Josh Rock's Premier League Darts debut has gotten off to a rocky start, with the Northern Irishman suffering a second consecutive defeat on Night Two in Antwerp. Rock was convincingly beaten 6-2 by Michael van Gerwen in the quarterfinals, posting an average of just 79.34—a level far below his usual standard. The loss leaves him with zero points after two match nights, stranded at the bottom of the table following an opening night defeat to Jonny Clayton in Newcastle.
Former pro Wayne Mardle expressed concern over Rock's performance, noting that the manner of the defeat is particularly damaging. "The Premier League is not about winning early doors, it's about feeling okay. If you feel okay after losing three weeks on the bounce, it's alright. You can get away with it because you feel confident enough you are playing well enough," Mardle said. He contrasted Rock's situation with Stephen Bunting's last season, where Bunting lost eight matches in a row but was playing solidly, eventually turning the tide to win a night. "This week he didn't get into it because he was so poor. He's got things to think about. Josh Rock won't be able to forget about that until he puts things right," Mardle added.
Rock himself acknowledged his struggles, taking to social media after the match. "Want to apologise to everyone who watched me. I felt fantastic up there but had no grip on my fingers," he wrote. "Is what it is, we move on. All the best MVG." The contrast with his usual game was stark; known as a heavy scorer with natural flair, Rock lacked smoothness and conviction in Antwerp, failing to land a blow on doubles against a solid Van Gerwen. Currently world number nine, Rock began the Premier League season full of ambition, but now urgently needs a win to reconnect with his confidence.
