RONNIE BAXTER will meet Jelle Klaasen in round one of the PartyPoker.net Las Vegas Desert Classic Qualifiers on Monday.

Baxter, the 2002 runner-up in the inaugural Desert Classic event, is the number one seed for the Qualifiers - having just missed out on a place in the PDC's top 12, who gain automatic entry to the first round of the main tournament on Wednesday.

He will take on Dutchman Jelle Klaasen in their opening game of the first day of qualifying on Monday, as over 200 players begin the battle for 16 places in the Desert Classic proper.

Eight players from each day's play will earn a place on stage on Wednesday and Thursday, with number two seed Kevin Painter facing Richie Blake in his opener.

Alan Tabern, the number three seed, meets Eddie Lawrence and could also face 2007 qualifier John Ferrell on Board 29.

Britain's Steve Brown takes on Australian star Russell Stewart in another tasty first round game, while German Michael Rosenauer faces experienced north American Dan Lauby.

Number six seed Mark Dudbridge will open his challenge against Canada's former World Championship qualifier Brian Cyr.

The format is the best of nine legs throughout.

The draw for Tuesday's Qualifier will be made following the completion of Monday's knockout to account for the eight players who win places in the main tournament.