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James Wade and Simon Whitlock both moved closer to sealing spots in the semi-finals of the McCoy’s Premier League with impressive victories in Sheffield.

Photo: Lawerence Lustig/PDC

Wade saw off reigning championing Gary Anderson 8-3 to move up to third in the table, while Whitlock remains in second place after an 8-5 triumph against Kevin Painter at the Motorpoint Arena.

Raymond van Barneveld occupies the final top four place, despite suffering a defeat at the hands of runaway leader Phil ‘The Power’ Taylor, meaning that all three MODUS stars are currently in line for semi-final appearances.

Wade’s sharp finishing proved too much for Anderson, as the ‘The Machine’ hit eight out of 15 attempts at doubles and averaged over 100 to claim the win.

“I enjoyed that game and I’m happy that the result went my way,” said the 2009 winner. “I’m not the greatest scorer in the world so my finishing needs to be good for me to win games, and it was tonight.”

Wade’s win takes him to ten points after as many weeks of action, two behind Simon Whitlock, who posted a ton-plus average for the second week running.

‘The Wizard’ produced a strong display against Painter, who had beaten him on week three, to put daylight between himself and the chasing pack.

Photo: Lawerence Lustig/PDC

“I don’t think I’m in the Play-Offs after that win – I think I need 15 points at least – but it’s another step towards it,” said Whitlock who is currently second with 12 points.

“I had one really bad week when I had that horrific 8-0 loss to James Wade but I’ve bounced back well, and I’m showing how good I am at the moment.”

Anderson, who was playing twice in the absence of Adrian Lewis, drew the final match of the night with Andy Hamilton, after ‘Barney’ had been beaten by Taylor.

The tournament continues in Bournemouth next week, where van Barneveld and Whitlock will meet before Wade takes on Hamilton.

Exclusive audio interviews with James Wade and Simon Whitlock (recorded immediately after their victories) are available to MODUS Elite customers only. Click here for details of how to become a MODUS Elite member.

By Chris Murphy

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