Rodriguez who has been having the year of his darting life barring some personal issues recently which have understandably derailed his previous progress sealed a 6-4 win over 'The Iceman'.
It was a back and forth start to the tie with Price and Rodriguez both holding throw but pivotally after missed darts at double, Price was broken with Rodriguez taking a 4-3 lead using two double 18's on a 92 checkout.
He consolidated from there with a 56 checkout. Price held with a 98 checkout but on his own throw, Rodriguez produced a 100 checkout on double 20 to seal it.
He is joined in the next round by Peter Wright who cut short the stay of 'The Barber' Ryan Meikle in Germany and continued his superb form as of late.
With Meikle from Ipswich and Wright living in Mendham, it could be seen as a Suffolk derby but one that the World Number One eased through in 6-2.
The 2020 champion added a 103.4 average and 55% on the doubles in an impressive display and will aim to build towards reclaiming the title after starting in style.
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