Van Gerwen aiming for Premier League history with record points haul

Van Gerwen sealed a 6-4 victory against world champion Michael Smith at the M&S Bank Arena, comfortably averaging over 100 throughout the encounter and registering several 180s.

Having previously celebrated back-to-back wins in Dublin and Exeter, the Dutchman became the first to register three in a row since the knockout format was introduced.

The reigning champion eased past Jonny Clayton and struggling Peter Wright en route to victory.

"When you are under pressure, it's the best feeling in the world to produce good darts," MVG said after defeating Smith.

"It gives you joy and it gives you confidence.

"I know how to win without playing my A-game, but I think in patches tonight against Michael Smith, I did play really well.

"I am not where I want to be yet, but I am winning games and that is the most important thing."

The 33-year-old sits top of the pile going into Night Seven, eight points ahead of Smith in second - and hopes to continue his dominance in the competition having finished top of the table in eight of his last 10 appearances.

"I want to get a record number of points," declared Van Gerwen.

"I love to play in front of big crowds and that is what you have in the Premier League. I have won three nights now, but there is still 11 or 12 to go, so it's on to the next one.

"I think my game is at 90 per cent. I'm not at my best, but I know how to win when I'm not playing my A-game."

Van Gerwen takes on Peter Wright next week at the Motorpoint Arena in Nottingham, with the Scotsman still languishing at the foot of the table.