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Simon Whitlock and James Wade both earned victories on night five of the McCoy’s Premier League at the Brighton Centre.

Photo: Lawrence Lustig/PDC

Whitlock hit eight 180’s in an 8-4 win over Adrian Lewis, while James Wade claimed his second successive victory with an 8-6 triumph over Raymond van Barneveld.

Whitlock climbed to fourth in the table, with five points, after beating the reigning world champion in a high-scoring affair. Lewis, who hit seven maximums himself, had kept up with the Australian’s heavy scoring in the first few legs but ‘The Wizard’ won six of the last eight to move into the play-off positions.

“It felt really good tonight, I was aggressive and I enjoyed it,” said Whitlock. “I don’t get too many wins over Adrian but I took my chances, so it’s a fantastic win.”

World number three Wade made it back to back wins when he eventually saw off the challenge from ‘Barney’. The 2009 champion had led 6-1 before the Dutchman forced a deciding leg, which ‘The Machine’ won to record an 8-6 victory.

“I did a good job on Raymond early doors but I shut off so I’m not happy with that,” said Wade, who hit finishes of 110 and 154. “I’ve got to keep my foot on the gas but I got the win and it’s another step in the right direction.”

In the night’s other matches, Kevin Painter came from behind to beat Andy Hamilton while Phil Taylor remains unbeaten after an 8-1 success over Gary Anderson.

Whitlock faces Anderson next week in Glasgow, where Wade will take on Lewis. Van Barneveld is up against Painter.

By Chris Murphy

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