MARK DUDBRIDGE 3-0 DARIN YOUNG
(3-2, 3-2, 3-2)
Click here for match highlights and an interview with Mark Dudbridge in DartsTV
MARK DUDBRIDGE produced a nervy display to see off Darin Young and move into the second round of the Ladbrokes.com World Darts Championship.
Despite a 3-0 scoreline, Dudbridge looked a shadow of the player who reached the final at the Circus Tavern 12 months ago, admitting to feeling the weight of expectation.
He also suffered a string of missed doubles in the match, and will be joined on the practice board by Bob Anderson in preparation for the second round - despite the latter's exit earlier on Tuesday.
Dudbridge was forced to come from 2-1 down to win the opening set, and only won the second in a decider.
American qualifier Young battled to get back into the match, but Dudbridge had enough to edge the third set and seal the win.
"I think I did feel under pressure," said Dudbridge. "I've had a really good run here in the last couple of years and I know how it feels when you're playing well.
"I didn't feel that at all tonight and it I knew it was going to be tough, but it was a game I had to grind out.
"That is the most nervous I have ever been in a TV tournament.
"I was fine before I played but as soon as I stepped up on stage my hand was shaking, my body was pulsating and I couldn't get any rhythm.
"Maybe it was a bit of the unknown with Darin, I didn't know anything about him and as soon as I started missing I thought I could be another seed to go out.
"But I pulled through and the 3-0 scoreline doesn't reflect the game I believe.
"I hope I'll be more relaxed in my next game. I need to go up there and be a bit more focused, but perhaps this was my bit of luck.
"I didn't play well but I had a bit of luck, and I'll look forward to coming back on December 27th."
Dudbridge will face either Alex Roy or Alan Tabern in round two.
Match Stats
|
Mark Dudbridge |
3-0 |
Darin Young |
|
19 |
100+ |
18 |
|
9 |
140+ |
3 |
|
4 |
180 |
2 |
|
28.03 |
Ave1 |
26.19 |
|
84.09 |
Ave3 |
78.58 |