Sky Sports were forced to apologise to viewers after Ricardo Pietreczko’s victory over Gian van Veen in the second round of the World Darts Championship.
The 30-year-old managed to hit 10 of his 18 doubles attempts, with his clinical finishing the difference as he secured a convincing 3-1 win.
In his post-match interview, Pietreczko slipped up by letting out a swear word. He was discussing his improved form since his Players Championship defeat to Darren Beveridge at the end of October.
Asked to sum up his thoughts on the match, Pietreczko said: “It was really important for me because at the Players Championship it was a very s**t game for me.
“On stage, I love it here and it was very important for me. I’m over the moon. I love the stage, the big stage. I love the crowd here in Alexandra Palace. Thank you for the crowd.”
Sky Sports presenter Emma Paton was quick to address Pietreczko’s slip of the tongue, saying: “Yeah, apologies for some of the language that you heard there.”
Pietreczko will face either Rob Cross and Scott Williams in the next round, with the Berlin native likely to be high on confidence after such a clinical display against Van Veen.
Rod Studd, who was on commentary duties for Sky Sports, said: “Pikachu is through! A brilliant win from the young German. Last year he almost dumped out Luke Humphries and this year he has knocked out Gian van Veen.
“He has out-finished the Dutchman and that has been the difference. Van Veen missed too many doubles, particularly early on.”
Earlier in the day, Jonny Clayton secured a dramatic victory over Mickey Mansell via a sudden-death shootout in the decisive fifth set.
There was nothing to separate the two players but the Welshman, with the advantage of the throw, prevailed to make it through before letting out a triumphant roar.
Elsewhere, Josh Rock breezed past Rhys Griffin to set up a meeting with Chris Dobey in the next round. Krzysztof Ratajski is also through after beating Alexis Toylo, while Andrew Gilding overcame Grand Slam finalist Martin Lukeman.
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