.
“At the end I took a brilliant finish to end it. Such a relief.
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“I thought this is the chance to win the match. Let’s do it. It went in.
“In the last leg I think I showed some really good nerves there. So happy.”
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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