Thursday night sees the Quarter Finals of the Premier League of Darts kick off at the SSE Arena in Belfast, Northern Ireland.
The highlight of the evening is without a doubt the titanic clash between world number one Michael Smith and the juggernaut that is Michael van Gerwen. These two are at the peak of their powers and it promises to be another fascinating match up between darts’ biggest superstars. Here, we’ll preview this epic quarter final and provide you with some betting tips that we hope will help you land a winner.
Everyone wants to be like Mike.
The second match of the night is a rematch of this year’s PDC World Championship final in January. In a dramatic clash at the Alexandra Palace in London, it was the man from St. Helens who reigned supreme in a best of 13 sets head to head that also included a nine dart leg from the eventual victor.
Michael van Gerwen was gracious in defeat, but he must be worried that his place at the throne of international darts is under threat. Smith has become somewhat of a bogey opponent for the Dutchman also, having won each of their last four meetings. In all of those clashes, Smith has won the race to six legs, which would see him win this match here. So, a bet on Michael Smith to win is a good place to start.
Market leaders.
These two come into this as the two favourites to win the Premier League outright this season, so this match up has a whole new level of pressure added to it. They are, by far and away, the two in form players in the competition and this one will be a treat for those fortunate enough to have a ticket in Belfast on Thursday.
In each of his last three wins over MVG, Smith has outscored his counterpart in the 180 department. That is no mean feat when playing against arguably the greatest darts player of all time. The Englishman will be full of confidence heading in this and we think Smith to score the most 180s is a shoe in.
Putting on a show.
One thing these two know how to do is entertain a crowd. There is sure to be some high quality darts on show at the SSE this week and this match up is by far the standout fixture. We could even be witnessing the changing of the guard in real time here. MVG has been so dominant in the darts world for so many years now, has his time come to an end?
It may not have, but in this case, we’re not expecting him to be victorious. Given how Smith has outclassed the Dutchman in their most recent meetings, we’re tipping him up for the match treble (to win the match, score the most 180s and get the highest checkout).
Suggested bets.
- Michael Smith to Win
- Michael Smith to Score Most 180s
- Michael Smith Match Treble