Colin Lloyd 3-0 Wes Newton (3-1, 3-2, 3-2)
Sky Bet World Grand Prix Second Round
COLIN LLOYD produced a professional display to continue the defence of his Sky Bet World Grand Prix title with a 3-0 win over Wes Newton.
The defending champion was forced to come from a set behind in his first round clash with Tom Kirby, but was never in trouble against Newton.
Lloyd wasted little time in winning the opening set 3-1, and hit a 108 checkout in repeating that scoreline in the second.
Fleetwood youngster Newton hit back from 2-0 down in the next set, following up a 130 finish by levelling matters.
But Lloyd took the deciding leg to wrap up a comprehensive victory - although he insists he has plenty of room for improvement ahead of Friday's quarter-final against Steve Beaton.
"It was a good win but I'm a little bit disappointed because I struggled in the first round and struggled again," said Lloyd.
"I've been playing a lot better than that and it's annoying. But I've got to step it up now and hopefully it will come.
"I'm keeping my throw and don't feel as though I'm throwing bad darts, but they're not going in.
"I'm going to keep attacking it because it's still my title and I'm going to keep fighting to keep it.
"I've got Steve Beaton next and I'll be up for it."
Newton, though, paid tribute to Lloyd's display and tipped him to regain his title on Sunday.
"He's world number one and he showed it," said Newton. "He never let me get into my groove.
"I was getting off pretty well but he takes every chance he gets and that's why he's the champion.
"If he plays like he can I think he will do it again this year."
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