With just four weeks to go of league stage action, we are beginning to get a better feel who may grace the oche at the O2 Arena on May 23.
MVG and Cross are still setting the pace at the top of the standings, with four players slugging it out for the remaining two spots. Smith and Wright’s failure to notch up a victory in Cardiff all but eliminates them from the conversation regarding a playoff spot. Both can claim to being one of the best PDC players in the world on their day, but have struggled with the intense competition on a weekly basis in this year’s Premier League.
Wade, Price and Suljovic are all tied on fourteen points, with Gurney slightly off the pace with twelve; neither of these four play each other in Birmingham, with each of them eyeing up an opportunity to edge ahead before next week’s trip to Manchester.
It’s all to play for at the Arena Birmingham. Let’s take a look at Thursday’s action:
Mensur Suljovic vs Michael Smith
Smith is looking down and out in his quest for a playoff spot. Bully Boy sits six points off of fourth place; six points off of Suljovic. Gentle’s slow style makes him a nightmare opponent for Smith, with the Austrian taking full advantage in Birmingham. 8-5 or 8-6 to Suljovic.
Suljovic 8-6 Smith @ 9/1 (BetVictor)
Rob Cross vs Gerwyn Price
A big test for Price as he looks to take the scalp of Voltage. Apart from his loss to MVG last Thursday, Cross is at the top of his game. He has three points worth of breathing space with four weeks to go, so a point would do him just fine in Birmingham. Price has the bottle to push him the distance. 7-7 at great value.
Cross 7-7 Price @ 7/2 (BetVictor)
Daryl Gurney vs Peter Wright
Neither player has a win in their last three outings, with Wright bagging just two victories all season. Wright’s race for a playoff spot looks all but run, with Gurney still in the hunt. SuperChin is capable of huge performances when needed, with a plethora of 180s the key to unlocking a win against Snakebite. Back Gurney in the 180 race, coupled with an outright win.
Gurney most 180s @ 1/1 (BetVictor)
James Wade vs Michael van Gerwen
Wade’s got the game and composure to beat MVG. He showed that earlier in the season in taken two points off the feared Dutchman, and with his playoff spot in jeopardy in Birmingham, The Machine needs to be functioning. Backing all 14 legs to be thrown here shows value, with a last leg decider likely.
Over 12.5 legs @ 8/11 (BetVictor)
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