DartManiacs Monday League report

mr.jingle · 15-11-2011 9:39pm

Great report Paul and a super comeback from the Tassie it has to be said. This season really turning out to be a classic even at this early stage and by the look of things it's bound to get interesting soon when the Rathnew boys start playing some of there rivals in the next couple of weeks.

Keep them reports coming Paul you really get the sense of being there reading this and could imagine the jumps of joy of the Tassie players after that comeback along with the disappointment of the BHFC players. Very good read;)

SLACK.ONE. · 16-11-2011 12:50am

SOUNDS AS DO IT WAS A CRACKING GAME OF DARTS BETWEEN TWO OF THE MONDAY NIGHTS STRONGER TEAMS...GREAT TO SEE THE "TASSIE A" SHOW SOME OF THE FORM THAT GOT THEM SO CLOSE LAST YEAR...SHOULD GO ONE BETTER THIS YEAR WITH THE PLAYERS THEY HAVE...SORRY FREDDIE...GREAT READ AS ALWAYS DARTMANIC...

DartManiac · 23-11-2011 2:19am

Welcome to the seventh week of Borough league action,coming to you this week from the home of league leader's,FitzPatrick's, in Rathnew.They've made a flawless start to the campaign,winning all six of their games,and tonight face former champs,the Noggin Hunter's,in what should be a close encounter.The Hunter's will be looking to close the gap on the Wicklow lads,while Fitzers will want to see off one of their main rivals,and maintain their one hundred per cent record.I travelled down with the Noggin lads and we arrived at 9.40.After the gargle was ordered we kicked off at 9.55.

Clifford Doyle 2 v Joe McKeever 0.
A tight opener in which Joe hits a ton and 125,but monkey's just got the edge with two 85s and a ton,before sealing it on 13s.The 2nd leg is another close call,with Clifford outscoring Joe by 2 tons to 1.Joe gets 3 pops at a double,but fails,allowing Clifford to draw first blood on the madhouse.

John Quinn 2 v Mark Mulvaney 0.
A struggle for both lads in the opener,but it's John's steady scoring that wins the day and he takes out double 4 to go one up.Mark fires in an 85-ton combo,but is countered by an 85-100-100-96 run from the local lad,which sets up a double 10 kill in 21 arrows.2 nil Fitzers.
Glen FitzPatrick 2 v Kevin Lacey 1.
Two tons and a 121 puts Glen in control,but he fails on the double,allowing Kevin to gratefully accept the invite on double top to take the opener.Glen strikes back hard in the 2nd leg,firing in a 140,before creasing the wire of tops for a 160 outshot.He casually levels on the top lipstick in 18 spears.The decider is a real nip and tucker,with Kevin hitting solid on the wire 60s,while Glen is also consistent,hitting 81,95 and a crucial 114 set up.The end comes when Glen pops the double 2,with Kevin sitting on a 2 darter.
Martin O Connor 1 v Tom Hennessy 2.
Both lads start cautiously,before Martin explodes into life with an 85-100,before taking out a magical 147 outshot to set the place alight.Tom responds brilliantly,with a 140 and ton to start the 2nd leg,and while Martin hits back with a 140-100 of his own,the game is levelled when Tom slots home a 64 kill in 21 darts.In a cracking decider Martin breaks with 83-100,while Tom hits 140-100 to stay on terms.It starts to go Martins way as Tom struggles to keep the pressure on,and the local man sets up tops with Tom back on 129.Then 19-treble 20-bull.Game shot.It's 3-1.
Gaffer Merrigan 2 v John Cummins 1.
John fires in a max as he tries to keep the momentum going,but is met with a stern reply from Gaffer,who hits a ton and 135 before a devastating 82 outshot on the bull in 17 darts.Another blitz of 85-140-100 from the home man leaves him on the brink of victory,but he fails with 6 darts,allowing John to nip in and square the game on the top lipstick.There's an edgy beginning to the decider,with both lads out of range on the big trebles,but Gaffer steadies himself with a decent 85-100 salvo,before a sweet 89 kill on double 16 to leave Fitzers one away from victory.
Dave Corcoran 1 v Jimmy Byrne 2.
A 125 and 95 help Dave on his way to a 21 dart opener on tops,before a stunning reply from Jimmy,which featured a 121 and 140,that saw him level in 18 darts,again on tops.The scoring remains high in the deciding leg as Dave's 96 and 140 is matched by Jimmy's 100-81-121 trio.It boils down to the finishing,and it's Jimmy's double 10 that wins the day,and thus keeps the match alive.
Bomber Murphy 2 v Mark Roe 1.
Fitzer's captain controls the opening leg with some solid scoring,before a late ton from Mark closes the gap.It's too late however as Bomber nails double 2 to go one up.The Noggin new boy bravely responds,rattling off a brace of tons on his way to levelling on two tens.It's up for grabs now,but Bomber makes his experience count,and while Mark can manage only steady 60s,Bomber starts to blitz the redbit.He scores a ton and 120,before wrapping the game up with a clinical 113 kill in 18 arrows.Game over.
Paddy Corcoran 2 v Tony Brennan 0.
Two ton's to one in Paddy's favour,as the home anchorman makes it 1 nil on double 2 in 23 darts.There's little in it in the 2nd leg with both lads finding it hard to get motivated,but in the end it goes Paddy's way as he makes the score 6-2 with a double 8 finish,with Tony sitting on 25.
180s-John Cummins.
Man of the match-Tom Hennessy[Although on the losing side,he won an outstanding game].
Foodwatch-The best sambo's in the Borough.Enough said.

So the FitzPatrick's bandwagon keeps rolling on.That's 7 on the bounce now,and they show no signs of easing up.Incredibly they've only lost 8 individual games during this period,and look very much like the team to beat at this stage.They have real strength in depth,and can call on the likes of Alan Delaney and Paddy Newsome,who didn't play this evening,if the need arises.Of course they must visit the Fishermen next week,and they will be anxious to make up for the defeat they suffered at the hands of the Tassie last week.It should be an explosive encounter,that could have a huge bearing on the season,even at this stage.What to make of the Hunter's?Well,in truth they never truly looked like taking anything from tonight's game,although at 4-2 and 1 all in the seventh they still had a glimmer of hope.But a 113 kill from Bomber quickly dimmed that hope.They've still got a decent team,and although they remain on 7 points,by all accounts they should be further up the table.Maybe they can turn things around with a decent string of results,as they've played most of the big teams now.Until next time,good luck.

constant 26 · 23-11-2011 12:26pm

another great report dartmaniac but surely sambos couldnt ba as good as the loughs lol

DartManiac · 29-11-2011 9:06pm

Welcome to the Monday night report dart's fans.And what a match we have for you this week,as FitzPatrick's put their unbeaten record on the line against the formidable Fisherman's team.It's a mouthwatering encounter that could have a big impact on both team's title aspirations.A win for Fitzers at the home of one of their main rivals will send a significant message to everyone,while a win for the Bray lads will lead to a logjam at the top of the table.I arrived at 8.30 to get a good vantage point for the evening,not to mention a few scoops before kick off!Fitzer's were not far behind,arriving at a refreshing 9.15.After a few practice arrows we started at 9.45-
Mick Kane 2 v Clifford Doyle 1.
2 tons from Mick,and a ton -99 from Monkey in a tense opening leg,which eventually goes Mick's way on double 2.A brace of tons and a brilliant 95 kill from Monkey takes us to a decider.Mick kicks off with a max and looks in control before he narrowly fails to take out 18s for a 102 finish.Monkey plugs away,hitting a ton and 81 to give himself a squeak at 9s,which he unfortunately misses allowing Mick in on the madhouse at the 10th pop.

P J Bryan 2 v John Quinn 1.
A close opening leg here,which went the visitor's way as John fired in a tasty 140 and 99 before taking out 95 on double 8.PJ hit back,as you would expect,with a pair of tons,but John was in fine form again,nailing a ton and 140 to apply the pressure.Then PJ hit a 102 to set up tops,which he mopped up to take us to a 3rd leg.The decider saw the Bray hitman blitz a trio of tons,with John firing back gamely with a 97-100-96 salvo.It boiled down to the double once again,and it went P J's way with a double 8 finish as John looked on with 48 on the board.
Joe Fagan 2 v Glen FitzPatrick 0.
Both lads get into an early groove on the lipstick,with Joe hitting 2 tons and a 95 to Glen's 100-81-85.Once again we're nibbling our fingernails as Joe takes out 8s after Glen misses 2 pops at tops.Glen takes control of the 2nd leg with a 140-85-90 run as Joe tries to stay in touch with a ton and 81.The leg is there for Glen,but he misses 8 darts to level,allowing Joe in to make it 3 zip on the top lipstick.
Thomas Smyth 2 v Bomber Murphy 1.
2 ballymun's and an 85 put Smythy in prime position to take the opener.He fails to set up the finish,however,and Bomber makes him pay with a tops kill.Thomas bites back in the 2nd leg,hitting 140-99 and 78 to set up a double top leveller.The decider is an edgy affair as both lads feel the pressure.Bomber fires in a trio of 85s,which is countered by a 121-80 response from Thomas.Once again it comes down to who finishes first,and it goes the Fishermen's way yet again as Smythy holds his nerve on tops,with Bomber waiting on 60.
Anto Lynch 2 v Gaffer Merrigan 0.
Cracking darts from Gaffer as he hits three tons and a 97 to set up tops,while Anto can only muster steady 85s and 60s.The Rathnew man fails narrowly with his attempt at 10s,but it proves crucial when Anto takes out a stunning 150 kill,to send the locals wild.To his credit Gaffer fires in a brace of tons in the 2nd leg,but Anto's in full flow with three of his own before smoothly nailing the top lipstick to put Bray in an unassailable 5 nil lead.
Denis FitzPatrick 0 v Martin O Connor 2.
Martin scores steadily in the opener,and despite a 140 from Denis,he takes it on double 8.Denis makes a come back bid in the 2nd stanza,firing in a 140-97 combo,but a 125 and a brilliant 84 finish on the bull from Martin puts Fitzers on the board at last.
Paddy Scanlon 1 v Dave Corcoran 2.
After some nice scoring throughout the opening leg,Paddy hits double trouble allowing Dave back in the hunt,but he steadies up to take it eventually on double 10.Dave repays the compliment in leg 2,hitting a fine sequence of 85-99 and 85 before taking us to a decider on the top lipstick.Dave is more consistent in the final leg hitting an 83 and 120,to set up double top.Paddy won't give in though,and almost takes out a 130 finish,narrowly failing on tops.Dave's in no mood to give him another pop and seals victory on double 10.
Paddy Corcoran 1 v Toffo Devlin 2.
There's some fine scoring in the opener,with both lads hitting 121s and 81s,but it's Paddy who nicks it on double 4.Roared on by his team mates,Toffo produces a blistering response,caning the redbit with scores of 100-81 and 127 to set up the kill on two 16s.
Both lads go toe to toe in a cracking decider,with Paddy's pair of tons countered by Toffo's 140 and 95.It's all down to the finishing,and Toffo manages to hold his nerve on double 5,with Paddy lurking on a 2 darter,to give him a popular victory.

180s-Mick Kane.
Man Of The Match-Anto Lynch[Brilliant 150 outshot stopped a possible comeback from Fitzers].
Foodwatch-Chipper chips and sausages[Although I think someone ate all the sausages before they arrived!!].

An amazing result for the Fishermen here tonight.I don't think anyone expected the game to be over after the first 5 games.Certainly not Bomber,who had kept Martin O Connor and Alan Delaney at the back.It just shows how important it is to get momentum going right from the start.Had Monkey nicked the first game on double 9,then the momentum shifts to Fitzer's.It's all history now,however,and Bray will be thrilled to get the win against possibly their fiercest rivals.It leaves both teams level on 14 points,one ahead of Baker's,who have a game in hand.Close behind them come the Tassie[A] and the Lough,who fought out a draw tonight.It's all bubbling up nicely as we head into the Christmas period,and I don't think anyone can tell which way this league will go.

TOP DARTS-Well done to young Aaron Vaughan from Shankill,who reached the quarter final's of the youth's at the Player's Championship in Carlow at the weekend.Aaron plays out of the Dublin Dart Academy in Shankill,and is highly rated by Academy supervisor John Devlin.Anyone interested in playing at the academy can contact John on 0852740394.
TASSIE COMP-Don't forget,we have our second Thursday night singles tournament in the Tassie next Thursday 8th Dec.Usual entry fee[10 euro/Free 5 euro voucher back

DartManiac · 06-12-2011 9:12pm

We're just 2 weeks away from the Christmas break,and we have an extremely tight situation at the top of the league.As I said last week,there are just 3 points separating the top five, and it's impossible to say who will break free from the pack and go on to glory.Perhaps no team will assert completely,and we could go all the way to the last game of the season.Anyhow,I'm down in the Tassie tonight for the game between the Tassie and the Lough.The Lough are strong favourites tonight,but will be aware that they were defeated by this Tassie team last term,and will not be taking the game lightly.The reigning champs must start to show some of last year's form if they are to retain their crown,while the Tassie lads are looking to move up the table with a positive result this evening.I arrived at 9.10 and the Lough lads were not far behind.After a few relaxers we kicked off at around 10-

Ken Flynn 0 v Kevin O Callaghan 2.
A pair of tons and an 82 from Kev sets up a sweet 72 kill on tops to give him the opener.Ken hits a ton and several solid 60s in the 2nd leg, but Kevin's 81-83-85 run leaves him in position for another sublime outshot as he finishes 89 on double 8.A brace of 21 darters gives the Lough the start they wanted.
John Devlin 1 v Tommy O Reilly 2.
Tommy's scoring well in the opener with a pair of tons and a 140 that sees him scorch down to a double.However 6 missed attempts opens it up for John to sneak it on double 18 in 23 arrows.Tommy regroups in the 2nd leg with a solid run of 81-81 and a ton,before squaring things on double 10,once again in 23.The decider bubbles slowly to begin with,before bursting into life as both lads go ton-125.Tommy hits 78 to set up the kill,before John applies the squeeze with a classy 140 to leave double 9.The Lough man answers in style with a cool double 10 finish in 20 darts,leaving the score at 2 zip to the visitor's.
Tony Maher 0 v Bullet Kellaghan 2.
2 tons apiece from both lads in an exciting opener,which sways Bullet's way after a 130 to set up a double 16 finish.The standard remains high in leg two,with Bullet slotting in a 125-81-84 streak,while Tony fires in three 60s and a ton.Bullet is almost made to pay for 3 missed doubles when Tony narrowly misses tops for a 106 kill.He composes himself however to nail double 5,giving the Lough a commanding 3 nil lead.
Andy O TOole 1 v Lar Bryan 2.
A blistering opening here from Andy,as he peppers the redbit,hitting 3 tons and an 85 on his way to securing the opener on double 4 in 21 spears.The treble 20 continues to take a hammering,as Andy starts the leg with a pair of 125s,but now Lar is finding his range also with a 123-99 combo.Andy leaves himself on 80,but a stunning 114 kill from Lar in 18 darts takes us all the way.The momentum has switched now,and Lar blitzes a ton and 137 to take control as Andy pushes to make it happen.A desperate 85-140 combo from the Tassie man is not quite enough, and Lar seals victory on double 8 in 22 arrows.
Paddy Peacock 0 v Billy Matthews 2.
Solid enough scoring from Paddy in the opener,but solid's non enough against Billy's 121-100.The Lough move closer to victory when Billy hits double 8 in 23 darts.It's more of the same in the 2nd leg,where Paddy can only muster a 96 and a pair of 59s as Billy powers in a 134-81-99 run,before sealing the deal on 8s once more,this time in a nifty 22 darts.
Hubert Kelly 2 v Darren Matthews 0.
Some fine scoring from Hubert as he nails a brace of tons and an 81 as Darren is out of range on the treble 20.The Tassie number six eventually takes the opener on the tricky double 3.The 2nd leg is a tight affair,with both lads scoring solid if unspectacular darts down to the double.And at last a game goes the home team's way when Hubert slots home double 16 after Darren misses tops.
Eamon Whelan 0 v Robbie Whelan 2.
A swift start from both players here,with Eamon's 140-80 countered by a brace of tons from Robbie.Unfortunately the double proves frustratingly elusive for both,before Robbie nails the madhouse to go one up.The 2nd leg featured plenty of 60s and 85s from both lads,and Eamon almost pulled out a fantastic 113 finish,just missing double 18.However in the end the point went to Robbie when he hit double 10 for a tasty 22 darter.A good game.
John Smith 2 v Neil McDonald 0.
2 tons from Neil and 85-81 from John in a competitive opening stanza.Neil misses 3 darts at tops allowing John to nip in and take the leg on double 10.Neil retaliates with a fine run of 85-100-85-100 to take a commanding lead in the 2nd leg.Once again,however,he can't apply the killer blow,and after 6 missed chances at 16s,John is on his tail and gets a second point for the Tassie by taking out the top lipstick.

