Wednesday 30 December 2009

Wade survives Ally Pally thriller

JAMES WADE reached the quarter-finals of the 2010 Ladbrokes.com World Darts Championships after coming through a nail-biting encounter against Andy Hamilton.

Hamilton had led 3-2 and missed a dart for the match in the final set which allowed James Wade to keep his hopes of World title glory alive and set up a clash with Simon Whitlock.

Hamilton started the better of the two players winning the first leg with the aid of the maximum. He hit another 180 in the second and landed double 10 to win the leg.

The Stoke star missed two darts at double 15 for the set in the third leg which allowed Wade to get off the board. But Hamilton wrapped up the first set in style in the next leg by converting a 140 checkout.

Wade hit back quickly in the second set, winning it by three legs to nil to level the match. He won the first leg against the darts and then won the second by hitting double nine and then sealed the set in the third leg after Hamiton missed five darts at doubles to keep the set going.

Hamilton made a winning start to the third set, breaking throw with the help of his fourth 180 of the game. He was off-target with two darts at double 16 for a 2-0 lead and Wade hit double 10 to level.

Wade then recorded an excellent 124 checkout to win the third leg but missed a dart at bullseye to win the set and Hamilton hit double five to force a deciding leg. The Aldershot man managed to take that with a pressure 65 finish with his opponent waiting on a two dart finish to lead for the first time in the match.

Both struggled to find the winning double in the first leg of the fourth set, but Hamilton managed to find double four for an early advantage. The 14th seed then produced some fabulous darts to seal the set. He hit a 12 darter to win the second leg, and hit a maximum in the third followed by double 10 to square the game at two apiece.

Wade gained an early lead in the fifth set by hitting a two-dart 74 finish to win the first leg and that was followed by a break of throw in the second by hitting his favourite double 10.

Hamilton defied a maximum from Wade to win the third leg and then won the fourth by hitting double eight after both players had registered 180s. And Hamilton continued the winning run of legs by hitting double 10 with his opponent waiting on 25 to regain the lead for the first time since the opening set.

The Premier League champion hit a 74 finish to win the leg of the sixth against the darts and soon won the second with 92. The third leg saw Wade hit a maximum to him in command and he hit double top to send the match into the decider.

Hamilton cashed in on three missed doubles from Wade by hitting a two-dart 64 to win the first leg. He was in control of the second but Wade produced a timely 129 checkout to get back into the set.

The Stoke man regained the lead after Wade was off-target with more double opportunities to win the third leg. The fourth saw Hamilton have a dart for the match but his attempt at double for a 156 checkout fell below the target and Wade made his opponent pay by converting a 64 finish to send the game into a tie-break situation.

As the tension rose inside Alexandra Palace Hamilton game seemed to dip and Wade won the fifth leg by hitting double top with his last dart to lead for the first time in the set. The world number three then converted a wonderful 112 checkout to end a dramatic contest.

"Obviously i'm very glad that Andy missed that dart at double 18 to win the match, admitted Wade. Sometimes its about winning ugly and fortunately I managed to do that."

"I don't feel that I ever found top gear out there and I know that I will need to up my performance if I am going to get past Simon Whitlock."

Tuesday 29 December 2009

Wade wins again at Alexandra Palace

JAMES WADE ended the hopes of Michael van Gerwen with a 4-2 triumph in the last second round match of the 2010 Ladbrokes.com World Darts Championship.

The 20-year-old Dutchman put up an excellent fight but it not enough to take out the Premier League champion, who will now take on Andy Hamilton in the last 16.

Van Gerwen won the opening leg of the match with an impressive 14-dart finish before Wade levelled courtesy of a two-dart 81.

Wade broke throw with a 71 finish in the third leg, and then recorded a 114 checkout in the fourth to win the set and open up an early lead.

Van Gerwen hit back early in the second set by winning the first two legs with the aid of a two-dart 64, followed by his second 14 dart-finish of the game.

The Dutch youngster missed two darts for the set in the third leg and Wade won it by hitting double top but van Gerwen made no mistake in the next landing double 16 to level the game.

Wade began the third set well by breaking throw but missed chances to double his lead after three opportunties went begging and van Gerwen cashed in by hitting double top.

The man from Aldershot regained the lead by converting a 112 finish and then hit double 16 to lead the match for a second time.

The fourth set saw some high quality finishing from both players. Wade hit 104 to win the first leg before van Gerwen replied with a 125 checkout.

Wade hit a 121 finish to take the third leg but van Gerwen won the fourth with an 88 completed with an accurate attempt at the bullseye. But Wade converted a 150 checkout in the deciding leg - his third ton plus finish of the set.

That put the third seed 3-1 ahead and he hit his fifth maximum of the game in the first leg of the fifth set but van Gerwen managed to hold throw by hitting double 16.

Wade won the second leg with an 11-dart finish but van Gerwen regained the lead with a 76 finish. The Dutchman then hit an 84 checkout in the fourth leg to reduce the deficit after Wade had missed five attempts at doubles.

At the start of the sixth set Wade hit a maximum in the process of taking the first leg before van Gerwen won the second by landing double 18.

Wade regained the lead hitting double five with his last dart to go one leg away from the match. A dramatic deciding leg saw van Gerwen miss two attempts at double top to keep the match alive and Wade hit the same double to confirm victory.

'I knew this game with Michael was going to be a tough one, and so it proved, said Wade. Reaching the semi-finals last year was a bit more by luck, than judgement. I feel better this year and my two matches have shown that.'

Wednesday 23 December 2009

Wade moves into last 32 in Ladbrokes.com World Championship

JAMES WADE began his bid for Ladbrokes.com World Darts Championship glory with a 3-1 victory over Steve Brown.

Wade, who reached the semi-finals last year before being defeated by Raymond van Barneveld, will now take on Michael van Gerwen in an eye-catching second round tie at Alexandra Palace.

The left-hander, seeded three for the tournament, produced his highest ever World Championship average in progressing to the last 32 - but insisted: "I will get better."

Brown started the match well with a 14-dart finish to win the opening leg, before Wade levelled matters with a 64 checkout.

The world number three seed on course for a nine-dart finish in the third leg when he hit back-to-back maximums.

Wade's attempt at a seventh successive treble 20 fell just short, but he won the leg to lead 2-1 and then landed double top in the next to wrap up the opening set.

Wade hit a purple patch in the second set winning the opening two legs with 13-dart finishes.

He then hit his fourth maximum of the game in the process of winning the third leg to take a two set cushion.

Brown managed to stop Wade's winning streak by taking the opening leg of the third set on double ten.

The Bristolian hit his first 180 of the game in the process of winning the third leg, but Wade won the fourth to go one leg away from the match.

But Brown, playing in his second World Championship, hit another maximum at the start of the deciding leg to gain an advantage and then landed double 18 to seal the set.

Wade registered his fifth 180 of the game in the process of winning the first leg of the fourth set, and then doubled his advantage with a 71 finish after his opponent missed two chances to hold throw.

That put Wade one leg away from the match again, and this time the Aldershot man made no mistake, hitting double ten to confirm victory.

"I've put in a lot of practice of the last couple of weeks coming into this tournament, and I feel better prepared than previous World Championships that I have competed in," said Wade.

"I can enjoy a good Christmas now, and will look forward to playing Michael in the next round."

Saturday 19 December 2009

Jenkins out at Alexandra Palace

PETER MANLEY came through a see-saw five-set encounter with Andy Jenkins at the 2010 Ladbrokes.com World Darts Championship.

Jenkins had led two sets to one but Manley managed to produce the goods when it mattered to advance.

Manley started the match well, winning the opening leg and then breaking throw in the next with a two-dart 60 finish.

The Cumbria based thrower then wrapped up the first set in style with a 127 checkout on the bullseye.

Manley should have continued the winning run of legs at the start of the second set, but three missed chances at double 18 allowed Jenkins to nick it.

Manley levelled with a 98 finish, but Jenkins took the next two legs to level the match at 1-1.

The three-time world finalist established a 2-1 lead in the third set and had two darts to win the set in the fourth leg. But those attempts were off-target and Jenkins took the set into a decider.

The same fate hit Manley again the fifth leg as he four chances to take the set and Jenkins hit double eight to take a set he seemed unlikely to win and lead for the first time.

Jenkins won the first leg of the fourth set and chances to make it 2-0, but missed doubles proved costly and Manley levelled at 1-1.

Manley then hit double 16 to break Jenkins' throw and then won the set in the next, hitting double top after Jenkins missed five darts at double 10.

Manley held throw at the start of the final set and then broke throw with a 15-dart finish to go 2-0 ahead.

Jenkins missed a dart at double 10 once again in the third leg and Manley made his opponent pay by converting a 120 checkout, landing his favourite double top for the third leg in succession to win the match.

After the match Manley admitted: 'It's always hard playing a good friend and that was incredibly tough tonight.

'I've been looking at old tapes to try and re-discover my old form. I know I have to put the work in if I am going to rise up the rankings.'

Friday 18 December 2009

Monk hopes dashed by Taylor

PHIL TAYLOR began his campaign for a 15th World Championship title with a comfortable 3-0 whitewash of Basingstoke qualifier Colin Monk.

Reigning champion Taylor was never troubled by Monk, who failed to win a leg during the contest to suffer a first round defeat in the event for a fourth successive time.

After winning the opening leg against the throw by hitting double top, Taylor won the next two legs by hitting a maximum in both to take an early advantage.

Double 16 gave Taylor the second set's opener, and after doubling the advantage he punished missed doubles from Monk to seal a 2-0 lead in the game.

Taylor hit a fabulous 170 checkout at the start of the third, and followed that by hitting consecutive double tops to close out victory.

"Everyone's dream is to win the first round nine legs to nil and I did that," said Taylor. "I feel sorry for Colin and it's not nice for a fellow pro but I had to be professional.

"I didn't feel quite right but I'll be better in the second round and I can relax and enjoy Christmas now.

"It's always difficult in the first round because you want to do well and just get through, which is all that matters. It's best of seven in the next round and the longer formats suit us."

Tuesday 8 December 2009

Ladbrokes.com World Championship Order of Play

COLIN MONK'S clash with Phil Taylor will take place on the opening evening of the event, Friday 18 December, at approximately 9:50 p.m.

Andy Jenkins will face Peter Manley the following evening, Saturday 19 December, at approximately 10:55 p.m.

James Wade takes on Steve Brown on Wednesday 23 December, at around 9:50 p.m.

The event breaks after the first round for Christmas and reconvenes on Sunday 27 December.

If successful in the first round, Monk will play his second match that Sunday evening, Jenkins will play on the Monday evening and Wade will play Tuesday evening.

Full details here

Monday 7 December 2009

Monk draws Taylor!

COLIN MONK will start his 2010 Ladbrokes.com World Championship campaign against Number 1 seed Phil Taylor who is chasing his fifteenth world title.

Taylor will take on the Basingstoke qualifier on the opening night of this year's tournament on Friday December 18 at Alexandra Palace in London, as the prize fund reaches a record £1 million, with £200,000 to the winner.

Number 3 Seed James Wade opens against Bristolian Steve Brown and Andy Jenkins faces number 20 seed and three times a finalist, Peter Manley.

The schedule of play will be released tomorrow, 8 December 2009.

