Michael van Gerwen retains UK Open title with a dominant win over Peter Wright

Michael van Gerwen completed a sensational defence of his UK Open title with a dominant 11-4 win over Peter Wright in the final.

The world No 1 hit a superb nine-dart finish in Saturday's win over Rob Cross, which also featured two of his 170 checkouts in the tournament, and then averaged 106.68 in his final victory over Wright in Minehead.

Earlier in the evening, Van Gerwen had sealed a 10-6 semi-final win over Phil Taylor to set up another showdown with 'Snakebite' in a repeat of last year's showpiece.

Wright, who defeated Jelle Klaasen in his semi-final, trailed 5-3 in the entertaining early stages but Van Gerwen then took out a 105 checkout and reeled off finishes of 88, 76 and 74 to take the next five straight legs.

There was nearly another nine-darter when Wright missed double 12 for a perfect leg and Van Gerwen sealed victory soon afterwards, securing the trophy again with a 64 checkout.

I had four 170 finishes, a nine-darter and won the tournament so it's fantastic.

"I played really well and I'm really pleased to win another trophy," said van Gerwen, who has now won six PDC titles this year. "I had four 170 finishes, a nine-darter and won the tournament so it's fantastic.

"I'm working really hard and I'm glad it's paying off at the moment. I love this game and I love winning, this is a wonderful feeling.

"Peter is growing into one of the best players there is and he's getting better and better - but I'm glad I beat him today. I did the right thing at the right moment and he's a fantastic player, and sooner or later he is going to win a tournament."

Wright was left to claim the £30,000 runner-up cheque for the second successive year as his search for a first major title continues.

"He's the best player on the planet," said the world No 5.

"I'm disappointed that I didn't give him more of a game but I will work harder to try and get to Michael's level. He's a machine at the moment.

"It is coming for me - I learn every time I lose against these guys and it might take a little time but I will get there."