ALL THE WEEKLY REPORTS
25TH JULY
The Railway have leaped four points ahead of the Malvern in Division One of the Dover Sunday Darts League, courtesy of a 4-3 win over the Diamond in a darting classic. Chris Bent and Jim Penman both hit their seventh 180's of the season to see theirselves joint leaders in the ever-changing maximum charts. Chris also tucked away a 177.
However the man of the night was the Diamond's Brian Pearce, who fired in two maximums, a 177, and 117 and 120 checkouts. For any statisticians out there, it was Brian's second 117 finish of the season! Despite being on five 180's this season, it was sensationally only the second night he managed to record a maximum. Ralph Speakman also fired in a 180, and his team mate Barry Bullock took out a tidy 120 outshot.
The second Three Cups derby this season proved to be a one-sided affair, with the B side running out 6-1 winners. Despite the A team winning a very good team game, the B side went on to win their next six games, with Andy Swann firing in an excellent 152 finish in his 3-1 win over Jim Yarwood. However it was just one point less than the current highest checkout in Division One - recorded by Ritchie Buckle of the Malvern. Andy was in fine finishing form, also recording a neat 104 checkout.
The Bull A beat the Phoenix 5-2, with Gary Mills hitting a 100 outshot. This result was received very late - with captain Ash Battie blaming it on the 'cheap piss'.
In Division Two, and the DSAA cruised to a 7-0 win over the Cherry Tree to move three points clear of the Bull E. Richard Wood recorded an excellent 15 darter - which included a 180 and a 102 checkout. It was Woody's third of the season, and is currently the leader of his division's maximum charts. Paul Browning of the DSAA hit his second 180 in as many games. Matt 'Boxhead' James took the team game for the Anglers with a nice 74 finish, with Albert Kemp firing in a 70 finish during the evening.
The Bull E moved up to second ahead of the First and Last with a game in hand over them. They comfortably beat the Falstaff 6-1, with Lloyd Clubb hitting a 180 in that game.
The First and Last kept up their promotion hopes alive with a 4-3 win over the Wheelwrights. The game of the night was Alan Francombe's 3-2 win over the 'Moaty Mob's Doug, with Alan hitting an excellent 140 finish. Doug Mardle recorded his first maximum of the season. Ben Baldwin won the game for the First and Last while locked at 3-3, winning his singles 3-1.
And finally, the Admiral Harvey won 4-3 against the Carriers Arms in a tight contest.
Kieran Dodd
18TH JULY
The Railway A played for the first time in four weeks, but did not show any signs of lack of darts as they strolled to a whitewash over the Boars Head. Jim Penman was in cracking form, firing in his sixth 180 in his 3-1 win over Baz Robertson - who also played part in the game. Russ Herbert recorded a 118 finish in his 3-2 win over Del Palmer in a very good game, before Dan Bent hit a nice 126 finish on the bull in his 3-1 win over Kev Hackett, who was left on tops before Dan hit the finish. With the Malvern not playing this week, the Railway sit just two points behind the leaders with a game in hand over them.
The Bull A took firm grip on third spot with a 6-1 win over the Diamond, and now sit nine points ahead of their opponents who crept into fourth despite the loss. Jeff Such of the Diamond recorded his third 180 of the season.
Meanwhile, down the foot of the table, the Phoenix recorded a vital 4-3 win over the Three Cups A. The Phoenix went 3-0 up, before Al Terry beat Colin Townley to take a leg back for the Cups, despite Colin firing in a 107 finish. The inform Luke Blythe took another leg back for the Cups, who hit two 180s on the night for the second time this season, and is now joint leader with Ritchie Buckle of the Malvern in that respect.
Mark Allison of the Phoenix, who also fired in two 180s, recorded a steady 3-0 win over Stu 'Cheekbones' Haynes to seal the win for the Phoenix, before Jim Yarwood beat Jim Fenton to claim a third point for the Cups. It is still desperately close in the relegation scrap, with both teams and the Boars Head being seperated by just nine points.
In Division Two, promotion chasing First and Last sealed a 5-2 win over the Carriers Arms, the Admiral Harvey comfortably beat the Cherry Tree 6-1, and Big Dougie 'Raoul Moat' Mardle's Wheelwrights recorded a whitewash over the Falstaff.
The Railway B recorded a shock 4-3 win over title-challengers DSAA. Aaron Hammond beat Tony Selby to see his side 3-1 up, before wins for Matt James and Paul Browning (who hit a 180) locked it at 3-3. But the Railway held their nerve to record a cracking win over the Anglers. However, the DSAA are now top of Division Two.
Don't forget that the Walmer Knockout is not far away now, it's on the 7th August, £5.00 entry, with registration before 12, play starting around half 12. And the Divisional Singles is also not far away, on the 4th September, the Division One knockout will take place at the Diamond, while the Division Two knockout will take place at the Wheelwrights.
11TH JULY
The crunch match between the Railway A and the Malvern has been postponed until the 29th August, which could potentially be the championship winning night.
It is also tight between teams competing for bronze in Division One. The Bull A have moved into third with a whitewash over the Boars Head. Captain Ash Battie recorded his sixth 180 of the season, who came from 2-0 to beat Kev Hackett. Andy Howell also recorded his sixth maximum, while Ben Tester fired in his third of the season.
The Three Cups A recorded a vital 4-3 win over the Diamond to move six points above the relegation zone. The Cups went 2-1 ahead, before Luke Blythe beat Jeff Such to make it 3-1. Brian Pearce of the Diamond beat Stu Haynes, before new signing Jim Yarwood won it for the Cups by beating Gordon Speakman 3-2, with the unlucky Gordon thinking he had won with a 151 finish, only to find out he had 161 left. Barry Bullock then beat Al Terry on last to make it 4-3.
