Jonathan Bead
Gerwyn Price Retains European Title with Dominant Performance against Michael van Gerwen
Gerwyn Price continued his impressive form on the European Tour as he beat Michael van Gerwen 8-4 in Riesa to win back-to-back titles. The Welshman, who averaged over 105, was in commanding form throughout the match.
Price defeated Mike De Decker, Rob Cross, and Dirk van Dujivenbode en route to the final, where he faced Van Gerwen. The Dutchman had dropped just five legs in his route to the final, having beaten Jose de Sousa, Peter Wright, and Martin Schindler.
In the final, Price got off to a fantastic start, taking the opening leg with a 134 checkout before smashing in a 14-darter to double his lead. Although Van Gerwen won a leg, Price quickly won four straight, eventually taking a 6-1 lead and moving within two legs of victory.
Van Gerwen showed some resilience and won back-to-back legs to threaten a comeback, but Price pinned tops for a 14-darter to move within a leg of the title. While Van Gerwen responded with another leg, it was not enough as Price eventually finished things off to secure his eighth Euro Tour title.
“I think I am half-German now,” Price said after the match. “I’ve been getting great support over the last couple of months, and it’s showing on the board. I know I’m playing well and putting players under pressure.”
Price’s victory over Van Gerwen was impressive, given that the Dutchman is widely regarded as one of the best players in the world. “Michael wasn’t at his best today. He missed a couple of doubles, and those crucial doubles have got to go in if you want to win tournaments,” Price said.
Nevertheless, Price’s form in the competition was undeniable, and he was a worthy winner. His win over Van Gerwen has also cemented his position as one of the top players in the world and a real threat on the tour.
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