Luke Humphries and Gerwyn Price have sealed Premier League play-off spots, confirming all four play-off contenders. Week 16 in Sheffield is scheduled for next Thursday, preceding the finals night at the O2 Arena.
The games on the final night are decided by the league standings after week 15. The quarter-finals are now set.
Humphries on Overcoming Pressure
Luke Humphries spoke to Sky Sports after winning the night, expressing, “It’s relief.” He admitted it’s been a struggle this year, adding, “It’s not been the best from me this year. I worked incredibly hard, I changed back to my old flights and it worked. I’m proud of myself.”
Humphries continued, “It’s easy when you’re winning, but it shows true grit to come from my position to then get through and win it tonight.”
Reflecting on his equipment changes, Humphries said, “Sometimes you have to try something new. I did it at the Grand Prix and it worked. I did it at the world and it didn’t. I’m just incredibly proud of myself. Probably the most proud I’ve been in my life. The last three weeks, there’s been a lot of pressure on my shoulders.”
He added that his girlfriend’s support was crucial: “My girlfriend said I had it in me and sometimes I need that. To not even have a chance of regaining the title, it would have hurt me a lot. I’m really glad I can go back to the O2.”
Humphries believes experience helps him deal with pressure. “If you win the night, you go through. When I’ve played in any major final, these nights help you. Experience has helped me a lot. I didn’t expect to be in a position where I’ve qualified. I wanted to be in a position on week 16 to have a chance.”
Looking ahead to potential play-off match-ups, Humphries stated, “If I’m fourth, then I play Luke. He knows how to beat me and I know how to beat him. If I finish third, then maybe we can rerun the script.”
As for his plans for the week, Humphries said, “Probably relax and play the pro tours in midweek. I’ve been playing a lot of golf recently and it helps me.”
Finals Night Line-Up
One of Luke Littler, Jonny Clayton, Gerwyn Price and Luke Humphries will be crowned Premier League champion on 28 May.
Gerwyn Price was close to a 170 finish, but Luke Humphries secured his play-off spot.
Humphries responded with an opening 180 and took control of the leg against Price. Humphries found the D8 to move one leg away from the top four. Price needed tops but went above twice.
Next week is all about who finishes where and who plays who in the play-offs.
All four play-off spots are now confirmed, regardless of the remaining results, nobody can move position tonight now.
That’s your lot from us tonight.