Darts: Dutch trio in quarter-finals

RAYMOND Van Barneveld edged out Ronnie Baxter 4-3 in a sudden-death thriller to reach the last eight of Ladbrokes.com World Darts Championship.

Baxter missed three shots for victory, and Van Barneveld will now meet Jelle Klaasen, who beat Andy Hamilton 4-1.

Wayne Mardle's hopes of glory were shattered in a straight-sets defeat to Co Stompe, leaving three Dutchmen in the last eight.

Australian Paul Nicholson booked a quarter-final spot with a 4-2 comeback win over Dennis Priestley.

In the other game, Mervyn King swept past Dennis Smith 4-1 to set up a clash with Barrie Bates.