Michael Smith impresses in first round World Grand Prix; Gilding knocks out Cross

Michael Smith and Andrew Gilding secured a spot among the last sixteen at the World Grand Prix late Monday night. Smith in particular impressed in his first match.

The reigning world champion conceded only one leg against Callan Rydz. Especially in the first set, 'Bullyboy' played unparalleled. With an average of 109, Smith won the first set 3-0. In the second set, he could not keep that high level, but nevertheless, he was able to win the second set 3-1 for a 2-0 victory over his compatriot.

In the last match of the evening, Gilding managed to pull off a surprise against Rob Cross. The latter won the first four legs of the match, but Cross had to watch as Gilding took the second set 3-1 with a spectacular 142 finish. Eventually, a deciding leg was needed in the third set to determine a winner. Cross had the first chance to decide the match, but the former world champion missed three match darts. Then Gilding had one chance from 68 and via double 20, Gilding edged into the last sixteen.