Luke Littler light‑heartedly suggested that the Premier League Darts circuit could benefit from the addition of another Scottish player to liven up the ambience after he faced a rather subdued crowd in Aberdeen following his Night 13 triumph. The 19‑year‑old world champion delivered a thrilling comeback, edging out Luke Humphries 6‑5 in a nail‑biting final, yet the applause he received was muted, echoing the pattern of boos and jeers that have accompanied much of his campaign this season. Despite the lackluster reception, Littler appeared relaxed and upbeat during his post‑match press conference, noting that the win propelled him back to the summit of the league table, overtaking Johnny Clayton with three fixtures remaining before the season‑ending showdown on 28 May at the O2 Arena, broadcast live on Sky Sports. "I was definitely relaxed tonight," he said.
"The crowd was a bit flat, and I think all the players mentioned that. But another win is another step forward, and I’ll just take it as it comes." He recalled a recent experience in Rotterdam, describing it as the loudest venue he had ever played in front of, which had helped him push through a tough final and secure a victory. "I think I said maybe last week or the week before that Rotterdam was the loudest crowd I’ve ever faced and I got past it.
Won a few games, lost in the final. Now we can just focus on the O2," Littler added.
In the immediate aftermath of his win, Littler joked, "The crowd were okay tonight, but definitely not the loudest. I think we need another Scottish player in the Premier League to bring the atmosphere up a little bit!" The comment was met with chuckles and highlighted his awareness of the role that fan energy plays in the sport. Littler’s victory is another indicator of his impressive form this spring, as he has reached three finals in as many weeks. His consistency has placed him among the tournament’s leading contenders, and he now eyes the semi‑finals with a clear focus on reclaiming the coveted trophy.
"You always do the hard work in the early stages and then in the final you kind of relax a bit. I have a very good record in the Premier League, and I want to get my hands back on the trophy. I just have to concentrate on the semi‑final when it arrives," he explained. He also paid tribute to Humphries, acknowledging the Englishman’s resurgence after key victories over Michael Van Gerwen and Gian Van Veen.
"Luke needed that win tonight. Even the win against Michael was crucial for him.
He slowed his throw just a little, and it was flowing. His worst leg was the last leg, and I took full advantage. I hope he can bounce back in Leeds and maybe win on his home ground," Littler said, showing sportsmanship despite the rivalry.
Sky Sports darts analyst Wayne Mardle offered his perspective on Littler’s season, noting the young player’s early‑year success followed by a brief slump. "Before the Premier League started, Littler had four wins in year one, six in year two, and it seemed he was heading for seven, eight, nine wins here, but then it stalled a bit.
The way he handled the last two weeks – that final was not a cruise, it was a hard fight – shows his mental strength. He navigates pressure better than anyone else. No one handles stressful moments on a dartboard better than Luke right now, and that’s why he wins," Mardle commented.
Mardle also highlighted a pivotal moment when Littler surged ahead 5‑3 in the final, describing Humphries’ missed opportunity as a turning point. "When you have the throw to win a tournament or a night, you feel the chance.
Unfortunately, Luke decided ‘I’m not going to give you a chance to win.’ Humphries broke Littler in ten darts, but he didn’t capitalize because of Littler’s brilliance. He’s now in a better position than before the night began – three valuable points – and he must believe he can still make the Play‑Offs. For Humphries, it will be a bitter disappointment," Mardle added. Looking ahead, the Premier League Darts race remains wide open, with several contenders still in contention for the title.
Fans can tune in each Thursday until May to follow the drama on Sky Sports, or stream the action via NOW for a seamless viewing experience. The league’s schedule and current standings are regularly updated online, and highlights, podcasts, and additional darts content are available for enthusiasts who want to stay informed about every throw, every upset, and every moment of high‑pressure competition that defines this premier darts showdown.