Stephen Bunting, affectionately known as ‘The Bullet,’ orchestrated a spectacular turnaround in Belfast, clinching his maiden Premier League Darts nightly title after a challenging start to the season. The electrifying evening was further illuminated by local hero Josh Rock’s breathtaking nine-dart finish, a moment of sheer perfection that sent the home crowd into raptures. While Jonny Clayton continued his dominance over Luke Littler and Gerwyn Price edged out a recovering Michael van Gerwen, it was Bunting who ultimately showcased incredible resilience, rising from the bottom of the table to claim a triumphant victory.
Belfast’s Love Affair with Darts Perfection
Belfast, a city steeped in history, proved once again to be a fertile ground for darting magic. The atmosphere was electric as the Premier League Darts roadshow arrived, with fans eagerly anticipating a show. And they weren’t disappointed, especially by their own. This city has a unique connection to the sport’s ultimate feat: the nine-dart finish. Tonight marked the fourth time this incredible achievement has graced the Belfast stage. In 2016, Adrian Lewis hit the first, followed by Gerwyn Price remarkably landing two in one night in 2021. Now, a new chapter was written.
Josh Rock’s Historic Nine-Darter
The biggest roar of the night erupted for Antrim native Josh Rock. Despite facing a tough match against Peter Wright and trailing significantly, Rock delivered a moment for the ages. With precision and flair, he threw nine perfect darts – two maximum 180s followed by a 141 checkout – sending the SSE Arena into an absolute frenzy. It was a stunning display of skill that, even in defeat, provided an unforgettable highlight for the home crowd.
Quarter-Final Clashes: Early Drama Unfolds
The evening kicked off with a series of high-stakes quarter-final matches, setting the tone for a night of intense competition.
Clayton Continues Dominance Over Littler
For the second week running, Jonny “The Ferret” Clayton successfully tamed the prodigious talent of Luke Littler. After breaking a long-standing losing streak against Littler in Glasgow, Clayton reaffirmed his control in Belfast. He stormed out of the gates, winning the first three legs consecutively, establishing a lead that proved too much for the reigning World Champion to overcome. Despite a brief fightback from Littler, Clayton maintained his composure to secure a decisive victory.
Bunting’s High-Flying Start Against Humphries
Stephen Bunting, who had been searching for his first points of the season, found his stride against reigning World Champion Luke Humphries. This match was a statistical marvel, with both players averaging over 106. The difference, however, lay in Bunting’s clinical finishing. While Humphries had more chances at the doubles, Bunting’s surgical precision on the outer ring proved the decisive factor, earning him a crucial win and extinguishing any lingering anxieties about his form.
Price Edges Out Ill Van Gerwen
The highly anticipated clash between Michael van Gerwen and Gerwyn Price saw Price emerge victorious, but not without a challenge. Van Gerwen, recovering from a recent illness, showed admirable sharpness early on, taking a 3-1 lead and later a 5-3 advantage. He even had a dart for the match. However, “The Iceman” Price, ever the opportunist, seized his chance, winning three consecutive legs to snatch victory from the jaws of defeat. It was a testament to Price’s relentless pressure and Van Gerwen’s battle against his health.
Semi-Final Showdowns: Bunting’s Ascent and Van Veen’s Grit
The tension escalated as the players moved into the semi-finals, with dreams of the nightly title within reach.
Bunting Blazes Past Clayton
Stephen Bunting continued his scintillating form, delivering a performance of ruthless efficiency against league leader Jonny Clayton. In a truly dominant display, Bunting whitewashed his opponent, replicating his impressive 106 average. To defeat any opponent 6-0 in the Premier League is significant, but for Bunting, who entered the night without a single point, it was an emphatic statement of intent, silencing any doubters with resounding clarity.
Van Veen Outlasts Price in Thriller
The second semi-final was a nail-biter, pitting Gerwyn Price against the young Dutchman Gian van Veen. Both players traded blows in a tense battle, with neither able to establish a significant lead. The match fittingly went to a deciding leg. Price had a dart at the bullseye for the win but missed. Van Veen, demonstrating composure beyond his years, then coolly pinned the required double under immense pressure, securing his spot in the final and denying Price a chance at glory.
The Grand Final: Bunting’s Triumphant Return
The stage was set for the final showdown between the resurgent Stephen Bunting and the consistently impressive Gian van Veen.
Stephen Bunting Claims His First Nightly Title
In the evening’s crescendo, Stephen Bunting not only secured his first points but appropriated the full five available with an authoritative and uncompromising victory over Gian van Veen. It was a clinical and richly deserved triumph, marking a significant milestone for “The Bullet.” For Van Veen, it was another strong showing, highlighting his burgeoning talent, though the final hurdle remains stubbornly out of reach at this stage of the season.
Bunting’s Resilience: A Story of Comeback
After three consecutive defeats to start the Premier League campaign, Bunting’s victory in Belfast was a powerful demonstration of fortitude. He recalibrated, regrouped, and ultimately reigned supreme, proving that elite sport is often more about the capacity to respond to adversity than uninterrupted dominance. His journey from zero points to a nightly win is a testament to his mental strength and competitive spirit.
Next Stop: Cardiff’s Roaring Welcome
Attention now shifts to Wales, where the Premier League caravan rolls into Cardiff. The passionate Welsh faithful are expected to deliver a rapturous welcome for their World Cup-winning duo, Gerwyn Price and Jonny Clayton. The atmosphere promises to be febrile, partisan, and intoxicating as the battle for Premier League supremacy continues.
Source: Based on an article from Darts World Magazine.
