Simon Whitlock makes PDC progress after ‘real battle’ as Lisa Ashton knocked out

Whitlock battled to a 3-2 victory over Christian Perez of the Philippines at Alexandra Palace.

THE WIZARD: Simon Whitlock edged into the second round at Alexandra Palace (John Walton/PA)

Former finalist Simon Whitlock survived a major scare to reach the second round of the PDC World Darts Championship while Lisa Ashton suffered a narrow loss.

Whitlock, the runner-up 13 years ago, battled to a 3-2 victory over Christian Perez of the Philippines at Alexandra Palace.