Man of the match-Lar Bryan[Showed plenty of class to put Andy's fire out]
180s-None tonight.
Foodwatch-If you like tuna,happy days.If not well...!

A comprehensive win in the end for the champs,as their consistent scoring gained the day.Despite losing a couple of high profile player's they remain a force to be reckoned with.They've had just an ok start to the season by their lofty standards,yet have only tasted defeat once,that coming against probable league favourites,the Fishermen.There's a fair way to go yet though,and I know the Lough boys still believe they can make up for that defeat.With so much quality in their team,it would be a brave man who writes them off.The Tassie lads can take heart from their performance tonight I feel,as they gave themselves chances with some fine scoring.Alas there were too many poor scores to counteract the good.They've shown in the past that on their night they can beat any team,and I know Joe Hayes feels there's a few big performances in them.Don't forget lads there's a singles competition in the Tassie this Thursday.ALL ARE WELCOME-10 euro in/5 euro drink voucher back.Sign in before 8pm-Draw at 8.15-Comp starts after draw.Hope to see you there lads.

DartManiac · 13-12-2011 12:39pm

It's the final week of Monday night action before the league takes a seven week break for Christmas and the singles and doubles.There's still only three points between the top five teams,but there will surely be a shift at the top tonight as the Tassie[A] take on Fitzer's and Bakers play the Noggin.The Bray lads are finished for the year,while the Lough should see off McKenna's.I'm down in the Tassie for the crucial encounter between two real contenders,the Tassie and FitzPatrick's.I honestly couldn't favour one over the other,such is the quality of both teams.I arrived at the venue at 9 o clock and made myself comfortable.Fitzers arrived refreshingly early at 9.25 and we were all set to go at 9.45-
Mick Cummins 2 v Martin O Connor 1.
Both lads are out of the blocks like a bullet.Mick's ton-140 is matched by Martin's 140-ton.The tassie man narrowly fails on tops for a 120 outshot,which allows Martin to nip in and take the opener on tops in 20 darts.Mick bounces back in leg two with a trio of tons,before nailing a sweet 80 kill on tops to take us to a decider.Mick takes control of the final leg with solid scores of 100-83 and 81,before Martin shows grit with a defiant 140 to leave it tight and tense.However Mick will not be denied as he hits a 95 set up en route to a double 10 kill in 21 arrows to give the Tassie a 1 nil lead.
Mark Ennis 0 v John Quinn 2.
What an opening leg we had here,with Mark blitzing a pair of 140s,only for John to fire 4 straight tons and a magical 101 outshot for a super 15 dart opener.A stunned Mark tries valiantly to recover,with a run of 81-100-85,but John is in a different zone with a furious 100-140-95 salvo,before clipping the wire of 8s for a 124 kill.The Rathnew man makes no mistake on double 4 to square the tie in 16 brilliant spears.
Bill Bailey 2 v Glen FitzPatrick 1.
Bill rides the momentum wave as he fires in a 100-95-99 trio,with Glen's 122 his only score of note.A double 4 finish seals the opener for the Tassie man.Glen roars back in the 2nd leg with an impressive 100-140 before narrowly missing tops for a 118 kill.He makes no mistake with his 16th arrow,nailing tops to take us to a rubber game.Both lads score solidly in the decider,and it's up for grabs.Glen leaves himself handy on 68 and prepares for his shot.But Bill has read a different script and stuns Fitzers with a majestic 118 finish,to send the home team wild.
Andy Lacey 2 v Gaffer Merrigan 0.
There's no hiding place here as both lads come out firing deadly bullets.Gaffer's in the redbit with a ton-81-140 blitz,but Andy's right on his case with a 121-92-100 salvo,before a devastating 90 finish on the bull takes the opener in a sizzling 18 spears.Gaffer hits right back with a beautiful 140-140 duo,but incredibly it aint good enough with Andy going 125-100-100-85,before taking out double 10 in 19 darts,with Gaffer sitting on a mere 59.Cracking game.
Andy Poole 2 v Clifford Doyle 1.
It's a nip and tuck opener here,with Andy's 95-83-98 matched by Monkey's 100-81-100.Monkey leaves himself double 18 but Andy snuffs out double 15 to pinch it.Monkey controls the 2nd leg with some solid darts,and eventually seals it on double 1 after a succession of missed attempts.It was extremely tense stuff in the decider as you would expect,but it seemed to be going Monkeys direction following a brace of tons.However Andy bravely fought back with a ton-81 of his own to give himself a chance.And he took that chance by nailing double 16 after Monkey had missed one at tops himself.4-1 Tassie.
Ben Prenter 2 v Alan Delaney 1.
Ben is off the blocks like Usain Bolt,firing in a 125-100 and 99,before gobbling up tops in 18 darts to leave the Tassie close to victory.Alan uses all his experience as he hits a defiant 177 to keep his hopes alive,but Ben almost takes out a brilliant 126,narrowly failing on double 6.Alan still has to take out 93,but he does so with a magical bull finish to take us to a decider.And what a decider this was.Alan was relentless hitting a run of 80-85-81 and 121,while Ben retaliated with a brace of 140s and a 95.Alan had first pop,but missed his chance at 16s,allowing Ben the opportunity to wrap things up with a cool 60 finish on the top lipstick.17 arrows was all it took.Game over.
Robbie Smith 2 v Gaffer Giffney 0.
A pair of 80s and a 95 give Robbie an edge in the opener.However the double proves troublesome,and Gaffer gets 2 darts to take it.He misses though,and Robbie slots home the double 2.Gaffer hits a ton and some solid 60s as he tries to get back in the game.But Robbie's in full flow with a run of 85-81-100 and 95 to set up the kill on tops in a fine 18 darts.
Peter Rowe 2 v Bomber Murphy 1.
Some quality scoring in the final game of the night,with Bomber ripping in a pair of tons and a 134 to leave him on a possible 16 darter.He struggles to close it out and the Phantom looms in his wing mirror,before Bomber eventually secures it on double 1.Fitzer's captain continues to score well,hitting an 85-140 salvo,but this time Peter's 85-95 and 96 kill proves good enough.The high scoring pattern continues in the decider,as both men go treble crazy.Bomber hits a sizzling run of 100-140 and 123,with Peter retaliating with a 140-85-100 blitz.Once again Bomber can't seal the deal,and after 6 missed pops,Peter steps in to take out double 2 to complete a fantastic night for the Tassie.

180s-None tonight.
Man of the match-For the Tassie Andy Lacey's 18/19 darters just gets it.John Quinn was devastating for Fitzer's though.
Foodwatch-Ham and cheese,chicken and plenty of tuna sambo's.With crisps of course.

That was a high quality game tonight folks.7-1 does not reflect the intensity and atmosphere of the occasion.Both teams were really pumped up for it,and right from the off the scoring was hot.Four of the first six games went to a decider,with Fitzer's having darts in two of them for the game.The Tassie lads took out some great finishes at crucial times,like Andy Lacey's 90 finish on the bull and Bill Bailey's brilliant 118.The Tassie will be over the moon with this result as it leaves them sitting pretty at the top for Christmas.They've had 2 huge wins now against Bray and Fitzer's and have recovered well from a somewhat shaky start.Fitzer's have suffered 2 losses in quick succession,to Bray and the Tassie,and will look to reverse those results in the second half of the season.They scored brilliantly tonight,but were let down slightly by their doubles.I've no doubt they'll bounce back strongly.

I.C.U · 13-12-2011 3:32pm

Good read paul i let us down but lost to top class darts hes one to watch this season

DartManiac · 31-01-2012 9:32pm

After 3 sizzling weeks of singles and doubles action,we return to Borough league business.I've been talking with most of the
lads,and they can't wait to get back into action.I'd like to offer my congratulations to all the winners of the singles and
doubles,Monday,Tuesday and Wednesday.There were some really exciting final's and you all done the Borough league proud.This being
a Monday night league column,I must offer special congrats to Clifford Doyle from Fitzer's,who held his nerve to deprive P J Bryan
a trio of singles title's.Monkey is just one of many young players who make the league a great place to learn and improve your
skills against many wily and hardened veterans[I'm not saying who!!].Anyhow,on to tonight's featured game between highflying
Baker's and the Fishermen from Bray.Unfortunately I was unable to attend the game,however I had a man in position to capture all
the relevant details-
Shane Ryan 2 v P J Bryan 1.
Shane takes the opener with a tops kill in 23 arrows before a leveller on double 16 from P J in 21.The decider goes Shanes's
way,and he gives Baker's an early lead with a double 10 finish.
Gus Fleming 1 v Joe Fagan 2.
Gus doesn't mess about in the opener and he takes it on 16s in an impressive 18 spears.Joe responds well to take out the top
lipstick in a solid 20 darts.The crucial decider is a close affair,but a tasty 78 kill from Joe in 21 darts levels the match
score.
Dave Peacock 2 v Mark Cranley 0.
A smooth 19 darter from the excellent young Peacock is good enough to secure the opener.Then a tighter 2nd stanza is decided when
Dave nails tops in 25 darts.2-1 Bakers.
Gary Murphy 0 v Anto Lynch.
Bray's captain puts in a polished display of dartistry,with a tops kill in 22 darts to take the opener.Gary fires back in
determined style to leave double 8 in 21 darts,but a stunning 107 finish from Anto in 18 darts squares things up once more.
Ben FitzPatrick 2 v John Doonan 1.
Ben gets his nose in front when he nails double 5,only for John to respond with a smooth top of the shop finish in 20 darts.The
decider is a scrappy affair with both lads getting chances,however its Ben who eventually takes out double 7 to give Baker's the
lead once more.
Dan Boyce 2 v Paddy Scanlon 1.
Paddy shows grit to take a tight opening leg on double 10,before Boycie levels matters in another tight one,also on the side
lipstick.Dan stays cool in the decider to see of Paddy's challenge with a solid 22 dart finish on double 4.4-2 Baker's.
Ste Andrews 1 v Willie Murphy 2.
Ste puts Bakers on the brink of victory when taking out double 4 in 23 darts.Willie displays fantastic fortitude to level the game
with a quality 110 finish,before a devastating 17 dart blitz to make it 4-3.Brilliant stuff.
Karl Dunne 1 v Paul Devlin 2.
An understandably tense affair with so much depending on it,goes to a crunch deciding leg as both lads struggle for form.Amid
scenes of great excitement it's Toffo who hits a crucial double 8 to give the visitor's a share of the spoils.

180s-Ste Andrews.
Man of the match-Anto Lynch.
Foodwatch-Fine array of sambo's I heard!!

So what do we make of this result?Well obviously the Fishermen will take a point after being on the brink of defeat,while the lads
from Baker's have to feel a little sick,having put themselves in position to defeat one of their strongest rivals.It's the first
game back after the break,and we can expect these 2 fine teams to improve on tonight's display.With Fitzer's,Tassie[A] and the
Lough all winning,it's amazingly tight at the top.I'm looking forward to next weeks games already.
PS-Just to let you guys know I will be resuming the monthly singles competition in the Silver Tassie[Tenner entry/Fiver drink
voucher etc] next Thurs 9th Feb.Anyone interested contact Paul on 0868636974.Cheers.

DartManiac · 07-02-2012 9:14pm

Due to time constraints,I'm afraid I can only give a brief synopsis of tonights featured game between the Lough[A] and FitzPatrick's.
It was a fabulous display of consistency from the Rathnew boys as they easily dismissed a very strong Lough outfit.They got off to a great start when the wily Martin O Connor recovered from going a leg down to the excellent Kevin O Callaghan's 16 darter.A pair of 140,s in each of the next 2 legs helped secure the point for Martin.Their momentum was consolidated when southpaw,John Quinn saw off the formidable challenge of Lar Bryan in 21 and 19 darts respectively.
Tony Geraghty tried hard to steady the Lough's ship,but paid the price for missed doubles when Dave Corcoran calmly dispatched a brace of double 5s to put the visitors in a commanding lead.
Next up we had Bullet Kellaghan and Gaffer Merrigan giving us a fine display of consistency and finishing power.Gaffer took the opener on the bull in 21 darts,before Bullet repaid the compliment with a deadly 135 kill also on the bullseye,this time in 18 arrows.A crucial error by Bullet in the decider when busting 65 allowed Gaffer in to snatch the win on double 10 to put Rathnew one away from victory.
They had to wait a while longer as Billy Matthews put in a commanding performance,which featured two 180s and a 104 finish,to see off a stern challenge from Paddy Corcoran jr.
Top pressure player Leo Murphy was called upon to keep the game alive,and although he played his usual solid game,the Rathnew Bomb exploded with 22 and 19 dart finishes to secure a fantastic win for Fitzers.
Damien Douglas piled on the agony for the Lough by seeing off a brave challenge from Peadar Taite by 2 legs to 1,before Alan Delaney produced a masterclass in power scoring and finishing to defeat a stunned Neil McDonald in 18 and 19 darts,featuring finishes of 115 and 94.
180s-Gaffer Merrigan,Billy Matthews[2].
Men of the match-Martin O Connor,John Quinn and Alan Delaney[Cant split them].
Foodwatch-Truly outstanding-Chicken salad and chicken,cheese and stuffing sambo's with crisps[MMMassive].

Brilliant win for Fitzer's,who on tonight's evidence seem the team to beat in the long run.They have such strength in depth,which some of the other teams simply can't match,and this may prove crucial down the line.The Lough will bounce back from this and I'm sure captain,Tony Taite will be expecting a much improved performance next time following this humbling defeat.Bray,Baker's and the Tassie cant afford any slip ups with Fitzers in such irresistible form.The following 3 weeks will tell a lot.I can't wait.
PS-Don't forget the singles comp this Thurs in the Silver Tassie[Reg 8.30-Start 9pm].

