European Championship: Luke Littler through as Michael van Gerwen makes early exit

World champion Luke Littler made it through to the second round of the European Championship with victory over William O’Connor – but Michael van Gerwen was knocked out at the first-round stage.

Teenager Littler hit six 180s and had a three-dart average of 105 in his 6-3 victory in the best-of-11 contest – his first match since a surprise semi-final defeat at the World Youth Championship in early October.

The world number one will next play Nathan Aspinall, who beat Cristo Reyes 6-3, in Dortmund as he tries to complete the set of major trophies by winning the European Championship.

“Obviously, [I’ve played] a few exhibitions, but yeah, just obviously been chilling out, practicing, and this is the one I really want,” said Littler, 19.

“I’ve just got to take it one game at a time, and obviously it’s the last one missing, so I can’t be putting too much pressure on myself.

“I’m just happy to get back on stage and do my job.”

Van Gerwen, 37, was up against fellow Dutchman Kevin Doets and, after going 5-1 down, the three-time world champion was comprehensively beaten 6-3.

The 28-year-old Doets will face Krzysztof Ratajski, who beat Dave Chisnall 6-2, in the last 16.

Jonny Clayton and Josh Rock will take on each other after their respective 6-3 and 6-1 wins against Niko Springer and Chris Dobey.

German Martin Schindler came through a deciding leg as he beat Wessel Nijman 6-5 to set up a match against Jermaine Wattimena, who was a 6-3 winner against England’s Ryan Joyce.