Darts: 'Diamond' shattered by Dudbridge revival

Mark Dudbridge booked his place in the second round of the World Matchplay with a dramatic 10-7 victory over "Diamond" Dave Askew yesterday, having come from behind.

The World Masters champion from Bristol was 6-4 down at one stage but reeled off five consecutive legs to move within one of victory. Askew was stunned by his rival's charge and could only watch as Dudbridge produced a 116 checkout to clinch victory.

"I'm over the moon with that performance," said Dudbridge. "I was so hyped up for this game - too hyped up. I needed to calm myself down and I did towards the end a little bit. I think it showed a lot of character for me to pull it out. How I came through I don't know."

The 1995 world champion, Richie Burnett, eased to a 10-3 win over Cliff Lazarenko, who looked to be struggling with a shoulder injury. The Welsh player dominated from the outset and produced a superb 157 checkout - the highest of the tournament so far - on his way to the second round.

Colin Lloyd found himself 4-1 down against qualifier Terry Jenkins, but the No 6 seed fought back after the interval to register a 10-8 victory.