"That wasn't the Simon Whitlock up there": Gary Anderson expected more resolve in Ally Pally demolition win

Gary Anderson was in devastating form sealing a 3-0 sets win over Simon Whitlock to make it through to the third round and also post-Christmas at the PDC World Darts Championship.

At times, it was true and utter Anderson vintage which could not be said for Simon Whitlock who struggled up there and the Scot expected more from a player he has faced for two decades.

"It started off well, but as the game went on I was seeing how Simon (Whitlock) was playing. I've played Simon for two decades and I know he can play but that wasn't the Simon Whitlock up there. It's hard to play against that, I'm expecting the 180's, the 140's, the 170 checkouts. I found it a struggle at the end to beat Simon," said Anderson post match.

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But coming up that hill for a long time himself, he said he still gets that feeling driving into Alexandra Palace and believes all darts players should.

"If you don't poo your pants, you shouldn't be here, but this is the World's. This is what everyone dreams about. Every dart player. They'll tell you it's something else."

While showing his vintage at times though, he is not getting carried away and was quipped whether this is similar to the Anderson of 2011.

"No because I'd be winning a lot more, but I'm getting there. I'm enjoying my darts. The last three years, you could have stuck your darts up here. I'm enjoying it and smiling, makes your life easier.

But there is a plus to an early win for Anderson as despite disliking Christmas in his words, he can put his feet up on his birthday for the first time in years.

"It's a first, I played last year on my birthday. I can remember turning 50 rocking on the end of the bed with a cup of coffee. It'll be nice to get home before Christmas, I personally don't like Christmas, it's for the kids."

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