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Gerwyn Price cruised to victory in his opening match at the 2024 darts World Matchplay in Blackpool, defeating Daryl Gurney 10-4 on Saturday July 13.

Having led 5-2, Markham’s Price was pegged back to 5-4, but after the Northern Irishman missed two darts to level, Price won the first in a run of five straight legs to book his place in the last 16.

There, Price will face Englishman Ross Smith, who is ranked 13th in the world, on Tuesday July 16.

Speaking after the win, Price, who finished as runner-up in the competition two years ago, said: “The first game is always tough. I started well and finished well, so I’m happy with my performance tonight.

“I feel settled into the tournament now and I’m looking forward to Tuesday.

“This is one of the three TV ranking events I’ve been in the final of but never won, so I’m hungry to go one step further this time.”