It was a good night for the Three Cups, as the B side also recorded a 4-3 win, over the Phoenix. Steve Terry won it for the B side with a close 3-2 win over Mark Allison. Jim Fenton and Alan Ironmonger of the Phoenix both recorded maximums on the evening.
In Division Two, and the crunch match between the Bull E and the DSAA was won by the Anglers 5-2. Callum Crutchfield hit a steady 111 finish, with Jamie Breeden coming from 2 down to beat Bob Dryden 3-2. The game of the night though however was Tony Selby's 3-2 win over Lloyd Clubb. It is looking really positive for the Anglers at the moment, as they are only a point behind the Bull, and they have played a game less.
The First and Last, who played their match on Thursday night, recorded a whitewash over the Cherry Tree to move into third place. Ben Baldwin hit a nice 100 outshot, and his side are only four points behind promotion.
The Admiral Harvey beat the Railway B 4-3, while Doug 'Raoul Moat' Mardle's Wheelwrights comfortably beat the Carriers Arms 6-1.
Kieran Dodd
4TH JULY
On Week Eleven of the Dover Sunday Darts League, the Cherry Tree A from Division One have withdrawn from the league. All points won against them have been deducted, and have changed the table significantly before this week's fixtures - both at the summit and the foot of the table.
The Malvern continued their excellent form with a 5-2 win over the Bull A, with Ritchie Buckle, who won this month's Walmer knockout singles and blind pairs, recording a cracking 153 finish. Last week, Ritchie took command of the 180's table, and is now currently holding the highest finish crown, previously held by team mate Paul Perkins with 150. Ritchie is in fine finishing form, who also hit a stunning 160 finish to win the blind pairs event at Walmer with in-form partner Lewis Venes.
The Malvern went 3-0 up after the pairs, but the Bull's excellent Martin Pepe beat Dave Gealer 3-2, recording a sizzling 14 dart leg in the deciding leg. Darren Hyder, who hit a tidy 102 outshot, won it for the Malvern boys with a 3-1 victory over Ash Battie - who hit in his fifth 180 of the season. Uncle Fester made it five with a solid 3-0 victory over Ben Tester, before the Bull's latest addition Paul Martin beat Wayne Venes 3-0.
The Malvern have now stretched their lead at the top of the table to eleven points; however the Railway A have two games in hand. The Malvern entertain the Walmer side next week in which is ultimately the crunch match of the season.
This week's crunch match undoubtedly was the Three Cups A's 4-3 win over the Boars Head, as both teams are looking to secure their Division One status. Despite a few regulars not on show, the Cups showed no problem going 4-0 up, with Luke Blythe recording his fifth 180 of the season, who threw excellent darts in his 3-2 win over Jason 'Penfold' Davey to clinch the match for the Cups.
The Boars Head however won their next three singles, with Kev Hackett beating the Cups' new boy Steve Clarke 3-2. Baz Robertson and Del Palmer won their singles games over Al Terry and another new addition Az Blythe respectively. Delboy hit a cushty 171 on the evening.
Another team bidding for safety is the Phoenix - but they went 6-1 down to the Diamond. The Diamond's Brian Pearce hit an excellent 129 finish to win their team game, and soon went 4-0 up, before the Phoenix's rock steady Colin Townley beat Jeff Such 3-2. Bubbles, however, fired in his second maximum of the season, and was agonizingly close to a 167 finish, just missing the bull in which would've led the highest finishes charts.
The Diamond won their next two singles with Brian Pearce seeing off Jim Fenton, and Gordon Speakman recording a 3-0 win over Mel Beckett. It is incredibly tight at the foot of the table, with two points amazingly seperating all three sides battling for safety. After the Cherry Tree's withdrawal, there will only be one relegation now.
There will still be two promotions though from Division Two, and it is most looking likely that the Bull E and DSAA will gain those two, both recording victories this week. Whether will win the title could probably go down to the last few weeks of the season.
The DSAA gained three points over the Bull E, recording a whitewash over the Falstaff. Richard Wood, who reached the final of the blind pairs event at Walmer with Kieran Dodd, hit his second 180 of the season. There are currently four joint leaders in the 180's table in that division - Woody, Tony Selby, Ricky and Bob Dryden. The Falstaff's Wayne Barringer also recorded his first maximum of the season.
The Bull E could only manage a 4-3 win over the Admiral Harvey, which now sees the Anglers only six points behind the Bull E with a game in hand. The two sides will meet next week at the Bull in that division's crunch match of the season. A win for the Anglers of any margin would see them creep ahead of the Bull, still with the vital game in hand.
The First and Last kept up their slim promotion hopes with a tense 4-3 win over the Railway B, with Pete Gordon beating Aaron Hammond in the deciding game to win it for the First and Last. And finally, the Carriers Arms recorded their highest ever victory in the Dover Sunday Darts League, beating the Cherry Tree B 6-1.
After Ritchie Buckle's double in this month's Walmer knockout, the next knockout will be held at the same place on the 7th August, of which again all are welcome to join in which is always a fantastic day of fun and cracking darts on show.
Kieran Dodd
27TH JUNE
This week was the start of the reverse fixtures as we head into our tenth week. After England's shocking 4-1 loss to Germany in the World Cup, the Dover Sunday League Darts teams were aiming to put their disappointment behind them with wins.
