The Betfred World Matchplay got off to a flying start in a blockbuster opening night at Winter Gardens which saw Gerwyn Price, Dimitri Van den Bergh and Jonny Clayton all in action. Here’s what happened in an action-packed first round in Blackpool.
Dave Chisnall 10-8 Vincent van der Voort
Dave Chisnall got the evening underway and recorded the first victory as he defeated Blackpool debutant Vincent van der Voort 10-8. The St Helens’ star was able to avenge last year’s defeat to the Dutchman.
What a start to the 2021 @Betfred World Matchplay as Dave Chisnall beats Vincent van der Voort 10-8 to get revenge for defeat in last year's tournament.
It was a thrilling match to kickstart the evening and it set the bar high for all the matches that followed. Chisnall will now take on defending champion Dimitri Van den Bergh
Jonny Clayton 10-7 Dirk van Duijvenbode
Welshman Jonny Clayton was up next and he secured his place in round two at Winter Gardens for the first time in his career, with ‘The Ferret’ wrapping up a 10-7 victory against debutant Dirk van Duijvenbode.
The Dutchman fired in seven 180s and was able to produce some moments of magic, but the Welshman carried on the great form he has been in recently following his triumphs at the Masters and Premier League.
Gerwyn Price 10-4 Jermaine Wattimena
World number one Gerwyn Price progressed to the second round in style, defeating Jermaine Wattimena 10-4 after an outstanding display. The Welshman started the slower of the two but his confidence grew as the match continued, and his progression was wrapped up with an astonishing 127 checkout on tops.
It's like he's never been away from the big stage...
A huge statement from Gerwyn Price as he seals a 10-4 victory over Jermaine Wattimena with a brilliant 127 finish to win it.
A key moment was when Price extended his lead by two legs, making the score 6-4. Price played magnificent darts with a brilliant 132 finish with the Bull, T14 and D20.
Dimitri Van den Bergh 10-5 Devon Petersen
In the battle of the two dancers, the defending champion Dimitri Van den Bergh got off to an excellent start, while not at his best, as he defeated Petersen comfortably 10-5. On two occasions in the contest Van den Bergh opened up with five perfect darts, and on the second time, he did not falter at the finish, sinking double 16 for a 12-dart break of throw. He will only improve as the tournament progresses.
