Luke Littler Edges Out Price in Dublin Thriller – Premier League Darts Night Seven
DUBLIN – Luke Littler continued his remarkable ascent in the world of professional darts, staging a stunning comeback to defeat Gerwyn Price 6-5 in the final of Premier League Darts Night Seven at the 3Arena on . The victory, secured after trailing 5-0, cements the 19-year-old’s position as a serious contender and moves him within three points of league leader Jonny Clayton.
The match was a rollercoaster of momentum shifts, with Price appearing to be cruising to victory before Littler ignited a remarkable run of six consecutive legs. Price had earlier dominated Josh Rock 6-0 and dispatched Luke Humphries 6-1 in a commanding display, although Littler overcame Stephen Bunting 6-3 and then battled past Michael van Gerwen in another 6-5 thriller earlier in the evening.
Littler’s path to the final wasn’t without its drama. His semi-final clash against van Gerwen was a high-scoring affair, featuring two maximum 170 checkouts – a testament to the exceptional quality of darts on display. Littler ultimately prevailed, surviving three match darts from the Dutchman to secure his place in the final.
The final itself appeared to be heading for a comfortable win for Price. The Welshman raced to a 5-0 lead, seemingly in complete control. However, the turning point came when Littler finally got on the board, prompting a playful gesture towards Price and a shift in the atmosphere within the arena. “I have no idea how I have done that,” Littler told Sky Sports after the match. “I was gone, but after getting my first leg, I had a bit of fun and waved him goodbye, given that when Gerwyn Price is on double top, he doesn’t usually miss.”
Price subsequently faltered, missing five match darts – including a crucial attempt at double top when leading 5-1. Littler seized the opportunity, relentlessly closing the gap and forcing a deciding leg. He ultimately clinched the victory with a checkout of 81 on double 15. “I was so gone I may as well have been off the stage, but this is darts, things happen,” Littler added.
The victory marks Littler’s second weekly win of the season, further solidifying his status as a force to be reckoned with in the Premier League. He now trails Clayton by just three points, setting up an intriguing battle for the top spot as the season progresses.
Van Gerwen and Price Impress in Earlier Rounds
Prior to the final, both Price and van Gerwen showcased their exceptional form. Price’s 6-0 whitewash of Rock was a particularly dominant performance, averaging over 103.66 and demonstrating clinical finishing. Humphries, despite falling to Price in the semi-finals, also impressed with a 6-3 victory over Clayton, including a stunning 120 checkout.
Van Gerwen’s semi-final encounter with Littler was a captivating display of skill and precision, with both players consistently hitting high scores and challenging each other’s ability. The two 170 checkouts in that match underscored the exceptional level of competition on display in Dublin.
Clayton Remains at the Summit
Despite losing to Humphries in the quarter-finals, Jonny Clayton retains his position at the top of the Premier League standings. His consistent performance throughout the season has established him as the player to beat, but Littler’s recent form suggests he is rapidly closing the gap.
Van Veen Withdraws Due to Illness
The night wasn’t without its disruption, as Gian van Veen was forced to withdraw from the competition due to kidney stones. This resulted in van Gerwen receiving a bye to the semi-finals.
Looking Ahead to Berlin
The Premier League Darts action continues next week in Berlin on , at the Mercedes-Benz Arena. Littler will face Stephen Bunting in the quarter-finals, while Clayton takes on Rock. Van Gerwen and Humphries will also clash, and Price will face Van Veen. The league standings will determine the quarter-final matchups for Night 16, adding another layer of strategic importance to the competition.
As Wayne Mardle observed on Sky Sports, Littler’s victory was a testament to his resilience and ability to capitalize on his opponent’s struggles. “Sometimes It’s more fun to nick one that you shouldn’t win,” Mardle commented. “Gerwyn Price missed chance after chance.”
The Premier League Darts season is shaping up to be a thrilling contest, with Littler emerging as a genuine challenger to the established order. Fans can continue to follow all the action live on Sky Sports, and with NOW TV.