We start in Division Two this week as the Bull E lost their 100% record at the hands of the First and Last. A cool Mark Bax saw off Lloyd Clubb 3-2 in the deciding game to win it for the First and Last. Alan Francombe also contributed to his side's win by hitting an excellent 113 finish.
The Bull E however are on fine finishing form of late, with Lloyd Clubb and Andy Collins hitting 107 and 100 finishes respectively - four ton plus checkouts in two weeks for the current Division Two leaders. The DSAA had their bye this week, who entertain the Falstaff next week. After the Bull E's suprise defeat, a 7-0 win would see the Anglers joint top with the Bull on 64 points each.
The Admiral Harvey and the Wheelwrights both boosted their promotion hopes with 6-1 wins over the Falstaff and Cherry Tree B respectively. Both sides are currently on 48 points, with the Harvey boys just edging the 'Mardle Mob' on leg difference.
The Railway B beat the Carriers Arms 4-3 in Walmer, with Shane Mcquinn hitting a tidy 78 outshot.
In Division One, and the Cherry Tree A's home tie with the current leaders Railway A was a 'no game' - whether it was given or will be rearranged is still to be decided by both captains. Remember that any cancelled games can be rearranged on the 29th August as that is a free week before the Singles Knockouts.
The Malvern went top in that respect for now after a convincing whitewash over the Three Cups A, with the Malvern's Ritchie Buckle now leading the 180's charts with seven. After going 3-0 up after the team game and pairs, they were in sublime form as Wayne Venes sealing the win for the Malvern boys after seeing of Luke Blythe 3-1 in the first singles match.
Ritchie recorded two maximums in his 3-1 victory over Kieran Dodd, before the superb Dave Gealer comfortably beat Baz Robinson 3-0. The closest game of the night was Paul Perkins' 3-2 win over Al 'Monkey Boy' Terry final game, and now the Malvern sit two points clear of the Railway A - who have a bye next week. The Malvern travel to the Bull next week.
The Three Cups B recorded their first victory in five weeks as they recorded a 5-2 win over the Diamond. The Cups raced into a 3-0 lead after a cracking team game with some quality darts, and two equally impressive pairs victories, with Steve Terry firing in two 180's in his pairs match with Phil Cope.
It was soon 4-0 as Andy Swann sealed the win for the Cups boys. The Diamond won two singles matches, one of them being Brian Pearce who hit a 117 finish in his 3-0 win over Steve Terry - who claimed he was dismal, saying he was "shite".
And finally, the Phoenix recorded a cracking 6-1 win over the Boars Head. The match was not a walloping as the scoreline suggests as every singles was played out in five legs. One of the singles winner was Mark Allison of the Phoenix who fired in a 102 outshot. Kev Thorp of the same side hit his first maximum of the season, while Mel Beckett won the team game with a super 116 finish.
That win proved to be vital for the Phoenix - they leaped over the Three Cups A and the Boars Head into sixth place. Both the Cups A and the Boars Head face each other next week in a crunch match, with both teams bidding for safety in Division One. The Cups are only two points ahead of the Boars Head boys.
Remember that this Saturday (3rd July) is the Walmer Darts Knockout at the Railway - just right next to Walmer Rail Station. If you fancy having a crack, it's only a fiver to enter, with registration by approximately 12 at noon, with play commencing at half 12. Any late entrants that wish to enter can feel free to text me, and I will register you.
Kieran Dodd
20TH JUNE
We have reached the halfway stage of the season, where both the Railway A and the Bull E retained their 100% records in Division One and Division Two respectively. So far, there have been 86 maximums (88 if you include 171's) and 37 ton-plus finishes, and we still have another nine weeks to go in this Summer's campaign.
In Division One, the Railway A comfortably beat the Phoenix 6-1, with Chris Bent firing in his sixth 180 of the season - the current leader so far in both divisions. Alan Ironmonger and Mick Law of the Phoenix also recorded maximums on the evening, despite their side losing by a big margin, not doing their survival hopes any good. They currently sit four points behind safety.
The only side that is still within fighting chance behind the Walmer side are the Malvern, who recorded another good win - this time at the expense of the Three Cups B 5-2. Ritchie Buckle hit his fifth 180 of the season in his singles victory over Tel Burtram, before Wayne Venes beat Steve Terry in a cracking game to seal the win for the Malvern boys. Steve hit a 126 finish in his singles loss - this time it was counted correctly!
Daz Hyder made it five by winning his singles, before Lyndon hit a 130 checkout in his singles win over Paul Perkins to take back two points for the Cups B side - who at the start of the season won four on the trot, but now have lost four on the trot.
The Bull A recorded a tense 4-3 win over the Three Cups A, with the Cups going 3-2 up after Stu Haynes and Luke Blythe won their singles matches against Ash Battie and Gary Mills respectively. Ben Tester then beat Baz Robinson 3-2 in a tense singles match to square it at 3-3, with both recording maximums. It was Baz's fifth of the season. And on a week where the England football team weren't on target, neither was Doddy, as he was comfortably beaten by Andy Howell on last, who also fired in his fifth 180 of the season.
The Cherry Tree A were 2-0 up against the Diamond, only for the Diamond to win the rest to record a 5-2 win. Jeff Such and George Clark of the Diamond both hit 180's, as well as the Cherries' Jim Yarwood. After being 2-1 up after the pairs, the Cherries lost all of their singles, with the Speakman brothers both recording 3-1 victories. Jeff Such sealed the win for the Diamond winning 3-0, before George Clark beat Dave Wallace 3-2. Jim Yarwood hit a nice 130 checkout during the evening.
