Clayton thrashes Bunting to set up Wade semi-final

With a crushing victory over Stephen Bunting, fifth-seeded Jonny Clayton defeated former champion James Wade to advance to the World Matchplay semi-final.

The Welshman won the game 16-7 at Blackpool from the first time out after opening the door with a 5-0 lead.

After beating Dutchman Gian van Veen 16-13 to reach the final eight for the ninth time, he will now face Wade for a spot in the final.

Early on, Clayton, 50, was in top form against a out-of-sorts Bunting, who averaged 110 in the opening session.

Fourth seed Bunting was unable to capitalize on his struggles as his level dipped for a while before falling backwards as his frustration grew.

Clayton told Sky Sports, “I played right there.” “Total respect to Stephen, I sometimes put pressure on him even though he didn’t play his best game.” I liked the game.

Even though he had dominated almost every leg, he was 4-1 down to Van Veen earlier in the evening as a result of poor finishing.

After the break, the Englishman returned with renewed resolve and won the next eight legs of the spin to take the lead.

Wade was able to hold off on Van Veen’s closing advantage and finish the match with a better average (99.24 to 96.35) and better checkout percentage.

The 42-year-old told Sky Sports, “I thought I had thrown it away.” He was returning in the end, and it was God’s gift to me, not my ability, that secured the victory.

After the first session, I had a very stern word with myself; I was disgusted. You carry out your obligations.

He made the most of his opportunities, I’m fortunate. However, I would have been 5-0 or 10-0 up if I had made the most of mine. I’m buzzing right now.