Josh Rock has fired Northern Ireland into the last 16 of the World Cup of Darts on debut.
The world number 18 partnered ever-present Brendan Dolan to top group B in Frankfurt.
Daryl Gurney has represented his country with Dolan since 2016, but Rock’s rapid ascent up the rankings has disrupted the duo.
‘Rocky’ has achieved a lot in a short space of time including winning the World Youth Championship.
The 23-year-old couldn’t hide his emotion after making his World Cup debut and described it as his ‘second greatest feeling in darts’.
Rock shines for Northern Ireland on World Cup of Darts debut
Many players admit to feeling more pressure when they don the colours of their nation but there was no such fear for the man from Broughshane.
He told Darts Now: “It was just an absolute buzz, obviously putting the shirt on for Northern Ireland means a lot to me. Representing your country is a big thing for everybody.
“As soon as we got up on that stage, no pressure it was just a buzz feeling in my stomach.”
There was a juxtaposition of styles on stage as 50-year-old Dolan plays at a slower pace to his partner, but the ‘History Maker’ admits to feeding off the youngster.
He said: “I’m taking on board Josh’s enthusiasm and he’s bringing maybe a bit of life and a bit of relaxation into the game.
“He just wants to have fun up there and I’m trying to join in and have fun with him. An old todger like me is gonna enjoy this weekend.”
Northern Ireland a genuine threat to the trophy
Northern Ireland have twice made the semi-finals of the World Cup but suffered a shock group stage exit 12 months ago.
The quality of Gurney and Dolan has never been questioned but Rock is exactly what this team needed.
Energy, enthusiasm and quality ooze through the youngster and perfectly complement Dolan’s experience.
The duo have the quality to go all the way in Frankfurt but face a mammoth task in the last 16.
They drew hosts Germany and if they are to reach the quarter-finals for the first time since 2022, they will have to survive a hostile atmosphere this evening.