A stunning nine-dart finish from Josh Rock electrified the SSE Arena in Belfast on Thursday night, though the Northern Irish player ultimately fell to Gian van Veen in the quarter-finals of the 2026 Premier League Darts Night Four. The remarkable feat, the 20th nine-darter in the history of the Premier League, occurred despite Rock’s 6-2 defeat, sparking a fervent reaction from the home crowd.
The evening culminated in a 6-2 victory for Stephen Bunting over van Veen, securing Bunting his first Premier League win of 2026. Bunting had earlier defeated defending champion Luke Humphries 6-4, and then whitewashed Jonny Clayton 6-0 in the semi-final.
The quarter-finals saw Jonny Clayton overcome Luke Littler 6-3, while Gerwyn Price edged out Michael van Gerwen 6-5. Van Veen’s win against Rock set up a semi-final clash against Price, which the Dutchman won 6-5.
Rock’s nine-darter, achieved in front of a jubilant home audience, was a highlight of the night, even in defeat. According to Sky Sports, the atmosphere in the arena was electric during the moment.
Bunting, reflecting on his recent form, stated, “Last year – losing seven or eight games on the bounce – really helped me. It gave me a lot of experience in this field,” as reported by Sky Sports. He added, “When you are playing in the Premier League, you are facing the best of the best.”
The results from Night Four shift the standings in the 2026 Premier League Darts competition. Bunting’s victory moves him to five points overall. The Premier League Darts continues, with the next event scheduled for Thursday, May 28 at The O2 in London.