2010 Ladbrokes.com World Darts Championship Draw
First Round Draw
Phil Taylor (1, England) v Colin Monk (England)
Roland Scholten (32, Netherlands) v Steve Hine (England)
Robert Thornton (16, Scotland) v Per Laursen/Christian Perez (Philippines)
Wayne Mardle (17, England) v Jyhan Artut (Germany)
Adrian Lewis (8, England) v Aodhagan O'Neill (Ireland)/Les Francis (South Africa)
Wes Newton (25, England) v Jarkko Komula (Finland)/Roman Konchikov (Russia)
Dennis Priestley (9, England) v Kevin McDine (England)
Jelle Klaasen (24, Netherlands) v Barrie Bates (Wales)
Mervyn King (5, England) v Matt Clark (England)
Co Stompe (28, Netherlands) v Steve Maish (England)
Alan Tabern (12, England) v Ken MacNeil (Canada)/Norman Madhoo (Guyana)
Mark Dudbridge (21, England) v Andree Welge (Germany)
John Part (4, Canada) v Toon Greebe (Netherlands)
Kirk Shepherd (29, England) v Scott Burnett (USA)
Mark Walsh (13, England) v Mark Webster (Wales)
Peter Manley (20, England) v Andy Jenkins (England)
Raymond van Barneveld (2, Netherlands) v Warren Parry (New Zealand)
Tony Eccles (31, England) v Brendan Dolan (Northern Ireland)
Kevin Painter (15, England) v Mensur Suljovic (Austria)
Vincent van der Voort (18, Netherlands) v Dylan Duo (Gibraltar)
Ronnie Baxter (7, England) v Haruki Muramatsu (Japan)/Krzysztof Kciuk (Poland)
Jamie Caven (26, England) v Gary Anderson (Scotland)
Colin Lloyd (10, England) v Magnus Caris (Sweden(/Francisco Ruiz (Spain)
Denis Ovens (23, England) v Tomas Seyler (Germany)/Shi Yongsheng (China)
Terry Jenkins (6, England) v Paul Nicholson (Australia)
Andy Smith (27, England) v Darin Young (USA)
Colin Osborne (11, England) v Simon Whitlock (Australia)
Wayne Jones (22, England) v Alex Roy (England)
James Wade (3, England) v Steve Brown (England)
Michael van Gerwen (30, Netherlands) v Peter Wright (Scotland)
Andy Hamilton (14, England) v Phillip Hazel (New Zealand)/Osmann Kijamet (Slovenia)
Steve Beaton (19, England) v Carlos Rodriguez (Spain)

Preliminary Round Draw
Per Laursen (Denmark) v Christian Perez (Philippines)
Ken MacNeil (Canada) v Norman Madhoo (Guyana)
Jarkko Komula (Finland) v Roman Konchikov (Russia)
Haruki Muramatsu (Japan) v Krzysztof Kciuk (Poland)
Tomas Seyler (Germany) v Shi Yongsheng (China)
Magnus Caris (Sweden) v Francisco Ruiz (Spain)
Aodhagan O'Neill (Ireland) v Les Francis (South Africa)
Phillip Hazel (New Zealand) v Osmann Kijamet (Slovenia)

Saturday 5 December 2009

Wade maintains unbeaten record

JAMES WADE continued England's unbeaten streak at the PartyPoker.com Jocky Wilson Cup with a 6-4 win over Robert Thornton.

The Scot had been whitewashed by Phil Taylor in his opening Singles game, but led against Wade after finishing 95 on double five.

Wade set up a double 12 finish in levelling with a superb 168 score, and he stepped in to lead 2-1 in the third after Thornton was off-target with double 18 for a 156 checkout.

Wade hit a 177 in the fourth, but Thornton took out 106 on double 16 to square the game with a break of throw, only for the left-hander to pile home an 11-darter, including six perfect darts, in the fifth.

Three misses at double 12 from Wade allowed Thornton to pull level once more on tops, but the English ace regained the lead with a 180 and a fine 90 finish of bullseye and double top.

That was bettered with a sensational 160 checkout from Wade as he moved 5-3 up, with Thornton taking a fourth leg of the game with a 121 bullseye finish.

The Scot also opened the next with a 180, but Wade landed a maximum of his own and then posted double 14 to wrap up the win.

Wade and Taylor seal victory in Jocky Wilson Cup

ENGLAND secured victory in the inaugural PartyPoker.com Jocky Wilson Cup with a 6-2 win in the Doubles contest at the Braehead Arena.

The first 1001 contest in PDC history saw the two teams face off in a pairs contest, with Scotland drawing first blood when an Anderson 180 set up a 59 finish for Thornton - who hit single 19, double one and double 19.

Wade hit a 180 and double top as England took the second leg, before they broke throw in the third, Wade hitting another 180 before taking out a two-dart 88 finish to punish a missed double 18 from Thornton.

Wade missed two darts to win the fourt, but a wayward attempt at double top from Thornton allowed Taylor to put England 3-1 up on double five.

Scotland landed back-to-back 180s in the fifth leg, with Taylor landed his first maximum of the clash before Wade's double ten put England three legs clear.

Thornton hit successive maximums after the break, and then landed double six to earn Scotland a second leg - only to then miss double top for a 116 finish in the next leg before Wade, who had traded 180s with the Scot during the leg, posted double 16 for an impressive 24-dart finish.

Taylor landed another maximum in leg eight, and returned to the oche to land double 18 which put England 4-0 up overall with two points from the Doubles game to ensure overall victory in the Jocky Wilson Cup.

"It's brilliant but the match isn't over yet and it would be great to win the final two games too," said Wade. "Gary and Robert will be playing for pride and I'm sure they'll do a job in the last two games.

"The atmosphere is brilliant - the crowd are booing me but I quite like it!"

Wade gives England lead in Jocky Wilson Cup

JAMES WADE made a stunning comeback to defeat Gary Anderson 6-4 in the opening game of the PartyPoker.com Jocky Wilson Cup.

Anderson seemed set to coast to victory when he stormed into a 4-0 lead in front of the Scottish crowd at the Braehead Arena, only to miss three darts to lead at the break before seeing Wade reel off six successive legs.

Double five gave Anderson the opening leg, and he hit the game's first 180 in taking the second with a 14-darter against the throw.

He landed another 180 and a 96 finish in taking the third leg, before taking out 118 for a 4-0 cushion.

However, a total of four misses at double 16, eight and four in the fifth leg allowed Wade in to take out 85 on the bullseye to get off the mark.

Wade returned from the break to take out double ten for a second leg, and repeated the finish to pull back to 4-3.

A missed double top from Anderson allowed Wade in on double 12 to level, before misses at the bull and double 16 and eight enabled the Englishman to move in front on double top.

He then posted double ten in the next to seal a sixth successive leg and victory.

"I was really lucky," admitted Wade. "For the first four legs I couldn't hit anything but I turned up and played in the second half of the game.

"If Gary had gone 5-0 up that may have been it but I managed to take my chances."

Sunday 29 November 2009

German Darts Championship Day Two

JAMES WADE was edged out 8-7 by Mervyn King in the quarter-finals of the Halle event. Wade picked up £3,000 and Mervyn went on to reach the final.

Phil Taylor reclaimed the title he last won in 2007 with an 11-4 victory and took the £20,000 top prize.

Saturday 28 November 2009

German Darts Championship Day One

JAMES WADE is through to tomorrow's quarter-finals at the £100,000 event at the Gerry Weber Center, Halle.

Colin Monk reached the last 64 losing out to former three-time World Champion John Part.

Sunday 22 November 2009

Hampshire Youth v Sussex Youth

Hampshire Youth achieved an excellent overall result for the team, winning 11-6.
The under 18's won 5-4, the girls 3-0 and the under 21s 3-2
Match Awards went to Gavin Howard & Gary Thorne for the under 18s with 19.27 averages Gemma Hayter with 18.22 for the girls and Sam Abrehart 19.70 for the under 21s

Saturday 21 November 2009

Malta Open Ladies Champion Wendy Reinstadtler

Wendy Reinstadtler won the Malta Ladies Singles with a win in the Final over Maggie Sutton.
In the Men's Singles Roy Brown lost in the Final to Mark Thomson a previous winner of the Hampshire Open

Friday 20 November 2009

Wade out in last-leg thriller at Wolverhampton

TERRY JENKINS produced a 121 bullseye finish to see off James Wade 10-9 in a thriller to move into the PartyPoker.com Grand Slam of Darts quarter-finals.

World number three Wade came from 4-1 down to lead Jenkins 9-8, but never had a dart for victory as Jenkins took the final two legs to break his heart.

Wade hit a nine-darter in last year's second round but lost to Gary Anderson, and the left-hander again departed Wolverhampton in the last 16 with the loss.

Wade opened the game with a 180, but Jenkins held throw for the opening leg after two missed doubles from the left-hander, who replied to level in 13 darts.

Jenkins hit a maximum in taking the third, and punished three misses from Wade to break in the fourth leg, before taking out 127 on the bull for a 4-1 lead.

Wade finished a 14-darter on double 12 for the sixth leg before Jenkins restored a three-leg cushion - only for Wade to take three in a row, including two 180s, to square the match.

Wade hit another maximum to leave a finish in the 11th leg, but Jenkins took out 80 for a 14-darter to edge 6-5 up.

The duo traded double top and double ten finishes in sharing the next four legs, before a 138 score from Wade set up double top for a 13-darter in breaking to lead for the first time at 9-8.

Jenkins landed double ten to ensure a decider, which Wade opened with a 180 only for two scores of 140 and a 100 left him 121 after nine darts.

Wade left himself 126, but never got a chance at the finish as Jenkins hit the bullseye for a 121 checkout to claim a thrilling victory.

"It was a great game and I'm delighted to get over the winning line," said Jenkins. "I knew I had to take out the 121 as James was right behind me, and luckily the bull went in."

Jenkins takes on Robert Thornton in Saturday's quarter-finals, and added: "Robert's been really on form this week and I'll have to be on top of my game to beat him."

Wednesday 18 November 2009

Wade survives sudden-death at Wolverhampton

JAMES WADE won the nine-dart shoot-out with Andy Hamilton to earn a spot in the second round of the PartyPoker.com Grand Slam of Darts, as the second placed qualifier from Group H.

Hamilton's 5-3 win over Wade earlier on Tuesday meant he finished level on four points and on +2 leg difference, ensuring the shoot-out.

Wade opened with a score of 96, which was bettered by Hamilton's 100 on his first visit to the oche. The duo then traded scores of 85 and 77 respectively to leave Wade four points in front going into the final three darts.

The left-hander then produced a brilliant 180 to leave Hamilton unable to match his total of 361, with the Stoke ace - who won last year's Nine-Dart Shoot-Out with Alan Tabern - producing 100 in vain with his final three darts to end on 277.

"I played well in the first two games and then lost to Andy so it was strange," said Wade. "I'm happy to get through and I'll take that.

"I really want to win this and I'm looking forward to playing Terry Jenkins on Friday, we always have good games."

Wade faces nine-dart sudden-death shoot-out

ANDY HAMILTON set up a nine-dart shoot-out with James Wade for a place in the second round of the PartyPoker.com Grand Slam of Darts with a superb 5-3 win over the left-hander.

Hamilton had to win 5-3 or better to stay alive in the tournament, and a flawless display of finishing secured just that result.

Wade played his part in a classic, averaging 102 but being left with no chance to reply as Hamilton piled home four ton-plus finishes.

