James Wade endures upset defeat at Sydney Masters from Rhys Mathewson
Thursday 18 August 2016 17:59, UK
James Wade suffered a shock early exit at the Sydney Masters as little-known Australian Rhys Mathewson completed a thrilling first round win.
The world No 6 appeared to be cruising through when he opened a 5-2 lead, but Mathewson fought back to seal a stunning victory over Wade.
Three-time champion Phil Taylor, world No 1 Michael van Gerwen and world champion Gary Anderson all claimed opening wins, but Raymond van Barneveld also departed after a heavy defeat to Kyle Anderson.
Mathewson, who had never previously competed on television before qualifying for the event, admitted he took advantage of some wasteful finishing from Wade.
"It's unbelievable," said Mathewson. "I felt comfortable up there and I wasn't nervous, but usually when you miss your doubles against James you don't get another chance.
"I thought I was in trouble at 5-2, but fortunately he gave me a chance and I took it. It's amazing for me."
Mathewson has earned a quarter-final clash with Peter Wright after 'Snakebite' secured a 6-2 win over Aussie favourite Simon Whitlock.
Taylor stayed on course for a fourth straight title after a 6-3 win over exciting Aussie youngster Corey Cadby and will next face Anderson, who beat Perth-based David Platt by the same margin.
Van Gerwen supplied the outstanding performance of the round, averaging 107.89 as he swept past New Zealand's Cody Harris with a 6-2 win.
Adrian Lewis saw off New Zealand No 2 Rob Szabo 6-3 as he moved through to a match with Dave Chisnall, who came from a leg down to claim six in a row as he breezed past Australian youngster Harley Kemp.
But Van Barneveld bowed out as Anderson also reeled off six legs in a row to delight the home support.
First Round (best of 11 legs)
James Wade 5-6 Rhys Mathewson
Dave Chisnall 6-1 Harley Kemp
Adrian Lewis 6-3 Rob Szabo
Phil Taylor 6-3 Corey Cadby
Gary Anderson 6-3 David Platt
Peter Wright 6-2 Simon Whitlock
Michael van Gerwen 6-2 Cody Harris
Raymond van Barneveld 1-6 Kyle Anderson
Quarter-Finals (best of 19 legs)
Adrian Lewis v Dave Chisnall
Rhys Mathewson v Peter Wright
Gary Anderson v Phil Taylor
Michael van Gerwen v Kyle Anderson
