Clayton after smashing Van Gerwen to end first half of Premier League: "I've got a big, big smile on my face"

Jonny Clayton returned to the winners' circle after a poor start to the second block of action in the 2021 Premier League Darts by defeating Michael van Gerwen.

Clayton hit a 100.2 average and five 180's in a 7-3 win and was obviously delighted post match.

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"He'd have been a happy man if he'd have beaten me like that as well. I respect Michael (van Gerwen) probably the best dart player we've ever seen and to beat him like that, I've got a big, big smile on my face," said Clayton post match.

Bouncing back

On bouncing back from prior defeats, he said it 'meant a lot' but that in truth, he didn't deserve anything from the James Wade tie.

"I've got to be honest, James battered me last night, he didn't give me any chances, he didn't give me any chance to relax and play darts. So to bounce back with a win that was important, that meant a lot."

"As a fan, I suppose it's brilliant but as a player, it's nerve-wracking. We've just got to go out there and do our best."