Michael van Gerwen serenaded to the stage by the Dutch fans in Rotterdam
Friday 13 May 2016 17:22, UK
Michael van Gerwen received a rousing reception from the Dutch fans when he walked to the stage for his Premier League match with Phil Taylor in Rotterdam.
The world No 1 faced his old rival Taylor in a top-of-the table decider as the Premier League made its first trip to the Netherlands.
Van Gerwen admitted he struggled to contain his emotions after receiving a deafening welcome from his patriotic support, who chorused his name as he walked to the oche.
But 'Mighty Mike' regained his composure and hit a superb 164 checkout on the way to a 7-5 victory over Taylor.
Van Gerwen finished in top spot and was glad to produce a winning performance in front of his own support.
"It was amazing and it meant a lot to me," said Van Gerwen. "The walk-on was amazing, I nearly couldn't hold my tears.
"To win in front of a crowd like is amazing for me and the crowd, they've waited so long for that and you don't want to disappoint them. It's a fantastic night in my darts career.
"The pressure was really, really high but I'm glad I won the game, I'm top of the table and it gives me great confidence for next week. My main goal is to win the title and that's what I'm going for - I think it's going to be a great semi-finals and final next week in London and I will be ready for it."
Play the video at the top of the page to see MVG's red-hot welcome in Rotterdam.
