Cullen not resting on his laurels after Masters opener: "If you look past Gary Anderson, he will do you"

Joe Cullen eased past Daryl Gurney 6-2 as he began the new season with a quality win at the 2022 Masters and he was glad to combine a win and a good performance.

"Especially after a long lay-off, it's always nice to get a win and play well. I would have taken a win tonight regardless of the performance but to combine the two, it's pleasing," said Cullen post match.

It has been duly noted about Cullen's issues off the oche over the past year and he is looking forward now to getting back to normal.

"The time off after the World's came at a great time. It was so needed, last year was draining. Darts and away from darts. I think to get back to some normality especially with the calendar announced, it's hopefully going to be a full calendar for a change. It can only be a good thing so I'm looking forward to the year ahead."

Last year, Jonny Clayton won this tournament and went on to have a stellar year and for Cullen, he admitted he takes inspiration from 'The Ferret'.

"Jonny was lucky to get in last year," he joked. "He's a great guy and he's shown it wasn't a flash in the pan which it could be for any player."

"People like myself, we take inspiration from people like Jonny or I do at least. That's what can be done."

While he is not resting on his laurels when he next takes on Gary Anderson who he has had some great battles with in the past.

"If you look past Gary Anderson, he will do you 10-4. That's just the nature of the beast. Let's see what happens."