In Division Two, the Bull E beat the Wheelwrights 5-2 to see their side six points clear of the DSAA. Allan Humphries and Andy Collins of the Bull hit 126 and 120 finishes respectively.
The DSAA are the other favourites for promotion as they comfortably beat the Carriers Arms 6-1, with Tony Selby and Richard Wood of the Anglers recording maximums. They went 6-0 up, before Dover's own 'Cubeman' Matt James lost the final leg of the final game in his singles match.
The First and Last beat the Admiral Harvey 5-2, with Jim Hopkins hitting a 180 in that game. They are not at all behind the promotion places yet, but may have to rely on the in-form DSAA to lose a few games.
And finally, the Railway B beat the Falstaff 5-2 - who are still looking for their first win in the Summer campaign.
Kieran Dodd
13TH JUNE
The Railway A's 100% record in Division One of the Dover Sunday Darts League continued with a convincing 5-2 win over the Three Cups A - despite having a short side.
Jim Penman and Chris Bent from the Walmer side were outstanding all night, with Penman hitting two maximums, a superb 147 finish and a fifteen-dart leg. Chris recorded his fifth 180 of the season. He missed bull for a 170 outshot, hitting the two treble 20s, with his third dart bouncing out of the bull in which would've been a cracking 12-dart leg. He then went on to hit 18 and double 16 to record a 14-dart leg. Both Jim and Chris are now currently joint leaders of the maximums table, on five each in just eight weeks.
The Railway pair were just incredible to say the least. However, not forgetting to mention, Dan Bent also threw good darts, as well as new signing Jake Marsh, despite losing to the only singles winner for the Cups - Baz Robinson. It wasn't a bad effort from the Cups A side, but the Railway were just in sublime form and they extended their lead at the summit to seven points.
Behind the Walmer side are the Malvern, who recorded a tense 4-3 win over the Boars Head, who had plenty of opportunites to beat the Malvern. They missed doubles in the team game to go one-up, before Ritchie Buckle hit a 88 bull finish to nick it for the Malvern.
It was soon 2-1 to the Malvern after the pairs, before Darren Hyder recorded a confident 3-0 victory over Del Palmer. The game of the night was Kevan Hackett's 3-2 victory against Wayne Venes, with Venes missing a brilliant 152 finish to win the game. Baz Robertson went 1-0 up against Ritchie Buckle, but Ritchie went on to win the next three legs to win it for the Malvern. Billy Bell of the Boars Head beat Dennis Painter 3-0 to make things more respectable for his side, however they will rue missed opportunities in which would've been vital for their bid to stay in the top division.
The Bull A have moved up to joint third with the Three Cups B courtesy of a 4-3 win over them. The Bull went 4-1 up, before Tel Burtram and Steve Terry won their singles matches to keep them in third spot - with Steve recording a brilliant 161 outshot! However it was bust, as he had 151 left, much to the amusement of both teams. Therefore, Paul Perkins of the Malvern remains the leader of the highest finishes in Division One with 150.
There were big checkouts though however on the night, with the in-form Andy Howell of the Bull hitting 135 and 128 finishes. He also recorded his fourth 180 of the season, with his team mate Gary Mills firing his first of the season. Steve Terry, Lyndon Bradley and Andy Swann (all of the Cups) also threw three in the lipstick.
Meanwhile, at the foot of the table, the Phoenix recorded their second win of the season at the expense of bottom side Cherry Tree A, with Alan Ironmonger and Mark Allison hitting a 17 dart leg in 601 pairs. Mark Allison won it for the Phoenix side while locked at 3-3, coming from 2-0 down to record a brilliant comeback and securing vital bonus points as they look towards safety in Division One.
They are only five points behind safety, with the Boars Head and the Three Cups A ahead of them. However, the Cups have played one game less, and entertain the Bull A next week, while the Phoenix face the Railway A.
In Division Two, the Bull E also maintained their 100% record with a comfortable 5-2 victory over the Railway B. Andy Collins of the Bull recorded a 102 finish. They moved seven points clear of the DSAA and are surely favourites for the Division Two Title.
The DSAA are in the final promotion spot. This week, they ended the First and Last's 5-game winning streak, winning 4-3 in the 'Boxhead vs. The Bunyip' battle. Tony Selby of the Anglers won the crucial last leg in the last game to win it for his side.
The Wheelwrights recorded a fantastic 6-1 win over the Admiral Harvey, with Al and Doug Ulvmoen of the 'Sober' Wheelies hitting 100 and 104 finishes respectively, and they are not at all far behind the promotion places. Last week, the Wheelies' Al Ulvmoen recorded his first 180 of the season, which was not included in last week's round-up.
And finally, the Cherry Tree B claimed their first win of the season, so well done to them. They beat the Falstaff 4-3 in a tense game, however they remain bottom of Division Two.
Don't forget that two weeks Saturday is the Walmer Monthly Knockout at the Railway on the 3rd July, which is £5 to enter, and approx half twelve start on the oche. More information on this knockout and other Kent competition dates is on doversplofdarts.com, which includes this season's Sunday Divisional Singles Knockout on the 5th September. The Division One knockout will take place at the Diamond, while Division Two will be held at the Wheelwrights.
Kieran Dodd
6TH JUNE
The Dover Sunday Darts League Division One suddenly turned into a two-horse race after the Malvern recorded a brilliant 7-0 win away to the Diamond, with other results going their way.
