World Grand Prix favourite Peter Wright overcame injury to take his place in the last eight in Dublin with a 3-1 victory over Mervyn King.
Wright, looking to add to his UK Open success, is now the favourite for silverware at the Citywest following Gary Anderson’s withdrawal and Michael van Gerwen’s unexpected first round defeat.
‘Snakebite’ was troubled with an elbow injury, but some high finishing, including a 141 in the fourth set, saw his assume a 3-1 lead. He quickly rattled off the fourth set, which included a 121 bull finish and 112 checkout, to take his place in the last eight where he will play Mensur Suljovic.
Champions League of Darts winner Suljovic backed up his win over James Wade's conqueror Steve West, who missed 27 darts at doubles, in a convincing 3-0 triumph.
Benito van de Pas thumped Gerwyn Price 3-0 with a 95.11 three-dart average in what was a rematch of their first-round clash from last year.
"I know I'm good on my doubles, but I was also good on my trebles," said Van de Pas, who enjoyed 64 per cent checkout success. "I can beat anybody if I continue to play like this."
Simon Whitlock used all his experience to claim victory over Dublin debutant Richard North 3-0 to set up a clash with Van de Pas.
Second round results
Gerwyn Price 0-3 Benito van de Pas
Mensur Suljovic 3-0 Steve West
Richard North 0-3 Simon Whitlock
Peter Wright 3-1 Mervyn King
