CARMARTHENSHIRE darts star Jonny Clayton survived a major scare, when fighting back from 2-1 adrift to topple Irish teenager Keane Barry in a World Championship classic that featured 10 ton-plus checkouts.

Favourite Clayton continued his sublime 2021 form by averaging 103.7, the highest of the tournament so far.

‘The Ferret’ is among the favourites to lift this year’s Sid Waddell Trophy, and he produced a blistering barrage in the latter stages to stave off a valiant display from the 19-year-old.

The very impressive Barry appeared on the cusp of a seismic shock after producing back-to-back 114 and 122 finishes to move a set away from victory - two of five 100 plus checkouts.

Nevertheless, Clayton responded by reeling off six consecutive legs with a remarkable 114 average, to continue his bid for a fifth major title of 2021.

A winner of four TV titles this year, Clayton, from Pontyberem, was full of praise for his young opponent.

“That was one of my favourite games I’ve played in,” said Welshman Clayton, who averaged in three figures at the World Championship for the first time.

“It was fantastic, all credit to Keane who never gave me a chance to relax.

“My year so far has been fantastic, hopefully I can finish it off by winning this. I’d love to win that trophy, hopefully it’s my year.”