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Raymond van Barneveld was the star performer in the first round of the PartyPoker.net European Championship, with Simon Whitlock and Michael van Gerwen also progressing in Germany.

‘Barney’ demolished Terry Jenkins 6-1 with a sensational performance, in which the five-time World Champion recorded his highest ever televised average of 113.04 and a double success rate of 100%.

“Terry often beats me in knockout tournaments so my preparation had to be perfect,” said van Barneveld, who faces van Gerwen in the last 16 on Saturday night.

“I took my form from the practice board straight onto the stage and showed what I can do.

“It is a great feeling because Terry is an awesome player and now I will get ready to play Michael.”

Three 180s and a hundred average helped  van Gerwen progress with a classy triumph over Andy Smith.

‘Mighty Mike’ took out shots of 84 and 111 as he raced into a three leg lead against ‘The Pieman’, before Smith battled back to force a decider.

Both players wired doubles in a dramatic final leg, before van Gerwen finished the job on double four.

Simon Whitlock also booked his place in the second round after defeating Mark Walsh 6-2.

‘The Wizard’ hit checkouts of 110 and 84 in a dominant display to set up a last 16 clash with Dave Chisnall.

By Chris Murphy

Enjoy The VIP Experience, Tonbridge with Raymond van Barneveld,  James Wade and more on Oct 20. Click here to book now.