Martin Lukeman’s hopes of reaching the third round of the Paddy Power World Darts Championships for the first time ended with a 3-1 defeat to Damon Heta at Alexandra Palace last night.

The Watford thrower had been hoping to get the better of the world No. 10 after reaching the second round for the second year running following a 3-1 win over Haupai Puha on Monday.

Australian Heta edged a tight opening set 3-2 but began to pull away after winning the next three legs to lead 2-0.

Lukeman showed his battling qualities and kept his tournament hopes alive by winning the third set, but they were soon to come to an end as his opponent took the fourth set without reply to secure his place in the last-32.