CLASSY LITTLER ADMITS “NOT MY NIGHT”

By Phil Lanning

LUKE LITTLER admitted it was “not my night” after losing to a red-hot Gerwyn Price.

The teen sensation could not retain his Bahrain Masters title after defeat to a record-breaking display from the Welshman on Friday night.

Price smashed in a 115.31 average, the highest ever in this event, to end 17-year-old Littler’s glory hopes.

Littler said: “Not my night but great game Gezzy Price. Heading home for a few days then looking forward to the Dutch Darts Masters.”

Former world champ Price went on to beat Peter Wright in the semis but lost 8-4 to Stephen Bunting in the final.

But he was clearly delighted with his improved displays. He said on Instagram: “Great week here in Bahrain. I’m getting there I promise u. The revs are just building up nicely. Looking forward to the Premier League this year, will be some belters played along the way.”

World No.1 Luke Humphries looked set to go all the way and take the title after a stunning quarter-final win over Nathan Aspinall.

Cool Hand delivered a wonderful 123 checkout to win the decider, having already taken out 160.

But he was undone by an inspired Bunting in the semis. Hump missed a match dart and relinquished the lead to lose out.

Humphries said: “Gutted to lose but happy for Stephen to progress. Still feel like my game needs some fine tuning before I’m back to my best. I’ll work harder to be better!”

WHAT WE LEARNT IN BAHRAIN…

World Champ Littler has got a huge fight on his hands for the big titles in 2025.

A year ago it was all about the two Lukes with Humphries the man to stop.

But now there are so many top stars finding their A-game again.

Humphries is once again a huge force. But Stephen Bunting, Gerwyn Price and Nathan Aspinall all look bang on form. Not forgetting that Michael van Gerwen returns to the big stage at the Dutch Darts Masters next week.

Price and Bunting posted massive averages in Bahrain while the scoring power of Aspinall at times was simply sensational.

The new-look Winmau Masters in Milton Keynes on January 30 will be a fascinating watch when you add in the likes of Gary Anderson, Dave Chisnall, Damon Heta and Jonny Clayton.

Then it’s the Premier League in Belfast on February 6 as Littler begins the defence of his title. There will be fierce competition for his crown.