Luke Littler, who recently won the Grand Slam of Darts, maintained his exceptional form by defeating Danny Noppert 10-3 to secure his place in the Players Championship quarter-finals in Minehead. World number one Luke Humphries also progressed to the same stage. The seventeen-year-old talent, Littler, first overcame Ritchie Edhouse with a 6-2 victory in the second round during Saturday’s afternoon session, before returning to comfortably see off Noppert. Against Noppert, Littler delivered a strong performance, hitting seven 180s, achieving an average of 104.70, and recording a highest checkout of 129. He is scheduled to compete against Mike de Decker in the next round. Littler commented on his current performance, stating, “When I go on these little bursts, I feel like nobody can touch me.” Meanwhile, Humphries secured a 6-3 win against Raymond van Barneveld in the afternoon session, followed by a 10-6 victory over Damon Heta. The defending champion acknowledged that his form against Heta was not at its peak, as he averaged 96.98 and had a highest checkout of 104 in that match. Humphries reflected on his game, saying, “There were so many visits where I felt I had so much more to give. So many 140s and not enough 180s. I’m trying to keep up with Luke and try to put in a good level. At the end of the day I’ve won and that’s all that matters. It takes me into Sunday and I can go again.” He is set to play Ryan Joyce in the quarter-finals. A potential final match-up between Littler and Humphries could occur if both players continue their successful progression through the tournament. Humphries praised Littler’s current play, remarking, “Luke is playing some absolutely phenomenal darts right now. He’s probably the best player in the world at the moment, but I know I’ve got a level to match that.” The quarter-final pairings are as follows: Luke Littler v Mike de Decker Scott Williams v Ross Smith Connor Scutt v Dirk van Duijvenbode Luke Humphries v Ryan Joyce Post navigation Dawson Calls for England to Maintain 80-Minute Performance Hibs Coach David Gray Sees Aberdeen Draw as Potential ‘Turning Point’