MVG loves new Pricey rivalry

 MIGHTY Michael Van Gerwen admitted he loves the new rivalry with Gerwyn Price after wrapping up his fifth Ladbrokes Players Championship.

The dominant Dutchman had to work really hard to overcome The Iceman 11-9 in a thrilling slugfest in Minehead on Sunday night

MVG led early on but the Welshman stormed back to take the lead, only for the World Champion to sneak over the line in style and pick up the £100,000.

Van Gerwen said: “It was tough especially today I had to work really hard. Gerwyn is much more a respected player in the PDC. To beat him always feels good.

“But I’ve had to work hard to beat Adrian Lewis, James Wade. Always when I come here it’s like a great home welcome and the people here are fantastic. 

“I couldn’t put him away, I think I was only slightly better in this game than him. I missed a few darts on my double to break him again.

“He always keeps on my nerves because he’s a phenomenal player. You have to do absolutely your best if you want to beat him. Fair play I think we both deserved to be in the final here. From now I hope to have a great World Championship as well.

“I love the rivalry I just want to tell him, this is the first of the next 19 as well!”

Both players missed a hatful of darts to win the opening leg in a nervy start with MVG eventually breaking throw.

But then it was a proper battle all the way with the Dutchman having to find every ounce of steel to outgun on the on-form Welshman.

Price, who received £50,000 for being runner-up, said: “I think the first leg was the best leg of all!

“From that point on Michael probably dominated the game, I got my head in front but he was the better player today.

“I wish I could have got it to the last leg decider and pushed him all the way but the better man won. I played alright all tournament and the crowd were absolutely brilliant.

“I’m just happy to be up here playing the likes of Michael, just six or seven years ago I was playing rugby. Now I’m playing the best players in the world, so happy days.

“I don’t think it can get much better, I wish I could have won this game but the better player won.”

Words: Phil Lanning

Images: Taylor Lanning