World number three Ronnie Baxter became the latest big-name casualty at darts' PDC World Championship in Purfleet as he was beaten by Ray Carver. After number one seed Colin Lloyd exited on Tuesday, Baxter followed after a 3-2 defeat to the American.
"I just had to buckle down and play my game," said Carver, who is ranked 132 places below his opponent.
"I'm just looking forward to the next round now and hopefully I can put on a better performance."
Sixth seed Wayne Mardle survived a wobble to reach round two as he beat Australia's Brian Roach 3-1.
His opponent took the second set to make it 1-1, but Mardle won six of the next seven legs to close out the match.
"Everyone looks forward to Christmas - I thought he was going to spoil it for me. I'm glad I'm through," said Mardle.
Mark Dudbridge, who lost to Phil Taylor in last year's final, eased through with a 3-0 win over Darin Young.
The first four legs were shared before Dudbridge nailed double four to clinch the first set.
Young was unable to respond and former World Masters champion Dudbridge went on to win the next two sets without being really tested.
Andy Hamilton avenged his 2004 quarter-final loss to Bob Anderson, beating the 'Limestone Cowboy' 3-2.
"This was one of the hardest games I could have got in the first round," said Hamilton, who will face Terry Jenkins in the second round.
"I missed a lot of doubles last year but I produced some good finishes tonight.
"Last year's experience helped me a lot and I felt confident. I soaked up the atmosphere beforehand and enjoyed it."
England's Denis Ovens, the ninth seed, beat Geoff Wylie of Northern Ireland 3-1, while Dennis Priestley overcame John Magowan by the same score.
MMIX
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