Littler destroys idol Van Barneveld to reach last 8 of World Darts Championship

The 16-year-old looked up to the Dutch star during his introduction to the sport but got one over on his hero by beating him 4-1 in the last 16 clash at Alexandra Palace.

Van Barneveld - who is 40 years older than the British starlet - won the world championship back in 2007 - 20 days before Littler was born.

But now the teenager has banked £50,000 for the win and looks like a genuine contender to defy the odds and go all the way in the World Championship.

Littler got off to an electric start after winning the first leg with 14 darts, before going on to secure the first set it lightning quick time.

Van Barneveld put up a fight in the second set as well, however Littler remained composed to go two sets up.

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Moving into the third set, Littler showed his first signs of blinking when the former world champion upped his game and went ahead, but despite being two darts from winning the set, it was Littler overcame a minor blip to take the third set.

Barney came out fighting in the fourth set to deny Littler a clear run at the victory, instead claiming it over five legs to make it 3-1.

The fifth set was just as even, but Littler kept his composure to see out the win and progress to the World Championship quarter finals with an average of 105.01.

Speaking after his win, Littler was seen exchanging words with Van Barneveld, with the 16-year-old explaining exactly what was said.

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He told Sky Sports: "It's unbelievable. I don't know what to say.

"He said, 'you can go all the way - I hope you go all the way' and I said thankyou. He's a true gentleman and I respect Raymond very well."

Asked if he's pictured himself picking up the trophy, Littler said: "No. I just looked at the draw and saw Brendan and Chris Dobey on the same management.

"I fancy myself and if I can get over the line and Chris can get over the line, we can meet in the semi-final, but let's focus on Brendan."

As a result of his win, Littler will face Brendan Dolan for a spot in the semi-finals after the Northern Irish star beat Gary Anderson.

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