Sign up to our free sports newsletter for the latest news on everything from cycling to boxing.
To receive the latest news, sign up to our free sports email
Michael van Gerwen has won the first round of the World Matchplay heavyweight clash, beating rival Luke Littler.
Three-time winner Van Gerwen was in a terrible draw against the teenage prodigy who entered the tournament unseeded having only recently burst on the scene.
The two sides are already engaged in a fierce rivalry in 2024, with Van Gerwen currently leading 6-4 after winning 10-6 in Blackpool.
The Dutchman was one of the players who resented Little’s rise to the top and relished his dominance on the Winter Garden stage.
Van Gerwen came out on top, edging out Littler with a polished performance that averaged 101.93 and included five 180s.
“We all know I’m not in top form, but it feels really good to actually do it,” he said.
“My own battle has been tough but the win means a lot to me. We all know it’s been a tough six months but my playing hasn’t been terrible.
“I did the right thing for me tonight. I was just good overall tonight.”
“I can put the pressure on him. When the draw comes, you know it’s the toughest draw in the tournament, but I’ve done it.”
Earlier, Michael Smith won seven straight legs to defeat 2018 champion Gary Anderson.
Anderson took control early on, hitting six darts to lead 4-0, but he couldn’t knock down 40 as Smith regained his form.
He made consecutive 3-pointers to win seven straight legs and take a 7-3 lead to take the first-round match.
Anderson had too much to do and Smith closed out the game with an average of 102.08.
“I went backstage, I went to the bathroom and I had a talk with myself,” Smith said.
“I said I needed to step up, I needed to do the right thing, and I went out and won the next five in a row, and the rest is history.”
“My game’s not there right now, but I’m getting there. I’m getting back to 2022. I’m not there yet, but I’m getting back to where I want to be.”
Anderson got tangled up with a member of the crowd, who immediately reminded him of Scotland’s poor performance at Euro 2024. The Scotsman responded by mocking England fans for their defeat in the final against Spain.
Ryan Searle played well to beat Damon Heta with finishes of 167, 142 and 130 en route to a 10-4 victory in the opening match of the night.