Nicholson held the upper hand for most of the match but fell 7-6 down to the Stoke youngster, before producing three superb legs to secure victory.

There was never more than one leg between the two players throughout but Taylor managed to come through and set up a clash with Colin Lloyd, who the Stoke star defeated at the same stage of last year'

Beaton became the second World Champion to fall victim to Nicholson in this year's event, after the Geordie overcame the challenge of Dennis Priestley in the first round.

Wade took command in the clash between two of the world's top five players, but only earned two darts to seal victory in the final four legs as King mounted a sensational fightback.

Question 1
Who won the 2009 Australian Open players championship
Answer: Paul Nicholson

Question 2
What player hit a nine dart leg at the 2008 William Cross Pro Am
Answer: Ronnie Baxter

Priestley reached the quarter-finals of last year's inaugural event, which included a remarkable comeback victory against John Part, but Nicholson proved too strong for the Yorkshireman and he will no

Whitlock, who dominated last year's AGP circuit, defeated Jerry Weyman 6-3 at the Revesby Workers Club Open to claim the $1,000 title on Saturday.

Last 32
Rob Modra 6 Kevin Luland 2
Brendan McCawland 5 John Bunyard 6
Simon Whitlock 6 Mike Merz 0
Ron Robinson 6 Aaron Petty 1
Don Whittington 5 Michael Franklin 6

Whitlock takes first blood in 2010 Season
Simon Whitlock warmed up in style for the 2010 Premier League with victory in