Reigning William Hill World Darts Champion Gary Anderson from Burnham-On-Sea has eased through to the second round of this year’s championships at Alexandra Palace, vowing “I’m here to win”.
Anderson showed no sign of the nerves he said he was feeling on his first return to the stage since lifting the Sid Waddell Trophy almost 12 months ago as he began the defence of his title with a commanding display.
The Scotsman, who lives in Burnham-on-Sea, kicked off his opening match with a straight sets victory over Andy Boulton with back-to-back 11-darters and won seven straight legs before Boulton got off the mark with successive legs, but the world number two eventually edged the third set 3-2.
“All I wanted to do was get through the first round and I did that despite the nerves,” said Gary. “It has been terrible the last couple of days anticipating something I have never experienced before. I didn’t want to go out in the first round after winning the trophy last year but I don’t have to worry about that, I am through and I’m here to win.”
Gary will take on Daryl Gurney in round two on Boxing Day evening. Gurney defeated Anderson in last month’s Players Championship Finals, adding to the pressure on the Burnham player.
Gary was given a civic reception by the Burnham and Highbridge’s Mayor earlier this year following his triumph – see the link below.
Also see:
Celebration held for Burnham’s world darts champion Gary Anderson
