Our Blog

James Wade powered his way through to the second round of the Betfair World Matchplay with a comfortable victory over Richie Burnett in Blackpool.

Lawrence Lustig/PDC

‘The Machine’ brushed aside the challenge of the in form Welshman, triumphing 10-5 with a solid display.

“I was happy with my performance but it wasn’t my best,” admitted Wade, who won the title in 2007.

“Hopefully my best will come but tonight was all getting past Richie, who has been playing really well recently.

“I love the place, the tournament and the format and I can’t wait to play again on Wednesday.”

‘The Machine’, who has reached four finals in six visits to the Winter Gardens, will face Mark Walsh in the second round.

Michael van Gerwen also booked his place in round two.

The 23-year-old Dutchman reeled off five consecutive legs to seal a 10-6 victory over Simon Whitlock.

“I played well but Simon was not on top form,” said ‘Mighty Mike’, who will face Steve Beaton in round two.

“Once I was on fire he couldn’t stop me. I managed to relax and I’m proud of how I played.

“I’m very happy to win this game. It is a massive result for me.”

Monday night sees Mark Webster, Mervyn King and Vincent van der Voort all take to the Blackpool stage.

Webster faces Colin Lloyd, King is up against Phil Taylor and van der Voort plays Ian White.

By Chris Murphy

See some of the world’s top darts players in action at The Untouchables,Eastbourne on Friday 19 October.