- Whitlock, finalist 13 years ago, beats Perez 3-2
- Lisa Ashton loses 3-2 to Meikle after fighting back
The former finalist Simon Whitlock survived a major scare to reach the second round of the PDC World Darts Championship, while Lisa Ashton suffered a narrow loss.
Whitlock, the runner-up 13 years ago, battled to a 3-2 victory over Christian Perez of the Philippines at Alexandra Palace. Perez twice fought back from a set down and had chances in the decider but missed nine darts at double with the final set tied at 1-1.