Topics: Darts, Luke Littler
The PDC have released a strongly-worded statement after Thursday night's Premier League event in Glasgow was overshadowed by crowd whistling and jeering.
After beating Rob Cross and Michael van Gerwen on night two of Premier League Darts, Luke Littler moved up to second in the overall standings with a 6-5 win over world number one Luke Humphries.
It was a night of comebacks for the teenager, who won the last two legs against Humphries to secure a memorable victory at the OVO Hydro Arena.
But a number of fixtures from Thursday's event were overshadowed by constant whistles and jeers from sections of the audience, with those on the oche showcasing their frustration on numerous occasions.
Advert
Gerwyn Price, for example, whistled back at the crowd after being targeted during his match against Luke Humphries.
In the aftermath of his win over Humphries, a clearly agitated Littler opened up on the whistling as he mentioned referee Kirk Bevins.
"Yeah, obviously, there was a few in particular that were doing it [whistling] when Luke [Humphries] was throwing," Littler told Sky Sports.
"Kirk [Bevins, match referee] told them to be quiet and it got even worse, and then I missed doubles and Luke breaks at 5-4. I'm just like, 'Kirk, you've made it worse for me there, I'm 5-4 down.' But I broke back and held my throw very strongly again.
"If it's the same (outcome) as what it was when Kirk said it, then obviously just leave it. Obviously, they've got to step in at some point and say something. But yeah, that was pretty bad, but I got the win."
On Friday afternoon, the PDC confirmed they are working with Premier League venues to maintain a "positive atmosphere".
A statement read: "Following Thursday's Premier League Darts night in Glasgow, the PDC wishes to strongly reiterate that it does not condone any behaviour which can disrupt an event, such as whistling or booing when players are throwing.
"Every player goes on stage with the intention of performing to the best of their ability and providing an entertaining spectacle for all fans, whether in the venue or watching worldwide.
"As per the terms and conditions of entry to events, spectators who act inappropriately can be removed from the venue.
"The PDC works closely with Premier League venues, who have responsibility for crowd control, to take proactive and decisive action against those who behave inappropriately.
"The vast majority of fans who attend our sell-out events on a regular basis also condemn this behaviour and we will continue to promote a positive atmosphere which gives all players the opportunity to play to the best of their ability in every match."
Thoughts on the crowd behaviour? Let us know in the comments.