DartManiac · 14-02-2012 8:00pm

Welcome one and all to this week's league report.I'm down in Baker's once again for a top of the table encounter between the highflying Baker's team and the powerful Tassie[A] squad.It promises to be a cracking encounter,and quite an informative one also.The Tassie lads kindly made room on their minibus for the Maniac,and we arrived at our destination at 9.35.The action commenced at about 9.50-
Shane Ryan 2 v Ben Prenter 1.
Both lads are a bit edgy to begin with,but a decisive 140 from Shane sets up a double 8 finish to seal the opener.Ben wakes up in the 2nd leg,firing in a series of solid scores,yet Shane almost pulls out a whopping 138 finish,narrowly missing double 12.Ben then steps up to level on double 19.The decider is predictably tight,as both lads play solid stuff,but once again a timely 140 from Shane sets up a smooth 94 kill on tops to give Bakers the opening point.
Angus Fleming 2 v Mick Cummins 0.
Some quality darts here,with Mick firing in 81-100-99,and Gussie going 90-140.It boils down to the double,which Gussie nails,hitting 19s in 22 arrows.Mick digs deep,producing fine scores of 100-121 and a 109 to leave tops,but Gussie is on his case with a brace of tons and a 94 setting up the decisive winning dart at double 16.
Dave Peacock 2 v Andy Lacey 1.
A 133 from Andy gives him the edge in a scrappy opening leg,which he eventually takes on double 4.Things liven up in leg two,as both lads loosen up.A power packed blitz of 121-140 and 98 from Dave sets up an 18 dart kill on double 10 to take us to a decider.It proves to be a quality leg,with both lads in the groove.Andy's 96-100-95 allows him a pop at 16s,which he cant finish,and up stepped young Dave to dispose of double 8 for a sizzling 17 darter.
Gary Murphy 2 v Mark Ennis 1.
Gary hits a magical max on his way to taking a high class opening leg on double 16 in just 17 darts.Former singles champ Mark shows real quality by firing in a pair of tons and a 138,to set up his own 17 darter on tops,thus taking us all the way in this cracking game.The standard remained incredibly high,with Mark's 85-125 trumped by a trio of ballymuns from young Gary.The end came when Gary wiped out double 9 in 18 deadly spears.Top game.
Ste Andrews 2 v Bill Bailey 1.
Beautiful opening leg of darts from Stephen here,featuring a ton and 140,before a clinical double 18 finish in 16 darts.It looked all over when Ste fired in another 140 in leg two,but credit must go to Bill who fought back with a pair of tons to apply the pressure.After a few missed chances by both it was Bill who took us to a decider on double 1.The spring returned to Ste's step,when he hit a 3rd 140 of the game,followed by a ton and 81 allowing him the chance to plant the match winning double 10 in 20 arrows.Game over.
Richie Kelly 2 v Andy Poole 1.
Andy nicks a tight opening leg on tops,before Richie produces some nice darts,including a 121 to level things on double 8.Both lads hop off the treble 20 in a cracking decider,with Richie nailing 3 tons to Andy's 2,before double trouble kicked in.Eventually it was Richie who grabbed his opportunity,finishing double 5 to put Bakers 6 up.
Clive Devlin 2 v John Kenny 1.
John fires in a pair of tons,but he cant prevent Clive from nicking the opener on double 13 following a pair of tons and an 84 of his own.Clive looks good in the second leg also,when a 140 leaves him on the brink of victory.However a gutsy 100 finish from John ensures we go all the way.Its a close encounter of the 3rd leg,as both lads reach the double at the same time,but once more the ball bounces Baker's way as Clive takes out double 4 for the win.
Johnny Andrews 2 v Gary Gregory 0.
2 tons apeice from the anchormen here,but when Gary missed tops for a 120 kill Johnny pounced on tops himself to take a classy opener.Gary got the earplugs on as the locals roared on their captain to an inevitable victory.A 140 was the icing on the cake for Johnny before double 10 ended the agony for the Tassie lads.

180s-Gary Murphy.
Man of the match-Gary Murphy[Classy display from a rapidly improving young pitcher].
Foodwatch-I managed to get my hands on a chicken and stuffing sambo,but have you ever seen piranha's feeding on flesh!!

What a performance from this young Baker's team.Despite the fact that they are near the summit of the league,some felt they would struggle against the cream of the league.However,following draws against the Fishermen and the Lough,and now this comprehensive defeat of the Tassie[A],they must be considered real title threats.Many of their team played with the Farm last year,and they seem to have learned from last years experience,when they were in the hunt until running out of steam late on.They are a great team unit,and fight tooth and nail for one another,which is great to see.They have another tough game coming up in two weeks against Fitzer's,but on this form they need fear nobody.The Tassie lads were clearly rattled,as they have been playing so well themselves recently.However they've only lost two points this evening,and will regroup and get back to accumulating those points.Ray Clarke will not allow this defeat to derail their drive for the title.Until next time happy darting.

DartManiac · 21-02-2012 8:29pm

This week I'm in the Fisherman's in Bray for their game against the Silver Tassie team.The Bray lads are playing well,and will be hard to beat,as you would expect with so many quality operators.The Tassie are coming off a respectable draw against former champs,the Noggin Hunter's,and will be out to cause an upset,similar to last years 6-2 win over the Lough[A].I travelled to the venue with the Tassie lads and we arrived at 9.45.The match kicked off at 10-

Joe Fagan 2 v Peter Duffy 0.
Joe starts with an immediate bang,firing in a 140,which seems to unsettle Peter.It's one way traffic from here in the opener,as Joe cruises to a 20 darter on double 10.Peter tries to up his game in the second leg,but hits too many treble ones,which you cant do when Joe is whipping in maximums.The 180 allied to some fine back up scores puts Joe in a commanding lead,and he almost puts the icing on the cake with a cracking 131 finish,but just wires the double 16.But he makes no mistake with his next visit,polishing off double 8 in 17 darts.
Thomas Smyth 2 v Gareth Kelly 0.
Thomas just has the edge in a close opener,hitting 85-80-120 to Gareth's 85-83,before taking out tops in 22 arrows.Gareth begins with a ton in the 2nd leg,but Smythy is in full flow now nailing a 135-137 combo before a beautiful 80 finish on 10s in 15 deadly spears.Hard to beat that!
P J Bryan 2 v Eamon Whelan 0.
The Fishermen continue to roll in the third game,as P J fires in the 2nd max of the evening en route to a swift kill on double 8 in 18 darts.Eamon plays solidly in the 2nd leg,but a couple of slack visits gives P J the initiative,and he wraps up the win on double 16 in 21 arrows.
Mark Cranley 0 v Tony Maher 2.
Both lads struggle for consistency in a scrappy opening leg,but it's Tony who snatches it on the top lipstick.It's a similar story in leg 2 as the pair try too hard to make things click.Mark fires an 81 and 78,but cant nail his double,and Tony sneaks the win on 16s much to the relief of his team mates.
Anto Lynch 2 v Danny Lynch 0.
Two tons and a 95 put Anto in a commanding lead in the opener,yet he can't wrap it up immediately and Danny closes in to get a pop at 16s.He fails to convert and Anto mops up a madhouse finish to go one up.Solid 60s from the Tassie man are not enough to prevent Anto from stealing a march in the second stanza,with a fine run of 85-100-85 and 81,and when he killed double 10 the home team were on the brink of victory.
Willie Murphy 2 v Paddy Peacock 0.
A blistering start from Willie here with a 140-100 salvo,as Paddy struggles to keep pace.However an 85-95 combo from the Tassie man gives him a glimmer of hope,but that is crushed when Willie takes out a clinical 64 kill.He can almost taste victory now,and a fine run of 81-118 and 84 sets up the winning double top for Willie,and the points are in the bag.
Paul Devlin 0 v Ken Flynn 2.
A fine opening leg from Ken here,featuring an 85-60-125 run,before taking out double 2 to go one up.Toffo hits back well with a trio of 85-81 and 83,which leaves him on double 14.He fails to press home his advantage however,and Ken pounces on double 8 to give the scoreline a respectable look for the Tassie.
Barry Murphy 2 v John Smith 1.
The first leg could go either way in this final game,as both lads are evenly matched in the scoring stakes,but it's John who breaks free with a sweet 64 kill on double 16.Barry controls the second leg with a ton-87 salvo,before taking us to a decider on tops.As hard as John tries to grab a 3rd point for the visitors,he cant match Barry's 100-125 in the decider,and the Fisherman's anchorman wraps up a 6-2 win on double 10 in 22 arrows.

Man of the match-Joe Fagan[Clinical display from the lead off man which set the tone for the night].
180s-Joe Fagan,PJ Bryan.
Foodwatch-Sausage and chips,and plenty of them[Thanks for looking after me Joe!!].

A comfortable evenings work for the Fishermen tonight,with their front five doing more than enough to set up the win.The Tassie lads found out the hard way why these guys will be challenging for the title again this year,although I suspect they knew this already.Joe Fagan got the the ball rolling with a thoroughly professional display,and he was given fine back up by the classy pair of Pj and Smythy.Tony Maher stopped the rot with a gutsy display,before normal service was resumed when Anto Lynch saw off the challenge of Danny Lynch.The game was up when reliable back three man Willie Murphy done the bizzo against Floppy Peacock.The Fishermen are real title contenders,and I rate them as second favs at this stage,just behind Fitzers.Indeed Conor Murphy was looking to take the 6/4 with Maniac bookmakers.com,but the bet was too large!!Seriously though I believe whoever finishes ahead of them will win the league.The Tassie lads were well beaten tonight,but they will not be the only team beaten at this venue,so they can concentrate now on achieving a mid table finish,and maybe getting a run in the cup as they did last year.
Before I sign off for the week I'd like to congratulate the Dublin youth team,who won the All Ireland team title last weekend in Ennis,and from a personal viewpoint I'd like to congratulate my nephew James O Toole for his fantastic performance in finishing runner up in the singles.Great stuff.

DartManiac · 28-02-2012 8:11pm

It's the final week of the first half of the season,and what an important week it is for tonight's featured teams,Baker's and FitzPatrick's.Baker's have yet to taste defeat this season,but face the ultimate test of their title credentials,as they take on the formidable Rathnew outfit.Both teams have been in blistering form of late and it really is a tough one to call.I arrived nice and early to secure a good vantage point,and had a couple of beers before the visitor's arrived at 9.30.The match kicked off at 10 on the button-

Shane Ryan 2 v Martin O Connor 1.
3 tons from Martin gives him a clear edge in the opener,but he fails with 4 darts to secure it,allowing Shane to pounce with a clinical 75 outshot on double 12.The Rathnew stalwart responds with a beautiful 18 darter,featuring a 140 and a 102 kill on double 16.It's Shane's turn to blitz the treble 20 in the decider as he fires off a superb 140-85-180 to leave 96.However Martin won't lie down and responds with a 95-140 combo to make things interesting.Shane can't finish the job immediately and allows Martin a pop at 16s,which he misses.Then with tensions running high Shane goes double 1,double 3 and double 16 to finish 40.Amazing!
Dave Peacock 0 v Glen FitzPatrick 2.
Glen takes control of the opener with a ton -140 as Dave struggles on the treb lipstick.A sweet 95 kill puts Glen one up in 18 darts.The second leg sees Glen savage the 60 segment once again,and he rushes down to a finish in 9 arrows.However,the winning double proves elusive and young Peacock cranks up the pressure with a 130 to leave tops.After many missed chances from both lads,Glen deservedly checks out on double 2 at the 12th attempt.
Gus Fleming 2 v Dave Corcoran 1.
Both lads are in the groove from the start, hitting plenty of solid scores,but it's Dave who sneaks it on the top lipstick in 21 darts after Gussie missed a pop at 16s.The tide turns in the 2nd stanza as Gussie hits full flow with a run of 100-96-96-94 before taking out tops to bring us to a decider.The clincher seems to be going Dave's way when he begins 92-124,but the trebs suddenly dry up allowing Gussie to force his way back into the game with 3 60s and a ton.Then with nerves jangling Gussie nails a crucial 80 finish with Dave on a 2 dart outshot.2-1 Bakers.
Ben FitzPatrick 0 v Clifford Doyle 2.
A ton-83 from Cliff and an 85-140 from Ben are the highlights of the opening leg,which Cliff eventually takes on double 1 after a string of missed attempts at 10s from Ben.The following leg proves to be a tight affair with both lads throwing solid arrows,100-81-83 from Cliff and 100-85-97 from Ben,however just when it seemed as though Ben might square the game,Cliff struck with a clinical 90 kill on the top lipstick.2-2.
Ste Andrews 2 v Gaffer Merrigan 0.
Ste storms into an early lead with a 140-85-92 blitz,before Gaffer manages to apply some pressure with a 100-83-97 reply.It's too late however as Ste polishes off double 2 at the fourth pop.Gaffer retorts with a fantastic maximum at the start of leg 2,but Stephen stays calm and replies with a brace of tons to get back on terms.In the end it comes down to a shootout at the double,and eventually its the home pitcher who nails the madhouse to put Bakers in front once more.
Johnny Andrews 0 v Bomber Murphy 2.
Four solid 60s and a ton from Bakers' captain,but Bomber is throwing well,hitting a 140-85 combo,prior to securing the opener on double 4.The Bombs fine form continues in the second leg as he hits a 140 followed by a 120-ton duo.Johnny hangs in there with his own 81-100 combo,but he can't get on terms and Bomber mops up double 4 to leave things level once more.
Alan Delaney 2 v Clive Devlin 0.
A 140 and 95 gives Alan the edge over Clive's solid 60s in the opener,but he can't clean things up immediately,and Clive gets darts at 12s and 6s.He fails to capitalise however and Alan buries double 8 for a 1 nil lead.Both lads hit a ton apiece in a quiet second leg,but Alan is slightly more consistent with his back up scores and he puts Fitzers ahead for the first time with a double 10 finish.
Dan Boyce 2 v Paddy Corcoran jr 0.
A solid opening leg from both lads with Dan's two tons countered by Paddy's 81-85-83 run.It's Dan who keeps his cool,taking out tops in 22 arrows to secure the leg.Paddy kicks off with a 140 in the second leg,but things soon get scrappy for him as Dan comes back into the leg with a ton and 80.Paddy is down to 60 when Dan hits the crucial winning double top to give Baker's a point on the night.

Man of the match-Shane Ryan[Showed great nerve to hit a crucial double 16 against a quality opponent].
180s-Shane Ryan,Gaffer Merrigan.
Foodwatch-Beautiful chicken and cheese,egg salad and tuna sambo's.Faultless.

A point apiece was a fair result tonight in my opinion,although both teams will probably feel they missed an opportunity to secure both points.Neither side reached the heights of which they are capable of.Maybe they accorded each other too much respect.There was some fine scoring alright,but the finishing left a lot to be desired in some legs.This can happen to any team however and I'm sure both teams will be sharper when they meet in the cup this Thursday.So at the halfway point we have a quintet of teams still in with a chance of title glory,and I know three of them will be happy with tonights outcome.I said last week that I fancied the Rathnew lads to go on and win,and I still have them as favourites,but the young Baker's team showed plenty of resilience this evening and they are quite comfortable where they are.Don't forget they are the only unbeaten team in the league,which is quite an achievement given the quality of teams on a Monday night.Before I sign off just to remind you the Tassie will be holding it's monthly singles on Thursday 8th March.Contact Paul on 0868636974.