Wade kicked off the game with a 180 and also hit a maximum in the second, only for Hamilton to take out 130 and 132 for a 2-0 lead.

Double top got Wade off the mark in the third, and he hit a 180 and was waiting on 24 to level in the fourth when Hamilton finished 102.

A two-dart 64 finish put Hamilton 4-1 up, before Wade landed a pair of double ten finishes to pull back to 4-3 - earning the three legs he needed to avoid elimination in the game.

But Hamilton produced a 12-dart finish, including a 180 and a 120 checkout, to wrap up the win and ensure a nine-dart shoot-out at the close of play.

"James is a great player and I had to pick up my game, and my finishing was excellent," said Hamilton.

"I had nothing to lose and I relaxed and enjoyed it, because I put too much pressure on myself in the earlier two games."

Tuesday 17 November 2009

30th Mill Rythe Darts Weekend

The 30th Darts Festival was staged at Mill Rythe over the weekend of 13th to 15th November and Arron Monk played superbly to join the elite band of players that have won both the Junior Singles and Men's Singles in their careers, the other players having achieved this oustanding feat of consistency and progress being: Andy Jenkins, Aaron Turner, Ricky Williams and now Arron Monk
The Ladies Singles was won for the 8th time by Mandy Solomons and Shane Filleul showed his potential as a future men's Champion by taking the Juniors title
Mick Cookman and Sam Rooney beat Andy Jenkins and Arron Monk to take the Men's Pairs with Wendy Reinstadtler and Ann Llewellyn winning against Tricia Wright and Dawn Standley to lift the Ladies Pairs title
The Marmite's Mushrooms Team of Martin Attree, John Clarke and Julie Boggust claimed victory in the Mixed Triples
For full stats please visit the HCDO Website http://www.hampshiredarts.org.uk/

Monday 16 November 2009

Wade wins Wolverhampton thriller

JAMES WADE produced a sensational performance to defeat Robert Thornton 5-3 in a high-quality encounter at the PartyPoker.com Grand Slam of Darts.

Wade produced the highest average of the tournament so far at 108.90 in claiming the victory after trailing 3-0 early on.

Thornton played his part in a thriller, averaging 100 but eventually paying for crucial missed doubles as Wade battled through for the win.

"Even at 3-0 I knew I was playing well," said Wade. "Robert missed an important double at three-all and it went my way after that."

The early stages went the way of Thornton, who took out 84 for the opening leg and produced a ten-dart leg in the second, after hitting seven perfect darts and seeing Wade miss two darts to take the leg himself.

Wade hit three 140s in the third, but double ten saw Thornton move 3-0 up with his opponent averaging 120.

Wade landed 180s in the next two legs to leave 81 after nine darts, taking both to pull back to 3-2 before punishing a missed double top by hitting the same bed to level.

Wade also hit a 180 in the seventh, but wired the bullseye for 121 finish before returning to punish three misses from Thornton to land double ten to break throw and lead for the first time.

He then sealed the win with an 88 finish on double seven to put one foot in the second round, while Thornton must defeat Gary Mawson on Wednesday to progress.

"I missed a double at three-all which cost me," admitted Thornton. "If I play the same way on Wednesday night I should hopefully be okay."

Sunday 15 November 2009

Wade opens with win in Wolverhampton

JAMES WADE won his opening match in Group H at the 2009 PartyPoker.com Grand Slam of Darts with a 5-3 triumph over Gary Mawson.

Wade struggled throughout in an under-par performance but managed to come out on top, and will now play Robert Thornton on Monday evening.

The world number three held throw at the start of the match despite Mawson having four opportunities to break.

Mawson won the second leg and had more chances to win the third, but the American was guilty of missing more doubles and Wade took a 2-1 lead.

Wade, who became Premier League champion back in May, broke his opponent's throw for a 3-1 lead, and then landed double 16 for a 4-1 advantage.

Wade missed three darts for the match in the sixth leg and Mawson stepped in by hitting double seven to keep his hopes alive.

Wade missed two more chances to close the game out in the next leg and Mawson hit double top to reduce the deficit to 4-3.

In the eighth leg Mawson missed one dart at double top to take the game into a deciding leg, and Wade pounced by converting a 102 checkout to get the two points.

Sunday 8 November 2009

Irvine Players Championship Sunday

COLIN MONK reached the last sixteen of the second Pro Tour event of the weekend at Irvine before losing to Steve Grubb. The run confirmed his place in the One Million Pound 2010 Ladbrokes.com World Championship.

Monk beat Andy Jenkins in the last 32 and Danny Pinhorne reached the last 64 losing to Mark Dudbridge.

Colin Osborne beat Michael van Gerwen in the final.

Saturday 7 November 2009

Irvine Players Championship Saturday

ARRON MONK followed last night's run to the final with a place in the last 64 at the Irvine Magnum Centre after beating Paul Nicholson but was beaten by Roland Scholten.

Colin Monk and Andy Jenkins went down at the same stage to Steve Beaton and Mark Webster.

Wesley Newton beat Steve Beaton by the odd leg in eleven in the final to claim his first Pro Tour win.

Grand Slam of Darts - Wildcard Qualifier

Commiserations to ARRON MONK in narrowly missing out in qualifying for the televised finals of thePartyPoker.com Grand Slam of Darts which inclusdes the top players from the PDC and BDO circuits
Arron played superbly in the Wildcard Qualifying event and eliminated some very prominent players to reach the final where he succumbed 3 - 5 to Steve Maish
Several Hampshire players also contested this event and a summary of their progress is detailed below
Hampshire based Players taking part included
Rick Lowther, Andy Jenkins, Billy Meakins, Steve Musson, Arron Monk, Colin Monk, Danny Pinhorne


PartyPoker.com Grand Slam of Darts
ITV Wildcard Qualifier
Preliminary Round
Billy Meakins 4-2 Paul Burrows
Danny Pinhorne 4-1 Chris Gibson
Steve Musson 4-2 Stuart Holden
Rick Lowther 4-3 Matt Padgett
First Round
Andy Jenkins (16) 4-3 Paul Hughes
Billy Meakins 4-0 Neil Dickson
Danny Pinhorne 4-0 Paul Alexander
Colin Monk (28) 4-0 John Dalton
Arron Monk 4-3 Wes Newton (11)
Steve Musson 4-0 Philip MacLeod
Rick Lowther 4-0 Steve Watts
Second Round
Andy Jenkins 4-1 Billy Meakins
Tony Martin 4-1 Alex Roy
Danny Pinhorne 4-1 Mick McGowan
Colin Monk 4-1 Martyn Turner
Dennis Priestley 4-2 Steve Musson
Wayne Jones 4-3 Rick Lowther
Arron Monk 4-1 Paul Williams
Third Round
Andy Jenkins 4-1 Tony Martin
Danny Pinhorne 4-2 Sean White
Peter Manley 4-0 Colin Monk
Arron Monk 4-3 Wayne Atwood
Fourth Round
Ronnie Baxter 4-3 Andy Jenkins
Jamie Caven 4-0 Danny Pinhorne
Arron Monk 4-2 Andy Boulton
Quarter-Finals
Arron Monk 4-2 Matt Clark
Semi-Finals
Arron Monk 4-3 Wayne Jones
Final
Steve Maish 5-3 Arron Monk
Winner wins place in PartyPoker.com Grand Slam of Darts

Thursday 5 November 2009

Match Report Hampshire v Lancashire Oct/Nov 09

MATCH REPORT – HAMPSHIRE v LANCASHIRE 2009-2010 Season

Compiled by Martyn Pegram

Ladies B – Game 1
Pennie “Pitstop” Lewis (18.02) vs Maria Ronson (16.67).
A hard fought game, with the 1st 2 legs going with the throw, but Pennie snatched the advantage with a 107 checkout in the 3rd. Maria took it all the way though and it needed a very nice 120 checkout from Pennie to win it.
Hamps 1-0 Lancs.

Game 2 – Gemma Hayter (16.03) vs Carole Beswick (16.34).
Gemma showed us some of the form that she’s been missing in the last few games by taking the 1st two legs, courtesy of 80 and 82 checkouts, but Carole came back with the next two to take it all the way. Gemma kept her composure though and won it in the end.
Hamps 2-0 Lancs.

Game 3 – Tara Power (16.91) vs Debbie Baxter (17.51).
Again the 1st two legs went with the throw, but Tara took the 3rd to give her the upper hand. Debbie came back though to take the 4th and 5th and bring a leg back for Lancs.
Hamps 2-1 Lancs.

Game 4 – Jane Monaghan (20.60) vs Liz Akister (18.68).
Jane took an early 2-0 lead in this one and Liz needed to hit an 81 and an 85 checkout in legs 3 and 4 to come back into it. Jane held her nerve though and produced her best darts in the 5th to clinch the game and the LOTM award with a 20.60 average.
Hamps 3-1 Lancs.

Game 5 – Charlotte Burgess (20.14) vs Karen Rimmer (15.21).
Karen took the 1st leg with the darts, but that was her only sniff as Charlotte came back with heavy scores and good finishing in the next three legs. Only 1 leg of double trouble put her average down to 20.14.
Hamps 4-1 Lancs.

Game 6 – Carole Shinar (15.38) vs Laura Howarth (18.89).
Laura took the 1st leg against the darts, which made it tough for Carole, although she held her throw in the 3rd leg, Laura produced her own LOTM performance to bring Lancs back into it. Hamps 4-2 Lancs.

Up came the Mens B next to see if they could keep the momentum going that the Ladies had started for them.
Game 1 – Dave Bonnett (21.08) vs John Moreton (22.77)
Dave didn’t really get going in this one and John took all 3 legs to give Lancs an early boost. Hamps 0-1 Lancs.

Game 2 – Mark Thorne (23.39) vs Ady Parr (23.77)
Mark was clinical in taking the lead with an 80 checkout to complete a 15 dart leg, but Ady hit straight back and when he broke Mark’s throw in the 3rd leg he held out to take the win 3-1. Hamps 0-2 Lancs.

Game 3 – Troy Butler (22.10) vs Vinny Mullineux (24.44)
The first 3 legs all went with throw as the players traded scores, but in the 4th leg when Troy had the darts, Vinny found some extra zing and took the game 3-1.
Hamps 0-3 Lancs.

Game 4 – Paul Dunn (22.18) vs Derek Timmins (23.55)
Paul took a leg to settle in and lost the first, but hit back with the next 2 and some good darts. Derek held his throw in the 4th and then produced another good leg when it mattered to stretch Lancs lead.
Hamps 0-4 Lancs.

Game 5 – Paul Reidy (24.34) vs Ben Fairley (27.69)
Paul seemed to be determined to make up the short fall and played some good darts, but the first break was decisive as Ben won the 4th leg against the darts to make it 5-0 to Lancs. Hamps 0-5 Lancs.



Game 6 – Jason Cook (25.13) vs Dave Charnock (24.87)
Jason finally gave Hampshire something to cheer as he went 2-0 up courtesy of a fine 12 dart leg. But Doug fought back and took it all the way to the 5th leg. Jason held his nerve though and finally chalked one up for us.
Hamps 1-5 Lancs.

Game 7 – Ron Atwill (25.17) vs Martin Barratt (33.83)
Ron seemed to feed off of the win from Jason and took the 1st leg against the darts. But Martin put in a MOTM performance including a 13 dart leg to win the 2nd and a 12 dart leg with a 161 checkout to win the 4th leg and restore his teams 5 leg lead.
Hamps 1-6 Lancs.

