ROCK MAY QUESTION PREMIER LEAGUE INCLUSION

JOSH ROCK may question whether he belongs in the Premier League if results don’t improve, according to ex-pro Mark Webster.

‘Rocky’ has endured a difficult start to life in the major tournament and remains winless after five weeks.

But the Antrim thrower fought his way to the semi-finals of the UK Open last week before falling to Luke Littler, showing signs of a resurgence. 

Webster praised Rock for his resilience and hard-working attitude, insisting the youngster continues to battle despite a tough run of results.

He told the Love the Darts podcast: “It was a good tournament for Josh Rock, and he definitely needed some sort of matches under his belt because he’s just been playing the one in the Premier League at the minute.

“He’s got a lot of work to do there. He’s got to look at the positives, but there’s still some work to do on his game.  

“I like the attitude of Josh Rock though – he does sort of just move on to the next one. He’s not a sulk.

“He doesn’t sort of dwell on it. He doesn’t come out and say the wrong things. He’s going to keep fighting away in the Premier League. 

“I hope it really starts turning the corner because I was a big advocate for him being in there. I was delighted he got the call. I thought he’d do better. 

“I think he thought he’d do better. But definitely from the weekend, the fact that, again, a player probably not at his best but found a way to get to a semi-final.

“So you’ve got to look at that from the positive viewpoint that he needs to get going in the Premier League.” 

World No.8 Rock faces Stephen Bunting in a bottom-of-the-table clash on Night Six in Nottingham, with Webster warning another setback could begin to weigh heavily on him 

He added: “It reminds me of when Bunting was in week seven last year and played Chris Dobey, and it felt like it was a big game for Bunting.  

“He did get the win. I think it’s huge for Josh Rock, because if he doesn’t get any points this week, the thought process might be: ‘What am I doing here?’ 

“He might start questioning him belonging there. He does belong there, it’s just not happening for him. But it will be a nervy game. 

“For Stephen, this is where he’s got to use all his experience. He’ll know how he felt 12 months ago. Josh will be feeling exactly like he felt. 

“He’ll be tight, he’ll be nervy. So, if Stephen makes a good start in this game, he could pile on the misery on Josh.

“But it’s an intriguing match. It’s a big clash to start the night and really important for both players.”

Image by Taylor Lanning.