DartManiac · 06-03-2012 8:13pm

Tonight we turn for home in this year's title race,and things couldn't be tighter at the top,with four team's within two points of one another.It's fantastic that the league is so competitive this year as it keeps the interest alive for so many players.Im down in Ballybrack this evening,where the Igo play host to the Bray fishermen.The home team have been playing decent darts this season,but have come out on the wrong side of a fair few 5-3 results.They recently lost 5-3 to the Hunter's in the league before losing out narrowly by the same scoreline in the cup to the Lough Inn.The Bray lads are flying and will take some stopping,so it promises to be an interesting encounter.I arrived nice and early to sample a few beers,while the visitor's arrived at 9.40.After a bit of limbering up the game kicked off at 10-
Gavin O Toole 1 v Joe Fagan 2.
Both lads are straight into the treble 20 groove,as Gavin starts 99-100-136,with Joe replying with a brace of tons and a 134 to apply the pressure.Gavin stays composed though and wipes out double 8 for a 19 dart opening kill.Joe is stung into an incredible reply,hitting two[YES TWO] maximums on his way to levelling the game in 14 spears on double 8.The decider lives up to the level of the preceding legs with Joe nailing a 140 and 130 to Gavin's 85-81-100 response,but in the end it's Joe who finishes double 2, after Gavin had missed a pop at 8s, to win a scintillating opening game.
Noel Keating 0 v Thomas Smyth 2.
Thomas is away smartly with a ton- 95 to establish an early lead,but Noel rallies bravely with a 105-70-98 to get back into the leg.However Smythy responds by almost nailing a super 145 kill,just missing tops,before securing the leg in 19 arrows on tops.Thomas continues to pummel the treble 20 lipstick,going 100-140-85 as Noel struggles to hang on.Eventually Smythy proves just too strong and takes out double 18 for a smooth win.
Wayne Colgan 1 v PJ Bryan 2.
There's a ton-81 from both lads at the start of the opener,then PJ weighs in with a decisive 140 to give him the edge,before taking out double 5 with Wayne on a 2 darter.The big scores come thick and fast in leg two as Wayne goes 100-140-80 to PJs 100-85-140,but to his credit Wayne coolly slots home double 10 to take us to a decider.There's not a lot in the deciding leg until a crunching 177 from PJ puts Wayne on the back foot.He responds well however with an 85-100 combo to keep things interesting,but PJ says thank you very much by nailing a winning double 4 to put the visitors in a commanding lead.
Mick Hennessy 0 v Anto Lynch 2.
Anto cruises through the opener in 21 arrows,firing a ton and 140 in the process.Mick tries hard to make an impression in the 2nd stanza,and hits a pair of tons,but it's no match for Anto's brace of 140's and sweet 88 kill on the bullseye for a smooth 18 darter.4 nil Fishermen.
Robbie Hammond 1 v Barry Murphy 2.
A mixed bag of scores in the opener from both lads,but Robbie's 140-97 proves decisive as he takes the leg on the top lipstick.Robbie hits 85-81-100 in the 2nd leg,but Barry strikes back with an 85-121 combo to pressurise Robbie's attempt at 16s.The Igo man fails to nail the double and Barry checks out on double 2 to take us to a deciding leg.It's an extremely tight decider with both lads hitting two 85s and reaching the double simultaneously.But once more it's Barry who manages to sink the winning double,hitting 2s to secure the points for the visitors.
Craig Hennessy 0 v Willie Murphy 2.
It's three tons to one for Willie,as he mops up the opener in 22 darts.A 140 from Haggle in leg two gives him some hope,but that hope is dashed when Willie fires in a 100-85-94 trio to set up a beautiful tops kill in 19 arrows.The Igo pain continues.
John Grassick 0 v Dennis FitzPatrick 2.
Dennis assumes control of the opening leg with a couple of tons and an 87.He looks set to take it comfortably,but some slack finishing and a late rally from John makes it interesting.The Igo stalwart misses three at 19s however allowing a relieved Dennis to take out the madhouse.The second leg is a tight struggle,with John hitting a run of 80--85-121 to give himself 3 pops at tops and 16s.He fails once more to take his chance,and Dennis slots home yet another double 1 finish to make it seven zip.
Ray MacCormac 0 v John Doonan 2.
A solid start from the inexperienced Igo man,hitting 68-73 and 85,while John is steady also, firing in an 81 and two 60s.The leg is decided when John puts away a fine 70 finish on tops.John begins to find his stride in the 2nd leg,reeling off a trio of tons and an 82,while Ray struggles to keep pace.The Igo's misery is complete when John fires home the winning double top in 22 darts.

Man of the match-Joe Fagan[Set the ball rolling for the Fishermen by winning a superb opening encounter].
180's-Joe Fagan[2]
Foodwatch-Baskets of sausages and chips[Quite tasty,but where were the goujons!].

A very impressive display from the Fishermen this evening,emphasising the strength in depth of their squad.They never looked back following Joe Fagan's breathtaking win against the ferocious challenge of Gavin O Toole.After victories for PJ Bryan and Anto Lynch against two of the Igo's main hopes,the game was up.They will take some stopping alright,and they have a fine team spirit which is essential to winning a league.I said I fancied Fitzer's a few weeks back,but the betting is getting mighty tight now!What with Baker's and the Tassie bang in the hunt,this could be the most exciting Monday league ever.The Igo lads will obviously be very disappointed to have been whitewashed,but it doesn't do them justice.They had a few chances to win games,but couldn't quite take them.They will always struggle against teams with such strength in depth,for there is extra pressure on their front five to do the business.Before I sign off,don't forget the Tassie singles competition this Thursday-Sign in 8.30-Start 9pm.Tenner to enter[5 euro drink voucher back].

DartManiac · 13-03-2012 11:34am

Tonight's featured contest sees current league champs,the Lough Inn take on former title holders,the Noggin Hunter's down in the Noggin.I think it's fair to say both teams have been a little disappointing this season,struggling to get a real good winning streak together.Tonight may provide a springboard for either to make a forward move in the league.Both teams still have a number of quality players and I'm looking forward to a close game.I was kindly provided a lift by the Lough lads,who were all busy trying to work out who was going to win tomorrows Champion Hurdle!We arrived in the Noggin at 9.40,and the game began at 10-
Mark Roe 1 v Tony Geraghty 2.
Mark controls the opener,hitting three tons as Tony struggles to keep pace.Mark finishes double 10 to comfortably go one up.The 2nd leg is a complete reversal of the first,with Tony clicking into gear hitting a trio of ballymuns prior to a double 5 kill in 20 darts to take us to a deciding leg.Both lads are well up for this one with Mark hitting 85-100-83 only to be outscored by Tony's 92-100-100-81.Still Mark is on a potential 2 dart outshot,when Tony takes out a sweet 72 kill on tops in 17 arrows to put the visitors one up.
Mark Mulvaney 2 v Neil McDonald 0.
A strange opener here,as Mark begins with an 81 followed by a maximum.He's in complete control until the double becomes an elusive object,allowing Neil an opportunity to steal the leg.After many near misses it deservedly goes Mark's way when he hits double 2.The next leg is a far better one,with both guys scoring consistently well.Neil's 85-100-99 salvo was met with a brace of tons and an 85 from Mark.Neil got a dart at 16s to level it,but alas it went wide of the target allowing Mark to mop up double 12 to square the tie.
Alan Kelly 0 v Lar Bryan 2.
It's one way traffic in the opener,as Lar flexes his muscles with some fine scoring.He fires in 135-100-95 and 123 on his way to a double 12 kill in 17 darts.Alan responds somewhat in the 2nd leg with a ton and 85,and gets a pop at double 15 after Lar misses 16s and 8s.It doesn't hit the target however,and Lar mops up double 4 to give the Lough a 2-1 lead.
Tom Hennessy 1 v Kevin O Callaghan 2.
Tom starts the opener brightly with a ton and 85,but Kevin is straight into the zone with a 180-99-83 reposte,before taking out the top lipstick in 20 spears.The fun continues in the following leg as Tom's 83-140 is met with a 123-100 from Kev.But this time Tom is the one smiling as he levels on tops,also in 20 darts.Kevin assumes control of the decider with a run of 95-96 and 81 before a 130 leaves him on 11 to rip.It could have proved a banana skin,but the Lough man just manages to take out three double four in the nick of time with Tom breathing down his neck on a potential 78 finish.
John Cummins 0 v Dave Kellaghan 2.
John begins with a ton,but is soon swamped by Bullet's 140-96-98 run.The Lough number 5 pins the top lipstick in 20 arrows to go one up.John bravely responds with a brace of tons and a 135 in the second stanza,however a couple of low scores ruin his plans as Bullet fires in a pair of tons to go with a 98 and 83 before nailing tops in 17 sweet darts.4-1 Lough.
Jimmy Byrne 2 v Peadar Taite 0.
Jimmy sets the pace in the opener with a fine 95-85-140 run while Peadar is only solid with two 60s and a 96.After a slight wobble Jimmy manages to take the leg on the madhouse.The second leg is a competitive affair as Peadar makes his bid to level things,firing an 85-100 combo,but Jimmy is quick to respond with a run of 81-83 and 71.Then just as it looked as if we were heading to a duel on the double,Jimmy peels off an exquisite 94 finish on tops to breathe life into the Noggin's hopes.
Jack Roche 0 v Billy Matthews 2.
Billy cruises through the opener hitting a 121 and 133 power blitz on his way to a double 4 kill.Jack fires in a 95 to go with some solid scores,but it's no match for Billy's 140-133 in the 2nd leg,and the Lough man calmly mops up a double 10 finish to put the points in the bag.
Tony Brennan 2 v Robbie Whelan 0.
A pair of tons are enough to give Tony the edge in the opening leg,and he goes on to take it on double 2.Robbie digs in and seems sure to level matters when he hits a pair of 81s and a 121,however some sloppy finishing from the Lough anchorman allows Tony the opportunity to nick the game on double 12 which gives the scoreline some respectability for the Hunter's.

180s-Mark Mulvaney,Kevin O Callaghan.
Man of the match-Tony Geraghty[Fine display,which gave the visitors immediate momentum to go on and win].
Foodwatch-Tuna,chicken and stuffing and salad sambo's.Tasty when your peckish.

A solid all round display from the champs,who on this evidence still have plenty to offer this season.I got the feeling from their players that they have not yet given up hope of retaining their crown.To acheive this one feels they must remain unbeaten for the remainder of the season.A tough ask certainly,but not an impossible one.They have lost 3 or 4 key players this season but are still a very dangerous team who will command plenty of respect whoever they play.The Noggin struggled to make an impression this evening,and were simply outplayed by the visitor's.Once Kevin O Callaghan got the better of Tom Hennessy they sensed they were in trouble.They have enough quality in their team to be closer to the top four,but need a big win to restore some belief in themselves.I know they'll bounce back as they have some fine young lads in their squad.Before I go I'm gonna tip Long Run for Gold Cup glory.And keep an eye on Chapoturgeon in the race after.

DartManiac · 20-03-2012 8:05pm

Tonight's game sees unbeaten Baker's travel to take on current league kings,the Lough Inn.It promises to be a cracking contest,with Baker's growing in confidence and the Lough lads beginning to show the form that made them champions last term.I arrived at about 9 o clock,and the Lough lads were busy working out their Cheltenham losses before the visitors arrived at 9.40.We kicked off at 10-
Neil McDonald 1 v Shane Ryan 2.
Quite a nervy beginning from both lads,although both hit a ton and 98.After many missed double attempts from each player, it was Shane who pinned double 10 to assume control.A frustrated Neil fired back in fine style with a brace of 85s and a ton,before taking out a 105 kill on tops to bring us to a decider.Shane takes the lead with a pair of swift tons in the deciding leg before Neil bites back with a 135.It all boils down to a crunch double,and while Neil wires two at 16s,Shane makes no mistake on double 10 to put Baker's one up.
Kevin O Callaghan 1 v Gus Fleming 2.
A ton from Callo in the opener is not enough against Gussie,who fires in a 140 en route to taking the leg on double 12.The scoring picks up in the second leg as Kevin's 140-100 is matched by Gussie's 120-123 salvo.Indeed Gus gets two pops at 18s but spurns theopportunity allowing Kevin to take us to a decider with a double 10 kill.And what a leg this decider was folks.Although Kevin managed a ton and 85,it was all about Mr Fleming.He began the leg with a beautiful maximum,followed by a 140-145 blitz to set up double 18,which he coolly mopped up for an exquisite 10 dart finish.Both teams applauded generously for what was a brilliant leg of darts.2 nil Baker's.
Dave Kellaghan 1 v Gary Murphy 2.
A blistering start from Gary here as he rattles off a 140-85-85-100 sequence before polishing off double 16 for a cool 17 darter.Bullet is forced to retaliate,despite Gary's fine form continuing in leg two.He nails a brilliant 110 finish on 16s to take us all the way in 18 darts.The fine scoring continues in the decider,with Dave's 95-128-95 matched by Gary's 140-95-122.That 122 proves decisive as it sets up a winning double 12 for young Gary to put the visitor's in a commanding lead.
Lar Bryan 2 v Will Devlin 0.
Lar is fast away with a pair of tons to establish an early lead in the opener,and while Will manages a 99-100 salvo late on in the leg,it's too late as Lar goes 122 and out on double 8 for a 19 darter.Lar really begins to up the ante in the second leg with a blistering run of 100-125-100 before putting the Lough on the board,with a devastating tops kill in 17 arrows.
Tony Geraghty 1 v Dave Peacock 2.
An edgy beginning to the opening leg from both lads,where a pair of tons gives Dave the opportunity to nick it on double 8.Tony comes to life in the second,nailing a ton-140 salvo to take a solid lead,however a few missed chances gives Dave 3 pops at 19s.He fails to convert and Tony levels up on double 4.In a real nip and tuck decider,Tony's 93-86-80 run is matched by Dave's 60-60-125,and it boils down to the double.Tony gets one at 18s,but can't pin it allowing Dave the chance to take out 84 on the bullseye,much to the delight of his teammates.
Leo Murphy 1 v Dan Boyce 2.
Despite a 140 from Leo in the opener it's Dan who is more consistent hitting a run of 100-85-80 before nailing the top lipstick to go one up.Leo responds with a 125 and 70 in the second leg,but Dan almost snatches it,narrowly missing 2 at double 15 for a 90 finish.Leo takes us to a decider on double 10.Dan begins the crucial third leg with a 100-121-121 blitz to set up a commanding advantage,which Leo can't overcome and Dan brings home the bacon with a double 4 finisher.Game over.
Robbie Whelan 0 v Ste Andrews 2.
Plenty of solid 60s and a ton apeice from both lads in an evenly matched opener.In the end Robbie's left to regret two missed darts at tops,allowing Ste in to take out double 1.Ste storms away in the second leg,hitting a fine ton-180 salvo,but Robbie hangs in with a run of 100-85 97.Indeed the Lough man earns a pop at the top lipstick,but can't convert and Ste makes it 6-1 with a double 2 finish.
Peadar Taite 0 v Clive Devlin 2.
A decent opener here with both lads firing in a ton and some solid 85s and 81s.The finishing gets a bit scrappy before Clive eventually takes out double 8 to go one up.Peadar responds with a 134 in the second leg,but Clive is in full flight now,hitting 85 and 137 on his way to a classy 74 finish on double 10 to put the icing on Baker's cake.

