Lewis reached the final of the World Grand Prix in October

Stoke's Adrian Lewis beat Tony Eccles 3-0 to follow Phil Taylor into the second round of the Professional Darts Corporation's World Championship.

The victory was all the more impressive after it emerged that Lewis had played the match while suffering from flu.

Lewis explained: "I have had flu all week and I just had to get through the first round.

"I've got ten days rest now but it's the World Championships, if you can't do it now you'll never do it."

The 3-0 scoreline flattered the 25-year-old as Eccles ran him close, losing each set 3-2.

I've played well, dug in deep and given it my heart and soul Adrian Lewis

Eccles produced eight 180's and a 170 checkout during the match but it was Lewis, a quarter-finalist last year, who hit his doubles when it mattered.

The Stoke thrower is usually better known for his high scoring, but he could only average 94.87 and had to rely on hitting several checkouts of more than 100 to stay ahead.

"I hit 156 in the first leg and I thought that would kill him off but the next minute he was hitting 180 and 140 - I just thought, 'oh no leave me alone'.

"I took out some massive finishes under pressure so I was obviously proud of myself for doing that.

"I've played well, dug in deep and given it my heart and soul," Lewis added.

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