Can Defending Champion Humphries Recover to Make the Premier League Play-Offs?

Defending Premier League champion Luke Humphries is in danger of missing out on a top-four spot and failing to qualify for the Play-Offs at London's O2 on May 28. Currently seventh in the table with 11 points after 10 weeks, Humphries is still searching for his first nightly victory. He recently suffered a 6-5 defeat to leader Jonny Clayton in Brighton and then exited the Player Championship 9 in Wigan at the last-16 stage. Humphries faces a tough test against home favorite Gian van Veen in Rotterdam on Thursday, and with time running out, he needs to build momentum to push for a Play-Off spot. According to Michael Bridge, "Luke isn't running away with things anymore... He'll try and go on a run now, but I don't think he'll be devastated if he doesn't make the top four." Commentator Chris Murphy added, "I don't think it's complete panic stations yet, but he is running out of time and does need to get that nightly win." With six more nights to gain enough points, Humphries remains unconcerned about his title defense, stating, "I don't really feel the pressure of defending... I have been playing well this year and have won a couple of tournaments." The Premier League Darts continues with another crucial night of action in Rotterdam, where Dutch No 1 Gian van Veen hosts Luke Humphries, and Michael van Gerwen faces Jonny Clayton.