Cameron Menzies produced a major upset at the Betfred World Matchplay in Blackpool on Monday, defeating 2024 champion Luke Humphries 10-7 in the Empress Ballroom to claim his first win on the Winter Gardens stage.
Decisive 170 finish seals victory
The match was resolved in dramatic fashion when Menzies clinched the tie with a 170 checkout, the maximum three-dart finish, that drew loud applause from the crowd. The Scot’s composure under pressure contrasted with a spell earlier in the contest when Humphries looked to be mounting a fightback.
Menzies had moved ahead at times through high-value finishes. He produced a double-double 129 finish to edge 3-2 in front, while Humphries answered one stretch with a superb 167 finish to level immediately after the first interval. Menzies then reeled off a four-leg burst to open a 7-3 lead before Humphries took several legs in succession. Ultimately Menzies regained control and closed out the match.
"No one gave me hope! I didn't give myself hope but I finally won a game at the Winter Gardens,"
The victory sets up a second-round meeting for Menzies with Ross Smith. The result is notable given Humphries’ status as world No 2 and last year’s champion at the Winter Gardens.
Monday's World Matchplay results (selected)
| Match | Score |
|---|---|
| Ross Smith v Kevin Doets | 10-6 |
| Gerwyn Price v Martin Schindler | 11-9 |
| Cameron Menzies v Luke Humphries | 10-7 |
| Rob Cross v Danny Noppert | 10-3 |
What this means for Blackpool fans
- The Winter Gardens continues to stage high-drama matches through to 26 July as the tournament progresses.
- Menzies’ win is likely to be remembered for the 170 finish and for toppling a recent champion on the Winter Gardens stage.
- Local and visiting spectators can expect further high-intensity contests as the second round resumes.
Reporting from the Winter Gardens, this result underlines the unpredictability of the Matchplay format and its reputation for producing memorable moments in Blackpool.