Game 8 – Danny Smith (27.83) vs James Marcroft (23.98)
Hampshire now needed all the remaining games for the draw and the ever reliable Danny Smith started the fightback with a comfortable 3-0 win that included a 13 dart leg in the 3rd leg.
Hamps 2-6 Lancs.

Game 9 – Colin Philpott (30.63) vs Glen Miller (without his band) (28.05)
Colin kept it going with a MOTM performance in this one. The 1st and 2nd legs both won in 14 darts. Despite Glen showing some resistence in the 3rd, Colin closed the game out to bring the deficit down to 3.
Hamps 3-6 Lancs.

Game 10 – Tony Hutchinson (24.51) vs Dave Bennett (26.88)
The mini revival didn’t go any further though as, despite some good darts, Tony went down 3-1 and Dave made the gap 4 games again, so Hampshire needed the next 2 games for the B sides to draw overall.
Hamps 3-7 Lancs.

Game 11 – Arron Monk (27.83) vs John Downs (26.02)
Arron was the model of consistency and broke John’s throw in legs 1 and 3 to take a comfortable win and leave us with a chance.
Hamps 4-7 Lancs.

Game 12 – Kev Murrell (21.07) vs Neil McDonald (21.78)
There wasn’t much to choose between the players in this one, but having lost his throw in the 1st leg Kev was always going to be up against it and Neil gave his side the win with a 3-0 victory.
Hamps 4-8 Lancs.

B sides summary:
LOTM – Jane Monaghan with 20.60.
MOTM – Colin Philpott with 30.63.
Highest Checkout – Pennie Lewis – 120
Quickest Leg – Jason Cook – 12 Darts
Ladies won 4-2. Men lost 4-8. Overall Score Hampshire 8-10 Lancashire.

Before the A sides started, there was a presentation on stage to help celebrate the fact that we have the current Inter-County Premier League Ladies A champions here in Hampshire.
Ladies A – Game 1
Maria Agozzino (15.89) vs Shereen Downs (15.19).
The first 3 legs all went against the throw in a scrappy affair, but Maria held her throw in the 4th leg and put her side into an early lead.
Hamps 1-0 Lancs.

Game 2 – Sue Lowther (15.49) vs Olive Byamukama (15.99).
Sue was scoring well, but just finding her doubles a little elusive on this occasion. Olive found the doubles when they were needed and restored parity for the Lancs side.
Hamps 1-1 Lancs.

Game 3 – Steffi Smee (17.03) vs Ann-Marie Millerchip (17.18).
The Hampshire lead was soon restored though as Steffi produced her 2nd LOTM performance in as many games. Despite it going to 5 legs, Steffi’s true class came through as she held her nerve when it really mattered.
Hamps 2-1 Lancs.


Game 4 – Elaine Harty (20.93) vs Lisa Ashton (24.99).
Elaine had probably the toughest draw against England International Lisa, but she managed the highest average in her game, but unfortunately it wasn’t to be as Lisa made the game level again.
Hamps 2-2 Lancs.

Game 5 – Wendy Reinstadtler (18.77) vs Karen Rimmer (18.56).
It was a good close game, but when Janet broke Wendy’s throw in the 2nd leg, it was always going to be tough and Janet ran out a 3-0 winner.
Hamps 2-3 Lancs.

Game 6 – Sue Thompson (20.20) vs Laura Howarth (20.27).
As the averages suggest this was a close one and Sue went into a 2-0 lead courtest of some good darts. But Laura hit a 96 checkout in the 3rd with Sue on a double and it game her the impetus to go on and claim the game overall.
Hamps 2-4 Lancs.

Up came the Mens A side to see if they could overturn a 4 leg gap.
Game 1 – Kev Ede (23.74) vs Tony Burrows (23.57)
Kev led by example and despite Tony having darts to win in the 4th leg, Kev’s grit and determination gave us an early advantage.
Hamps 1-0 Lancs.

Game 2 – Dennis Murrell (26.26) vs Eddie Dootson (25.41)
Dennis was in good form and took the 1st leg, but a stroke of bad luck came in the 2nd when he needed 38 and the darts bounced off the inside of the D19 wire. Eddie stepped in and then hit a 106 checkout in the 4th to win the game.
Hamps 1-1 Lancs.

Game 3 – Andy Mitchell (22.29) vs Mick Oversby (27.83)
Andy didn’t really find his range and when he did Mick seemed to up his game and he closed the game out 3-0.
Hamps 1-2 Lancs.

Game 4 – Sam Rooney (26.53) vs Garry Vincent (28.00)
Things started well for Sam with the 1st leg, but when Garry won the next 2 legs he only had to hold his throw in the 4th to win it. Sam produced some cracking darts though and made it 2 all, but missed doubles in the 5th meant Garry could step in, which he did to stretch Lancs lead. Hamps 1-3 Lancs.

Game 5 – Ricky Williams (24.76) vs David Place (25.42)
After going 1 down, Ricky fought back and hit a 111 checkout in leg 3 to put himself 2-1 up. David wasn’t finished though and took the 4th, then produced a nice 130 checkout to win it 3-2.
Hamps 1-4 Lancs.

Game 6 – Mark Smith (23.99) vs Tony Green (23.22)
With Lancs only needing 1 for victory it was always going to be tight, but Mark showed great quality taking the 1st two legs. Tony hit back in the next 3 to seal Lancs victory.
Hamps 1-5 Lancs.

Game 7 – Graham Hardy (25.21) vs Shaun Griffiths (26.11)
Graham couldn’t match Shaun’s scoring in the 1st two legs, but he did fight back to take the 3rd leg against the throw. Shaun hit straight back though in a tidy leg to stretch Lancs advantage.
Hamps 1-6 Lancs.

Game 8 – Steve Musson (31.34) vs Paul Whitworth (26.41)
Mussy was on fire and took an early lead with some great darts, including a 13 dart leg in the 3rd. He then took the 4th easily to secure his 2nd MOTM performance of the season.
Hamps 2-6 Lancs.

Game 9 – Phil Harty (27.18) vs Douggie Smith (28.30)
Douggie struck first with 2 legs in quick time, but Phil’s a battler and showed great bottle to bring it back to 2-2, winning the 4th leg with a 106 shot out. Having the darts in the 5th paid dividends though as Douggie won the game 3-2.
Hamps 2-7 Lancs.

Game 10 – Arron Monk (27.83) vs Andrew Gourlay (23.96)
Arron stepped up from the B side and proved again how consistent he is by hitting exactly the same average! It was capped by a fine 156 checkout in the 3rd leg.
Hamps 3-7 Lancs.

Game 11 – Nillson Pritchard (26.84) vs Gary Kendall (24.34)
Nillson was superb in the legs that he won, but the other legs got a tad scrappy which is how Gary managed to sneak a 3-2 depsite being 2,5 points lower on his average.
Hamps 3-8 Lancs.

Game 12 – Danny Ballard (20.57) vs Peter Connelly (24.64)
It’s hard to play last when you’ve been waiting all day and there’s not much on the line, and maybe that was the case for Danny as he didn’t find his rhythm. He did manage a very nonchalant 180, but that was the highlight for him as he lost 3-0.
Hamps 3-9 Lancs.

A sides summary:
LOTM – Steffi Smee with 17.06.
MOTM – Steve Musson with 31.34.
Highest Checkout – Arron Monk – 156
Quickest Leg – Steve Musson – 13 Darts
Ladies lost 2-4. Men lost 3-9. Overall Score Hampshire 5-13 Lancashire.

Combined Totals
Ladies drew 6-6. Men Lost 7-17. Hampshire 13-23.

It would be nice if we could make our home games a little more “intimidating” for the away teams to come to. Anyone who remembers the noise and support in the Cheshire game at the end of the last season will recall how much that gave the players a lift and helped the team to an important victory against a top side. Unfortunately the atmosphere on both days this time was fairly flat, with only muted support coming from our fans and fellow players. So please give your all in helping our county in upcoming games!



Martyn Pegram

Sunday 1 November 2009

Wade edged out of Hoofddorp semi by Beaton

STEVE BEATON reached his first major final since 1996 with a thrilling final leg victory over James Wade in the second semi-final to meet defending champion in the final of the 2009 European Championship.

Beaton led 10-7 before Wade won three legs on the trot to take the game into a deciding leg but Beaton kept Wade at bay with two ton scores early to and although Wade applied some pressure with a 140 and 122 leaving him with 20, Beaton took out double five to meet Taylor in the final.

Both players held in style in the opening two legs with Beaton checking out 109 only for Wade to take out 128 on the bull. That was the first of five legs in a row for Wade, with the world number two recording a ten-dart leg to break and go 2-1 up and a 120 checkout two legs later saw him break Beaton once more and move 4-1 ahead.

The in-form Beaton broke straight back thanks to three ton-plus scores and held his throw to trail 4-3 and then won the last two legs before the break to level the match at 5-5.

A 50 checkout on their return took Beaton in front and he made it four on the bounce to go 8-6 in front. Steve opened up a three-leg lead before Wade fired a 13-dart leg and after Beaton held to move within one leg of victory, Wade produced his hat-trick of legs to take it to a 21st leg - although Wade missed two at double ten to give Beaton the chance to take out 60 for the match. He missed two darts at tops and Wade returned to force the decider, which Beaton edged to move into the final and qualify for the PartyPoker.com Grand Slam of Darts.

Wade ousts King in European Championship

JAMES WADE claimed the last semi-final place after beating Mervyn King 10-6 in a repeat of his Premier League final triumph.

Wade faces Steve Beaton in the second semi-final on Sunday evening thanks to a powerful display which saw him miss double 12 for a nine-dart finish in the sixth leg.

"I haven't had the chance to hit a nine-darter for a while and I thought I nailed it but it wasn't to be - I'm delighted to get to the semis though," said Wade.

Wade set his stall out with a break of throw in the opening leg and took out 90 to move 2-0 in front. King retaliated with a hold of throw in the third leg but Wade hit four 180s in the next three legs to move 5-1 ahead - narrowly missing a nine-darter in the process - and took out 110 to stretch his lead to five legs.

King stopped the rot with three 100s to take the eighth leg but Wade replied with three ton-plusses to restore his five-leg lead at the break. Mervyn returned with an 11-dart leg to break Wade, but James issued a 12-dart riposte.

Another 11-dart leg gave King his fourth leg but Wade fired a 106 checkout for the fourth break of throw in a row. King threatened a comeback with consecutive 15-dart legs taking him to three behind Wade but a 100 followed by a 180 gave James a sure footing in the 16th leg and Wade took out double ten to clinch the final spot in Sunday afternoon's semi.

Saturday 31 October 2009

Wade ensures Hammer falls in Holland

JAMES WADE claimed the final place in the quarter-finals of the 2009 European Championship with a 9-5 win over Andy Hamilton.

Wade faces Mervyn King in a repeat of this year's Premier League final, throwing a 100.19 average and pressing on the accelerator in the latter stages of the contest.

The 26 year-old broke Hamilton in the opening leg and registered the first 180 of the game to move 2-0 up.

Hamilton responded with his first maximum in a 12-dart leg and Wade replicated that with two 180s of his own to go 3-1 up.

