The Australian picked up his second win of the season to maintain his early push for a play-off spot in his debut campaign, although was gifted many winning legs by a profligate Lewis performance.

The Stoke ace took two of the opening three legs to lead 2-1, but missed doubles in the next three as Whitlock - aided by a 100 finish - capitalised to take a 4-2 cushion.

Both players hit 180s in the seventh leg, which Lewis took on double top to hold throw, but he then wasted nine darts to level the game in the next, before Whitlock landed double four to lead 5-3.

Double ten put the Australian three legs clear, and he hit a 180 to set up double 18 in ensuring a minimum of a draw at 7-3.

Lewis landed a 177 in taking leg 11, but failed to match Whitlock's scoring in the next before the World Championship finalist hit double ten to seal victory.

"It wasn't a pretty win but I'll take it," said Whitlock. "Adrian didn't play as well as he can do and I expected more from him, but all I can do is win my legs and concentrate on my game.

"I know my scoring can improve and I'll be working on that, but it's another two points for me on the league table and that's what's important."