Michael van Gerwen preserved his two-point lead at the top of the Premier League with victory over Raymond van Barneveld on a night when Gerwyn Price was eliminated.
Nearest challenger Michael Smith had applied the pressure by moving level with Van Gerwen courtesy of a stunning 7-2 win over winless Price, whose fate was sealed a week before Judgement Night.
Not gonna lie I’ve absolutely hated premier league, it’s been a great experience, something not every dart player can or will ever say they’ve experienced but unfortunately it wasn’t for me, looking forward to some time at home with the family and getting back to the old me,??
— Gerwyn Price (@Gezzyprice) March 29, 2018
But Van Gerwen responded in style in Belfast, averaging 104.47 with a checkout percentage of 70, to beat his fellow Dutchman 7-2 and maintain his position at the summit.
Mensur Suljovic or Peter Wright, the 2017 runner-up, will follow Price out of the competition early in Liverpool next week.
Wright fought back from 6-3 down to salvage a draw against Simon Whitlock, moving one point above the bottom two, but Suljovic was edged out 7-5 by play-off chasing Gary Anderson.
Hmmmm ? I’m not sure that’s how a car works, Michael….. ?#Unibet180 #LoveTheDarts pic.twitter.com/LLPtcQisUA
— PDC Darts (@OfficialPDC) March 29, 2018
A return home brought the best out of Daryl Gurney as he ended Rob Cross’ five-match winning streak in style.
The Northern Irishman delighted the SSE Arena crowd by throwing nine maximums in a 7-5 victory over the world champion which secured his safety and boosted his play-off hopes.
So good so good love you all
— Daryl Gurney (@Superchin180) March 29, 2018
