Ronnie Baxter 10 - 8 Jelle Klaasen

22/07/2009

Ronnie won an exciting match against Jelle Klaasen to book his place in round 2 of the stanjames.com World Matchplay in Blackpool.

Ronnie made a fantastic start going 5-0 up before the break, this fired Klaasen to a mini-come back to within 1 leg but Ronnie held his throw in leg 10 to move 6-4 up.

The next 3 legs went with throw to leave Klaasen 7-6 behind and the Dutchman should of levelled the game missing 5 darts at double top and double 10. Ronnie won the leg on double 6 to move to an 8-6 lead. The next 2 legs went with throw leaving Ronnie 1 leg away from the second round at 9-7.

Double 8 saw Jelle post a 14-darter to stay in the hunt, but Ronnie who was born in Blackpool took out double 10 for an 80 checkout to secure victory.

"I was delighted to be 5-0 up and eventually just to get through the match. Missing double 8 to go 6-1 up gave Jelle the impetus but to go into the second break 6-4 up was a big relief. I held in there and managed to keep my nose in front and I'm happy to have won"

Ronnie made the final in 1998 and enjoys a close bond with his home crowd.

"I was born in this town and it hold something dear to me. The first time I played here I reached the final beating Phil Taylor on the way. I've reached a few quarters since then and it hold good memories for me, but I'm trying to get into that final again and my form is pretty good"