Taylor was far too good for his first-round opponent

Phil Taylor laid down a marker to his rivals as he won all nine legs to beat qualifier Steve Grubb 3-0 in the PDC World Darts championship first round.

The 13-times world champion was not at his best but was never troubled as his outclassed opponent failed to put him under any significant pressure.

Grubb did not get a single shot at a double in the one-sided contest.

Meanwhile, qualifier Dennis Smith beat world number five Terry Jenkins 3-1 and Dennis Priestley saw off Warren French.

World number 16 Kevin Painter edged out Matt Clark 3-2 in a sudden-death shoot-out.

"The pressure was incredible," said Painter.

I feel sorry for Steve - he's a better player than that Phil Taylor

But the main focus of attention on day two of the tournament was on Taylor, and he could afford to be magnanimous after his crushing victory at Alexandra Palace.

"I think Steve will learn from this - he's a better player than that," said the 48-year-old.

"I feel sorry for him. I've seen him on the circuit and I know he's better than that."

Taylor will face Michael van Gerwen in the next round after the Dutchman overcame Darin Young 3-1, while Alan Tabern beat Steve Beaton 3-0.

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