He looked like making that 4-1 with two 140s and another ton to leave six darts from 121 but missed two at double ten for the leg and Hamilton capitalised with an 86 checkout to take the fifth leg.

The Stoke man then missed tops to break Wade who pulled into a 4-2 lead but Hamilton ensured he remained on his tail with a 72 checkout. It was at this point that Wade stepped up a gear, moving into the break with a 5-3 lead with his fourth maximum and then checking out 101 in the first leg after the break to go 6-3 up. Three scores of 140-plus saw him move to within one leg of victory but Hamilton made him wait, a 112 checkout breaking Wade in the 13th leg.

It only delayed Wade's joy though, as he threw two tons and a 140 en route to taking out 79 and setting up a mouth-watering clash with King.

Friday 30 October 2009

Wade sees off Saint in Hoofddorp

JAMES WADE survived a scare as Alan Tabern nearly pulled off an heroic comeback before the world number two secured a 6-4 victory in the European Championship at the Claus Event Center, Hoofddorp.

Wade won in Holland last weekend and appeared to take that form into his meeting with Tabern as he quickly moved 5-1 up. But he then missed a dart for the match before Tabern won three legs on the trot to make the score 5-4 and then missed a dart to level for Wade progress.

"I got out of trouble out there really and I'll have to step up a gear now," said Wade, who meets Andy Hamilton in Saturday's second round.

Wade was stunned into action after when Tabern broke in the first leg - with the Premier League champion firing two 13 dart legs en route to winning four legs on the spin to put the St Helens ace to the sword.

Tabern began a fight back in the seventh leg after Wade missed a dart at tops for the match then Alan fired three tons and a 140 to storm back to trail by two legs. Tabern closed further still by winning the ninth leg and missed a dart at double 16 to level the game before Wade clinched his victory.

Sunday 25 October 2009

European Championship Draw

JAMES WADE, seeded 3 will play Alan Tabern in the opening round of the £200,000 European Championship which begins next Thursday October 29th.

His opening match at the Claus Event Center, Hoofddorp in the Netherlands will be on the Friday evening.

The draw was made just before Wade's final victory in today's PDC Pro Tour event at the Nuland venue.

Nuland Players Championship - Sunday

JAMES WADE took the title in the second of the two PDC Pro Tour events in the Netherlands beating Northern Irishman Brendan Dolan in the final.

Colin Monk had reached the semi-final losing to Wade.

Andy Jenkins lost to Jamie Caven in the last 32 and Arron Monk was edged out by Peter Manley in the last 64.

Wade won £6,000 for the victory

Saturday 24 October 2009

Nuland Players Championship - Saturday

ANDY JENKINS, ARRON MONK and JAMES WADE all made the last 32 of the first of the weekend's two Dutch PDC Pro Tour event.

Jenkins lost out to Raymond van Barneveld, Monk to Alan Tabern and Wade to Dylan Duo.

Rick Lowther made the last 64 losing out to Gary Anderson.

Steve Beaton took the £6,000 first prize beating Wes Newton in the final at the van der Valk Hotel, Nuland.

Sunday 18 October 2009

John McEvoy Gold Dart Classic

ANDY JENKINS reached the quarter-finals before being edged out by Paul Nicholson in the lastest PDC Pro Tour event in Killarney.

Nicholson went on to reach the final but was comprehensively beaten by Phil Taylor who took his 18th ranked title of 2009.

Saturday 17 October 2009

Gleneagle Irish Masters

ANDY JENKINS made the last 16 of the unranked Gleneagle Irish Masters at Ireland's National Event Centre in Killarney ahead of tomorrow's PDC Pro Tour event.

He was beaten by the Irish Matchplay champion Aodhagán O'Neill who makes his World Championship debut in December.

Colin Monk reached the last 64 losing to Keith Byrne.

Phil Taylor beat Wayne Jones in the final and took the top prize of €5,000.

Tuesday 6 October 2009

Wade edged out in last leg thriller at Skybet World Grand Prix

DENNIS PRIESTLEY won a final-leg thriller to dump world number two James Wade from the Skybet World Grand Prix in the first round for the second successive year.

Wade, the 2007 champion at the Citywest Hotel, was an early victim of Tony Eccles on the defence of his title last year and again failed to find top form in the double-start format.

He fell a set behind to the evergreen Yorkshireman before battling back level, but was edged out in the deciding set as Priestley moved through.

Wade made a confident start to take the first leg, but missed five darts to double his lead as the two-time World Champion levelled, and then took the third leg on tops.

Wade kicked off leg four with a 160 start, but Priestley replied with a 180 and punished four further missed doubles to take out double 18 for a 13-darter in wrapping up the opening set.

Wade landed a 180 and double four to lead in the second, before double ten saw Priestley pull back to one-all.

Wade hit another maximum and double ten in edging 2-1 up, before double four put the left-hander level in the game.

The pair traded the first two legs in the deciding set, before a 58 finish put Priestley 2-1 up.

He also hit a 140 to leave 72 in the next, but missed tops for the game as Wade landed double eight to send the game into a final-leg shoot-out.

Priestley landed scores of 180 and 140 to pull clear, and took out double top for a famous win.

"I enjoyed that," admitted Priestley. "We both played well and it entertained the crowd, and luckily it fell my way.

"To get off with a double in the final leg was the main aim but the 180 was great and I needed that."

Priestley plays Kevin Painter in Thursday's second round, and admits that the shorter formats in the early stages suit him.

"The short format suits me now at age 59," he added. "My energy levels are lower but it's first to three sets next and I'll look forward to that because I'd love to win another televised tournament before I retire.

"It's still lovely to win on stage and I have to enjoy it every time I do because I may not have too many more chances."

Sunday 4 October 2009

Cambridgeshire v Hampshire Match report

Hampshire trekked up to Cambridgeshire for the first game of the new BICC season. The ‘B’ sides kicked off proceedings on Saturday and with order of play reverting back to the old system, it was down to the Ladies to kick things off.
It was a case of the old guard showing the young guns how it’s done, with Jane Monaghan, Carole Shinar and Pennie ‘Pit Stop’ Lewis all winning their games. Pennie took the Lady of the Match award, with a 3-1 result and a 19.21 average. Tara Power was unlucky to lose 3-0, a result that really didn’t do her justice. She was unfortunate to be up against a very good but exceedingly slow player and probably lost the will after the first three darts. For Gemma Hayter and Charlotte Burgess, it was a case of missed doubles which cost them their matches. Final result was a 3-3 draw.
The Men’s B will be kicking themselves after missing an opportunity to punish a lacklustre Cambridgeshire performance. Again, it was a case of too many missed doubles. Arron monk provided the Men’s team with the perfect start, hitting a 13 dart leg, running out a 3-1 winner and earning himself the Match Award with a 25.77 average. Unfortunately, Dave Bonnett and Ron Atwill were unable to build on the good start and both lost their games before Mark Thorne hit 180 in his final leg to win his game 3-2 with a 25.36 average. At 2-2 Hampshire then had to wait till game nine for their next win and at 6-2 down the comeback was essential. Phil Harty started the ball rolling with a 3-2 win and 24.51 average, followed by a gutsy performance by Kevin Murrell who won 3-1 with a 22.65. Tony Hutchinson was next and woke up after going two nil down, to win 3-2 with a 24.28 average. With the score at 6-5 to the Home side, Hampshire’s hopes rested with experienced campaigner Colin Philpott to bring home a draw. Unfortunately, it was not to be, although he did take it to the wire, narrowly losing 3-2 with a better average than his opponent. The final score of 7-5 to Cambridgeshire flattered them and Hampshire’s Men know that they could have done a lot better.
With the score standing at 10-8 to Cambridgeshire overnight, it was all to play for on Sunday. After their success last season, it was hoped the Ladies would get the ‘A’ teams off to a flying start. Unfortunately, the dreaded doubles again cost them dear. Both Sue Lowther and Wendy Reinstadtler lost games they probably feel they should have won before Sue Thompson stopped the rot with a 3-1 win and 15.93 average. Steffi Smee then made it two all with a comfortable 3-0 win and 19.27 average to take the Lady of the Match award. Elaine Harty was unlucky to lose 3-2 after missing doubles in the final leg, her opponent taking out 280 in 5 darts to win. With the score at 3-2 to Cambridgeshire, it was hoped that Maria Aggozino could seal a draw, but playing the Cambridgeshire team Captain was never going to be easy and Maria lost out 3-0. Final score 4-2 to Cambridgeshire.
With the score at 14-10, the Mens ‘A’ had it all to do and things didn’t get off to a great start as Dennis Murrell and Andy Mitchell both lost. Phil Harty was up next and took his first game for the A side in his stride, winning 3-0 with a 27.83 average. Wins followed from MOM Steve Musson who won 3-0 with a 28.36 average and Captain, Kev Ede, who also won 3-0 with a 26.37. Danny Ballard couldn’t carry on the winning streak after a disappointing game and Graham Hardy also lost out before Nillson Pritchard ground out a 3-1 result with a 22.56 average. Sam Rooney was up next but lost out to Shaun Greatbatch, despite playing well before the baby-faced assassin aka Ricky Williams won 3-1 with a 24.95. Unfortunately, the Smiffys (Mark & Danny) were unable to beat their opponents and the team lost 7-5.
Final score for the weekend was 24-15 to Cambridgeshire, but it really should have been closer. It was a good competition between two equally matched teams, only marred by Cambridgeshire Captain Shaun Greatbatch’s refusal to shake our players hands. Shame on him.

Irish Players Championship

JAMES WADE made the last eight of the second event of the weekend at the Citywest Hotel in Dublin before being edged out by Alan Tabern.

Andy Jenkins reached the last sixteen before losing out to Wes Newton.

Newton had also beaten Ian Eames in the last 64 and Colin Monk departed in the same round, beaten by Paul Nicholson.

Phil Taylor beat Wes Newton in the final.

Saturday 3 October 2009

Irish Players Championship

JAMES WADE and ANDY JENKINS both reached the last 32 of the first of two £30,000 PDC Pro Tour events at the Citywest Hotel in Dublin.

Wade was beaten by Kevin McDine and Jenkins went down to Ronnie Baxter.

Adrian Lewis took the title beating Andy Hamilton in the final.

Sunday 27 September 2009

Virgin Atlantic South African Masters

JAMES WADE was narrowly beaten by 6-4 by Phil Taylor in the final of the Virgin Atlantic South African Masters at the Emperors Palace Casino, Johannesburg.

Wade fought back from 4-1 behind in the semi-final to beat Mervyn King 5-4 despite a perfect 9 dart leg from King and carrying an injury to a finger after an accident with a saw at home.

Wade had earlier won his opening match against former World Championship contestant Wynand Havenga by 4-1.

Tuesday 22 September 2009

BDO British Open Men's Pairs

After a brilliant effort it is commiserations to former Hampshire County players Paul Gibbs and Paul Hogan who just missed out on retaining the BDO British Open Men's Pairs Title they won last year
After some brilliant performances throughout the event including a win over the impressive pairing of Ted Hankey and Tony West they succumbed 0-3 in the Final to Steve West [England]and Alan Norris [Sweden]

Tuesday 15 September 2009

Steffi Smee - Last 8 Welsh Masters

Congratulations again to STEFFI SMEE on reaching the last 8 of the Women's Welsh Masters on 12-13 Sept
Steffi's results
Last 64 Won 3 - 2 against Sue Alexander [Merseyside]
Last 32 Won 4 - 0 against Tina Hamilton [London]
Last 16 Won 3 - 2 against Linda Jones [Oxfordshire]
Last 8 Lost 2 - 3 to Dee Bateman [Yorkshire]

Sunday 6 September 2009

Austrian Open Players Championship

JAMES WADE again fared best of the Hampshire contingent in the second PDC Pro Tour event of the weekend in Salzburg, and again it was Wayne Jones who knocked him out in the last sixteen.

