Darts legend Peter Manley previews week 9 of the Premier League in association with www.180bets.com

Peter:  A boisterous crowd ensured that most of the players had to earn their corn last night. The only players who seemed to get a bit of respite were Raymond and Simon – no coincidence that those lads were the only non-Englishmen on show!

That said it was great to see so many people enjoying themselves at the darts last night. Where else could you see someone dressed up as a horse, a dog or else wearing a false beard and ponytail ala Simon Whitlock? And that’s some of the more soberly dressed clientele......

Take Care, Peter.

Adrian Lewis 8 Raymond van Barneveld 6

A great game which was full of twists and turns. It was also a sign of Adrian’s growing maturity that he was able to not only deal with a top player like Raymond, but also a partisan crowd who wanted Raymond to win.

Simon Whitlock 8 Terry Jenkins 3

Simon brushed Terry aside in what was a very one-sided affair. I thought Terry – who has been playing poorly might turn things around, but on the evidence of this game that doesn’t look like happening anytime soon.

Phil Taylor 8 Ronnie Baxter 4

Phil wasn’t at his best, but fortunately for him Ronnie posted his worst performance of an otherwise impressive Premier League campaign. Ronnie will be pleased to have played Phil twice now and can concentrate on getting points from the mere mortals who make up the rest of the competition.

James Wade 8 Mervyn King 4.

James played very well and with a near 100 average on the night will be a happy bunny.  He needed the win as it just keeps him in with a chance of making the top four.  Mervyn also needs to get some points on the board as the chasing pack is now closing in.

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