The game of the night was Wayne 'Beanpole' Venes' 3-2 victory over Brian Pearce, finishing in 14, 16 and 18 dart legs, giving him a super 31.64 average in those three legs. Wayne also recorded his second 180 of the season, with Brian of the Diamond hitting a 109 outshot, while his team mate Barry Bullock recorded a nice 130 outshot. Despite the big finishes, it was to be no where near enough for the Diamond boys as the Malvern secured a brilliant whitewash.
The Malvern cut the gap between themselves and the current leaders the Railway A to four points, despite the Walmer side winning 5-2 against the Bull A - who have had the most indifferent season so far. Jim Penman (Railway A) and Andy Howell (Bull A) both recorded their third 180's of the season.
The Three Cups B now have lost two on the trot after a brilliant start to the season, this time they lost 4-3 to the Boars Head. However they moved ahead of the Diamond into third place, and have a game in hand over them. The Boars Head side though left the happier side after boosting their survival hopes. Last week, the Cups B's Phil Cope hit a 107 finish which was not included in last week's blog. Good darts Phil!
The Three Cups A also boosted their survival hopes with a 6-1 win over the Cherry Tree A, with the Cups A hitting 180's for fun. Kieran 'The Dead Caterpillar' Dodd hit two 180's on the evening, including one in the team game, however he followed it up with a spectacular 3! Al Terry recorded his first maximum of the season as he threw solid darts in his 3-0 win over Dave Wallace, before Doddy hit his second 180 of the night in his 3-1 win against Steven 'Farmville' Habbershaw. Doddy became the third Cups A player to hit two 180's in one night this season, before Luke Blythe and Baz Robinson recorded one each in their singles victories to see them joint leaders with Ash Battie and Chris Bent in the 180's table (all four each).
In Division Two, The Bull E remain unbeaten after a 7-0 win over the Cherry Tree B, with Bob Dryden recording his second 180 of the season. Both Bob and Ricky Dryden are current joint leaders of the maximums table in that division.
Their side are currently six points clear of the DSAA, who moved into second place after coming from 3-1 down to win 4-3. The in-form 'Michelin Man' Callum Crutchfield showed steady grip on his tyres after beating Pete 'Pumpkin' Phillips 3-0 on last to win it for the Anglers. Tony Selby of the DSAA finally conceded a leg in a singles game this season, at the hands of the Harvey's Shaun Breeden.
The Railway B beat the Wheelwrights 5-2, which see both sides neck and neck in 5th place. And finally, the Falstaff won three legs against the Carriers Arms, however it wasn't enough to claim their first win of the season.
Kieran Dodd
30TH MAY
The only two sides left in Division One with a 100% record faced each other Sunday night in what was a typical top of the table clash, with five 180's hit on the night, but it was the Railway A who emerged victorious over the Three Cups B in the Dover Sunday Darts League.
Andy Swann, Phil Cope, James Warr and Steve Terry, all of the Cups B, hit maximums, however the scoreline ended 6-1 to the Walmer side. Chris Bent of the Railway A may be joint leader of the maximum's table, however it was his brother Dan who recorded his first 180 of the season, to see both 'Brents' on the 180's table for the season.
Their side see themselves sitting six points clear of second place - which was snatched by the Malvern as they recorded a 5-2 win over the Phoenix. Wayne Venes hit a 121 outshot on the bull in the pairs to see his side go 3-0 up.
It was soon four as he beat Colin Townley 3-1, with Townley hitting a 115 finish to go 1-0 up, with Wayne busting on 120 twice in the first leg! It was Colin's third ton-plus finish of the season, and is enjoying quite a good season so far, despite conceding the next three legs to Wayne. Daz Hyder of the Malvern checked out on 112 in his 3-0 singles win.
Brian Pearce of the Diamond hit three 180's in his side's 5-2 win against the Boars Head. Brian beat Del Palmer 3-2 in what was the game of the night, with Jeff Such showing top form shortly after that in his 3-2 win over Jason 'Penfold' Davey. Barry Bullock beat Billy Bell 3-1, before Kev Hackett made things more respectable for the Boars Head side, hitting a 120 finish in his 3-0 win over Gordan Speakman. The Diamond moved up to third in the table.
Meanwhile, at the bottom of the table, the Cherry Tree A are six points behind safety as they lost 6-1 to the Bull A. The in-form Ash Battie hit a 120 finish, with Jim Yarwood of the Cherries hitting his first 180 of the season. Colin Habbershaw recorded a maximum on the 19's.
In Division Two, the Admiral Harvey, who had been sitting top of the table for most of the campaign, had their bye this week, with the Bull E taking full advantage of that courtesy of a 6-1 win over the Carriers Arms (King Edward). The Harvey have slipped down three places due to other results not going their way.
The First and Last moved into second place, beating the Falstaff by the same scoreline, with the DSAA moving into third place with a 5-2 win over the Wheelwrights. Tony Selby of the Anglers won his singles 3-0, who is yet to drop a leg in his singles this season. Jamie Breeden of the same team hit a tidy 75 outshot. And finally, the Railway B comfortably beat the Cherry Tree B 7-0.
It is exceptionally tight at the top of the table so far, with only four points seperating the top four teams, as each team are hunting for promotion into Division One.
On Saturday saw another Walmer knockout at the Railway, with Jim Penman beating Chris Bent 5-3 in the final to take the £100 prize. Jim beat Ritchie Buckle 4-1 in the first semi-final, before Chris beat Steve Burt in the other semi-final. It was a good turnout this weekend, with 25 entrants and most of them play in this league. The next Railway competition is on the 3rd July, starting approximately half twelve.
And on Sunday afternoon, Ritchie Buckle travelled to Ashford to reach the final of the Ashford Double In Knockout. He split the money with Bob Linton, with Bob winning 4-1 in the final just for show.
