The Dublin World Darts Grand Prix has now become one of the premier events in the darting calendar. The world’s best players are in attendance once again. This year’s event is sponsored by Unibet. Last year’s tournament provided what was for many the greatest upset of the darts year. Can we expect the unexpected again as the World Darts Grand Prix concludes this Saturday, October 8th?
The 2015 World Darts Grand Prix saw little fancied Robert Thornton overcame the odds to defeat the Dutch powerhouse Michael van Gerwen 5-4 in the final. Since this tournament began in 1998, Phil “The Power” Taylor has been dominant. However that is hardly any surprise seeing how he has totally dominated the PDC circuit in that time.
Taylor Owns the Grand Prix
With no fewer than 11 outright wins in the Dublin Grand Prix, Taylor clearly loves this tournament. However that hasn’t cut any ice this year and the four remaining semi-finalists do not include him. The form horse so far this year as we reach the last four has been Michael van Gerwen.
It seems that the rest of the field must match his standard to have any chance. That certainly applies to his semi-final opponent Dave Chisnell. Stan James currently go a best priced 1/7 on a van Gerwen victory…..that’s right and you read it correctly….1/7! So depending on how you see the value, where is your money going?
Taking the Sure Thing
Are you the type that chases apparent “sure things”? Well let last year’s result be a lesson to you because if Robert Thornton could upset Michael van Gerwen in 2015, then Dave Chisnell can certainly repeat the feat this year. The other semi-final sees Gary Anderson showdown against the ever popular Raymond van Barneveld.
As expected, the solid and super steady Anderson starts the clear favourite. Betway and William Hill are as short as 1/2 for an Anderson victory. Barneveld will have huge support and has the big game experience to upset the odds. If you want a slightly better price on van Gerwen than the 1/7 on offer against Chisnell in the semi-final, look to back him to win the tournament?
Who Will Win it?
You can get a much better price of 1/2 for a Michael van Gerwen victory in the outright winner market. Those odds should appeal better to anyone that wants a flutter on the Dutch juggernaut. However there is more than just van Gerwen to consider.
There is enough big game experience in the other three semi-finalists to cause an upset. No one would be shocked to see the popular Scot Gary Anderson go all the way. Boyle Sports are a best priced 7/2 for an outright tournament victory for Anderson. Meanwhile with the same firm you can get an attractive 14/1 on Dave Chisnell winning the trophy.
Come what may, its going to be decided by a few key legs in each match. It will be riveting to watch, but the form of Michael van Gerwen will be hard to beat. It all depends on one thing. Can the Dutchman keep up the pace! If he can, then he will surely be champion. Watch this space folks!