Man of the match-Gus Fleming[9 perfect darts in a magical 10 darter,set Baker's alight].
180s-Gus Fleming,Ste Andrews.
Foodwatch-Chicken and stuffing sambo's on brown and white.Crisps lovingly sprinkled over them.

A brilliant team performance from Baker's tonight,preserving their unbeaten record in devastating style.The Lough is no easy place to come and win,yet they made it look remarkably comfortable.If they can maintain this form they will have a huge say in the destination of the league.They have lads like Gus Fleming and Gary Murphy who are maturing into fine match players.They are fearless and have great self belief.This belief filters through a team,and can be a potent weapon to have.The Lough meanwhile can have no real excuses.As captain Tony Taite said they were simply out played on the night.They remain a fine team,but are missing 3 of last years winning squad,which is 3 too many at this level.They will always be a dangerous team and whoever they face next had better watch out for a backlash.Before I sign out I just want to remind you of a big darts competition in the Silver Tassie on Sunday 25th March.It's 15 euro to enter-Everyone guaranteed 4 games and free food will be provided at a designated break.We have 32 names entered at present, so if your not in and would like to play contact Neil McDonald on 0863610893 or Paul O Toole on 0868636974.Cheers.

DartManiac · 27-03-2012 7:02pm

The pick of this week's fixture's saw the Fishermen play host to the Lough Inn.Along with Baker's,the Tassie[A] and Fitzer's,the Bray lads have been playing some serious darts,and were looking to keep this form going against a Lough team still smarting from last week's defeat at the hands of Baker's.I arrived at 9.30 just as Man Utd were clinging on to a 1 nil win against Fulham.The Lough lads arrived at 9.40 and we began at 10-

Joe Fagan 2 v Tony Geraghty 1.
Tony fires in a 115-81-80 but Joe responds well with a 95-100 combo to set up a shot at tops.He misses his chance however and Tony mops up the top lipstick himself.Joe hits a brace of tons and a sweet 101 kill on tops to take us to a decider after Tony had missed a dart for the match.It was all Joe in the deciding leg and he followed his ton start with a brilliant maximum to give him a big lead.And despite a slight wobble on his double he eventually secured the win on the madhouse.
P J Bryan 0 v Dave Kellaghan 2.
PJ hits a 140 in the opener,but it's Dave's three tons that sets up a lovely 17 darter on tops.P J tries to respond,and he does to a certain extent with a 100-81-98 run,but Dave's super consistent scoring,featuring a 140 and two more tons,sets up the double top kill in 18 darts to level the match.
Thomas Smyth 2 v Kevin O Callaghan 0.
A slow enough beginning from both lads before Callo wakes everyone up by narrowly missing 16s for a 152 outshot.Then unfortunately for him he misses three more attempts,allowing Smythy to snatch the leg on tops.Kevin is rattled by the miss and Thomas piles on the agony with a blitz of 95-100-100-125 before eventually settling the issue on double 9 in 21 darts.
Denis FitzPatrick 1 v Lar Bryan 2.
Lar fires in an 81 and 134 on his way to taking the opener on double 10.Denis is well on his way to levelling when Lar suddenly hits a 140,before narrowly failing to take out double 12 for a 144 kill.Denis wastes little time in polishing off 12s to take us all the way.It's a very tight decider,with both lads hitting a ton apeice along the way.Once again Lar almost takes out a whopping finish,this time leaving his attempt at 16s for a 146 on the wire.Denis gets his chance at glory,but hits 25 when going for the bull in a 126 outshot.Lar then takes out 16s to win an exciting encounter.2-2.
Anto Lynch 2 v Billy Matthews 0.
A ton and 98 from Billy in the opener here,but Anto just edges it with his 85-121 before taking out tops.The second leg is another tight affair,as Anto's 140-98 is countered by a 121-94 from Billy.Yet again it boils down to the double and once more Anto hits the spot,taking out the top lipstick after Billy missed one dart himself.
Mark Cranley 2 v Leo Murphy 1.
A fine opening salvo from Mark,as he hits 125-81-118,yet some double trouble gives Leo a shot at double 6.The Lough man fails allowing Mark to take out double 5.Some top scoring from both pitchers in the second leg with Leo nailing a ton-135 combo which was matched by Bomber's 140-100.The Fishermen's number 6 gets darts at tops and tens,but fails with 4 pops,allowing Leo to level on double 8.The deciding leg quickly begins to go the home team's way,as Mark follows up his 85-100 start by filling the redbit with a super max.Leo has a dying kick with a 140 but Mark makes no mistake by nailing double 6 for a 17 darter.
Willie Murphy 2 v Tony Taite 1.
A nip and tuck opener with both lads scoring solidly.Willie gets 3 at 16s,which he fails to convert,and Tony pounces with a 74 kill on tops.Tony attempts to push home his advantage and kicks in an 81 and 135,while Willie retorts with a 100-95 combo.We end up with both lads shooting it out on the madhouse as the nerves take over,and it's Willie who hits it to take us to a decider.Its 2 tons to one for Willie in yet another close leg as both teams cheer on their man.But the game is up when Tony misses three attempts at tops and tens,allowing Willie the chance to wrap up the points on double 18.
Barry Murphy 0 v Neil McDonald 2.
An 85-100 from Barry in the opener,but it aint enough to stop Neil taking it on 10s following an impressive run of 81-125-100.The Lough man's fine form continues in the second leg where he rattles off a pair of tons and a 97 to set up an excellent win on the top lipstick.

180s-Joe Fagan,Mark Cranley.
Man of the match-Mark Cranley[A brilliant 17 darter when needed,which ultimately proved very important].
Foodwatch-Chips and cocktail sausages.Cant go wrong.

A hard earned victory for the Fishermen tonight,but a vital one nonetheless.I had a feeling the Lough would make it tough for the home team,and they certainly did that.At 2 apeice,the result was in the balance,but Anto Lynch took his chances well against league legend Billy Matthews.Then Bomber Cranley produced a sublime effort to see off the challenge of the tough Leo Murphy.Even then it could have gone to a final game had Lough captain Tony Taite taken his chances.Ultimately though,the Fishermen just deserved to edge the win.It keeps them firmly on target for league glory,along with 3 other interested parties.The Lough will have learned plenty from tonight's game for their upcoming Cup clash with Bray.

DartManiac · 03-04-2012 5:39pm

I'm down in the Noggin this week,where the Hunter's play host to the Tassie[A],who are co league leader's along with Fitzers and Bray.I travelled with the Tassie lads and we arrived at 9.40.The game commenced following the conclusion of the Blackburn/Man Utd game,which Utd won 2 nil-
Mark Roe 1 v Mick Cummins 2.
A fine start from Mark here,as he takes the opener in decisive style,nailing double 4 following scores of 125-100-140 as Mick is off target.The Tassie man livens up with an 85-140 combo,only for Mark to hit back with a brilliant 140-177 salvo to set up the chance for victory.However Mark cant finish the job with 4 pops and Mick levels the score on double 12.Mark sets up a decent lead in the decider when hitting an 85 and a brace of tons as Mick can only muster solid 60s.Yet again however Mark is left to regret missed doubles,as 6 go abegging giving Mick the opportunity to gratefully finish double 8.
Mark Mulvaney 2 v Andy Poole 0.
Andy fires in a 140 in the opener,but Mark is in fine form,hitting a brilliant maximum on his way to taking the leg in 21 arrows.Andy tries in vain to stem the tide in leg two but Mark is in irresistible form hitting the red bed with amazing accuracy.Two 140s and a 123 sets up a comfortable 16 darter on double 8.
John Crangle 0 v Mark Ennis 2.
The opener is a bit of a slow burner,before Mark assumes command with a timely 140-87 combo,then a double 4 finish..A ton and 87 from the Noggin number 3 is overpowered by a sweet 180-91-96 run from Mark,and although he took his time Mark eventually gave the Tassie the lead on the madhouse.
Tom Hennessy 0 v Robbie Smith 2.
Two tons and a 127 helps Robbie to an impressive 20 darter in the opener.Tom fires back in leg two with a solid run of 81-100 and 97 to give himself 2 darts at the top lipstick.He can't pin it however and Robbie pounces on double 14 for an excellent win.
Joe McKeever 0 v Andy Lacey 2.
Joe struggles to hit any meaningful scores in a one sided opener,as Andy confidently takes it in 21 arrows on double 8.The Noggin veteran bravely tries to respond in the 2nd leg,hitting a pair of 85s,but he is comprehensively outscored once more,as Andy fires in a 140,ton and 103 before the inevitable kill on double 4.4-1 Tassie.
Jimmy Byrne 1 v Peter Rowe 2.
Both lads score well in a competitive opening leg,but the finishing becomes edgy,with both missing several chances.The leg eventually goes Jimmy's way when he takes out 8s.Peter levels the score on double 15 after yet another nip and tuck leg.The decider begins with both players firing a brace of 60s and a ton,before a 140 from Jimmy left him 36.Peter was quickly on his tail leaving tops.Then after a succession of missed opportunities Peter struck the decisive blow,nailing double 5 to give the Tassie the 2 points.
Tony Brennan 2 v Bill Bailey 0.
A pair of 81s from Bill in the opener,but Tony's 100-99 sets up a finish on the top lipstick.Tony continues to play consistently,firing in a solid run of 83-81-85-92 as Bill struggles on the treble 20.A clinical 53 finish on tops gives Tony a deserved point.
Kevin O Connell 0 v Ben Prenter 2.
Ben's 125-85 proves decisive in the opener as the Tassie man takes it on double 5.Kevin hits 3 solid 60s in the second leg,but Ben outscores him with a run of 83-81-92,prior to wrapping up proceedings with a sweet 70 kill on tops.6-2 Tassie.

180s-Mark Mulvaney,Mark Ennis-177-Mark Roe.
Man Of the match-Robbie Smith-Gave the Tassie breathing space with a solid win against a tough opponent.
Foodwatch-Plenty of sambo's-Turkey,cheese,coleslaw[Helped soak up the guinness!]

A good win for the Tassie boys this evening,and it's 2 points in the bag in their quest for league glory.They weren't at their best tonight perhaps,but there is still a strong belief in this team that they can go all the way this year.They could have found themselves 2 nil down tonight,but Mark Roe was unfortunate on his doubles.Mick gratefully accepted his chance,and once Mark Ennis and Robbie Smith won their games,the Noggin seemed to lose heart.There will be bigger tests ahead for the Tassie,and they will have to be at their best against the likes of Bray,Fitzers and Bakers if they want to realise their dream.I believe they will step up to the plate and will take a lot of beating themselves.The Noggin must knuckle down now and put everything into the cup.They need their big players to encourage the whole team to believe in themselves.There is some real talent on that team with the likes of Mark Roe and Kevin Lacey hungry for action.It's as you were at the top of the league,with the top 4 all winning this evening,so who's your money on??Until next week,play well.

dingdong180 · 03-04-2012 5:49pm

gud report manic as always its very close at the top hard to say darts is a funny game

DartManiac · 13-04-2012 9:59pm

We're entering the final third of the season,and tonight I'm down in Baker's to see if they can maintain their challenge for the league,when they take on the Tassie team.I travelled with the Tassie lads,and we arrived at 9.40.The game started at 10-

Shane Ryan 2 v Ken Flynn 0.
Shane takes a scrappy opener on double three,and wraps up the win on tens after after firing in a ton and 134 to set it up.Ken had 4 darts to level but spurned the chances.
Gus Fleming 2 v Tony Maher 0.
A tops kill seals the opener for Gus and a 140 in the second helps him on his way to a 2 nil win on double 2.A pair of tons from Tony come too late to save him.
Dave Peacock 2 v Hubert Kelly 1.
A ton and 95 from Hubert,followed by a sweet 75 kill finally gives the Tassie lads something to cheer about,However the Tassie number three misses 4 pops to win in leg two,and Dave nails tops to take us to a decider.Both lads fire in a 125 in the final leg,but it's Dave who nicks the point with a nice 87 finish on 18s as Hubert waited on 68.
Gary Murphy 2 v Eamon Whelan 1.
A fine opener,with Eamon landing 3 ballymuns to Gary's 140-100 combo,and it's Eamon who takes it on double 2 after both had fiddled about with the finishing.Gary responds with yet another 140-100 in the second stanza as Eamon fired in a 121 to stay in touch,however it's Gary who levels things on the top lipstick.An exciting decider is going Gary's way until a dramatic attempt from Eamon at a 150 finish fails on the double 15.Gary gives Eamon another 3 pops but he cant nail 6s and Gary wraps it up on double 10.
Ste Andrews 2 v Andy O Toole 1.
Both lads are a little slow out of the blocks,but a 99 from Andy helps him on his way to taking the opener on double 2.Ste bounces back in the second leg,firing in a beautiful 140-137 salvo before polishing off double 16 to take us all the way.It's an edgy decider with both lads struggling on the redbit,until Ste breaks free with a ton and 84 to leave him a handy tops kill,thus ending the match 5 nil.
Ben FitzPatrick 2 v Danny Lynch 0.
Danny battles hard in the opener,but the treble 20 proves an elusive target for him,and Ben controls things with some solid scores before taking out double 10.Unfortunately it's a similar story in the second leg for Danny,with Ben playing some cracking darts.Two tons and a 121 propel him to a comfortable win on double 10 once more.
Willie Devlin 2 v Paddy Peacock 1.
The first two legs are shared in a tight battle between two evenly matched arrowsmiths.The decider could go either way,with both lads swapping 85s and 81s,but it boils down to that crucial double,and once more it goes the home teams way as Willie nails a madhouse kill.
Clive Devlin 2 v John Smith 0.
Clive controls the opener,hitting a 137-100 combo,before taking out the top red bit to go one up.John bravely tries to respond,but is overwhelmed by Clive's heavy scoring.Baker's anchorman fired in a sweet 100-140 salvo prior to completing the whitewash on double 15.

Man of the match-Gary Murphy[Broke the Tassie's resistance,winning a quality encounter].
180s-Not tonight Josephine.
Foodwatch-Mixed sambo's,tuna,cheese and salad.

So Baker's keep their momentum going with a solid win tonight.Although they were flattered by the 8 nil scoreline,they were always in control of tonights game.After Dave Peacock and Gary Murphy had narrowly pipped Hubert Kelly and Eamon Whelan,the writing was pretty much on the wall.The Tassie simply don't have the strength in depth which Baker's have,and it puts serious pressure on the first five.Baker's are a very strong outfit,and have a host of quality players,all capable of the heavy scoring needed to win most matches.I see them going close this season and it will probably boil down to a bit of luck on the doubles against their main rivals.I'll take this opportunity to let you know that there will be a doubles tournament coming up in the Silver Tassie in May[Date to be announced].Also,because of deferred league games and Cup games there will be no Tassie singles this month.

DartManiac · 17-04-2012 10:04pm

Sorry folks,there will be no report this week,as I was a little bit under the weather.Just to let you know that the Tassie doubles comp will be held on Saturday May 19th,40 euros per team.Anyone interested contact me on 0868636974.

