Rhino Reflects
Blog entry #20 - 2nd April 2012
Hiya everyone, well it's been a busy time over the last few weeks for me. Starting off with reading and 2 players championships! Day 1, I was up against Ian white in the 1st round, the game was a bit hit and miss for both of us, Ian won the game 6-1 but again I missed a few doubles which could of made that difference.
Day 2, and I was drawn against premier league newcomer Kevin Painter, this was a much better game for me hit my doubles hit lots of big scores had a 12 darter with a 127 finish to make it 5-5, but only for kev to hit a 12 darter on my throw when I was sat on 67! So not a great weekend results wise!
On to Barnsley now for the 3rd and 4th Uk open qualifiers! On the saturday I was drawn against Pete Hudson in a preliminary game. The game was very hit and miss from both of us, it just seems to be neither of us can play are normal game when we draw each other, Pete won the game 6-4 but again a couple of missed double:-(
On the Sunday I was in a preliminary round yet again against Alan Tabern, this was a good game which Alan won 6-3, but in 3 legs tabs took 100+ finishes (101-106-116) the 116 was for the match too! So my form is a bit up and down at the min Saturday bad, Sunday good but the results are just a double away!
Thanks for reading and have a great Easter holiday.
Till next time!
Come on the Rhino^>
Cheers
Dave.
Blog entry #19 - 18th February 2012
Hi everyone, well it's a return to action again on the pdc tour for the 1st of 2 Uk open qualifiers at the K2 centre Crawley. This must be 1 of the biggest entrants with nearly 200 each day.
The draw was made on Saturday around 11:30 to start a little later than usual of 12:30pm. I was drawn against Pete Hudson in the 1st round. The game got under way and the 1st couple of legs where ok for both of us, but then it got a bit scrappy. Pete won the match 6-3 with score line been different quite easily to either of us had we both played anything like we can! But it wasn't to be. So not the start I was hoping for. Day 2. Sunday the draw was made and this time I was in a preliminary game against young Reece Robinson. The game started and I missed a few doubles and soon found myself 3-0 down! Which in fairness should of been 2-1 up, but the game was a better 1 compared to the previous day! Anyway I really kicked in winning the next 6 legs to win the match 6-3. So a win, and moving into the 1st round proper where I was up against the matchstick man Co Stompe. I knew if I played like I had in the last 6 legs of the match against Reece I wouldn't be far away. Which I did played really well scoring heavy with loads of 140's and a couple of 100's and more importantly hitting my doubles! So a really good 6-1 win against the matchstick man, and a £200 on to the Uk open merit table:-). Up next was The Hammer! Andy Hamilton very much back to form in been the runner up in the worlds, getting a premier league spot and winning his 1 premier league game on the Thursday night against James Wade. So I new I had to be on top of my game! Unfortunately I wasn't - well say I wasn't - but Andy was right on top of his, hitting big scores and big finishes, and I was a couple of gears behind him, maybe If I'd have played like I did against Co it could of been different but it wasn't to be. Andy winning 6-1. So the the weekend was over really before it started! So back to practice board. So till next time where it's back to the players championship in Reading! Come in the Rhino^> Cheers Dave.
Blog entry #18 - 30th January 2012
First up after the worlds had finished was Q school at Barnsley, I played well over the first 3 days, before losing to Stuart Kellet on day 1, Jim Walker on day 2, and Matt Clark on day 3.
Day 4 came and I was sat on 6 points having picked up 2 points on each of the day. Day 4, I knew I had to at least go 1 round better to get 3 points to move me onto 9 to have a chance of winning a tour card for the next 2 years.
This I did! And also won an automatic card by reaching the last 4 on the last day, making me 1 of the 16, so a great day and played really well.
Onto Benidorm the following weekend for the 1st of 2 players championships. The draw wad made around 11:30 to start at 12:30, I was up against Peter Manley in my 1st game! I won the game 6-2 and played well.
Sunday I was feeling good and was drawn up against Mickey Mansell, the game was spoiled by the marker. You may wonder why? But we had to have the marker changed 3 times as they could not take away a simple score such as a 60! This was a disgrace! Mickey won the game 6-1 which could of been the other way round very easy!
Fair play to Mick he didn't let it get to him!
So not the best of weekends, on to Crawley next for the 1st of 2 Uk open qualifiers! At least we'll have proper markers:-)
Till next time
Com on the Rhino^>
Cheers
Dave.
