Clayton claims second Premier League night on a brilliant night in Birmingham

Brilliant Jonny Clayton won his second Cazoo Premier League night triumph on Thursday in Birmingham, denying James Wade his first victory by defeating his opponent 6-1 in the final.

With the win, the reigning Premier League champion drew level on 17 points with table-topper Michael van Gerwen, who was knocked out in the quarter-finals at the Utilita Arena.

Clayton’s night triumph was his first since winning the decider on Night Two in Liverpool, meaning Wade and Michael Smith are still waiting for their first taste of glory in the new Premier League format halfway through the season.

The Welshman dominated the final, giving his opponent little chance to win as he won 6-1 with an average of 111.16.

Clayton made it difficult for Wade to win his first league night match in the final, giving him only one shot at a double during the match.

Clayton was always ahead during the scoring stages of legs, with five maximums and six 140s, en route to a 6-1 victory.

 

“When they go like that I think I’m one of the best in the world, so tonight was brilliant,” said the 47-year-old after his win.

 “The field that we’re in is absolutely fantastic, there are no gimmes and I think tonight was as well as I can throw.

 “I’m chasing Michael, so hopefully I can pass him next week.

 “It’s great to win these nights but I want to be in that top four to try and retain my title.”

 

Cazoo Premier League

Night 8 – Utilita Arena, Birmingham

Thursday March 31

Quarter-Finals

Michael van Gerwen 2-6 James Wade

Joe Cullen 6-3 Gerwyn Price

Peter Wright 6-5 Gary Anderson

Jonny Clayton 6-1 Michael Smith

 

Semi-Finals

James Wade 6-2 Joe Cullen

Peter Wright 4-6 Jonny Clayton

 

Final

James Wade 1-6 Jonny Clayton

 

Night 9 – First Direct Arena, Leeds

Thursday April 7

Quarter-Finals

Michael Smith v Peter Wright

Gary Anderson v Michael van Gerwen

Joe Cullen v Jonny Clayton

James Wade v Gerwyn Price