Gringo180 · 18-04-2012 1:27pm

DartManiac wrote: »

Sorry folks,there will be no report this week,as I was a little bit under the weather.Just to let you know that the Tassie doubles comp will be held on Saturday May 19th,40 euros per team.Anyone interested contact me on 0868636974.

Is this an Open event or for Borough league players only?

DartManiac · 24-04-2012 10:04pm

Just 8 weeks remaining in this year's Borough League,and what an incredibly tight season it's been.Four teams still in with very
realistic title chances,and two of that fab four meet tonight,when FitzPatrick's play host to the Bray Fisherman's Club.I
travelled with the Bray lads,and we arrived in plenty of time for a pint at 9.30.After a bit of good humoured banter we kicked off
at 9.50-
Martin O Connor 0 v Joe Fagan 2.
Joe controls the opener with a 135 amongst a host of solid visits,before hitting 97 to set up tops,which he dispatches with ease
in 20 darts.Martin is off the boil and can do little to prevent Joe from taking the opening point.A 125-100 from the Bray man is
more than enough to see him on his way to taking out double 2 for the win.
Glen FitzPatrick 2 v P J Bryan 1.
Both men trade 140s at the beginning of the opening leg,but a ton and double 16 kill puts P J in the driving seat.The Fisherman's
number two fires in a brace of tons in the second leg,but Glen matches him with his own pair along with two 81s to set up a
leveller on the top lipstick in 19 arrows.The decider couldn't be tighter as both players struggled to gain supremacy.A 140-100
combo seemed to put Glen in the driving seat only for P J to hit back with 85s and a 99 to leave things on a knife edge.Both lads
had a pop at tops and missed,and it was Glen who gained the day by taking out 10s in 22 darts much to the relief of the Rathnew
boys.
Dave Corcoran 1 v Thomas Smyth 2.
Two solid tons from Dave in the opening leg is not enough to prevent Smythy taking it.He blitzes the redbit with a 121-100-140
volley before finishing double 4 in 16 darts.Another pair of tons from Thomas in the second leg,but this time it's Dave who nicks
it,firing in solid scores all the way down to the double 12,which he nails in 20 to take us to a decider.Its a feeding frenzy on
the treble 20 here as Dave canes a 125-100-85 combo,only to be hit with a 140-100-100 response from Smythy.And it's the Bray
number three who takes the point by mopping up tops in 17 arrows.
Clifford Doyle 0 v Dennis FitzPatrick 2.
Clifford flies out of the traps with a spectacular blitz on the treble 20,sandwiching a ton between a pair of 140s which leaves
Dennis trailing.However this game is all about finishing,and when Monkey fails with nine tries Dennis nips in with a fantastic
treble 20 bull finish to go one up.The second leg is a tight one with Dennis's 140 squared up by Monkey's pair of tons.But yet
again it's the Bray arrowsmith who is in deadly finishing form with a beautiful 90 outshot on 18s to leave Monkey shaking his head
in disbelief.
Bomber Murphy 2 v Anto Lynch 1.
A 140 from Bomber is the only score of note in a tense opener,which Anto takes eventually on the madhouse after both had missed a
host of attempts.Both men settle down in the second leg,with Anto firing in an 83-100-98 salvo and the Bomb hitting a brace of
Ballymuns.The leg goes Fitzer's way when Bomber coolly slots a 76 kill to level the game.The crucial deciding leg is
understandably tight as both men struggle in vain to establish supremacy.It literally goes to the wire as dart after dart at
doubles are missed.Something had to give eventually,and it did when Bomber nailed the madhouse to keep Fitzer's in the game.
John Quinn 2 v John Doonan 1.
Two tons from John D gives him a slight edge in a tight opener,but Quinner fights back to get two pops at 6s.He fails to nail them
and the Bray man seals the deal on the top lipstick.The game goes all the way as Quinner comfortably takes the second leg with an
81-100 combo followed by a sweet 90 kill.The decider proves to be a fine leg of darts,with both lads throwing with fluency despite
the tense atmosphere.Big John gives the visitor's hope with a 100-140 salvo,but John Q is on his case with a brilliant run of 125
-140-100 before levelling the overall score with a double 10 kill in 18 darts.Game on now.
Gaffer Merrigan 2 v Mark Cranley 0.
Gaffer begins the leg with a pair of tons and it gives him an edge as Mark lapses following a solid start.Gaffer takes the leg in
some style on 16s in 20 spears.The boys are slightly off the boil at the beginning of leg two,before a 140 from Gaffer and a ton
from Mark leaves them in the killing zone.However as Mark waited on his shot for tops,Gaffer was in no mood to allow it and he
snuffed out a 74 finish on 16s to put Fitzer's one away from victory.
Alan Delaney 2 v Willie Murphy 0.
A brace of tons from Willie sees him establish an early lead in the leg,but when Alan narrowly misses tops for a 160 outshot it
turns the leg around.Willie fails to finish 56 and Alan calmly slots a winning double 10.It's tight and tense as you would expect
as both lads went to work in the second leg.A ton from Willie and a 121 from Alan sees both men arrive on a double
simultaneously,but when Willie failed on tops the game was up for the visitor's,and Alan used all his big game experience to mop
up the winning double 2.Game over.

Man of the match-John Quinn[Gave Fitzer's the platform to go on and claim both points].
180s-None tonight.
Foodwatch.What can I say,the tastiest sambo's in the Borough-Plenty of everything.

That was a cracking game tonight.It may not have had the huge scores but it was a good old fashioned 50-50 fight to the finish.It
was impossible to know how things would end up,with the Fishermen's powerhouse front five matched by the strongest back three in
the Borough.Obviously the pivotal game was Bomber and Anto's with the win for Bomber giving Fitzer's renewed belief just as things
seemed to be going against them.Once John Quinn made it 3-3 I felt there was an air of inevitibility that Fitzer's would take the
final two games.That's not to say the Fishermen done a lot wrong,it's just that momentum in darts is crucial,and Fitzer's rode
that wave after John's win.Fitzer's will be chuffed with the 2 points against one of their main rivals,and it sets them up nicely
for their next big test against the Tassie in a couple of weeks.The Fishermen were obviously disappointed,but still have the
firepower to have a big say in this season's league,and judging by the craic on their bus on the way home they are far from
downhearted.Before I sign off I just want to remind you guys to get your doubles teams in for the competition in the Tassie on the
19th of May.It starts at 2pm and it costs 40 quid per team.It's predominantly for Borough League players,but they may invite a non
league player to play with them if they wish.Until next time take it easy.

DartManiac · 01-05-2012 9:56pm

Im covering a game tonight between two teams who have struggled to make an impact in this year's league.It's the Igo versus Ryan's in a mid to lower table encounter.It provides both teams with an opportunity to secure a couple of precious points in the season long battle.I arrived nice and early to get my seat for the City/United game,which went the blues way.The visitor's arrived at 9.30 and the match began some time later-

Martin Dutton 2 v Razor Raethorn 0.
Martin takes a close opener on double 5,before wrapping up the opening point in comprehensive fashion,firing in a 140-87 combo en route to taking out tops in 21 arrows.
Paul Weafer 2 v Tom Dolan 0.
Tom nails a 125,only for Ice cream to respond with a burst of 125-85-100.A 16s kill gives the Igo man the opener.It's a close 2nd leg as Tom hits 4 steady 60s,but he cant prevent the Igo going two up with Paul scoring solidly before nailing 16s once more.
Wayne Colgan 2 v James Downey 0.
A comfortable opener for Wayne,with James struggling to apply any pressure.An 85 and ton before a double 5 finish gives Wayne a 1 nil lead.It's more of the same in the second leg,with Wayne cruising to a 21 dart kill,the highlight of which was a clinical 87 finish on the bullseye.
Mick Hennessy 2 v Johnny Downey 0.
Some good darts in a tight opener,with Mick nailing a brace of tons and an 85,while Johnny fired in a ton and 85 himself.However it was Mick who got to the killing zone first and took out double 5 to go one up.The Igo number 4 continued on his merry way in the 2nd leg,hitting a string of 85s as Johnny struggled to stem the tide.The game was up when Mick sunk the top lipstick.4 zip now.
Craig Hennessy 1 v Paddy McArdle 2.
Haggle is in fine form in the opener,firing in a 125 and 85 on his way to taking out double 8.Both lads went at it big time in the second leg,hitting a pair of tons each,but this time it was a Ryan's player who took out a winning double.The top lipstick kill for Paddy making it 1-1.The standard remained high in a tight decider,as Paddy's 100-120-96 gave him the edge over Haggle's solid 95-85-85.After a string of misses from both lads it was Paddy who put Ryan's on the scoreboard with a double 4 finish.
Terry Greene 0 v Ian McKeever 2.
A 140 from Terry to kick off the opener was swiftly followed by a 95,however Ian was determined to have his say and hit back with a ton and 85,before taking advantage of a slip up from Terry by nailing double 14 for a 1 nil lead.Two ballymun's and two 81s from Terry in the second leg appeared to put him in control as Ian could only muster a pair of 85s,yet once again Terry was wasteful on his doubles and Ian nicked in once more with a double 16 kill to make things interesting.
Gavin O Toole 2 v Des Boyle 0.
Des bangs in a brace of tons to apply the squeeze on Gavin,but the Igo arrowsmith proves equal to the task firing in a 140 on his way to a sweet77 kill on the top lipstick.Des digs deep in the second stanza with a fine run of 85-97-121,but Gavin stays on his tail with a ton-96-98 salvo.It boils down to the double here and it's Gavin who buries the double 5 under pressure to secure the win for the Igo.
Ray McCormack 0 v Willie Webster 2.
A nice run from Ray of 66-81-80,but it's not enough to prevent the visitor's anchorman from taking the leg on double 7.Ray battled hard to gain a foothold in the second leg,but Willie was in outstanding form,firing in a ton-140-80 blitz before narrowly failing to take out tops for a 106 finish.He made no mistake on his next visit,taking out tops for a lovely 19 dart kill.5-3.

180s-None tonight.
Man of the match-Gavin O Toole[Stayed calm when Ryan's threatened a come back].
Foodwatch-Cocktail sausages and chips[Either there wasn't many or they were ate extremely quickly as I got none!!].

A much needed two points for the Igo tonight,who were recovering from a 7-1 defeat at the hands of Baker's last week.They started impressively tonight,with their opening four pitcher's winning every leg.However,much to their credit, Ryan's never gave up and fought back to make things interesting at 4-2.Des Boyle played well in his attempt to claw a further game back,but Gavin O Toole stood strong and played solid stuff to finally see off the visitor's challenge.The Igo are a decent squad,capable of giving any team a run for their money,and I'm sure they'll be looking at having a strong finish to their season,while building towards next year.Tonight was the first time I've seen Ryan's play,and while they've struggled this season,they showed enough to suggest that with a couple of decent signings they will be competitive next term.Before I sign off I just want to give you an update regarding dates for upcoming darts competitions.The next date for the Tassie Thursday night singles will be the 17th May[10euro entry/5 euro drink voucher back]while the Tassie Doubles tournament will now take place on Sat 26th May[2pm start-40 euro per team].Contact me on 0868636974.

DartManiac · 15-05-2012 3:18pm

Only a handful of weeks to go in the most open Borough league yet.The title can still go to four possible team's.After last
Thursday's round of matches,where the Tassie and Fitzer's battled out a hard fought draw and where Bakers came from behind to
snatch victory against the Noggin,it leaves Baker's in the catbird seat.Should they win their remaining games they will be
crowned champs.However they have a tough run to the wire,which begins down in the Fisherman's club tonight.It's a clash that
really whets the appetite and may well ultimately decide the title.I travelled by dart and had a nice stroll along Bray beach
before arriving just ahead of the Baker's squad.The match kicked off just after 10-
Joe Fagan 2 v Dave Peacock 1.
It's all Joe in the opener as he fires in a trio of tons before a top lipstick kill in 20 arrows.Dave came to life in the second
leg with a brace of tons himself and he needed to be sharp on tops as Joe was on his tail with a 140-100 combo.The decider was all
bum and plenty of squeak as both lads battled for control.A 137 from Dave put him on the brink of victory,but alas five missed
double attempts allowed Joe to step in and kill off double 9 for the opening point.
PJ Bryan 2 v Shane Ryan 0.
A 99 is Shane's only meaningful contribution in a leg utterly dominated by the dual singles champ.A stunning brace of 140's and a
sweet as a nut 16s kill in 16 arrows put him one up.Shane was to remain frustrated in the second leg,as he continued to
misfire,while PJ went serenely about his business.Three Ballymun's saw him open a considerable lead,before ending Shane's misery
on double 17.
Thomas Smyth 2 v Ste Andrews 1.
A tight opener here,with Ste's 100-99 countered by Smythy's 95-83-98,and it was the Bray man who took it on tops in 22 darts.The
beast was awakened inside Stephen in leg two,as he absolutely blitzed the treble 20,firing in a superb run of 140-100-100 and
97,prior to nailing a tops kill in 15 spears.The atmosphere was really buzzing now,and both lads rode the buzz like dart
surfers.The redbit took an absolute asswhupping in the decider,with Ste's 100-140 trumped by Smythy's 100-180 combo.A further ton
from Stephen kept him in the hunt,but Thomas was merciless in taking out double 10 in 17 arrows as Stephen waited hopefully on
48.An absolute cracker.
Dennis FitzPatrick 1 v Gary Murphy 2.
A 125 and 97 from Dennis gave him a slight edge in a very close opening leg.Gary's 100-91 kept him close and when Dennis spurned 4
winning opportunities,Gary nipped in to take out double 2.Despite firing in a pair of tons in the second leg,Dennis is struggling
to stick with Gary,as Baker's number four hits a 140 and a ton to set up a winning chance.The double proves elusive however,and
it's Dennis's turn to accept the gift by taking out double 4.It's blow for blow in a deciding leg full of drama.Gary assumed
command with a fine 140-100 only for Dennis to bravely hit back with his own brace of tons.Indeed it was Dennis who got a pop at
tops to win it,but his near miss allowed Gary the chance to take out a cool as you like 63 finish on double 3.
Anto Lynch 2 v Gus Fleming 0.
Some fine darts in the opener from both lads,with Gus firing in a 123-100-85 run,however Anto was always in touch,and a superb
140-137 gave him the edge he needed before wiping out tops in 21 darts.Gussie made a valiant effort to square things up,scoring
solidly with a ton and 85,but Anto had too much firepower and reeled off yet another 140 followed by a ton,then went out in style
with a sizzling 126 finish on the bull.18 arrows is all it took.4-1 Bray.
Willie Murphy 1 v Dan Boyce 2.
Two tons to one in Dan's favour in a tight opener,but the leg went Bray's way when Willie snared the double 10 after Dan had
missed a dart at 5s.Boycie retaliated in the second leg with a fine 121-100 combo,before taking us all the way on double 9.The
decider was played under intense pressure as both lads tried to gain control.Eventually after a string of missed attempts,7 from
Dan and 4 from Willie,it was Dan who hit the winning double 4 to keep the match alive.
Paddy Scanlon 0 v Ben FitzPatrick 2.
A pair of tons from Ben help him on his way to securing the opener on double 8 as Paddy struggles with the occasion a bit.The Bray
man tries valiantly to get into the match in the second leg,but again fails to nail the treble,and 60s dont cut much ice against
Ben who plays solid darts,including a 100 and 98,before taking us to a last game on double 10.

