Wayne Mardle: In-form Thornton to stay unbeaten

28Feb 2013

Betfair

The Premier League rolls in to Exeter on Thursday night and Wayne Mardle has picks for all five match-ups

Gary cannot hit doubles frequently enough for his liking (or his backers for that matter) and he'd be right to be concerned, his confidence when finishing must be very low at the moment.

He's up against an in-form opponent in the shape of the unbeaten Thornton and I think the Scotsman is a fair price to win his second game of the league (he's drawn two). The Thorn is hitting 180s and double tops for fun and it's very hard to back against him in this match-up.

Andy Hamilton v Michael van Gerwen

I just can't oppose MVG in this one. He's playing superbly well, he won the two tour events played over the weekend and is now the new world number 3.

He faces a toughy in The Hammer, but sheer scoring power should see Michael romp home.

James Wade v Phil Taylor

Phil showed last week he's still the man, averaging over 108 against Whitlock.

James played brilliantly last week in a welcome return to form, but he will have to do so again to get anything from The Power.

No surprises, but I expect Phil to win this.

Wes Newton v Adrian Lewis

I just can't pick between the two. Both can be stunning, both can be dire. This is a draw for me.

Raymond van Barneveld v Simon Whitlock

RVB suffered a set-back last week in losing to MVG, how will he react against Whitlock?

Simon is getting better every week and I think he might push the big Dutchman. If Whitlock starts well he has a massive chance, Barney isn't a chaser and needs to lead if he is to win.

This could be a cracker - both are lethal on the 60-bed and love a big finish.

Recommended Bets

Back Thornton to win

Back MVG to win

Back Taylor to win

Back Newton-Lewis draw

Back a van Barneveld v Whitlock draw