SIMON WHITLOCK 6 – 2 Mark Walsh
Simon Whitlock began his bid for an elusive PDC major title with a comprehensive victory over Mark Walsh in Germany.
‘The Wizard’, who won the most recent ProTour event, dispatched of his opponent with authority, claiming a 6-2 victory in round one of the PartyPoker.net European Championship. 
“It’s a good start,” said Whitlock, who recorded a 96.71 average to progress. “It was great to get a win in front of such a fantastic German crowd, who were cheering me on.
“Mark is a good player, so I’m pleased to get through and I’m looking forward to tomorrow night now.”
Walsh won the first leg before ‘The Wizard’ hit double twelve to level.
The Australian ace then grabbed the first break of the match, posting double eight to take the third leg before sealing the fourth with a classy 110 checkout.
Walsh held to reduce Whitlock’s lead to 3-2, but ‘The Wizard’ responded with a maximum as he restored his two leg lead on double eight.
Whitlock further increased his advantage by breaking Walsh’s throw with a brilliant eleven dart leg.
And he finished the job in style, taking out 84 on bull then double 17.
‘The Wizard’ faces Dave Chisnall in round two.
By Chris Murphy
Image courtesy of Lawrence Lustig/PDC