Mark Cranley 2 v Johnny Andrews 1.
A ton and a 137 from Mark appear to give him a decisive advantage in the opener,however 3 failed double attempts allow Baker's
captain,Johnny,in for the steal on double 8.Bray's anchorman was shaken but not stirred and he responded with a pair of tons and a
brilliant 86 kill on double 16.We were going down to the wire now.The crucial decider could not have been closer,with Johnny
starting 60-60-100-97 while the bomber threw in a pair of 125s to stay in the hunt.With both teams roaring on their man,it was
Johnny who got the fist chance.It was at tops and his second attempt agonisingly clipped the wire as Baker's held their heads in
disbelief.Up stepped bomber with the whole room holding its breath and 5 seconds later a fabulous game was over,as Mark nailed the
top lipstick to give Bray an unbelievable win.

Man of the match-Thomas Smyth[Won an unbelievable battle,which proved crucial in the end].
180s-Thomas Smyth.
Foodwatch-Sausage and chips[Got loads tonight cos I know the captain well!!].

That game is what the Monday night league is all about.Two quality sides,giving their all.There was some amount of talent on
display tonight,and they didn't let anyone down.The game between Smythy and Stephen was one of the best games I've seen under such
pressure.They were in the zone completely,with the shot to the bull proving decisive in Smythy's favour.Every game had its own
story,but it seemed as though it was going to be a quick nights work for Bray when Anto took out a brilliant 126 to beat the
superb Gus Fleming.All credit therefore must go to the back three of Baker's for taking the match to a deciding leg.It would have
been a miraculous escape,but Mark Cranley held his nerve to see the home team over the line.The Fishermen now assume the mantle of
favourites,because should they win their remaining games they will be champions.It's the first defeat of a brilliant season for
Baker's,and I know they will want to make amends for tonight.They must win their remaining four matches,then hope for a slip up
from the Fishermen.Fitzer's and the Tassie are so close,that any mistakes from the leading teams could be their last one.
Just before I sign off I want to let you know that Thursday's Tassie singles has been cancelled,as I have to help supervise the
Tuesday night Cup semi final in the Igo.However don't forget Im taking teams for the Tassie doubles on Sunday 27th May[Starts 2pm
-40 per team].

DartManiac · 22-05-2012 10:04pm

This weeks action features two teams occupying mid to lower table positions.The Tassie take on the Gallops in what should be a highly competitive affair.I got to the Tassie at 9.35,while the visitors arrived soon after.After the cursory greetings we began at 10-

Ken Flynn 1 v Noel Canning 2.
Noely makes the sharper start with a ton and 81,before a storming 100-85-125 reposte from Ken,who wastes no time in wiping out tops to go one up.A further pair of tons and 85s set Ken up for the opening point,but incredibly he missed 10 darts at various doubles allowing Noely to snatch the leg on double 10.It was a tight decider,with both lads hitting a ton apeice,but it boiled down to the double as so often happens,and it was Noely who managed to take his chance on 10s once more,giving the visitor's an early lead.
Garett Kelly 2 v John Horan 1.
A comfortable opening leg win for John,who's 125-100 sets up a winning double 8.Garett is only steady in the 2nd leg,while John gives himself a winning chance with an 81 and 95.He misses his opportunity on tops however and Garrett squares the game on double 8.A fine run of 81-100-85 gives John a handy lead in the decider,until the Tassie man fights back with a brace of tons.John still gets 6 darts to win it,but can't convert any,and Garret gratefully accepts his gift by nailing double 10 to level the match.
Tony Maher 2 v Stephen Cranny 1.
Tony hits a ton in the opener,but a fine set up shot of 119 from Stephen gives him the chance to take the leg on tops.The Tassie number three clicks into gear in the second leg,firing in a pair of 81s and a ton,before taking us to a decider with a top lipstick kill.Stephen nails a ton in the decider,but he can't withstand a surging Tony,who's solid run of 99-81-100 sets up a winning double 10 to put the Tassie ahead.
Hubert Kelly 2 v Rob Paget 1.
Hubert fires in a brace of tons in the opener,while Rob's steady 60s and a 90 keep him on terms.Indeed it's Rob who sneaks it eventually on double 18.Hubert hits full steam in the second leg,pumping in a fine 95-140-85 trio,and while Rob managed a 121-85 by way of reply,he couldn't prevent Hubert from levelling on double 19.In a superb decider Rob made a valiant attempt to wrest the victory,firing in a solid salvo of 81-100-85.Hubert was not to be denied however,with his 140 and ton establishing command of the leg,before the Tassie man checked out in style on double 10.
Danny Lynch 1 v Pat Hennessy 2.
Both lads launch a blistering attack on the redbit here.Danny's 100-85-140 start is answered by a sizzling trio of tons from Pat.Danny just manages to take it on the awkward double 15.Pat strikes back in the second stanza,showing admirable composure with a 94-95-100 streak,before levelling on double 10.The high scores continue to flow freely in an exciting final leg.A pair of tons from Danny give him every chance,while Pat's 100-140 puts him right in the hunt.Then when Danny fails to take out 60,Pat uses all his experience to coolly mop up double 10 to narrow the overall score.
Paddy Peacock 0 v Dave Horan 2.
A close opener,with Paddy's brace of 95s balanced up by a ton-85 combo from Dave.In the end Dave nicks it on double 5.The joint was jumping at the start of leg two,when Dave banged in a magical max.When he followed up with a solid 81,he was out of reach.Paddy tried hard but couldn't reduce the deficit and Dave levelled things overall with a double 10 kill.
Andy O Toole 2 v Sean Archibald 1.
It was the Tassie's turn to roar their approval,when Andy stuck three in the redbit in a highly charged opener.Sean fired back with an 81-100 salvo but it wasn't enough to prevent Andy from going one up on double 4.The Gallops arrowsmith wasted little time in levelling matters as he took advantage of a misfiring Andy in leg two.A 125 and double 10 kill taking us all the way.A ton at the beginning of the decider from Andy showed his intentions,and although Sean was solid enough,a 156 from Andy set up a devastating 72 outshot to put the Tassie in front once more.
Peter Duffy 2 v Ross Keddy 1.
A ton from Ross followed by a neat 70 kill on double 10 keeps the Gallop's hopes alive as things get nervy.Peter needs to act swiftly,and to his credit he pumps in a pair of 85s and a 72 before nailing a brave double 9 finish to take us all the way.In a rousing finale,with both lads giving their all,Peter managed to edge ahead by virtue of a pair of 81s and a precious ton.Ross wasn't done for yet however and responded to his team's urgings with a brilliant 121-83 salvo to apply crippling pressure.After a host of missed chances it was Peter who sent the home team wild with a crunch double 2 finish.Top stuff.

180s-Dave Horan and Andy O Toole.
Man of the match-Hubert Kelly[2 fine legs of 20 and 22 darts to win a top game]Andy won't like that!!
Foodwatch-Great variety of sambo's complimented by bowls of peanuts and plates of crisps[Top notch grub].

A really entertaining game tonight.It was a great advertisement for the so called journeyman teams,with both squads showing great enthusiasm even though the game meant relatively little.The Tassie probably just deserved to nick the points,and they'll be extremely grateful for them as they've squandered quite a few over the course of the season.It was typical that two of their best players on the night,Ken Flynn and Danny the destroyer Lynch,both lost out in their game.They have plenty of team spirit and will always give 100 percent,so good luck to them in the future.The Gallops may have expected to win this encounter,but have recently lost the brilliant Jay Nolan to Canada,and came up against a determined Tassie team this evening.They will continue to be a threat to all in the league and I wish them all the luck in the future also.Elsewhere this evening the Lough and Fitzer's fought out a 4-4 draw.It may prove a slip up too far for the Rathnew lads,with the Fishermen and the Tassie squaring up on Thursday in a crucial encounter.It's good this league isn't it!!Get your entry in for Sunday's Doubles before it's too late lads-Contact me on 0868636974.

DartManiac · 26-05-2012 2:00am

Tonight's contest comes from the Silver Tassie,and it's a crucial back match between the Tassie[A] and the Bray fishermen.A win for the Bray lads will put them in a very strong position with just three weeks remaining after tonight,while the Tassie realistically must win to keep their title dreams alive.The Bray lads arrived at 9.35,with the action commencing just before 10-

Mick Cummins 1 v Joe Fagan 2.
Mick the Magnet wastes no time getting into the groove as he blitzes a pair of 140s and a ton for good measure,prior to nailing double 1 for a 17 dart opener.Joe needs to respond quickly and does so with a solid 20 darter as Mick waits on 36.The deciding leg is pure quality from both lads,with Mick firing in a beautiful trio of tons,but Joe has caught fire now and he rattles off a brace of 140s and a 125.Incredibly Mick almost rescued it but narrowly failed to take out double 18 for a 115 kill allowing Joe the chance to finish double 10 in 16 arrows.Brilliant game.

Robbie Smith 1 v PJ Bryan 2.
Both pitchers are away smartly,with Robbie the Rasper pumping in 3 Ballymun's,but PJ's hot on his heels with a 100-121 combo,before a top lipstick kill to go one up.A 100-125 from the Bray wizard cranks up the pressure,but young Robbie is well up for it as he rips the redbit with a pair of 140s and a sweet double 16 finish in 16 darts to take us to a decider.It proves to be an incredibly tight leg,with PJ's 95-100 matched by Robbie's 100-125.The Rasper gets a pop at the bull,but can't nail it and PJ calmly slots the winning double 16 to put the visitor's 2 up.

Ben Prenter 1 v Thomas Smyth 2.
A ton and a 121 from Ben in the opener,but its not enough as Smythy goes on the rampage with a pair of tons and a brilliant 140 to set up a tops kill in 17 arrows.Ben is forced to retaliate in the second leg,and does so with a fine 20 darter culminating in a 78 kill on double 12.There's not a lot in the deciding leg,as Ben throws in a ton,but Smythy's 140-81 gives him a slight edge.Ben is waiting to pounce on 60 when Thomas gratefully takes out the winning double 4 to put the Fishermen 3 ahead.

Gary Gregory 1 v Anto Lynch 2.
A crisp start from Gary here as he fires in a sweet 121-140 combo to assume control of the opener.Anto nails a ton but its too late to prevent the Tassie man from taking the leg on double 10.Anto roars back in the second leg with some serious hammering of the lipstick.Two tons and a 140 set up a 16 dart kill on tops to take us all the way.It's all guns blazing in a crucial decider as Gary throws everything at Anto.Two tons and a 134 set up a shot at tops,but it's on the wire.It would be his last dart as Anto had hit a pair of tons himself before taking out an incredible 82 finish on the middle of the diddle bull.Incredible stuff.

Andy Lacey 2 v Mick Kane 1.
Mick is intent on ending matters as he starts well with a pair of tons,but Andy sticks like glue with some solid darts of his own.Then when Mick misses two at 12s Andy pounces on double 16 to go one up.A further pair of tons and a 125 earns Andy a pop at double 4,but it goes astray and Mick nips in with a 56 kill on the top lippo.Mick is scoring well in the decider with a run of 85-81-82-100,but Andy throws the kitchen sink at him with a 99 and a blistering maximum to earn a shot at double 6.It's last chance saloon for the Tassie,but Andy wipes it out like its nothing to breathe life into the match once more.

Peter Rowe 2 v Willie Murphy 1.
A pair of tons from the Phantom in the opener gives him plenty of optimism,but a brilliant 160 from Willie sets up a double 5 winner to leave Bray on the brink.Willie continues his assault on the treb lipstick, firing in two tons and an 81 to edge ever closer to victory,but out of the darkness the Phantom struck with a scary 116 kill to take us to the 6th decider of the night.The Tassie man has a grip now and won't let go,and although Willie hit a ton-85 combo,Peter is in irresistible form,banging in a magical maximum on his way to taking out tops in 17 super arrows.

Bill Bailey 2 v Dennis FitzPatrick 1.
Bill rides the buzz of the previous game as he rattles off a devastating run of 85-125-95-100,before wrapping up the opener on the awkward double 3 in 19 darts.Dennis fancies a piece of the action now,and hits back with a 100-140 combo before a cool double 19 finish in 20 spears to take us all the way.AGAIN!!It's a tense leg,but it doesn't prevent both combatants from peppering the lipstick.Dennis hits a 121 and a ton,and Bill fires right back with an 83-139 blitz.Fitzer gets 3 pops to take the points but fails in his attempt allowing Bill to step in to grab the glory on the top redbit.

Andy Poole 2 v Mark Cranley 1.
We're at fever pitch now as both lads come to the oche.The Bomber settles into his stride quickly,pumping in a pair of tons and a 130 as Andy struggles for form.It's 1 nil when Mark pops the double 6 cherry.Andy must rise to the challenge now and he manages to eek out the equaliser on the madhouse after a squeaky bottom leg.It's all to play for in a final leg battle,and both lads are playing on an adrenaline rush.Andy fires in a 97 followed by a duo of 85s,while the Bomb detonates a ton-81-135 triple whammy to assume control.After what seemed an eternity,and many missed doubles it was Andy who embraced his destiny with a madhouse winner.Unbelievable drama.

Man of the match-Peter Rowe[Magnificent never say die 116 kill followed by a sublime 17 darter].At least 5 others would have been worthy winners of this award.
180s-Andy Lacey,Peter Rowe.
Foodwatch-See last report[Quality].

What a game that was folks.Quality darts and unbelievable drama from start to finish.Talk about a game of two halves.When Bray powered into a four nil lead,playing some of the best darts seen this season,things were looking bleak for the Tassie.Even more so when the next man in for Bray was the five time singles king Mick Kane.However Andy Lacey and the remaining three Tassie warriors were not reading this script,and one by one they ate away at the Fishermen's lead until they managed to pull off the impossible when Andy Poole sunk the double one for a famous 4-4 draw.Ultimately it may prove to have been a futile reward as the Tassie really needed the win,though you have to admire their pride of performance.The Bray lads will feel annoyed with themselves tonight because they could have put themselves in a very strong position with the win,however they are still hot favourites for the title.Should they win their remaining three games they will be guaranteed a play off place,and that scenario can only arise should Baker's win their remaining games.Considering they must play the Tassie[A] and FitzPatrick's,this will be no easy task.

DartManiac · 04-06-2012 5:08pm

I'm down in the Silver Tassie once more for an intriguing and crucial encounter between the Tassie[A] and Baker's.Both team's know

that a win is vital if they are to have any chance of winning the league.Baker's arrived early,no doubt eager to soak up the

atmosphere prior to the game.We kicked off at 9.50-

Mick Cummins 1 v Gus Fleming 2.
Two tons and a 140 appear to give the Magnet the edge in a sizzling opener,however a missed pop at 14s allows Gussie to nip in on

double 16 after some fine set up work.Mick is not phased however and hits back with a solid 19 darter to take us all the way.It's

a tight and tense decider,where both lads cannot be separated,but Gussie gets first go at the double and he nails the top redbit

to secure the opening point,with Mick waiting on 56.

Ben Prenter 0 v Shane Ryan 2.
Both men are in murderous form in the opening leg,each nailing a 140,while Shane threw in a 125 for good measure.Ben got first

shot at a double however but narrowly failed on 18s for a 116 out.Up stepped Shane and calmly wiped out 73 for a one nil

lead.Baker's number 2 controlled the second leg with some fine pitching but found the winning double elusive.Ben got his

opportunity to level,but after 10 missed attempts Shane finally hit double 1 to put the visitor's two up.