Blog entry #17 - 23d December 2011
Saturday was the final of the BDP events I play in all year round.! The top 48 of the ranking table are invited to the finals to play off for the title of BDP champion and the £600 that goes with it!
The top 16 are straight into the 1st round, 17 to 48 are drawn out to play each other the winners go back into the hat along with the top 16 to play down to a winner!!
Past champions are Willy Kershaw, Garry Thompson, Martin Atkins, Brain Dawson, Les Delderfield - just a few to mention!
As I only just managed to finish 48th in the ranking table I had to play a prelim game! I was drawn against Yorshire A team lady player Louise Simmonds! I played well against Louise winning 3-0, Louise played well too hitting a 180 in the 3rd leg, but it wasn't enough.
1st round I played Nigel Atkinson. He had finished in the top 16, so no mug! (not that there are ever any at the finals) I won the game 3-1, I didn't play well but just did enough.
Round 2 I was up against Brian Harrison, Brian had finished 3rd in the rankings so I knew I had to play better or I was out! To which I did, I lost the 1st leg, but won next 3, with some great scoring and finishing. 2nd leg I missed D16 for a 146. 4th leg I took out 144 going 2xT20 D12 and the 4th leg finished the match on 130 - T20-T18-D8!
The 3rd round I was up against Dave Copley. Dave had won 2 BDP events this year including the last one at otley. He was also 2nd fav to win the BDP championship! I have played to long to let that bother me though! And it didn't winning 3-0. Hitting a couple of 180's and finishing well.
So on to the semi final. I was up against ranking table topper and fav for this comp Brendon Marron. The game was played to very high standard and only the bull-off separated us! As I won 3-2 with the help of a 13 dart last leg, but Brendon only wanting 61! Very good game should of been the final but it wasn't and I still had it to play.
The final I was playing Tony Darlow, Tony had won a BDP event and got to a final! The final was best of 7 legs. The game went with throw to 2-2! But then Tony broke me in a rubbish leg that neither of us seemed to want to win! He then held his darts in the next leg to win 4-2! Not the result I (and most people) expected but that's darts, and well played Tony! 2011 BDP champion!!
So a good day and a nice Xmas bonus in my pocket, just not the title!
So last of all I'd just like to wish everyone a
Merry Christmas!
And have a great new year!!
Till prob next year!
Come on the Rhino^>
Thanks everyone enjoy the festive season, enjoy the pdc worlds and the bdo worlds! Good luck to all playing in them, and to all players playing where ever it maybe over Xmas!
Cheers
Dave.
Hope ya all enjoyed the players champs over the weekend at Doncaster Dome! Well done to Kevin Painter.
As I wasn't playing in Donny I headed over to Southport for the Southport open. I reached the semi final last year!
It was been played at St Tressa's club. It was a fair turn out with some top players on show, Shaun Griffiths (last years champion) Ste “Bullit” Bunting, Mark “mile high” Hylton, just a few to mention!
I was up against a fella called John I don't remember his surname! 1st! He played really well in the 4th leg he hit 5 x T20's wiring the 6th! Hitting 45 in 2 darts for an 11 darter to make it 2-2! I won the next 2 legs to win 4-2 though!
2nd match I was up against steve (the bullit) bunting! I knew I was playing well, and I knew I'd have to against Steve! This I did, hitting loads of 140's and finishing straight away! So a 4-0 win! And a good win at that!
3rd game I was up against high flying Mark Hylton, Mark had beaten me earlier in the year at a pro tour event, so I wanted to get 1 back! To which I did in a very high scoring game I came away a 4-2 winner!
In the 1/4's I was up against last years champion Shaun Griffiths. I won the game 4-1 with some good scores and finishing once more!
Into the semi final now playing Mick the bully Smith! Mick won the game 4-1, he played well, I missed a couple of shots. But to be fair he deserved the win.
So a good out and played really well so I'm happy at that! Maybe next year it could be 3rd time lucky!!!
Till next time
Come on the Rhino^>
Cheers
Dave!
Hi Everyone, Well with the year drawing to an end, we are down to the last PDC PC of the year in Wigan.
2 PC's Sat & Sun and the Worlds Champs Play off's on the Monday.
The Draw was made on the Sat for the 1st Pc's, I was drawn up against former world no 4 Terry (The Bull) Jenkins. The game started and with some good scoring and finishing the game was so at 5-5, the last leg we both scored the same apart from terry hitting a 180 to leave 30, i wanted 90 me to throw, i made a real mess of it only scoring 42 to leave 48! I didn't think i'd be getting another go, but fortunately i did as terry hit a 15 with his 2nd dart then 1 to leave 12! I had to take this chance! I hit th big 16 then the D16 to win a very close game 6-5!
