Two-time champion Gary Anderson electrified Alexandra Palace by defeating rising star Justin Hood in a gripping quarter-final match that showcased his enduring skill and competitive spirit.

The 55-year-old Scottish darts legend initially traded sets evenly with the tournament debutant before dramatically shifting gears, winning nine of the next ten legs to secure a convincing 5-2 victory.

Anderson, visibly elated after his performance, shared his excitement with Sky Sports: "I'm over the moon to get through." He also acknowledged the potential challenges ahead, noting the exceptional talents of potential semi-final opponents Luke Humphries and Gian van Veen.

In another compelling quarter-final, Ryan Searle demonstrated remarkable precision by defeating Jonny Clayton 5-2, a result that will elevate him into the world's top 10 rankings. Searle, who lives with dominant optic atrophy, a genetic eye condition affecting his vision, continues to inspire by proving that physical challenges need not limit athletic achievement.

Hood, despite his quarter-final exit, emerged as a crowd favorite during his Alexandra Palace debut. The 32-year-old English left-hander earned substantial recognition, including £100,000 in prize money and a significant rankings jump from 86th to 50th. He plans to use a portion of his winnings to pursue a long-held dream of opening a Chinese restaurant.

The upcoming semi-finals promise high-stakes drama, with potential matchups including defending champion Luke Littler against Krzysztof Ratajski, and Luke Humphries facing Gian van Veen. The semi-final matches, scheduled for Friday, January 2nd, will be best-of-11 sets, guaranteeing intense competition and dramatic moments for darts enthusiasts worldwide.

Anderson's victory not only demonstrates his continued prowess but also highlights the remarkable resilience and skill required at the highest levels of professional darts, inspiring both aspiring players and long-time fans of the sport.