Michael Smith and Rob Cross joined MVG in the Play-Offs leaving Gary Anderson and Daryl Gurney to battle it out for fourth and final spot
Friday 4 May 2018 20:23, UK
"I know I can go even higher. I'm going to show you in the play-offs," Michael van Gerwen has warned his rivals after throwing a stunning 111.57 three-dart average in Birmingham on Thursday.
Van Gerwen crushed World Champion Rob Cross 7-2 to ensure his place at the top of the Premier League standings for the sixth year in succession, ensuring the £25,000 league leader's bonus.
The Dutch ace threw the highest of this year's tournament in an impressive showing in the second city, but then declared he is ready to produce even higher averages at the Play-Offs in London on May 17.
"Six years at the top of the Premier League table takes some doing - it's phenomenal," Van Gerwen told Sky Sports. "I'm still playing really well and I hope I can add another few years doing this because I like the Premier League, I like the formula, I like to perform in front of the big crowds, and it makes me smile.
"I know I can produce the kind of average like tonight and I know I can go even higher - I'm going to show you in the semi-finals and final.
"I don't care who I face because you can't show any weaknesses. If you don't feel sure about anything then why would you say there's no point. You have to get on with it, play your game, and make sure you win."
And on his impressive display against Cross, the world No 1 and defending champion told the official PDC Website: "I think it was a phenomenal game from me, I did the right things when I had to. I know I have to perform well every week and I have to make sure I do the right things at the right times.
"You have to keep Rob under pressure because he has a lot of confidence, and I did that. I didn't make many mistakes and it was a great win for me.
"I know I'm the best but I have to make sure I go out at prove it every week. The pressure if off me now and I can make sure I'm fully focused going to The O2."
The 2018 Premier League is back for the final league night next Thursday as we head to Aberdeen for Week 15. Coverage gets under way from 7pm on Sky Sports Action. The tungsten action will then continue through to the season's conclusion with the Play-Offs on Thursday, May 17 at The O2 in London.
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