Teenage darts sensation Luke Littler paraded his PDC World Championship trophy at Old Trafford on Sunday, but witnessed his beloved Manchester United suffer a 3-1 defeat to Brighton.
The 17-year-old world champion, who claimed the Sid Waddell Trophy earlier this month with a 7-3 victory over Michael van Gerwen, was given a VIP reception at the Theatre of Dreams.
The United superfan’s celebratory moment came during the half-time break, with the score level at 1-1, before Brighton secured victory with two second-half goals.
Initial plans to present Littler before kick-off were altered following the death of club legend Denis Law, with the trophy parade moved to half-time.
Luke Littler completed a dream of his by parading the Sid Waddell Trophy around Old Trafford
Reuters
The teenage champion received a warm welcome from the 75,000-strong crowd at Old Trafford, who serenaded him with chants of “There’s only one Luke Littler.”
Speaking to MUTV before the match, Littler said: “It means the world to bring the trophy pitchside at the club I’ve supported all my life. I’m grateful for the opportunity.”
United fell behind early when Yankuba Minteh opened the scoring for Brighton after five minutes.
Bruno Fernandes drew the hosts level from the penalty spot before the break.
Brighton seized control in the second half, with Kaoru Mitoma scoring at the back post on the hour mark.
Georginio Rutter sealed the victory for Fabian Hurzeler’s side in the 76th minute, capitalising on a fumbled cross by Andre Onana to make it 3-1.
The appearance marked Littler’s return to the spotlight after his quarter-final exit at the Bahrain Darts Masters, where he was defeated by Gerwyn Price.
Luke Littler was serenaded by the fans at Old Trafford
PA
“Not my night but great game,” Littler wrote on social media after the loss to Price.
The world champion will now turn his attention to the Dutch Masters, which begins next week, just three days after his 18th birthday on Tuesday.
Littler’s connection to United runs deep, having previously participated in a nine-dart challenge with Harry Maguire and Christian Eriksen at Old Trafford 12 months ago.
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Luke Littler won the World Championship earlier this month
Reuters
The challenge also featured current United stars Rasmus Hojlund and Mason Mount as spectators.
It is understood that the world champion was set to meet the United squad following Sunday’s match against Brighton.
The teenager had been unable to attend United’s previous home match against Southampton due to his commitments at the Bahrain Darts Masters.
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