Round 2! I was up against a good friend Joe Cullen, This was an other close game going all the to 6-5? but this time in the favour of Joe!
Day 2!
Sunday i was drawn against Andy Pearce. I don't know Andy at all apart from saying Hi when passing at pro tours! I got off to a good start and was 3-0 up then missed 3 darts to go 4-0, but went 3-1 then 3-2. I did manage to take the next 2 legs to go 5-2! then Andy made it 5-3! I won the last leg to win 6-3! A good start to the day!
Round 2, I was up against 1 of my best Friends in Wez Newton, Wez was my best man when i got married in Las Vegas to Kerry! He's also the Godfather (Not Codfather lol) to my 2nd child Jake! But on the board friendship counts for nothing. And unfortunately that proved right! but in the favour of Wez as he smashed me 6-0! but i didnt play bad and did have a couple of chances but didn't take them, as Wez did, and does now all the time that's why he's world no 6! and im so pleased for him! (Premier League:-)!!)
Monday and the draw was made for the worlds play off's!
I was up against Darrel Claydon, this turned out to be a real good game, and at 4-4 in the best of 9 legs could of gone either away! It went my way though, with a really good last leg hitting 140,140,55.134 D16 in 1 dart for a 13 darter!
Round 2, i was up against Nick Fullwell, Nick set off like train hitting 5 x 180 in the 1st 4 legs, and finding myself 4-0 down! i did mange to get back to 4-3 with some real good darts! the next leg was Nicks off and i know i had to break him to say in the comp! but this wasn't to be with nick hitting another 1 x 180 to keep him just in front and hitting D20 straight away to win 5-3! so end of the road in the worlds play off's!
Overall thoughts from the Rhino on my 1st full year on the Pdc tour!!
Iv really enjoyed the tour this year, its been an experience with some good and not so good results! im really looking forward to next year with hopefully some results going my way!
RHINO'S BIG THANK YOU'S!!
I would like to say some massive thank you's!
To Ian & James Watson of Watsons Fencing & Engineering without these 2 guys none of this years tour could of been possible.
To Tony & Joe Sharrett of Madhouse darts (www.madhousedarts.co.uk) for supplying me with all my darts equipment.
To Mark Airey of Double Finish (www.doublefinish.com) with setting up and running my web site (www.daverhinosmith.com)
And lastly but not least to all the people who send messages of good luck and best wishes either by text facebook or on my web site!
Thank you all so so much!!
Till next time
Com on the Rhino^>
cheers
Dave.
So on the sat i decided to drive over not have a drink as me and the wife where going out sat evening to a party! I also had my youngest son jake to take with me, which was nice as on weekends im usual away and dont get much time to see him. I picked Colin Hendry up and Ian Watson (1 of my sponsors) and headed over to Halifax!
About 100 players turned out! I was drawn out to play 1st against jonny daniels! Jon as been playing well and won an bdp at Glasshoughton wmc. So this was a good draw for everyone else! 1 of us was out at the 1st hurdle! It was a bit of a scrappy game with all 5 legs going against the throw! But for me this worked out ok! As i was a 3-2 winner! Not bad without a drink! Lol!
Round 2 I played a lad called Paul who I'd not seen before, but I knew he was very nervous, don't know why with the way I played in my 1st game! Maybe his mates had told him he was playin me! I won the game 3-0 still didn't play well! But a wins a win and points earned!
Last 32 I was up against Peter Rebanks! I’ve known Pete a good few years and he can play good darts! Anyway I won the game 3-1! I played a lot better hitting lots of 140's & 100's and hitting my double straight away! Into the last 16 and and the time was getting on and jake was getting a little fed up! I was also needing to get home to go to the party.
I was to play Daz Hale from Huddersfield. Daz won 3-0, and I was out,but 9 points gained! I could say did he win or did I let him, well if I'm at the finals and I play him again let's just say he won't see me play that bad again!
So overall not a bad day got a couple more points towards the finals than i expected! But not having a drink to relax myself is harder than I thought at bdp!
So till next time!
Come on the Rhino^>
Cheers
Dave.