Colin Monk made the last 64 but lost to Alan Tabern.

Jamie Caven defeated Steve Beaton in the final.

Saturday 5 September 2009

Austrian Open Players Championship

JAMES WADE made the last sixteen of the PDC's first event in Austria at the Salzburg Renaissance Hotel before losing to Wayne Jones.

Wade had beaten fellow Hampshireman Colin Monk in the last 64, the same round reached by Andy Jenkins who was beaten by Michael Rosenauer.

Adrian Lewis included a 9 dart leg in his final win over Spain's Carlos Rodriguez.

Friday 4 September 2009

Winmau World Masters Finals 2009

Congratulations to MAXINE CADWALLADER on winning through to the Semi-Finals of the Girls Winmau World Masters at Bridlington today

Full details of Hampshire players progress below

MEN
PAUL GIBBS
did not attend
LES WALLACE
did not attend
MIKE GILLETT
Prelim - walkover against Karl Mena [Gibraltar]
Beat Darren Hawken [England] 3-0
Lost to Dave Prins [England] 0-3

LADIES
STEFFI SMEE
Reached last 64
Beat Jackie O’Neil [N.Ireland] 4-2
Beat Linda Oden [Sweden] 4-0
Lost to Dee Bateman [England] 2-4

BOYS
CONNER BEVIS
Did not attend

GIRLS
MAXINE CADWALLADER
Reached Semi Finals
Beat Jane Harrick [England] 4-0
Beat Anne Marie Shuze [Germany] 4-2
Beat Elodie Maes [France] 4-2
Beat Gemma Bowen [Wales] 4-1
Lost in Semi final to Emily Davidson [Scotland] 2-4

GEMMA HAYTER
Beat Emma Alponen [Finland] 4-2
Lost to Angharad Birch [Wales] 1-4

Lakeside World Pro 2010 - International Play Offs

Hampshire Players had mixed fortunes at the Play Offs with Steffi Smee faring best in reaching the last 32 of the Ladies event where she was defeated by eventual Qualifier Rhian Edwards after taking some notable scalps including Sandra Greatbatch and Carina Ekberg

Full results for Hampshire Players:

LADIES
STEFFI SMEE beat Mette Henson [Norway] 3-0, Sandra Greatbatch [Cambs] 3-2,
Carina Ekberg [Sweden] 3-2 and then lost to Rhian Edwards 1-3 in last 32
NIKKI STEVENS lost to Dawn Standley [Norfolk] 0-3 in first round

MEN
PAUL GIBBS reached last 128 with victories over Dave Routledge [Cheshire] 2-0,
Sean McGowan [Ireland] 2-0 before losing 0-2 to John Elder [N.Ireland]
MIKE GILLETT lost 0-2 in the Preliminary Round to Martin McCloskey [N.Ireland]
DAVE HARPER also lost 0-2 in the Preliminary round to Kevin de Rosa [Cornwall]

Sunday 23 August 2009

PDC US Open

ANDY JENKINS and COLIN MONK both reached the last 16 of the PDC US Open in Atlanta winning $800 apiece. Jenkins was beaten by Dennis Priestley who went on to take the $12,000 title while Monk went down to former World finalist Kirk Shepherd.

Monk had earlier beaten James Wade in the last 32.

Saturday 22 August 2009

Atlanta Players Championship

JAMES WADE reached the final of the latest Pro Tour event in the USA but was beaten 6-2 by Colin Lloyd.

Andy Jenkins and Colin Monk both reached the last 32; Jenkins losing to Jelle Klaasen and Monk to Mark Walsh.

All three Hampshiremen take part in tomorrow's PDC US Open.

Sunday 16 August 2009

Canadian Players Championship

ANDY JENKINS reached the last eight of the Canadian Players Championship in London, Ontario before losing to holder and number one seed Dennis Priestley.

Priestley went on to retain his title beating Wes Newton in the final.

The result gives Jenkins another £700 towards the Order of Merit as he chases a spot in the World Grand Prix in Dublin.

There are further events in Atlanta and Salzburg before the final line up is determined.

Ladies Champions Cup Finals

Commiserations to Hampshire Fareham Ladies Super League Team as they lost a close contest 2-3 in the first round against Surrey Ladies

Hampshire Qualifiers - Winmau and World Pro

Hampshire Representatives
1. Winmau World Championships Finals
2. Lakeside World Professional International Play Offs

1. WINMAU WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS FINALS SEPTEMBER 2009

HAMPSHIRE QUALIFIERS FOR THE WINMAU WORLD FINALS ARE:


MEN
PAUL GIBBS British Grand Prix Table
LES WALLACE Past Winmau and World Pro Champion
MIKE GILLET BDO 18 – 25 Qualifier

WOMEN
STEPHANIE SMEE BICC ADAVE Tables No 6

BOYS
CONNER BEVIS Mill Rythe Youth Winner May 2009

GIRLS
GEMMA HAYTER Hampshire and Regional Play Off Winner


2. LAKESIDE WORLD PROFESSIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP JANUARY 2010

HAMPSHIRE QUALIFIERS FOR THE INTERNATIONAL PLAY OFFS ARE:

MEN
DAVE HARPER Hampshire County Play Off Winner
PAUL GIBBS British Grand Prix Table
LES WALLACE Past Winmau and World Pro Champion
MIKE GILLET BDO 18 – 25 Qualifier

WOMEN
NIKKI STEVENS Hampshire County Play Off Winner
STEPHANIE SMEE BICC ADAVE Tables No 6


Best of luck to all players

Monday 10 August 2009

Hampshire Youth - new member

The newest member of Hampshire Youth was born this morning a baby boy Declan John, he weighed in at 8lb 15.5oz to Ruth Shinar.
Mother and baby are both well, and Gran (Carole Shinar) is exhausted.

Sunday 2 August 2009

Champions Cup

Hampshire teams Fareham (Ladies) and Gosport Select (Men) were contesting the right to play in the Finals at Daventry on Sunday 16th August today. Please see below their fortunes.

Ladies first - Their opening game was against Isle of Wight, and they ran out 4-1 winners, they then faced Dorset in the final and again won 4-1 taking them through to the finals. Although the scoreline is flattering their matches were a lot closer than it looked on paper.
The team did Steph Smee proud, and she was not disappointed - she will now be able to enjoy her holiday in Bulgaria - lets hope she finds some time to practice whilst on holiday.
The ladies team was Sue Smee (Thompson); Wendy Reinstadtler; Maria Agozzino; Pennie Lewis and Elaine Harty.

Men - They played Avon in the first game who boasted Bob Anderson and Mark Dudbridge in their ranks, but the boys in blue did us proud and won 5-4, they then faced Somerset, who also had some very good players in their team, but ran out 5-4 winners, they then had to play Devon in the final, and unfortunately it wasn't to be as they lost 4-5 - it went right to the wire in the last match playing, the scoreline was 4-4, and 2-2 in legs, but the leg was lost, and thoughts of joining the ladies in Daventry lost.
Mens team was Steve Ballard; Danny Ballard; Rick Lowther; Steve Phipps; Steve Musson; Mark Smith; Roy Brown; Mick Cookman; Paul Gibbs - Brian Laws and Chris Witts were reserves.

Winmau World Championships Regional Play Offs

Congratulations to Gemma Hayter on qualifying through from the South West Play Offs
This brilliant performance has earned Gemma a place in the Girls Winmau World Finals at Bridlington on 4th - 5th September 2009
In the Boy's section Thomas Chant from Hampshire was unlucky by being narrowly beaten in the Regional Final

Saturday 1 August 2009

Hampshire Youth - Winmau regional

1st August 2009
We turned up full strength today - the girls were playing in another room, so not easy to give the support needed, but we managed it. Maxine Cadwallader had to play 1st against an in form Kimberley Lewis, but acquited herself very well, unfortunately losing 2-1. Gemma Hayter was on later in the other half of the draw, she beat Sian Coyle in the first round, won her second round match, and had to face Tegan Jones (who had knocked out Kimberley Lewis) in the final. Gemma did not disappoint and played as we know she can, beating Tegan 3-0 to go through to Bridlington.

The boys - George Hibbert and Ryan Groves went out in the first round, but played well. Ryan had to play another Hampshire player Justin Bradshaw. Justin went onto the quarter finals and went out to eventual winner Mitch Davies from West of England. Our star of the day was Thomas Chant who beat some demons today. He had never beaten Keegan Brown (IOW) or Carl Beattie (Dorset) before today, and he did it in some style, he then had to face a very tough oppenent, and missed bull to make it 2-2, before the W of E player won to go forward to Bridlington. It was a very good day of darts, and a thankyou to Jane Monaghan for staying and cheering on the players.

Hampshire Youth

Teenage Open 26th July 2009
Hampshire had 4 qualifiers - Thomas Chant; Tom Simmons; Conner Bevis & Shane Filleul.
Shane reached the last eight, going out 3-1 to Matt Dicken, in a very close encounter.

Hampshire also put 1 team in the KO Cup, and lost narrowly to Kent at the quarter final stage. The team consisted of Thomas Chant; Tom Simmons; Conner Bevis; Shane Filleul; George Hibbert; Sam Head; Ryan Groves & Rob Cook (our oldy). They beat West Midlands A in their first match, then followed up with the same result 4-3 against Dorset A.

They all did Hamsphire proud.

Wendy

Tuesday 28 July 2009

British Classic, Teenage Open &Youth K.O. Cup

British Classic
Steffi Smee reached the last 32 of the Ladies Singles at Northampton with impressive wins over Tracey Lovett [Berks] and Dawn Speed [Notts] before losing 1 - 3 to Lucy Ward Geddes of Essex

Teenage Open
Shane Filleul of Hampshire played briliantly to reach the last 8 of the Teenage Open with wins over Nathan Pearce [Sussex], Brandon Walsh [Yorkshire] and Matthew Hall [W.Midlands] and finally losing a very close match 2-3 to Matthew Dickens from the West of England

Youth K.O. Cup
Hampshire narrowly lost 3-4 to a strong Kent side at the quarter finals stages

Friday 24 July 2009

Rocket's renaissance rocks Wade's World Matchplay run

WORLD number two James Wade was dumped from the stanjames.com World Matchplay by a brilliant Ronnie Baxter display in Blackpool.

Wade has reached the final at the Winter Gardens for the past three years, winning in 2007, but was blitzed by the local-born favourite.

Baxter produced a clinical display to pull away from eight-all to win eight of the next ten legs for a 16-10 victory.

Wade made a fine start to win the opening two legs and secure a 2-0 lead, but was left waiting on a finish in the next after the duo traded 180s, with Baxter taking out double ten to break back.

A two-dart 78 finish saw Baxter level, and he produced a 14-darter to square matters again after Wade took the fifth leg in 13 darts.

Baxter then took the lead for the first time with a brilliant 132 checkout as Wade waited on 40, and he then punished a missed double top from the 2007 champion with double eight to lead 5-3.

