Bunting Expresses Performance Pressure After Premier League Defeat
Darts player Stephen Bunting has issued a candid statement to supporters, revealing the immense pressure he is experiencing to deliver strong performances. This follows his recent loss in the Premier League of Darts on Thursday evening. The 39-year-old competitor faced Chris Dobey, aiming to secure his first victory after seven weeks of competition without a win. Notably, his opponent was also struggling to find form. Both athletes appeared visibly affected by tension throughout the match, with missed opportunities evident as each sought to seize control of the game.
Nerves Hamper Players in Cardiff Clash
Dobey’s average for the night was 90.27, a figure considerably below the typical standard required for victory. However, it proved sufficient to secure a comfortable 6-2 triumph over Bunting. Sky Sports commentator Rod Studd offered a blunt assessment of the encounter, famously likening it to “watching two blokes try to push custard uphill with a fork.” Following the match in Cardiff, ‘The Bullet’ took to social media to provide insight into the difficulties he faced.
“Absolutely gutted. So sorry to all who support me. Practiced so well tonight and unfortunately it just didn’t happen on the stage,” Bunting conveyed in a message on his X account.
“I’ll keep giving it my all guys and keep believing. I’m making myself so nervous because I care and want to perform to my best instead of just relaxing and letting it happen. See you all next week. I’ll work hard and make sure I’ll improve. X.”
Pundits Weigh In on Bunting’s Struggles
Mark Webster, Studd’s fellow commentator and Sky Sports expert, further emphasized Bunting’s disappointment, stating that while some prior defeats contained positives due to strong play against good opponents, “He’ll struggle to find positives here.”

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Early Season Success Contrasts Premier League Form
Despite his current Premier League challenges, Bunting began the year impressively, claiming the Bahrain Darts Masters title. He then continued this strong showing with a final appearance at the Dutch Masters. However, his Premier League performances have significantly lagged, leaving him at the bottom of the league table.
The Liverpudlian darts professional now trails Dobey by five points and faces a significant gap in the quest for a play-off position with nine event nights remaining in the Premier League Darts season.
Upcoming Match in Newcastle Offers Opportunity for Turnaround
Bunting will have an opportunity to reverse his current fortunes in the Premier League and secure valuable points when he competes against Nathan Aspinall in Newcastle next week.