Hot of the back of a successful run to the semi-final of the World Grand Prix, Stephen Bunting was looking to make hay whilst the sun shone in Barnsley at Super Series 7.

Unfortunately, there isn’t much sunshine in South Yorkshire at the end of October and the Bullet couldn’t quite push on from his dazzling displays in Leicester.

Before the event began, there was the small matter of a World Series qualifier. But despite a decent showing, Bunting fell at the first hurdle, losing in a last leg decider to Dutchman Derk Telnekes.

That seemed to set the tone for the week as the Liverpudlian only managed a single win on each of the opening two tournaments.

However on day three, Bunting enjoyed his best run of the series. A comprehensive 6-1 victory over Gary Blades with an average in excess of 100 kicked things off very nicely.

That was followed with two solid displays, pinching the last leg of tense matches against Richie Edhouse and Gabriel Clemens.

But despite another superb performance against Michael Smith with both players averaging 101, it was missed doubles that cost Bunting dearly and Bullyboy took full advantage, winning 6-3.

The less said about the final day, the better. Having previously whitewashed Jim McEwan earlier in the week, the Scot got his revenge in the first round, defeating Bunting 6-1.

Afterwards, a slightly disappointed Stephen Bunting said: “Yes. I would have liked to have gone deeper, especially after that great run in the World Grand Prix.

“Unfortunately, I was just too inconsistent. There were times I played very well but couldn’t back it up in the next match. My finishing wasn’t as good as it should have been and at this level, it will cost you games.

“There are now some important tournaments coming up. I will obviously be trying my best to qualify for the Grand Slam of Darts next month. Then I’ll be looking to have deep runs in the Players Championships and the Worlds.

“I feel like I’m playing very well. The super series events are extremely challenging and mentally demanding but I have shown recently I can go all the way.
“The confidence and belief is very much there. Really happy with where my game is at right now and looking forward to a strong end to the year.”