Overview
- Manby beat Ricky Evans 4-2 after trailing 2-1, reeling off three straight sets to advance at Alexandra Palace.
- The run guarantees a minimum £60,000 payout, rising to £100,000 if he reaches the quarter-finals under this year’s prize structure.
- Evans showed late frustration, including a dart falling from the board, and received a frosty look from referee Huw Ware.
- Pundit Wayne Mardle called Evans’ late-stage reaction unprofessional and praised Manby’s composure on debut.
- Evans said on Facebook he received death threats and abuse after the defeat, while Manby warned he has not yet shown his ‘A game’.