The pair traded double top finishes before Baxter took out 102 to move three legs clear at 7-4 - but he hit two 180s in the next and failed to get a shot at a double as Wade followed up an earlier maximum with an 82 checkout.

He also hit 180s in the next two, and a sensational 153 finish saw him pull level once more.

Another pair of double top finishes took the scores to eight-all, but Wade began to feel the pressure as missed doubles in the next two legs allowed Baxter to edge in front.

They traded the next two before Wade produced a 13-darter to reduce the gap to one leg at 11-10 - but that would prove as close as he would get.

He hit an eight maximum of the game in the next leg, but missed three darts at a double as Baxter took out double top.

Four further misses in the next and one in the 24th leg allowed Baxter into a 14-10 lead, and he then landed a 177 and double top to move a leg away from victory.

Four successive visits to the oche for Wade without hitting a ton gave Baxter the advantage, and he landed double top to book a first Blackpool semi-final since 2005.

"James isn't number two in the world for nothing but it was my night," said Baxter. "It was all about hitting my doubles and I have a great chance now in this event.

"James missed a few doubles and that let me in. I'm enjoying myself and my form is coming back.

"I haven't done the business for a lot of years but I'm in the semis and have a great chance now.

"The tight matches I had in the early rounds teach you things and prepare you for if they happen again in the later stages."

Thursday 23 July 2009

Stylish Wade knocks Flying Scotsman out of World Matchplay

JAMES WADE continued his stanjames.com World Matchplay love affair with a superb 13-7 win over Gary Anderson as he progressed to the quarter-finals at Blackpool's Winter Gardens.

The 2007 champion has reached the final in his three previous World Matchplay campaigns, and remains on course for another appearance after a high-quality win over Anderson.

It was his first win over the Scot, whose debut in Blackpool came to a gallant end in an exciting contest.

The pair traded ten maximums, but missed doubles proved costly for Anderson as Wade's clinical accuracy set up a quarter-final with Ronnie Baxter.

Wade won the opening leg with a 100 finish, and defied maximums from Anderson to take the next three, with the Scot missing doubles in two.

Anderson hit a fourth 180 of the game and a 151 finish to get off the mark, but missed double 14 for a second leg as Wade punished him with a double 12 checkout set up by a 177 score.

Wade also landed 138 to leave tops to earn a sixth leg, which was sandwiched between finishes of double 18 and double top as Anderson pulled back to 6-3.

Anderson missed a chance on double six in the next as Wade landed a 62 finish on double ten, and though the Scot took out double 18 for a fourth leg further misses allowed the 2007 winner to pull clear with three successive legs.

Anderson then won two of the next three, defying a Wade maximum in the first, but at 11-6 another missed double top proved crucial.

Wade stepped up to hit the same bed and move a leg away from the win, although he then missed bullseye for victory in the next as Anderson scrambled home double ten.

Anderson also landed a 180 in the next leg, but Wade took out double 18 for a 13-darter which secured the win.

The 26-year-old acknowledged that he expected Anderson to prove stiff test for him, admitting: "This was the game I didn't want to play and I've come through it.

"I was very nervous beforehand because it was being built up as a massive game but I think the greatest battle for both of us was to overcome that and play a game of darts.

"Gary didn't produce his best but I hit enough vital shots to make sure he didn't turn up and did what I do best with some good finishing.

"I'm delighted to win the game but I can play better and I'll take the win and move on to the quarter-finals. I can relax now and enjoy the rest of the competition."

Wednesday 22 July 2009

Blackpool dream over for Jenkins

MARK WALSH kicked off his stanjames.com World Matchplay challenge with a 10-5 win over Andy Jenkins.

Walsh made amends for a defeat to Jenkins at the Winter Gardens two years ago to progress to the last 16, where he will meet either Raymond van Barneveld or Michael van Gerwen.

Although Jenkins took the opening leg with a 96 finish, Walsh settled the quickest to land a 180 in the next, double ten and then break Jenkins' throw on double four to lead 3-1.

A missed double top from Jenkins in the next allowed Walsh to move 4-1 up by hitting the same bed.

Jenkins took successive legs after the break to reduce the gap to 4-3, but Walsh crucially took the next leg - breaking throw on double top - to restore his cushion.

He landed a 180 in taking leg nine before a 64 checkout put him 7-3 up.

Portsmouth's Jenkins took two of the next three to remain in the hunt at 8-5, but Walsh landed a key 171 to set up a 36 finish in moving a leg away from the win.

He then wrapped up victory in style, taking out 121 for a 12-dart leg to move into the second round.

"I'm relieved and happy to get the win," said Walsh. "It was a hard game because Andy's a good friend and it's always tough playing him, I know what a battler he is.

"Being 4-1 didn't mean a lot to me because I know what he is capable of but I managed to edge through.

"I'm in a mindset where it doesn't worry me who I play next. I've beaten Raymond van Barneveld and Phil Taylor in finals this year and beaten James Wade twice, so it doesn't matter who I play. If I produce my darts, I'll win it."

Tuesday 21 July 2009

Wade brushes Caven aside at Blackpool

JAMES WADE began his bid for a second stanjames.com World Matchplay title by sweeping aside the challenge of qualifier Jamie Caven at Blackpool.

The 2007 champion - a finalist in the last three years at the Winter Gardens - made light work of the World Matchplay debutant to set up a tasty second round clash with Gary Anderson on Thursday.

Wade signalled his intent with a 122 finish in the game's opening leg and led 5-0 and 8-1 before closing out victory.

After a superb opening leg, Wade's accuracy on double top and double ten helped him win the next three to take a commanding lead.

He edged a scrappy fifth on double one, before Caven returned from the break with a 180 before getting off the mark.

Wade responded with an 11-darter which featured three successive 140s, before double ten and double 12 moved him 8-1 up.

Caven punished a rare miss from the world number two to double his score for the match, but his comeback stalled with two misses at double 18 to nick the next as Wade took a 9-2 cushion.

A 94 finish from Caven kept him in the contest, but he was again left to rue missed doubles as Wade ensured safe passage on double ten.

Sunday 19 July 2009

Graham Baker Memorial Singles

Graham Baker Memorial Singles
Staged at Basingstoke RFC
Sunday 19th July 2009

Results as received from Kevan Merritt are:

Winner Colin Monk

Final Colin Monk 7 Ricky Cull 6

[Colin won the deciding leg with a 145 checkout]

Semi Finals

Colin Monk 6 Danny Smith 3
Ricky Cull 6 Ricky Williams 4

Last 8 losers

Paul Hogan
Arron Monk
Scott Watson
Ginger Webb

Saturday 18 July 2009

English National Singles Finals

At the English National Singles Finals held in Stockport on 18th July Hampshire's
NILLSON PRITCHARD performed brilliantly to reach the last 8 stage with defeats over
Mick Bushby, Aaron Turner and Adrian Genery before eventually succumbing 2 legs to 4 to Doug Smith
Unfortunately Hampshire's Lady representative JANE MONAGHAN lost in the preliminary stage to Barbara Legge

Friday 10 July 2009

Hampshire Qualifiers - BDO Events

Congratulations to the following Players who have won through from Hampshire Play-Offs to represent the County in next stages
These are:

World Professional Championships International Play Offs
Thursday 3rd September - Bridlington
Men
DAVE HARPER
Ladies

NIKKI STEVENS

Winmau World Championships RegioNal Play Off
Saturday 1st August - Bristol

Winmau Men Qualifiers

STEVE DONOHOE
DAVE HARPER
PHIL HARTY
TONY HUTCHINSON

Winmau Ladies Qualifiers
SHIRLEY DERRICK
ABI JURD
JANE MONAGHAN
TARA POWER


Winmau Boys Qualifiers

JUSTIN BRADSHAW
THOMAS CHANT
RYAN GROVES
GEORGE HIBBERT


Winmau Girls Qualifiers

MAXINE CADWALLADER
GEMMA HAYTER

Qualified to Winmau Finals
CONNER BEVIS - Winner Mill Rythe Youth

BDO Presentation to BRENDA CUMMINGS


Brenda will be presented with the 2009 BDO Loyalty Award at the British Gold Cup Finals at Lakeside,Frimley Green, on Saturday 11th July at approximately 12.30pm

This is a very proud day for Brenda and Hampshire

Sunday 5 July 2009

Stan James World Matchplay Draw

JAMES WADE seeded 2 will begin his campaign against Jamie Caven in the £400,000 event at the Blackpool Winter Gardens in a couple of weeks.

Andy Jenkins starts against seed 14 Mark Walsh.

Wade will be the third match of the evening on Tuesday 21 July and Jenkins wraps up the afternoon session on Wednesday 22 July.

2007 champion Wade is bidding for his fourth consecutive final at the famous venue.

Wade beaten by van Barneveld in Vegas semi

RAYMOND VAN BARNEVELD won a place in the PartyPoker.net Las Vegas Desert Classic final with an 11-6 win over James Wade.

The Dutchman avenged his defeat to Wade in the Whyte & Mackay Premier League Darts semi-finals recently with another classy display to remain on course for a second Desert Classic win.

Although Wade led 2-1 early on, van Barneveld did the damage by winning eight of the next nine legs to power clear.

He landed a 12-darter in the fourth leg and then took out 156 to win the first break of throw and a 3-2 lead.

He also hit 180s in the next two legs, including an 11-darter to break throw, before taking out double 16 to win a fifth successive leg.

Wade replied with an 11-darter, a 171 in the next set up double 16 for van Barneveld to go 7-3 up, and he followed up a 12-darter by punishing a missed double top from the world number two to move further clear.

Wade landed double ten and double eight to reduce the arrears, before van Barneveld once again landed double 16, moving himself a leg away from the win.

Double six kept Wade in the game, but three ton-plus scores pulled van Barneveld away before he took out double 16 for victory.

"I've been relaxed this week and the tournament has gone well so far," said van Barneveld, who meets Taylor in the final.

"The standard is great in every event now and it's up to me to be good enough.

"I was depressed by not making the Premier League final but I have to start believing in myself again and I believe I can go all the way in this.

"Phil will have to play his best darts to beat me."

Steffi Smee - Finalist - Welsh Classic Ladies Singles

After a tremendous performance at the Welsh Classic Ladies Singles and despite defeating some top players en route to the Final including Tricia Wright, Dawn Standley and Rhian Edwards Steffi Smee fell at the last hurdle to an in form Dee Batemen

Saturday 4 July 2009

Wade beats Lewis to reach Vegas semi-final

JAMES WADE won through to the semi-finals of the PartyPoker.net Las Vegas Desert Classic with a 10-6 win over Adrian Lewis.

The world number two remains on course for a second successive Desert Classic final following the victory against his fellow young gun.

Lewis had produced his best displays this year to defeat Vincent van der Voort and Peter Manley and reach the quarters, but was failed by missed doubles at crucial stages.

Wade kicked off the game with a 104 finish to break Lewis' throw and then doubled his lead on double ten.

A 121 bullseye finish got Lewis off the mark, with Wade going 3-1 up in 13 darts as the pair traded 180s before the Stoke star posted another maximum in winning leg five.

Wade took out double top to win two of the next three legs, but Lewis landed two 180s in an 11-darter to pull back to 5-4.

Wade denied him the chance to level with another tops finish to move 6-4 up, before they once more traded maximums in the 11th leg, which Lewis edged on double eight.

