After an intense relegation battle last Thursday saw Kim Huybrechts and Peter Wright drop out of the competition, we’re down to eight players for week 10 of Premier League Darts as the action turns to the Motorpoint Arena in Sheffield.
Adrian Lewis v James Wade
In the first of two matches of the night for Adrian Lewis, he takes on fourth-place James Wade having survived relegation by the skin of his teeth last week.
Nothing less than a victory over Peter Wright would have secured his safety in Manchester, but Lewis achieved that relatively comfortably with a 7-4 win.
The pair drew when they last met three weeks ago in Glasgow.
Verdict: Adrian Lewis win – 17/11 at 888sport
Gary Anderson v Dave Chisnall
Third takes on second in this intriguing encounter between two of the in-form men this season.
It’s the first of two matches in the evening for Chisnall, who could go top of the table if he wins both and van Gerwen stumbles against Bunting.
Chisnall smashed Anderson 7-2 in week five in Exeter, but Anderson has been in a fine vain of form since and will be out for revenge here.
Verdict: Gary Anderson win – 8/11 at SkyBet, BetVictor and Paddy Power
Phil Taylor v Raymond van Barneveld
The old foes meet once again, after Barney narrowly avoided a shock relegation last week. Nevertheless, the Dutchman – lest we forget – is still the reigning champion, although it will take some impressive form to see him back in contention this year.
He has six more matches to force himself into the play-off reckoning, and put the poor start to the season behind him. Can he do it in style with an enemy over his old rival?
Barney picked up one his just two wins this season against The Power back in Glasgow.
Verdict: Phil Taylor win – 8/15 at bet365, Boylesports and BetVictor
Stephen Bunting v Michael van Gerwen
MVG has been flying of late, winning each of his last four matches and still remains unbeaten this term – leaving him three points clear at the top of the Premier League table.
Bunting, meanwhile, suffered a tough start to life in the Premier League, but has certainly found his feet in recent weeks, losing just one of his last five.
The Dutchman was a comfortable winner when the pair last met, but can Bunting demonstrate his progress here?
Verdict: Michael van Gerwen win – 2/5 at Stan James
Dave Chisnall v James Wade
It’s a double week for this pair, with Dave Chisnall potentially going top if he wins both of his matches for the night.
Both head into the night occupying play-off places, and they’ll both be eager to cement those spots with a win here. Who will take advantage of their extra match?
Verdict: Dave Chisnall win – 13/10 at 888sport and William Hill