Andy Lacey 0 v Dave Peacock 2.
A run of 85-97-101 from Dave is countered by a fine 140-97 combo from Andy.Indeed Andy gets 2 shots at 6s,but can't convert

allowing young Davey boy in to take out double 5.Dave is full of beans now and pumps in a pair of tons to Andy's one,before a

lovely 74 sets up a tops kill in 19 spears to give Baker's a commanding lead.

Peter Rowe 2 v Gary Murphy 1.
Gary controls the opener as Peter struggles to find his range.A pair of tons and a 98 sets up a beautiful 72 finish on tops for

Gary.The Phantom finally comes to life in the second leg with a 97-100-98 run,and he makes it 1-1 with a double 10 kill in 21

darts.Gary is all out to try and extend Baker's lead,and fires in a sweet 85-125-96 trio to leave himself sitting pretty on 68.But

for the second week in succession there were dark forces at work and Gary watched in horror as the Phantom shanghai'd the 20s to

give the Tassie something to shout about.

Robbie Smith 2 v Johnny Andrews 1.
Robbie hits a 137 to Johnny's two Ballymun's in a decent opening leg.It's Baker's captain,Johnny who shows how to do it with a

lovely 76 finish to take the opener in 21 darts.Two more tons from Johnnyin the second session allow him the chance for

victory,but he fails to nail tops.Robbie does not make the same mistake and grabs his chance on the lipstick to take us to a

decider.It's a mighty tight leg as both lads try to keep their composure.Johnny hits a 98 and 81,with Robbie responding with a

solitary ton.It's down to the double now and Johnny sees three attempts at tops land agonisingly on the wire,before Robbie put the

boot in with a double 7 kill to narrow the gap further.

Gary Gregory 2 v Dan Boyce 0.
Despite a 140 from Dan and a 100-95 combo from Gary,it was apparent that both lads were feeling edgy.This edginess showed as both

lads squandered a host of darts at doubles before Gary eventually nailed the madhouse.Dan responded well in the second leg firing

in an 83 and 97 but Gary's 121 and 80 set up a shot at 18s which the Tassie man took out with relish.3-3 now.

Bill Bailey 1 v Ben FitzPatrick 2.
A quiet start to the opener,but it soon burst into life when Bill hit a magical maximum.Ben responded with a brace of tons,but it

was too late to prevent Bill from taking the leg on double 8.Ben made it one apiece with a comfortable win in the second leg when

a ton and a pair of 83s set up a top lippo finish.Ben was a ton machine in the decider,nailing three of the little beauties.Bill

hung in there,however with a 100-85 combo in what was becoming a nailbiter.The Tassie man got three pops at tops but failed

narrowly with all three allowing Ben the chance to take out double 10 to put Baker's ahead once more.

Andy Poole 1 v Ste Andrews 2.
An impressive opener,scoring wise from both lads,as Stephen fires in a trio of tons,while Andy hits back with a 125 and ton of his

own.Stephen is a fair bit ahead,but cant manage to kill off the leg and Andy grabs his chance on double 9 to secure the opener.The

fun continues in leg two,with the Poole scoring a solid run of 100-81-85,while Stephen shoots from the hip with a 100-140-85

blitz.Despite that fine run Andy gets a pop at 18s to secure the draw,but sees his attempt clip the wire,allowing Ste the chance

to level on tops.The decider is all about Stephen as he scores super solidly with a run of 100-85-97-97,while Andy struggles

despite a 120 with a bounce out.The end comes when Ste cooly dispatches double 16 for a 19 dart winning kill.Game over.

180s-Bill Bailey.

Man of the match-Shane Ryan[Quality player wins quality game].

Foodwatch-Nice sambos,but what type of cheese was that!!

A really good game tonight,as was to be expected from these two top teams.Once again the Tassie got off to the worst possible

start,losing the opening three games.However,while they managed to snatch a draw against the Fishermen,they just couldn't get over

the winning line this evening.Both Bill and Andy had a dart to do it,but it wasn't to be.Sadly for the Tassie,that would appear to

end their hopes of winning the league this year,but I'm sure they'll fight right to the death in an excellent season for

them.Baker's,however are still very much alive and kicking.This was a hell of a result for them on the Tassie's home patch,and if

they can win their remaining two games they will be guaranteed a playoff spot.They must travel to FitzPatrick's on the final night

of the season,but this young team have no fear,and can pull off the win down Wicklow way.Two games to go and it's all to play for.

DartManiac · 09-06-2012 12:13am

There's just two games left now in what has been a fantastic Monday league season.The situation is clear,with Baker's and the
Fishermen equal on points,going into their last two matches.A play off for the title is on the cards,but as we all know,anything
can happen when the pressure is on.I'm in the Tassie for the Fishermen's game against a resurgent Tassie team,who come into
this game on the back of wins against the Gallop's and the Noggin,so things could get interesting tonight.The Bray lads arrived at
9.30,and it all kicked off at 9.55-

Tony Maher 0 v Joe Fagan 2.
Tony starts solidly with a ton and three 60s,but is met with a firm 100-140 reply from Joe.A 97 from Tony leaves him on a
double,but Joe is out of there with a double 10 winner in 20 arrows.Joe is pac man in the second leg as he gobbles up four
tons,and while Tony fires in a ton and 85,he can't prevent Joe from wrapping up the opening point on the top redbit in 18 darts.

Garret Kelly 0 v P J Bryan 2.
Garret blasts off with a 140 and follows up with an 85,but PJ sticks like glue with a pair of tons and an 83.Garret gets 2 pops at
the lipstick,but can't nail it allowing PJ the chance to take out double 6.PJ begins to roll now and assumes command with a brace
of tons and a 98,but Gar digs deep with a 121 reposte.Indeed the Tassie number 2 almost stunned the Fishermen when narrowly
missing the bullseye for a 127 kill,but it was to be his last shot as PJ secured victory on double 8 to put the visitor's two up.

Hubert Kelly 1 v Mick Kane 2.
Mick fired in two rockets of 140 and 135 to take a clear lead in the opener,but to his credit Bert hung tough with a 91-100
reply.After Mick missed a couple to take the leg,Bert got his reward,taking out a cool 65 finish on double 10 to give the Tassie
hope.The win inspired Hubert as he continued to play well in the second stanza hitting a pair of 81s followed by a ton and 123,but
Mick was on his tail with two more magic 140s.The Tassie man got a dart at 5s for victory,but when his attempt fell short Mick
punished him with a sweet 80 kill on double 10.The momentum had swung Micks way now and he blitzed in a pair of tons and his
fourth 140 as Hubert struggled to match strides.The game was up when Mick nailed a beautiful 80 finish to leave the score at 3
zip.

Andy O Toole 2 v Dennis FitzPatrick 0.
A ton apiece in a close first leg encounter,which Andy manages to secure on the top lipstick in a solid 21 arrows.Both lads are in
solid form in the second leg,with Andy's run of 80-85-95 and 83 matched by Dennis'100-85-80.Fitzer got 2 darts at 18s after Andy
failed on 8s,but he couldn't take advantage and Andy made no mistake on double 4 to put the Tassie on the board.3-1.

Eamon Whelan 0 v Anto Lynch 2.
Anto controls the opener with some slick shooting.A run of 81-95-140 is more than enough to take a clear lead,before pinning
double 10.Eamon begins to fire in the second leg and a sweet 140 keeps him in contact with Anto's 100-81.It's all on the
double,and both lads find it extremely elusive.A host of chances for both go abegging before Anto finally nails the winner on
double 4 to restore Bray's 3 game lead.

Paddy Peacock 0 v Willie Murphy 2.
A very tight opener with both lads firing in solid scores.Paddy sits on 60 when Willie goes out on double 7 to put the Fishermen
on the brink.Paddy gives everything for the Tassie's cause and blitzes in a 123-83-121 salvo to set up double 16.Alas his
finishing does not match his scoring and Willie creeps down to a double himself.After yet more heartache for Paddy Willie ends his
misery with a double 9 kill.I say boom boom boom...!!

Peter Duffy 0 v Toffo Devlin 2.
The air has gone from the Tassie balloon,and Peter struggles to re inflate it.He does manage to score solidly,but an 80-100 combo
from Toffo helps him on his way to securing the opener on 19s.The Bray stalwart continues to do enough in the second leg as he
keeps one step ahead of Peter before claiming victory on double 10.

John Smith 0 v Stephen McCormack 2.
Stephen began brightly with a pair of 83s and three 60s,before John got back in the leg with a fine 129.However the Fisherman's
anchorman would not be denied and snared a double 10 kill to assume command.Stephen was intent on a quick ending and ripped in a
100-140 blitz.But some lacklustre finishing allowed John a squeak.He couldn't take advantage unfortunately and Stephen ended
proceedings on the nuthouse.

Man of the match-Joe Fagan[A super consistent player at number one].
180s-None tonight.
Foodwatch-Superb chunky chicken and coleslaw sambo's,as well as tomato and cheese.Oh and crisps aswell.

A very assured performance from the Fisherman's club this evening.They made a potentially tricky encounter very routine with solid
displays throughout the team.Once Joe and PJ had given them a 2 nil lead the result was never really in doubt.There were some
noteworthy performances from the Tassie lads,with Hubert Kelly and Andy O Toole in particular putting up staunch
resistance.However these Bray lads just keep coming,and their strength in depth was always likely to be a telling factor.They face
Enniskerry in their final game next Monday,and with all due respect they should secure a play off spot at least from that
game.Baker's, who also won last night, must travel to Rathnew where only a win will suffice.It's all up for grabs,but who will the
darting gods smile upon?

DartManiac · 12-06-2012 12:33pm

It's crunch time darts fans,the final week of what has been one of the most thrilling seasons in Borough league history.No prizes
for guessing where I am tonight.That's right, I'm travelling with the Baker boys on what could be a momentous night for them in
Rathnew.To realise their dream they must beat a quality FitzPatrick's team,packed with superb pitcher's,who will want to end their
season on a high also.We arrived at 9.45 and the action commenced at 10 o clock-

Martin O Connor 2 v Gus Fleming 0.
A sharp start from Martin with a 94-123 combo,while Gussie is a wee bit sluggish to begin with.A 135 brings Gus into
contention,but it's too late as Martin goes out on tops to secure the opener.Gus hits the accelerator in the second leg,firing in
a beautiful run of 81-100-100-140 to leave him well in control of things.However the normally lethal Fleming leaves a stack of
darts on the wire while the wily old fox that is Martin creeps down to the killing zone before stunning Baker's with an 88 kill to
give Fitzer's an early lead.

Glen FitzPatrick 2 v Johnny Andrews 1.
A tight opener here,with both lads failing to hit the heights.It's anybody's leg until Johnny mops up 72 on the top lipstick.Leg
two is more like it,with Glen firing in a terrific trio of tons,before taking out tops in 19 arrows to take us to a decider.Fair
play to both lads as they gave us a tremendous final leg.Glen hit hard with a fine flurry of 97-96-134-96,while Johnny dug deep to
respond with 140-81-95 in a sizzling leg of darts.However it was Glen who applied the finishing touches to a cracking game by
taking out 78 in 15 arrows to put Fitzers two up.

Dave Corcoran 2 v Dave Peacock 1.
Dave C fires in a ton-70 in the opener as Dave P finds the going tough.Fitzer's number 3 secures the leg on tops to apply more
pressure on young Peacock.He responds well though and levels matters in 21 darts on the lipstick in a leg where both scored
well.They go dart for dart in a cripplingly tense decider,with both lads firing in solid 80 plus scores.It ends up with a myriad
of missed doubles from both until Dave C eventually nailed the winning double 2 to put Fitzer's three ahead.

Gaffer Merrigan 2 v Gary Murphy 1.
A brilliant opening leg from both players,sees Gary breathe life into the visitor's challenge with a sweet 19 darter.Gaffer would
not lie down however and struck back with a superb 18 dart leg,which featured back to back 140s.Gary steamed in with a magical
maximum to begin the decider and followed up with a ton and 97 to leave him in the catbird seat.Gaffer hung tough,and came back
with a trio of tons in what was a savage leg of darts.Gary got 3 arrows to take the game,but couldn't make them count and Gaffer
pounced on his mistake by cleaning up 81 to end the dream for Baker's.

Clifford Doyle 2 v Shane Ryan 1.
Their's an air of resignation in Shanes darts,which is understandable,and Monkey takes the opener on double 16.Credit to young
Ryan as he manages to fire in a pair of tons on his way to levelling on tops in 22 darts.However normal service is resumed for
Fitzer's when Monkey pumps in a pair of tons on his way to making it 5 nil on the top lippo.

Paddy Murphy 2 v Dan Boyce 0.
Dan nails a ton and 72,but the bomb responds with a ton and almost nails the bull for a 170 outshot.He mops up 6s to take a 1 nil
lead.Dan is then stunned as bomber blitzes in a max and a ton back-up shot,before coolly slotting home the winning double 8 to
leave the score at 6 nil.

Paddy Corcoran sr 2 v Willie Devlin 0.
Paddy begins smartly with a pair of tons and a 90,but Will rattles in a ton-140 combo to leave the leg in the balance.After both
lads missed several attempts at a winning double it was Paddy who went 1 double 1 to take the advantage.The energy had drained
from Will by now and a 125 from Paddy proved significant as he went on to register a comfortable victory on the top redbit.

John Quinn 2 v Ste Andrews 0.
Baker's sent the Barrel in to gain a measure of compensation in the final game.John had other ideas however,and fired in a brace
of tons before taking the opener on double 4.Stephen tried hard to get something going,but a 100-81 wasn't enough with John
nailing a 100-140,before putting the icing on the cake with a brilliant 113 kill to complete the whitewash.

Man of the match-Gaffer Merrigan[Ended any chance of a Baker's comeback by winning best game of the night.]
180s-Bomber and Gary Murphy.
Foodwatch-Quality as usual[Couldn't get enough of those fresh sambo's].

Well that was totally unexpected tonight.I had travelled to the game with Baker's and they were fully expecting to get the win
they needed to force a play off.Unfortunately it didn't happen for them.Once Gus had missed a host of chances in the first
game,the bad vibes seemed to filter down through the team.The third and fourth games were crucial,and after both went Fitzer's way
the game was up.It was unfortunate that Baker's chose tonight to miss so many vital doubles,but they know that they can mix it
with the very best now.Two defeats for the whole season was a tremendous achievement and they'll be major contenders again next
season.I must say well done to Fitzer's,who showed tonight what they are capable of doing to any side.They have great strength in
depth,and but for a couple of slip ups this year,could have been looking at a play off themselves.Second place is their reward for
tonight's victory.And so to our champions,the fantastic Fishermen.What a season it's been for them,taking out the league aswell as
the cup in an unforgettable couple of weeks.They fully deserve to be the champs,as they kept their cool in some very tight
games,when the heat was at its most searing.I must also mention the Tassie[A],who were bang in contention until fading late on,but
who as always remain contenders year in year out.Their time will come.Thanks to all the teams in this years Monday league for
providing fantastic entertainment all season long,and all those who through a dart this year take a bow.It takes bottle to stand
on that oche.Until next time,adios.

DartManiacs Monday League report

Comments