It was, though, to be as close as he would get as Wade took the next two legs on double ten and then punished Lewis' misses to take out double six for a 9-5 cushion.

Double 19 from Lewis kept him in the game, but Wade was too strong in the next and took out double ten to progress to a last four clash with Raymond van Barneveld.

"It wasn't a vintage performance but Adrian missed a lot of doubles," said Wade. "It was a battle and I came through it.

"I can't wait to play Raymond, it will be a good game and also a tough game."

Friday 3 July 2009

Wade into Las Vegas quarter-finals

JAMES WADE powered through to the quarter-finals of the PartyPoker.net Las Vegas Desert Classic, seeing off Andy Hamilton 8-4 at the Mandalay Bay Resort.

The world number two followed up his win over Phillip Hazel on Thursday with a strong performance to overcome Hamilton, who hit two ten-dart legs but fell to defeat.

Hamilton started well, kicking off the match with a 180 and holding his throw for a 2-1 lead before Wade landed double top for the second time in the game to level.

The left-hander then found another gear, producing a superb 11-darter to break throw and then also win the next two legs to push 5-2 up with maximums in three successive legs.

Hamilton responded with a ten-darter in leg eight and another in the tenth to reduce the gap to 6-4 - but crucially missed four darts at a double in the next.

Wade stepped in once more on tops to lead 7-4, before wrapping up victory and a last eight spot with a 13-darter on double 14.

"Andy missed a few shots and I took advantage," said Wade.

"I think I can play better and know I'll have to if I'm going to win this but I'm enjoying the event and looking forward to my next game."

Thursday 2 July 2009

Wade wins through in the Desert Classic

JAMES WADE survived a scare against rookie Phillip Hazel before second his place in round two of the PartyPoker.net Las Vegas Desert Classic.

World number two Wade, the recent Whyte & Mackay Premier League Darts champion, roared out of the blocks with 180s in the first two legs before allowing qualifier Hazel to level and provide him with nervous moments before securing a 6-3 win.

Wade kicked off the match with a 13-darter, and landed a second 180 in the next as he established a 2-0 cushion.

Missed doubles in the next allowed Hazel to get off the mark on double 18, and the Kiwi hit a 180 in taking the fourth to square the game.

Wade fired in a 14-darter to edge the fifth, but a missed double top allowed Hazel in to level matters again on double eight.

Wade, last year's runner-up, landed two double top finishes to move clear at 5-3, and landed a 180 in the next before sealing the win on double nine.

Wednesday 1 July 2009

Monk out of Desert Classic

DENNIS PRIESTLEY opened the PartyPoker.net Las Vegas Desert Classic with a clinical 6-1 victory over Colin Monk.

Monk had battled through the qualifiers to win a spot in the Desert Classic for the first time, but his stay in the main event was made brief by a strong Priestley display.

While the pair traded finishes of 66 and 81 in the opening two legs, Priestley took the third with a 96 checkout and then broke in the fourth with a 136 finish to lead 3-1.

Monk missed four doubles to break back in the fifth, which Priestley took on double four, before the pair endured some wayward finishing in the next.

Monk saw a dart for double top land in double five, and Priestley stepped in to finish on double one to move 5-1 up and a leg away from the victory.

He then sealed victory by taking out 81 on double 18, setting up a second round date with Phil Taylor.

PartyPoker.net Las Vegas Desert Classic Draw

COLIN MONK will open the £200,000 event live on Sky Sports this evening at 7.00 p.m. with a clash against Dennis Priestley.

James Wade will start against Kiwi qualifier Phillip Hazel on Thursday evening.

Las Vegas Players Championship

JAMES WADE reached the quarter finals of the £30,000 Players Championship at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas but was beaten by Gary Anderson. Wade collected £800 towards the Order of Merit.

Andy Jenkins and Colin Monk both reached the last 64 winning £200.

Jenkins had guaranteed his place at the Stan James World Matchplay by finishing sufficiently high in the Players Championship Order of Merit at the conclusion of the Las Vegas event.

Ronnie Baxter took the top prize of £6,000 with a final win over Phil Taylor. Larry Butler and Wes Newton both hit nine dart legs during the event.

Tuesday 30 June 2009

Las Vegas Desert Classic Second Qualifier

COLIN MONK has qualified for the final stages of the PartyPoker.net Las Vegas Desert Classic.

A win over Canadian Ken MacNeil sealed his place.

Sam Rooney fell just short, losing out to Gary Anderson in one of the six finals. Rooney collected £1,000 for his run.

Andy Jenkins and Robbie Newland were eliminated in the second round.

Monday 29 June 2009

Las Vegas Desert Classic First Qualifier

ANDY JENKINS was closest to making the televised last 32 but fell short in the group semi-final to Tony Eccles picking up a £250 consolation.

Ian Jopling was edged out in the third round by Vincent van der Voort, Robbie Newland and Colin Monk made the second round.

A second qualifier for the last six spots in the main event takes place tomorrow.

James Wade is already qualified for the £200,000 event.

Sunday 28 June 2009

Brian Fox & Bob Anderson Snr Memorial Events 2009

BRIAN FOX / BOB ANDERSON Snr MEMORIAL COMPETITIONS REPORT 2009


The Brian Fox Memorial Singles and Bob Anderson Snr Memorial pairs dart competitions took place at the Rugby Club in Basingstoke on Saturday 20th June 2009, in aid of the Heart of Darts Charity.

The Bob Anderson Snr Memorial pairs saw Kev Ede from Winchester and Kevan Merritt from Basingstoke, win £80 plus trophy and memento, beating Robbie Hare and Nick Popham, both from the Isle of Wight, 4-3 in the final, who took away £40. The losing semi-finalists were Nillson Pritchard from Southampton and Steve Barnes from Andover and Brian Bennis and Les Gibbs, both from Basingstoke, each pair receiving £15.

Nillson Pritchard from Southampton won the Brian Fox Memorial Singles, winning £80 plus trophy. He beat Graham Hardy, from Basingstoke, 4-3 in the final, who took away £40. The losing semi-finalists were Robbie Hare, last year’s winner from the Isle of Wight and Kev Ede from Winchester, each receiving £20.

John Bartlett, the organiser, said the event was a great success in the new venue, with a lot of support from both players and spectators, raising just over £400 for the Heart of Darts charity. This money was raised from 50% of the entry fees, donations from the dart players, a raffle and from selling the heart of dart pins.

John would like to thank the families for their contribution and support and for all those who entered to make it such a memorable day. Thanks also to the Rugby Club for holding the event this year.

This was the 4th year of holding these events and the Rugby Club have confirmed they are happy to continue with this event the same time next year, with a provisional date arranged for 19th June 2010.

Saturday 27 June 2009

Hampshire Open - Benchmark for future unity in Darts??

At the present time where the word ‘Open’ is possibly the most misinterpreted and misused word in the darting dictionary it was a privilege and a pleasure to myself and all at Hampshire Darts to welcome some 520 entrants into the 2009 Hampshire Open on 31st of May this year

These players converged on the Novotel Southampton from all darts affiliations, Corporations and Organisation for the express purpose of participation in totally open and fair competition with like minded players with no shackles of politics, discrimination or seeding procedures to favour the few with the only criteria for entry being that there was a love for the sport of darts, a belief in the real maxim of ‘Darts for All’ and where no one had need to scan the entry form for any small print that would indicate their ineligibility to participate and thereby again make a mockery of the word ‘open’

There were also some 150 supporters and many children that came along to see their friends, relatives and darting heroes participate in what was a fantastic day of darts made even more enjoyable by the sporting matter in which all matches were played and the terrific co-operation received from all that took part

The Hampshire Open in its present form has now been running for 10 years and whilst the Hampshire County Darts Organisation has always adopted a completely open policy of entry and participation it was even more significant this year after the various directives, recommendations and inferences of doom and gloom citing probable reductions in entries and boycotts by players as mooted by the BDO were we to continue to follow this policy it gives me even greater pleasure to announce that despite the economic climate and the gloomy forecasts the entry was 16% up on 2008!!!!!!!

For those that support the BDO system there were British Grand Prix points applicable and any BDO player reaching the last 8 will be entitled to the points allocated for the respective placing but this did not cause any animosity from others and all players were as gracious in defeat as they were delighted at victory regardless of against whom they pitted their skills and it must always be remembered that there are some very good players around who support neither the BDO or PDC system and on the day their contribution was very noticeable, as was that of the young players and Ladies that took part and reached the latter stages of the event

It serves to illustrate the fact that if points are made available then they are there to be won by right and not by default due to reduced competition



Roger Boyeson’s excellent DFW Draw system ensured that there was absolutely no favouritism or seeding and as should be the case in true open competition the winner was the player that performed best and most consistently on the day and Colin Monk certainly fulfilled that criteria

There is no case for seeding in such events as a player comes into an open competition with the form carried with him or her on the day and not the form they left behind at the last tournament or run of tournaments

I would like to thank each and every player and supporter that attended the Hampshire Open for their sportsmanship, friendliness and assistance in making it a most memorable and enjoyable day with special thanks also to the Event Sponsors of Hartwell Car Sales, Southern Echo Newspapers and the Novotel Hotel as without the confidence and support of these Companies the event would not be possible

In conclusion and as a plea for unity I would suggest that those Darts bodies that seek to create a divide amongst those that want to play the lovely sport of darts to please consider that whatever level success the Hampshire open achieved it was down to the unification of the players as whilst as a one off event it cannot be construed as totally definitive it is certainly a good ‘straw poll’ indication of how many players would like to see events run in the future!!

The mere fact that so many players welcomed the opportunity to play with and against one another in completely open matchplay does pose the question as to whether those discriminative darts bodies who profess to be doing so really are looking after the future of our sport as I think I could point in their direction at least 520 players who would possibly beg to differ!!!

Whatever the politics it must not detract from the tremendous performance of Colin Monk who took his 3rd Hampshire open Title in brilliant style

To all players and supporters we look forward to seeing you all at the Novotel on Saturday 29th May 2010 for the Daily Echo - 11th Hampshire Open

Sunday 21 June 2009

German Darts Trophy - Day 2

THERE was little joy for both Andy Jenkins and Colin Monk in Dinslaken in the second of two £30,000 events.

Jenkins was beaten by German Tomas Seyler and Monk by Kevin Painter.

Mark Walsh won his fourth tour event of the year beating Andy Hamilton in the final.

Saturday 20 June 2009

German Darts Trophy - Dinslaken

COLIN MONK reached the last 32 at the Stadthalle in Dinslaken in the first of two £30,000 events over the weekend.

Monk had earlier beaten Andy Jenkins and Dutchman Gino Vos before losing out to Wayne Jones.

Andy Smith won the title with a final win over Colin Lloyd and had hit a perfect 9 darter earlier in the afternoon.

Sunday 14 June 2009

Barnsley Players Championship Sunday

COLIN MONK fired in a nine darter during his win over Ray Farrell in the opening round at Barnsley Metrodome winning a £2,000 bonus.

Unfortunately Ronnie Baxter halted his progress in the last 64.

Arron Monk reached the same round before losing to Steve Beaton and Sean White made the last 64 for the first time in his PDC career before Alex Roy ended his hopes.

Andy Jenkins fared best of the travelling Hampshiremen reaching the last 32 before going out to Gary Anderson.