Blog entry #13 - 10th November 2011
Friday was the qualifier for the grand slam of darts which is shown live on sky sports starting Saturday 12th November. The draw was made around 5:30 to start at 6pm. I won my 1st 2 games 4-2, I didn't know either player but I really struggled to find any consistent form. My 3rd game was against Andy Smith (the Pie man) i’ve played Andy a few times winning and losing a few but they've always been really good games! Well this one was not very good at all, Andy winning 4-1! I had no complaints I was just rubbish, and to be fair Andy wasn't much better! So the gsod dream ended really before it ever started!
Saturday was the 1st of 2 players championships! I was drawn against Steve Hine (the muffin man) the game was going ok upto 2-2 then steve broke my throw. He then held is throw till the end running out 6-4. I played ok in spells but still very inconsistent same as the Friday night!
Sunday soon came round and I felt fresh and relaxed! But the 1 thing I didn't have was a drink! This was due to me driving back on the Sunday!
I was drawn 1st up against Colin (jaws) Lloyd, I found myself 3-1 up! This was down to 2 good finishes 76 & 90 on the bull! With col missing 2 darts a double 10 in 1 leg! Col then won 5 legs on the trot to win the match 6-3. But if I'd of took my chances and hit my doubles when I had a shot, which I did in at least 3 legs the result could of been different!
The weekend overall was very poor for me, not playing well or inconsistent anyway! Not adding any money to my order of merit.
Onto Wigan next in a couple of weeks time, for the last 2 PC of this season, and also the Pdpa qualifier for the ladbrooks world championship 2012! This at the moment seems like the only way for me unless I can pull off a pc victory in wigan! Ya never no it's never over till it's over!
Till next!
Come on the Rhino^>
Cheers
Dave.
Blog entry #12 - 1st November 2011
Hi everyone, well this weekend the pdc tour moved on to the melia hotel in Benidorm! It's the 1st an event that has been held there. With a nearly a full attendance of tour card holders turning out for this double header event! Just about all the big names were there. Taylor, Barney, Wade, Anderson, whitlock, King and world champion Adrian Lewis.
The draw was made on Saturday at around 11:45 so the start time was moved to 12:30pm. I was drawn on board 11 against good friend Barrie Bates, I'd played Baz in a event earlier in the year. I won the bull to throw 1st. I won the 1st leg and Barrie won the second leg. Both these legs we won quite comfortable hitting good scores and finishing straight away! This is how the game stayed up to 5-4 to me! I was thinking ‘just hold ya throw’ Barrie set off with a 60 in the 10th leg, to which I hit a 180! This kept me in front and was down to 104 and Barrie had left 116 after hitting a 140. I then hit the big 18-T18-D16 for the match! So a good performance but more importantly a win!
In the second round I was up against quick fire Vincent Van-der Voort! Vincent won the bull. And I was Soon to find myself 4-0 down. This could have been 2-2 if I'd of hit my doubles :-( I won the next leg to make it 4-1. Then missed 2 darts at D16 to make it 4-2. To which Vincent hit a 117 out 20-T19-D20! He then won the next leg to win the match 6-1. Not my best performance I have to say!
On to Sunday and with the temp outside touching 30 degrees it was really uncomfortable inside as it must of been around 36 to 40 degrees! I was drawn on board 3 against youth world champion Arron Monk. This was going to be a really tough board to win, as also on it was Saturdays tour event winner James Wade, Joe Cullen, big John Henderson, myself and Arron! I didn't get off to a good start against Arron and found myself 4-1 down! I managed to get back to 4-4, Arron them made it 5-4. On my throw I wanted 60 I hit 20 but missed D20 and D10. Arron hit his D20 to win the match 6-4 and so game over for the Rhino!
I wasn't too pleased with the way I threw but this was down to the very uncomfortable conditions. I know it's same for all the players though.
Overall played well one day but not the next. Can't dwell on it to much as it would drive ya bonkers!
Got a couple of days with the family to soak up some sun on Benidorms lovely beach before it's back to work Weds and Thursday.
Then it is on to crawley Friday as it is the qualifier for the Grand slam of Darts! And 2 more players championships Saturday and Sunday!
So till next time!
Come on the Rhino^>
Cheers
Dave.
Blog entry #11 - 25th October 2011
Saturday morning the draw was done and I was up against a fella named Willy and sorry but can't spell his surname! An Austrian that had travelled to the PDC event. I won the bull to throw 1st, I played really well and found myself in a commanding 4-1 lead! This was to be come 4-2 as willy hit an 11 dart leg! But this was only to spur me on in which I finished the last 2 legs in 12 and 14 darts.
