St Helens darts star Michael Smith lost heavily 6-1 at the hands of Jonny “The Ferret” Clayton in Birmingham during Matchday 8 of the Premier League Darts campaign.
Smith finds himself in seventh place on eight points in the table and is one of only two players yet to win a night in the new format league.
“Bullyboy” has won just five matches across eight nights with Gary Anderson being the only player to have won less with four victories.
Smith played a game reflective of his recent performances in truth.
The world number four has struggled for consistency, winning five of his last 10 matches.
Recurring themes began to be brought to fruition as Smith looked frustrated and began to lose control of the match.
There were glimpses of what Smith can produce with the highlight being an outstanding 121 checkout with the final dart thundering into the bullseye.
However, it was a spirited performance from Clayton, who eventually went on to win the evening.
Clayton was ruthless and set the tone for an impressive night.
Here are some of Twitter’s reactions following Smith’s lousy loss:
Well that was embarrassing from @BullyBoy180 didn’t even look like he wanted to be there 😡
— lewis deem (@deemsterland) March 31, 2022
Not many players manage to beat Michael Smith. It’s usually Michael Smith that beats Michael Smith. #PremierLeaguedarts
— ⚽️ Stu T ⚽️ (@StuTilly26) March 31, 2022
Clayton went on to beat in-from veteran Peter Wright in the semi-final 6-4, proving once again why he is so highly rated in the sport.
The Liverpool fan finished by dismantling bottom of the table James Wade in the final with a score replicating that of his match against Smith, 6-1.
Clayton found much joy in finishing on double 16, something he did on numerous occasions as he secured his second overall victory since Liverpool in February.
Smith will next be in Premier League action in Leeds on Thursday April 7 as he looks to bounce back and show his quality.
(Featured image courtesy courtesy of Taylor Lanning/PDC)