And finally, if anyone is interested in playing superleague darts for Dover next season, there are practise sessions down the Working Men's Club every Wednesday evening if anyone would like to show up. The team are looking for more players as the new season starts in September, and players have to be committed to travelling all over Kent on Wednesday evenings.
Kieran Dodd
23RD MAY
The winter champions Railway A returned to the top of Division One on Week Five of the Dover Sunday Darts League in empathic fashion as they triumphed 6-1 over last season's runners-up the Diamond. Russ Herbert helped his side to a superb win with a 121 checkout, while the Diamond's Gordon Speakman hit 120 and 130 finishes.
Behind the Walmer side in the table is the Three Cups B, who came from 3-0 down against the other Three Cups side to record a fantastic comeback, winning all four of their singles to win the game 4-3. The Cups A deservedly went 3-0 up after the team game and pairs, but the Cups B side deservedly won all of their singles, with Tel Burtram firstly beating Kieran Dodd 3-0. Andy Swann then beat Al Terry by the same scoreline, before Steve Terry threw some solid darts in his 3-1 win over Luke Blythe. Finally, Lyndon Bradley won it for the Cups B side with a 3-0 win over Stu Haynes, which sees them just three points behind the Railway A.
The Bull A may have had one of the most unexpected starts to the summer campaign, however they got their season back on track with a 6-1 win over the Phoenix, with three of their players hitting maximums, including captain Ash Battie, his fourth of the season, to see him joint leader in the 180's table with Chris Brent of the Railway A with only five weeks gone. Andy Howell and Ben Tester recorded their second and first of the season respectively, with Howell also hitting a nice 115 finish. Colin Townley hit a superb 143 outshot for the struggling Phoenix side, which sees them lying in the relegation zone.
Along in the relegation zone with the Phoenix is the Cherry Tree A - however they recorded their first win of the season against the Boars Head, winning 4-3 to see them reach double figures point-wise.
In Division Two, Sammy Johnston of the Wheelwrights hit a stunning 164 finish in his side's 4-3 defeat at the hands of the First and Last. Johnston now tops the highest finish of both divisions, hitting treble 20, treble 18 and the bull to equal last season's highest finish, recorded by Callum Crutchfield of the Diamond. However it didn't go all their way, with Ben Baldwin of the First and Last recording a 3-1 win on last while locked at 3-3 to see his side still in hunt for promotion to Division One.
Tony Selby of the DSAA hit his first 180 of the season in his side's whitewash over the Cherry Tree B. The superb Anglers only forced the Cherry Tree side to have one dart at a double all evening, however the Cherries did hit that double. The Anglers are also chasing promotion, lying just two points behind 2nd-placed Bull E.
Meanwhile, the Admiral Harvey move four points clear ahead of the Bull E with a 7-0 win over the Carriers Arms, with the Bull E themselves recording a win at the expense of the Falstaff - who now moved off the bottom of the table after recording two points.
On Saturday, Chris Bent won the Walmer knockout at the Railway, beating Wayne Short in the final. This Saturday sees another knockout at the same place, which is only a fiver to enter, register before 12 at noon and toe the oche at half 12. Also that weekend is the Ashford knockout at the Ashford Club on Sunday 30th May, which has attracted a couple of players from this league to enter. This competition however is a double in, double out format, and is £8 to enter.
And finally, a point regarding this summer's football World Cup - there are two possible dates during the World Cup where England could be playing on a Sunday night after the group stages, and the final itself is on a Sunday (11th May). If any team wish to postpone their game due to this, then it must be agreed with the opposition's captain in order to do so. There is a spare week at the end of the season (5th September) on which this one game would have to be played instead. Captains must sort this out between them and then notify the league.
Kieran Dodd
The early leaders Three Cups B had their bye this week, which meant the team behind them, the Malvern, had to record at least a 4-3 win to return to the summit of the Dover Sunday Darts League Division One. They did one better on Sunday night against the Cherry Tree A as they got back to winning ways in a fantastic game.
The Malvern were 2-1 up after the pairs, before Jim Yarwood of the Cherries hit a 118 finish in his 3-2 win over Paul Perkins in a cracking game. Perks, however, hit a brilliant 150 outshot, which is currently the highest so far this season. He also recorded a 112 finish.
Then the excellent Darren Hyder sealed the win in his singles victory over Dave Wallace, with Daz hitting his first maximum of the season. Dennis Painter went on to beat Steven Habbershaw, before Wayne Venes hit 14 and 18 dart legs in his 3-1 over Colin Habbershaw, with Colin hitting a bull finish on 82. Wayne also recorded his first 180 of the season, but credit goes to the Cherries for throwing some cracking darts and probably felt that their 5-2 loss was slightly harsh.
The Railway A also leapfrogged the Three Cups B into second place with a 6-1 win away to the Boars Head, with Chris Bent hitting his fourth 180 of the season. Not only has he hit four maximums this season, but he is the only player in the league to hit a maximum in every game this season.
The Diamond came back from 3-1 down to record a 4-3 win for the second time in succession, this time at the expense of the Bull A. Jeff Such started their comeback with a 3-2 over Ben Tester, before Brian Pearce beat Andy Howell for the second time in three days to level matters at 3-3. Gordon Speakman then won it for the Diamond with a 3-0 win over Gary Mills in a great, close night of darts.
