Joint favourite to win the World Matchplay, Gerwyn Price, got his quest for a first title underway in style against Stephen Bunting. Last year’s runner-up was on top form in Blackpool as he romped to a 10-3 win, winning ten of the last 11 legs on his way to a stunning victory.
It’s a stunning start for the Ice Man who almost hit a nine-darter, but finished in 11 on a very successful opening night. Having lost to Michael van Gerwen in last year's competition, he told Sky Sports: "I was 2-0 down, could have been 3-0 down - it was a slow start. I didn't play brilliant, but I did what I had to do.
"I was up and down. It was just first-round jitters. Getting through the first round is always tough, but I'll be better next round.
"It's one of the tournaments I haven't won, so you try a little bit too hard sometimes, especially in finals. But I've plenty more years left in this game so if it's not this year, it will be sometime soon hopefully, and fingers crossed it is this year."
Elsewhere Gary Anderson had a more difficult night against Dave Chisnall, eventually coming through that one 10-6 to set up a last 16 tie with Daryl Gurney. The Northern Irishman featured in the match of the night as he went all the way to a tie-break with Rob Cross before coming through in style. Tonight both Michael van Gerwen and Michael Smith are in action as two of the big hitters join the party. MVG takes on Brendan Dolan and Bully Boy is up against Steve Beaton, as the world champion looks to hand out a beating of his own.
MVG and Price are the two outright favourites for the competition with Betfred, priced at 10/3 each to win at Winter Gardens. Meanwhile Michael Smith is 6/1 and Gary Anderson can be backed at 14/1 to win the whole thing.
Results:
Gerwyn Price 10-3 Stephen Bunting
Joe Cullen 10-7 Mike De Docker
Rob Cross 10-12 Daryl Gurney
Gary Anderson 10-6 Dave Chisnall
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