Josh Rock hits incredible nine-darter on home soil in wild scenes | Other | Sport

Josh Rock hit a sensational nine-dart finish during his quarter-final clash against Gian van Veen on night four of the Premier League in Belfast and also in his home country. Rock celebrated his stunning achievement emphatically before placing his hands on his head in complete shock as he sent the Premier League Darts crowd into raptures.

Van Veen, who had been dominating their clash, simply applauded before embracing Rock with the game restarting soon after. Those in attendance went wild at double 12 going in, but the World Championship runner-up spoiled the party in the next leg as he won that to beat Rock 6-2.

Just a few days ago, it was Van Veen who checked out 501 with nine perfect darts, but he was beaten in the Poland Open final by Luke Littler. Rock was beaten by the latter in the quarter-final on his way to the title, but the 24-year-old has now experienced a moment he will not forget soon.

Reacting to the nine-dart finish, Sky Sports co-commentator Wayne Mardle said: “Someone explain to me how that just happened! Rock was looking all over the place, looked a beaten man. Then perfection. Take nothing for granted in darts. How amazing!”

Laura Turner later added on Sky Sports: “We know it is all about the points but to hit a nine-darter in front of a home crowd in Belfast… the noise was unbelievable when he hit the double. Nines don’t win you matches but it was a special moment.”

Gerwyn Price then completed a superb comeback to beat Michael van Gerwen before Rock saw his homecoming ruined at the expense of Van Veen, despite his wonderful achievement. It has been a challenging debut campaign for Rock as he is yet to pick up a point.

It has thus far been an unpredictable set of nights in the Premier League, with Clayton leading the way while world No.1 Littler is far down the table, having technically won just one game. He received a bye for night 3 with Van Gerwen pulling out due to illness.