The Phoenix deservedly recorded their first win of the season with a 4-3 win at home to the Three Cups A. The Cups went 2-1 up after the pairs, however Jim Fenton threw some cracking darts in his win over captain Al Terry. Luke Blythe of the Cups hit two 180s, including one in his 3-2 defeat to the equally impressive Mark Allison. Luke was just agonisingly close to a fantastic 164 finish, just hitting the 25 instead of the bull which would've seen him top the highest finishes chart.
However, the game of the night was Colin Townley's 3-1 win against Stuart Haynes, with Stu going 1-0 up. However Colin went on to hit a 180 in the third leg to go 2-1 up, before starting the final leg with another 180 - then he hit treble 20, treble 20 and just threw his sixth dart underneath the wire for five perfect darts, much to the shame of all of the players at the venue. That leg ended up being a superb 13 dart leg for Townley - his third of the season, with the also impressive Stu left on 76 just after twelve darts. Finally, Baz Robinson made things more respectible for the Cups side with a nervy 3-2 against Tom.
In Division Two, the King Edward, who now play from the Carriers Arms after the pub shut down recently, lost 6-1 to the First and Last in their first game at their new venue. Meanwhile, the Admiral Harvey romped to a 7-0 win over the Cherry Tree B. The Harvey did not drop a single leg all night.
Sammy Johnston of the Wheelwrights recorded his first 180 of the season in his side's 5-2 win over the Falstaff, and finally, the DSAA beat the Railway B 6-1.
A reminder that the Walmer knockout at the Railway Hotel is THIS SATURDAY (22nd May). It is only a fiver to enter. Remember you do not have to be a player in this league, so anyone is welcome to come along in which is normally a fantastic day of fun and cracking darts on show. If anyone from Dover will be catching the train from Dover Priory station, the best time is to get on the 11.02 train, which will arrive at Walmer station at 11.15, and then it is only a minutes walk away from the specified venue.
Kieran Dodd
9TH MAY
Without doubt, the crunch match of Week Three of the Dover Sunday Darts League was the winter champions Railway A v the early pacesetters the Malvern.
The Malvern went ahead after the team game and pairs, but Russ Herbert of the Railway levelled things up for the Railway after beating Darren Hyder 3-2 in a fantastic game. Russ went 2-0 up, before Daz hit a 13 and 14 dart legs to make it 2-2, then Russ won the final leg to make it 2-2 to the Railway. Then the draw of the night saw rivals Ritchie Buckle face Jim Penman once again. Buckle, who hit his first two 180's of the season, beat Penman 3-2 in a close game, with Penman recording his second in as many games. Chris Bent saw off Paul Perkins in the final game of the evening to win it for the Walmer side. Chris hit his third maximum of the season, and also checked out on 120.
Despite the champions winning, they are not the current leaders of Division One after the Three Cups B recorded a fine 6-1 win at the Phoenix. The Cups went 3-0 up before the impressive Andy Swann beat Jim Fenton 3-1 to make it 4-0. It wasn't to be a whitewash however, as Alan Ironmonger hit a 180 in his 3-0 win over Tel Burtram. Lyndon Bradley's superior scoring and finishing saw off Mark Allison, before Steve Terry beat the in-form Colin Townley 3-1 to round off an impressive win. They are one of two sides with a 100% record in Division One, the other team being the Railway A.
The Bull A made amends of last week's 6-1 defeat to the Malvern with a close 4-3 win over the Boars Head which saw five 180's recorded on the night. Ash Battie hit his second and third of the season, Jason Davey of the Boars also hit two, while Kev Hackett recorded his first of the season. It was 3-3 before the Bull's surprise signing Mark Clayton beat Baz Robertson 3-1 in the final game, with Baz hitting a 112 checkout.
The Three Cups A were 3-1 up against the Diamond, however the Diamond completed a good comeback to record their second win of the season. Luke Blythe beat George Clark 3-0 in the first singles, before Brian Pearce of the Diamond beat Kieran Dodd 3-2 in a tense match to start the excellent comeback for the Diamond. Barry Bullock went on to beat captain Al Terry 3-0, before Jeff Such beat Baz Robinson by the same scoreline, although Baz recorded his third 180 of the season.
After three weeks, we already have three players on three 180's each. Chris Bent (Railway A), Ash Battie (Bull A), and Baz Robinson (Three Cups A) are all current leaders of the maximum board in what could be an interesting season of darts ahead.
Ricky Dryden of the Bull E is currently the sole leader of the Division Two maximums as he recorded his second of the season in his side's 4-3 win over the DSAA, and are early favourites for their division title. Bob Dryden of the Bull also hit a 180.
The Wheelwrights are the only other side with a 100% record in their division as they beat the King Edward 5-2, with S Johnston hitting a nice 98 outshot.
Meanwhile, the Admiral Harvey saw off the Railway B 4-3 in a close game, and the First and Last won their game 6-1 at the expense of the Cherry Tree B.
Kieran Dodd
2ND MAY
The Malvern continued their excellent start to the Summer 2010 season as they romped to a superb 6-1 win over the Bull on Sunday night.
They raced to a 3-0 lead, before the Bull's only winner Andy Howell beat Wayne Venes to make it 3-1. However, the Malvern went on to win their next three singles. Darren Hyder, who hit a nice 101 checkout on the evening, beat Martin Pepe, before Ritchie Buckle beat the impressive Ash Battie - who was so close to a brilliant 12-dart leg, just missing the bull for a 121 finish. Finally, Paul Perkins beat Gary Mills to round off an impressive win for the Malvern, with Perks hitting a 14-dart leg. Perks also hit a 180, as well as the Bull's Andy Howell and Captain Ash Battie.
