DARTS: Daryl Gurney looks to derail Simon Whitlock in Newcastle

The clash is a repeat of last October’s World Grand Prix final when Gurney beat the Australian 5-4 in a last set decider at the Citywest hotel in Dublin to win his first PDC major and also become the first Irish player to win a televised tournament.

Superchin’s point in Leeds last week against former back to back world champion Gary Anderson wasn’t enough to take him outside the elimination zone.

Gurney is ninth in the table a point ahead of Gerwen Price but only three points behind third placed Whitlock in one of the tightest Premier Leagues ever.

It was a familiar story for Gurney in Leeds as he missed two match darts to beat Anderson and clinch his maiden win in the competition.

“It’s very frustrating I thought the D12 was in and I thought the D6 was in but all credit to Gary he sticks in there and when I missed a chance he came in and took it out,” said Gurney.

“I missed a couple of opportunities again, at the end of the day I’m playing well but not my best and I am still giving myself the opportunity but I’m missing it, it’s a 50/50 thing and that’s the way it goes sometimes.”

“I’d be more worried if I wasn’t getting into winning positions but now I’ve just got to get over the line with a win and get out of the bottom two as soon as possible.”

Despite not having registered a win the Londonderry thrower is relishing his first taste of the Premier League.

“I’m loving being part of the Premier League, it’s a great experience, the atmosphere has been incredible during my walk-ons. I’ve got a lot to thank Neil Diamond for.”

“Everywhere I go the crowds really get involved with Sweet Caroline, perhaps now it’s one of the most popular walk-ons, it really gets the venues jumping and I love that.”

A poor run of form saw Whitlock miss the last three tournaments and he is delighted to be back.

“I’m back and it feels great, my first goal is not to get eliminated and get to the second round.”