Luke Humphries shows true colours in immediate reaction to Premier League Darts defeat
Luke Humphries was knocked out of the Premier League Darts in Exeter by Nathan Aspinall.
World champion Luke Humphries showcased why he is so beloved on the tour in his immediate reaction to defeat to Nathan Aspinall in the Premier League Darts. 'Cool Hands' was unable to pull off a remarkable comeback and went down 6-5 in Exeter, but was delighted for his opponent.
Humphries had found himself 5-1 down against the 'Asp' after blowing away the match favourite in the opening six legs, but Humphries calmed down and fought all the way to tie their semi-final.
However, Aspinall shone on the trebles and left himself 160 for a place in the final. Two treble 20s and set up what would be a remarkable out on top to claim a remarkable victory, which he hit and sparked joyous scenes inside the arena.
Humphries himself could even be seen joining in with Aspinall's celebrations, clearly over the moon for his opponent despite his own hopes dashed of a first Premier League win, hugging and cheering Aspinall for reaching back-to-back finals.
Humphries' impressive form in previous nights had continued in the first round when he defeated Michael van Gerwen 6-3, having boasted the competition's highest advantage coming into the fifth night. He ended the Dutchman's unbeaten run to set up a semi with Aspinall.
The world No. 1 enjoyed a return to Westpoint Exeter on Thursday in a rare venue that he was used to competing in, having twice featured in the south-west as a ‘challenger’ in 2019 and 2020.
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ASP TAKES THE DECIDER IN STYLE! ������
— PDC Darts (@OfficialPDC) February 29, 2024
What a game, what a finish! ������
Nathan Aspinall produces a superb last leg, taking out a huge 160 finish to seal his spot in the final!
������ https://t.co/gbUt9q25Jh#PLDarts pic.twitter.com/dwqQlFTaPK
“Being back in Exeter brings back some nostalgic vibes for me,” he told the PDC. “This is where I first began my journey of playing in big TV tournaments, so this is a venue that holds a place close to my heart. Little did I know that four years later I'd be playing in the Premier League as the World Champion!
“My performances have been good so far. If you’re averaging over a ton you’re at a decent level. I’ve been getting into winning positions and not really getting over the line. I haven’t been as clinical as I was at the back end of last year, but that’s the only real difference.
“My performances have been as consistent as they can be really, and if I keep playing that way, the results and the nightly wins will come. I’ve just got to keep the faith and keep working hard.”