Flying Scot’s heart goes out to tragic Kim
GARY ANDERSON last night paid tribute to the courage of devastated rival Kim Huybrechts.
The Flying Scotsman sank the Belgian 7-2 in Manchester to move himself back into contention for the play-offs and also officially eliminate his opponent from the competition.
Anderson though admitted his heart has gone out to Huybrechts.
The Hurricane’s world was shattered 10 days ago when he was told his mother Gaby had just months to live after being diagnosed with cancer.
Huybrechts, who also lost his father five years ago, has bravely continued to compete after the latest devastating news.
Anderson himself suffered a serious form slump after losing his father and brother within a short time frame six years ago and made no secret of his admiration for the Belgian after his win.
He said: “Kim’s had a few issues to deal with and I know how it feels on that score. It’s hard to play the game when you are like that.
“Family always comes first and for Kim.
“Our hearts go out to him. It’s not a nice thing but he’s here and he’s battling. Kim has played well this season and he’s just had no luck.”
Huybrechts, not surprisingly wasn’t at his best, but Anderson had to try to block out the exterior factors and get the job done.
The pair exchanged early breaks of throw before the two-time World and Premier League champ held to lead 3-1.
The Scot missed six darts for a second break to extend his lead but it didn’t matter as he didn’t miss the next opportunity.
Anderson held again to secure a point at 6-2 then finished the job off.
The Musselburgh man confessed he was relieved to get over the line and back on track for a trip to London’s O2 in May.
Anderson said: “At times it feels as though as my darts are going all over the place when I try to throw softly but I got the points.
“All that concerns me is getting past Judgment Night next week.”
Peter Wright lost top spot in the table after being defeated 7-5 by Phil Taylor.
Snakebite paid for a dozen missed darts at doubles in the contest and despite a stunning 156 to stay afloat in 11th leg dropped below Michael van Gerwen in the standings.
Wright had been the only player in Premier League history Taylor hadn’t beaten.
Van Gerwen went a point clear after extending his unbeaten TV sequence to a record 44 with a win over James Wade but lost 7-5 to Raymond van Barneveld, while Adrian Lewis beat Jelle Klaasen to put The Cobra out alongside Huybrechts.