Last Updated: Tue, 22 Dec 2009 09:42
Terry Jenkins finally opened his Alexandra Palace account with a 3-2 victory over Paul Nicholson in the World Darts Championship.
'The Bull' had never won a game before at the London venue, losing to the likes of Kirk Shepherd, Dennis Smith and Colin Monk, but just did enough to edge a see-saw encounter.
There was little to choose between the two players before Jenkins stole a march in the deciding set to set up a second-round clash with either Andy Smith - his practice partner - or Darin Young of America.
"It's absolutely brilliant," said Jenkins, the world number six. "I've played here three times and got bashed three times, so to get through that first round was the hardest thing.
"Being drawn against a tough player, like Paul, made me get in the right sort of mood and concentrate more. We both played well and it was a toss of a coin as to who won it, so I'm glad to get through that one and I can relax and enjoy the next game."