World Grand Prix 2nd round: Anderson and The Wizard in action
The World Grand Prix ramps up for day two of the second round, with more dramatic darts upsets in Dublin expected, as a slew of superstars already eliminated by plucky underdogs on the Irish Oche.
Flying Scotsman Gary Anderson is now second-favourite for this title, at a tempting 10/3 after Phil Taylor and James Wade’s respective shock exits, while giant-killers Mensur Suljovic and Vincent van der Voort also return to centre stage.
Here, Coral experts preview the fantastic four clashes ahead on Wednesday evening…
Gary Anderson v Ian White
It was easy for Anderson (1/3 for victory) against fellow Scot John Henderson in his opener, which he won 2-0, and the world and Premier League champion is 5/2 to similarly whitewash upcoming opponent White 3-0 in his second scuffle.
Ambitious Anderson triumphed emphatically last time he duelled with Diamond back in 2014, coming out a 6-2 winner, and is also available at 13/5 to be King of the Oche (player to win match, most 180s and highest checkout. If any of the markets are tied, bets will be settled as losers).
This may be the season of shocks but, with a seven to three head-to-head record versus White (9/4), The Flying Scotsman, seemingly back on form, should secure safe passage simply enough.
RESULT: Dominant display from @GaryAnderson180 as he breezes past @hendo180 in Dublin! #partypokerWGP pic.twitter.com/UECcVtaGvY
— PDC Darts (@OfficialPDC) October 5, 2015
Mensur Suljovic v Simon Whitlock
This could be a truly intriguing tie, with both Serbian-born Suljovic (10/11 to win) and unconventional Aussie Whitlock (also 10/11) unpredictable talents on the Oche.
The Wizard has slain Suljovic on all three of their previous match-ups, and came through his opener against Andrew Gilding without conceding a blow.
Yet, Suljovic has already secured a big scalp by sinking James Wade, with The Gentle looking steady and unshakable as he ousted the Englishman, against whom he consistently picked his moments to pounce and turn the tide. So, Suljovic, excellently on top of his game, looks more appealing at 7/2 for a narrow 3-2 victory.
Great celebrations from Mensur Suljovic as he causes a big upset in round one over James Wade! #partypokerWGP pic.twitter.com/hCIUlSzaN1
— PDC Darts (@OfficialPDC) October 5, 2015
Vincent van der Voort v Terry Jenkins
The Bull showed star quality to overcome Mervyn King but, despite being 8/11 match favourite, could come unstuck against Dutch Destroyer Van der Voort, who has won three in a row versus the Herefordshire-born cult hero.
Having already unbelievably illustrated his deadly streak by dispatching The Power 2-0, fast thrower Van der Voort is worth backing at 11/10 to win and keep sending shockwaves through the sport by reaching the quarters here for the first time.
RESULT: @PhilTaylor is knocked out of the #partypokerWGP in round one by @VvdV180 in Dublin! WOW! pic.twitter.com/y0aHInHs7u
— PDC Darts (@OfficialPDC) October 5, 2015
Robert Thornton v Justin Pipe
Favourite Thornton is 8/11 to reach the next round after defeating Daryl Gurney without reply. Though the former quarter-finalist could see his path blocked by Pipe, who is a superb 6/4 price to triumph in this tussle.
The Force fought back from a set down against Steve Beaton, making important finishes when it counted, so could prove problematic and is 9/2 to edge the Thorn 3-2.
RESULT: @Blewboy71 comes back to seal a 2-1 win over @Stevebeaton180 at the #partypokerWGP! pic.twitter.com/N5XEdlgCjR
— PDC Darts (@OfficialPDC) October 5, 2015
Betting tip: Suljovic @ 7/2 to defeat Whitlock 3-2
