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RICKY EVANS will not face any penalties for his sarcastic thumbs-up gesture directed at the referee towards the conclusion of a thrilling and emotional second-round victory over James Wade.
The 35-year-old secured his place in the third round for the third consecutive time with a nail-biting 3-2 win.
Ricky Evans will not be penalized for his gesture to the referee during his match against James WadeCredit: PA
The 35-year-old made a sarcastic thumbs-up gesture to the referee after a throw was disallowedCredit: X/ OfficialPDC
After finishing with a score of 99, the Kettering player kept his family and friends on the edge of their seats as he missed seven match darts before advancing.
In the fifth leg of the final set, he found himself with a score of 20 but first missed the double 10 and then the double 5.
This left him with five points, and he attempted to throw for a single five to reset his score, allowing him to return to the oche on 20.
However, he did not throw his last dart correctly and sent it sideways in frustration.
Referee Charlie Corstorphine immediately informed him and the audience: “That last dart doesn’t count – underarm throw.”
Evans, currently ranked No. 43 in the world, appeared confused and clearly disagreed with the decision, making the underarm motion several times towards his corner.
On his next visit, with a score of five, he refocused and threw a single one and double two to win the leg.
As he went to collect his equipment, he quickly gave a thumbs-up to the official.
It is understood that he will not be referred to the disciplinary body, the Darts Regulation Authority, for this action, as it was addressed at the time.
Evans, who has now secured £35,000 from this tournament, will return home to celebrate Christmas with his family.
Evans advanced by defeating James WadeCredit: PA
The Northamptonshire star will face either a young English player or an American in the last 32, and he will need to decide on some eccentric clothing to wear.
However, it has been a challenging time for his family, as he lost his sister earlier this year at the young age of 31.
Upon securing the victory, he hugged his friend and pointed a finger to the sky in her memory.
Evans stated: “I don’t want to get too emotional. My sister hit that double for me there.
“Elisha, we’re going, girl, we’re going.
“I thought to myself, you've had your chance, Wade will catch up with you now. Oh well, who’s still in? Let’s go!
“The problem is now that I am playing after Christmas, I’ll have to walk on in something that’s not festive. I might have to look like Madonna.
“Who cares? I’m still in the game.
“Imagine coming to darts and winning 3-0 – what’s the point? Make it exciting.
“It keeps things interesting. What’s the point of playing boring? Throw slow, throw fast. But make it entertaining.
“I say it every year, I’m quirky, but I’m Box Office.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Will Ricky Evans face any penalties for his thumbs-up gesture?
No, Ricky Evans will not be sanctioned for his thumbs-up gesture to the referee, as it was addressed at the time of the match.
How did Ricky Evans perform in his recent match?
Ricky Evans achieved a thrilling 3-2 victory over James Wade, securing his place in the third round for the third consecutive time.
Who will Ricky Evans face in the last 32?
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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