World number one Luke Humphries secured a 3-1 victory over Joe Cullen in the first round of the World Masters in Milton Keynes on Thursday night.
The reigning world champion produced an accomplished display to overcome the former Premier League runner-up at Arena MK.
Despite showing moments of frustration during the match, particularly in its closing stages, Humphries maintained his composure to advance to the next round.
The victory came against a player Humphries considers a good friend away from competitive play, with the pair sharing a strong relationship on the PDC Tour.
Luke Humphries looked furious with himself after missing match darts
PDC
Humphries’ path to victory wasn’t without its tense moments, as he squandered three match darts that would have secured a straight-sets win.
The world number one’s visible frustration emerged as he needed a total of seven match darts before finally dispatching Cullen.
The Rockstar managed to claim a set during this period of uncertainty, bringing the score to 2-1.
However, Humphries ultimately regained his composure to close out the match and seal his progression in the tournament.
The match came against a player Humphries had previously singled out for high praise during an appearance on the Happy Hour podcast.
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“There’s a few but, for me, it’s Joe Cullen, he’s really funny,” Humphries had said when discussing his fellow professionals.
“He’s naturally funny. He doesn’t tell jokes, he’s just witty.
“His sense of humour is very funny. He just loves a laugh.”
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Luke Humphries has high hopes of winning the World Masters this year
PA
Humphries particularly highlighted Cullen’s natural ability to create humour, noting how well he works with fellow tour player Aaron Monk.
“If you put them both together, they just bounce off each other,” he added.
Their friendship extends beyond the competitive arena, with both players maintaining a strong rapport off the oche.
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HUMPHRIES STORMS INTO ROUND TWO!
Luke Humphries into the Second Round as he beats Joe Cullen 3-1 to progress.
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During his candid Happy Hour podcast interview, Humphries had also noted that Cullen was “good on a night out.”
The camaraderie between the two players adds an interesting dimension to their professional rivalry.
Despite their close friendship, both maintained their competitive focus during Thursday’s encounter at Arena MK.
The tournament continues on Friday with world champion Luke Littler and five-time Masters winner Michael van Gerwen set to begin their campaigns.