Former winner Gerwyn Price is convinced he can finally win over the Alexandra Palace crowd after breezing into the third round of the PDC World Darts Championship.

The 38-year-old from Markham has had an often troubled relationship with the fans and last year wore ear protectors during his 5-1 quarter-final defeat to Germany’s Gabriel Clemens.

Price’s solitary crown came in 2021 when the crowd was shut out due to Covid-19, but he is hopeful of more support after outclassing Connor Scutt with a 3-1 win.

“It’s really difficult to come here when the crowd’s on your back,” Price told Sky Sports.

“I’m glad the crowd were really good to me and if they continue like this there’s no reason I can’t win it.

“It was difficult, my game was steady, it wasn’t my ‘A’ game and there were some first-round jitters, but I’m through so I’m happy.”

Price swept aside the debutant in quick-fire fashion, averaging 98 and crashing in five 180s to send out a warning to his title rivals.

Price – one of seven PDC World Champions in this year’s field – wrapped up the opening set with a ton-plus average, and he extended his winning run to six straight legs to continue the procession.

Scutt opened his account with a 121 finish on tops to kick off set three, before Price survived a late scare, responding to five missed match darts by conjuring up a classy 12-darter to seal his progress.

The performance of the night came from Hong Kong’s Man Lok Leung who hit 11 maximums as he battled back from 2-0 down to see off Dutchman Gian van Veen 3-2.

Leung looked down and out after missing 10 darts at double for the second set, but stormed back with a thrilling performance to book his place in round two for the first time.

Martin Lukeman had too much for New Zealand’s Haupei Puha as he eased to a 3-0 win, while Tibault Tricole was a 3-1 winner over Mario Vandenbogaerde.