Premier League: Week 5
Thursday 6th March was the date for the fifth installment of
this season’s Betway Premier League as the players, media
and fans descended upon the Westpoint Arena in Exeter for
another night of top tungsten.
Simon Whitlock finally broke his duck, whilst Phil Taylor remained in
serious trouble after succumbing to a fourth defeat in five matches.
Meanwhile at the top of the table a draw, one of three on the night,
was enough for Peter Wright to retain pole position as the crucial
relegation cut-off point began to loom large.
Wes Newton was forced to withdraw through illness, meaning the
Robert Thornton would face two matches on the night and perhaps it
was the pressure of this that contributed to the Scotsman’s relatively
poor return of only one point.
Peter Wright 6-6 Robert Thornton
Thornton started stronger and raced into a 3-1 lead, only to find himself
pegged back by an in form Wright, who first levelled and then moved
in front for the first time at 4-3.
Thornton responded well initially, taking the eighth leg to level the
match up once more, before Wright looked to have done the hard work
when he took the ninth and tenth legs to secure at least a point.
Photo: PDC/Lawrence Lustig
The draw was enough for Peter Wright to retain his top spot, although
the World Championship runner-up may have been a little disappointed
with the result, having led 6-4.