By Hannah Blackwell
Gerwyn Price believes he is back to his best – despite having to settle for the runners-up spot at the World Matchplay in Blackpool.
The Welsh thrower is back to world No.1 after the event, having contributed fully to a brilliant final which he eventually lost 18-14 to Dutchman Michael van Gerwen.
Price had endured a difficult 2022 before the tournament, suffering injury and poor form.
But he showed signs he was getting back on track during Wales’ run to the final of the World Cup of Darts in June.
And he took that form to Blackpool, producing a series of blistering displays on the Winter Gardens stage, including hitting a nine-dart finish in his semi-final win over Danny Noppert.
What a week thank you all for your messages of support just wasn’t my night Michael was the deserved winner I take away a lot of positives this week and of course my 9darter 🤪 the crowd were amazing and the support around Blackpool thank you all 👍🏻
— Gerwyn Price (@Gezzyprice) July 25, 2022
Price looked on course to win the Matchplay for the first time, leading for most of the contest as Van Gerwen suffered double trouble.
But once the Green Machine got his eye in on the outer ring, he was unstoppable, storming to victory.
Price could still draw plenty of positives from his week in the north-west, going into the final months of 2022, which will include the World Grand Prix, Grand Slam of Darts and, of course, the World Championship at the Alexandra Palace.
The Iceman was also warmed by the support he received from the Blackpool crowd and took to Instagram following his defeat to Van Gerwen to thank his army of fans.
“What a great crowd,” he posted. “What a great week, but not such a great night. Michael was great today but I’ll move on and learn from this game.
Nine-darter from Gerwyn Price 🚨
We repeat:
NINE-DARTER FROM GERWYN PRICE 🚨🚨pic.twitter.com/zhf4CDBDpJ
— Sky Sports (@SkySports) July 23, 2022
“Appreciate all the support I’ve had all week in [the] Winter Gardens, around Blackpool and online. TODAY DARTS WON.”
Speaking immediately after the final to Sky Sports, Price said: “I was fortunate to be 9-6 up. Michael is a fantastic player and once he gets on a roll like that, it’s hard to contain him.
“I didn’t have a purple patch which I needed in this game, and I think Michael had it all game! Michael was fantastic. He’s a deserving winner. He is a great player and a great friend.
“I am definitely proud of myself, especially with the way I’ve been playing in the last couple of months. It just didn’t happen for me today.”