Orpington oche sensation Jack Johnson is enjoying quite the year. Not only did he claim the prestigious JDC Super 16 crown back in February, but he followed that Milton Keynes success with another triumph – this time on the World Grand Prix stage in Leicester.
Immediately before the two Lukes – both former PDC World Youth Champions themselves – took to the stage, Johnson faced Alfie Hutton in the inaugural JDC Volts National Final. It proved a poetic and fitting climax to Grand Prix week, with the superstars of tomorrow providing the perfect warm-up for a pair of players who were once the rising stars of the game.
After a fantastic contest, it was the 13-year-old from East Kent Darts Academy who prevailed, beating Hutton 5–4 in a thrilling finale at the Mattioli Arena to complete a remarkable and unique double.
Hutton more than played his part in an excellent final that went right down to the wire. The 16-year-old from Devon landed a brilliant 136 to leave a double in the deciding leg, while Jacky Boy trailed on 186 and looked out of the picture. But when Hutton squandered his opportunities, Johnson pounced – coolly finding tops to snatch victory.
It was agony for Hutton, who can take solace in knowing he undoubtedly has a bright future in the game ahead. This painful defeat will likely only make him stronger – and he’ll be desperate to make sure that feeling doesn’t return any time soon.
On an evening where youth darts was the real winner, it was a night to remember for the Johnson family as Jack became the first player ever to complete the special JDC double.
—–ENDS—–
