James Wade is through to the Premier League play-offs at the O2 Arena.
The Team Unicorn star actually knew he had made the semi-finals before his clash with Rob Cross in Leeds. Mensur Suljovic’s defeat to Michael Van Gerwen guaranteed Wade’s spot in those play-offs.
In the end though, he did it in style as he beat Cross 8-6 to guarantee a 3rd place finish. Wade’s victory also denied Cross top spot in the league. That honour went to defending champion Van Gerwen for a 7th consecutive year.
But it also means Wade and Cross will clash again in a semi-final showdown in London as the Unicorn man chases another Premier League crown.
It’s 10 years since Wade won the Premier League but he has a great opportunity.
“This result doesn’t mean much,” Wade said. “If anything it may boost Rob because I cost him 25 grand for not topping the table! But don’t write me off. I’m playing well and I’ve been there and done it before.”
It was a disappointing end to a disappointing PL campaign for Unicorn’s Michael Smith as he was beaten 8-3 by Daryl Gurney. It was a result that saw Gurney qualify for the semi-finals, where he will face Van Gerwen.
The Dutchman ended Suljovic’s hopes with an 8-5 win.
UniBet Premier League semi-finals:
Michael Van Gerwen v Daryl Gurney
Rob Cross v James Wade
By STUART PYKE