Colin Lloyd bowed out of the World Matchplay - but not without a fight.

The Colchester darts ace was beaten 10-7 in the first round by world number two seed Michael van Gerwen, in Blackpool.

But Lloyd, who won the World Matchplay back in 2005, made the Dutchman fight all the way for his 10-7 victory.

Van Gerwen raced into a five-leg lead before Lloyd, aided by a 120 finish, hit back to trail just 7-6 at one stage.

However, a key bullseye from the Dutchman denied him the chance to pull level before the Premier League Darts champion edged into the last 16.

“Colin’s a brilliant player and he never gave up, so I’m happy to have won that match,” said van Gerwen.

“I’m really pleased to play so well in the first round because you always want to play well on this stage and I’m proud to do it.

“Winning the game was most important and I hope I can do well in this tournament."

Van Gerwen has now progressed to a second-round clash with Peter Wright.