Gary Anderson is the new favourite for the Ladbrokes World Darts Championships after Dave Chisnell sensationally knocked out Phil “The Power” Taylor in front of a packed audience at Alexandra Palace last night.
The 15-time World Champion suffered defeat in the last 32 of the £1 million tournament for the first time since the PDC’s formation 19 years ago as the St Helens ace picked up the biggest win of his career.
Chisnall averaged 99.05 to Taylor’s 100.32, but crucially punished missed doubles from Taylor, who hit only ten from 31 attempts during the game in failing to reach at least the quarter-finals for the first time.
“He beat me fair and square,” said a stunned Taylor, 51. “He gave me a good hiding. I missed crucial doubles and he hit them, simple as that.
“It was hot and boisterous up there, but it was the same for Dave and he handled it better than me. Maybe my age is catching up with me.
“It’s not the end of the world. I’ve won 15 world titles and it’s not as important to me any more. But I still want to win it a 16th time.”
Anderson is now as short as 3/1 to go on an win the coveted title, although you can still get 4/1 about the “Flying Scotsman” with sportingbet.
James Wade is next best in at 9/2, with Adrian Lewis an 11/2 shot, and Chisnell a top priced 9s.