Norwich's Darren Webster had no answer to the brilliance of Dutch ace Michael van Gerwen as his dream date with the world No 1 turned into something of a nighmare at the PDC William Hill World Championship on Monday night.

Webster managed to win just one leg as the title favourite romped to a hugely impressive 4-0 victory in the second round at the Alexandra Palace.

van Gerwen broke Webster's throw immediately with a 75 finish before throwing six perfect darts in the following leg, which he won in 12 darts. The Dutch sensation then took out 117 to wrap up the set.

van Gerwen took out 121 on the bull before adding a third ton-plus checkout, this time finishing 136. He then missed a dart at the bull for a 130 finish before cleaning up the remaining 25 to double his lead in the match.

In the third set the world No 1 took out 64 to break and then finished 70 in a leg where both players hit 180s. Webster finally got a leg on the board by taking out 47. The pair then exchanged 180s again as van Gerwen moved within a set of victory.

Van Gerwen produced a stunning 160 checkout to kick-start what proved to be the final set as he landed double 14 and double four to complete an incredible victory.

North Walsham-based Steve Beaton bowed out earlier in the day when he lost 4-2 to Michael Smith.

World number eight Smith averaged over 100 to reach round three for the third time in as many years.

Beaton took the first set, with an 11-darter securing a 3-2 success, before Smith reeled off three straight sets to take control.

Beaton kept his hopes alive by taking the fifth in straight legs, but Smith saw the game out by winning the nect 3-0.

'I'm happy with my performance and to get the win,' said the winner.

'I'm still in the tournament and I'm getting nearer to my best form so the signs are there for me and that's good. Steve hit me with everything at times but I took my chances when he did let me in and I held my nerve. I know I can win this tournament. I just have to keep working hard and improving.'

Today Bungay's Andrew Gilding is in second-round action, as is Mendham's Peter Wright. Gilding takes on two-times former champion Adrian Lewis while Wright is up against Ronny Huybrechts.