Whitlock edges out Henderson in high quality contest to begin World Matchplay campaign

Both players were nip and tuck throughout but it was Whitlock who edged ahead just to be pegged back in the end with a tie-break thriller on the cards, he pounced on mistakes though from Henderson to move through to the World Matchplay second round.

His victory included six 180's and a 95 average as he sets up a potential tie with either Peter Wright or Vincent van der Voort.

To begin the tie, it was even in the early going with neither player breaking throw by the first interval; but it was Whitlock who was in front 3-2. Both players were playing well which was seen by a 103.5 average from the Scot.

It was 'The Wizard' who made the breakthrough though; with double fourteen to go 4-2 up on Henderson. Missed doubles though allowed Henderson back into the tie as he took out 64 to trail 4-3.

The trend continued with Whitlock going two ahead with another break of throw in the form of a 112 checkout; but Henderson hit back with an 85 checkout. At the second interval they were once again locked at parity though with Henderson taking out 96 to draw level with 5/6 on the doubles.

Henderson moved ahead with another break with his famous double 20 but he fluffed his lines and allowed Whitlock in the following leg to make it 6-6.

The turning point came as a result with three legs in a row putting Whitlock one away in a demon run by the Aussie ace who hit a 124 checkout to do so. Henderson asked the question of Whitlock taking out 97 to go only two behind.

A poor leg from Whitlock allowed Henderson to break and go towards a potential tiebreak. It was a thrilling leg that followed with 'The Highlander' missing the chance to put it the distance and Whitlock claimed the win from there.

Click here for more information about the World Matchplay, including the prize money breakdown, schedule and format.

First Round
Jonny Clayton (94.69) 4-10 (101.05) Keegan Brown
Simon Whitlock (94.99) 10-8 (101.33) John Henderson
21:10 Daryl Gurney v Ricky Evans
22:20 Peter Wright v Vincent van der Voort

https://twitter.com/OfficialPDC/status/1153394983732301824