The Diamond got back to winning ways with a 4-3 win over the Phoenix in the tightest of matches. Colin Townley beat Brian Pearce 3-1 in a classic, with both players on stunning form. But the sensational Townley, hit two 13-dart legs, a 180 and a 120 finish in a game that included FOUR ton-plus finishes. Barry Bullock and George Clark of the Diamond hit 108 and 105 respectively, while the Phoenix's Mark Allison hit a tidy 100 outshot. The Phoenix's 4-3 defeat to the Boars Head last week saw Kev Thorp hit the 120 finish, which is currently the joint highest, along with Townley.
The Three Cups B also continued their impressive form as they beat the Cherry Tree A 5-2. The Cups went 2-1 up after the pairs, with Tel Burtram hitting his second 180 in as many games for the Cups. However the impressive Dave Wallace of the Cherries beat Tel to make it 2-2 and make things a little more interesting. But the Cups won their next three singles, with Lyndon beating Steven Habbershaw 3-0 next. Andy Swann beat Jim Yarwood 3-2 in a very good game to seal the win for the Cups, with Andy going 2-0 up which included a 103 finish. However, Jim battled back to square things up at 2-2, before Andy threw back-to-back 140's to seal the win. Finally, Phil Cope beat Kerry Burdett 3-1.
The Three Cups A made amends of last week's defeat with a 4-3 win at the expense of the Boars Head. Kev Hackett of the Boars hit a 116 finish in his singles victory over Al Terry to make it 2-2, before Baz Robinson beat Del Palmer 3-2 in a very good game. Jason Davey levelled matters again by seeing off Stu Haynes, before Luke Blythe beat Billy Bell 3-1 to win the bonus points. Luke hit his first 180 of the season, as Billy recorded the first maximum on the 19's this season (a 171).
In Division Two, and congratulations goes to the King Edward team who notched up their first ever win in this league. They beat the Cherry Tree B 4-3, and are looking for more wins this Summer.
The Falstaff claimed their first point of the season in a spirited game against the DSAA, but the Anglers were always comfortable in their first game of the season.
The Bull E go top after a 6-1 drubbing of the Admiral Harvey, and finally, the First and Last came back from Walmer with their first win of the season at the expense of the Railway B.
Two weeks Saturday is the Walmer singles knockout (22nd May) at the Railway Hotel. It is £5 to enter, register before approx. 12 at noon, toe the oche at 12.30, with £100 up for grabs. You don't have to be a player in this league, anyone can feel free to enter this competition which is usually good fun and plenty of cracking darts on show.
Kieran Dodd
25TH APRIL
The Summer 2010 season has got underway, with ten 180's hit on Week One of the Dover Sunday League of Darts.
In Division One, Winter Champions, the Railway A, started the defence of their title with a thumping 7-0 over the Cherry Tree A, formerly the Crown and Sceptre. The Railway showed their form from last season, finishing the team game of 1001 in just 25 darts, which is a staggering 120.12 average. The in-form Chris Bent hit two 180's, whilst Jim Penman, who hit eleven maximums last season to clinch the Most 180's crown, hit his first of the season, and is looking at potential back-to-back most 180's trophies. Kerry Burdett of the Cherry Tree was so close to securing a point for her side, but narrowly lost out to Dan Bent, who held his nerve to secure a whitewash for the Walmer side.
Last season's runner-ups, the Diamond, lost 4-3 at home to the Three Cups B. The Three Cups rallied to a 3-1 lead, with Andy Swann winning the first singles, before the Diamond bought it back to 3-3. Lyndon Bradley of the Cups beat George Clark 3-1 in a tense match, with Lyndon hitting a 180 and a 98 in the deciding leg of which was a brilliant win for the Cups B side. Tel Burtram of the Cups also hit a 180.
The Malvern, complete with new recruit Ritchie Buckle, got off to a fine start, beating the Three Cups A 5-2. The Malvern rallied to a 3-0 lead, before the in-form Luke Blythe of the Cups won his singles match 3-0. Buckle beat Baz Robinson 3-1 in a brilliant game to clinch the win for the Malvern. Baz hit two 180s on the night to set the early pace in the 180's table along with Chris Bent of the Railway A. Paul Perkins went on to beat Stu Haynes 3-1 before the Cups Al Terry put in a clinical performance to see of Dennis Painter 3-0.
The Phoenix were so close to pulling off a superb comeback against the Boars Head. After going 3-0 down, they went on to win their first three singles to lock the match at 3-3, before Jason Davey beat Jim Fenton 3-0 on last to seal the win for the Boars Head. Davey just agonisingly missed a 145 checkout.
In Division Two, the most sporting team of the Winter campaign, the King Edward, were so close to sealing their first ever win in the Dover Sunday League of Darts when locked at 3-3, but Stu Hopkinson of the Railway recorded a tense 3-2 win over Dave Medhurst to win the bonus points for the Walmer B side.
The Bull E's 7-0 win over the First and Last saw three 180s hit, and so far, the only three in Division Two. Ricky Dryden and Allan Humphries both hit 180s for the Bull, whilst Alan Francombe of the First and Last hit his first of the season.
The Admiral Harvey saw off the Falstaff by the same margin, with Andy Terry hitting a nice 106 checkout, currently the highest in Division Two. And finally, the Wheelwrights clinched a 6-1 win at the expense of the Cherry Tree B.
May I remind all winning captains to text the result, 180's, high finishes and brief summaries to 07507729722 on the night as not received texts from every game so far. A 120 checkout has been hit in the Phoenix v Boars Head game, but have not yet been told by whom. It is currently the highest finish of the season.
Kieran Dodd