2nd game I was up against world number 3 James Wade. I won the bull to throw 1st. I lost the 1st leg after missing D20 for a 120 finish then James hit his 76 in 3 darts! I broke straight back with a 12 darter, finishing 126, 19-T19-bull. I then when 2-1 up. Then I found myself 4-2 down and hadn't played bad at all. I made it 4-3 with a 119 finish 19-T20-D20. James made it 5-3 with another 12 darter to which I was on 81. I then got in front in the 9th leg having a shot for 70, Hittin 18-20 and wiring D16! I didn't get another go as James finish 80 in 2 darts T20 D10! So a 6-3 defeat but took plenty of positives out of the game.
Sunday was up against Mick Todd in the 1st round, I’ve played Mick twice before on the tour this year he beat me in Austria and I beat him in Barnsley so it was 1-1! Mick won the bull, I set off really well but couldn't hit my double - missing 8 darts at it only for Mick to plod along and pop his double 1st dart! Thought “this can't happen”! Pull ya socks up Dave! Anyway it worked I played a lot better, soon I was 5-1 up and had only missed 1 dart at a double and that was for a 120 finish! Mick won the next leg in 12 darts! And I won the last leg in 13 darts to make it a 6-2 win! I was up against Micheal van-Gerwen next! I’ve got to say he was on fire! He beat me 6-2 and I didn't do much wrong! But every throw it was 180 or 140! It wasn't the result I wanted but some times ya have to hold ya hands up and say well done! This form for Micheal continued in the next game against Ronnie Baxter which he won 6-4! And I can say I had the pleasure of marking!
So the weekend over and a little more in prize money for the order of merit table!
On to Benidorm next! Flying out weds morning with the family for 5 nights which i'm looking forward too, as it's not often the family get chance to come!
So till I get back take care!
And
Come on the Rhino^>
Cheers
Dave.
Blog entry #10 - 17th October 2011
Hi everyone, back in the lovely country of Ireland again this weekend, in a place i'venot been before called Killarney, for the Killarney festival of Darts! This is different to a normal Pdc tour weekend as there is only 1 players championship, and there is the festival of darts played on the Saturday, which is open to any player wishing to pay their money any take take there chance, now in Ireland the Irish are made about darts, and with the grand prix just been played live on sky and a new Irish hero to emerge from it in the name of Brendan Dolan, who made history not by losing in the final to the champion Phil Taylor, but hitting the 1st 9 darter in Dublin in a double start game! WELL DONE BRENDAN! So with entries touching the 300 mark, it was a busy place to be!
As usual the draw was made there was quite a few pre-lims but I had managed not have one. But i did have the number 1 seed and current Irish masters champion on the board but couldn't meet him till the board final (last 64) if we both got there.
My 1st game I was up against an Irish lad called Gerry. He'd already played a pre-lim game and won 4-1 and played quite well. I know this as I was the marker of that game! So i knew what I was up against, Gerry won the bull and threw first! I played really well hitting lists of 100's & 140's and finishing straight away, I soon became a 4-0 winner, but more pleased in the way I played.
Round 2 I was up againt another Irish player called Phil. This went very much the same way as the game before, but my scoring wasn't as good. I new this had to change as now I'd made the last 64 and was up against the very impressive Gary Anderson. I’ve said about Gary for a while now even though he's a fantastic scorer his doubles sometimes let him down! This time the doubles did not let him down, this was for the fact I played so well he didn't get much chance to have a shot at them!
Gary won the bull to throw 1st. As I expected he scored well but I can say I scored as well if not better! Gary left 40 after 15 darts, i was on 80 after 12 in which I took out 20-20-D20!
The next leg i hit a 12 darter on my throw which included a 180 and a 96 finish 20-T20-D8! 3rd leg was a cracker as after 12 darts each Gary wanted 137 and I wanted 101! Gary to throw hitting T19 he then hit D20 and wired another D20! So I had a chance for the 101 which I new if I hit this this would really hurt him! So i throw for T19, hitting 19, the hit the bull (bang in the middle) then sunk the D16! With a massive roar from all the Irish lads that where watching! Not particular me but current masters and premier league champion. He was on the ropes now and I new this as he went to throw 1st but I knew it was my throw!
All I was thinking now is just hold ya throw carry on playing like I was! But this is sometimes easier said than done! I played rubbish in the leg, but Gary didn't hitting a 180 & 177 (not after eachother) then hitting tops 1st dart! He'd now broke 1 leg back (not so much on the ropes I'd I thought) so it was time for “head on now” as Gary only set off with a 60. To which I hit a 140. I had the lead to the finish with both of us hitting a couple of 100's I was down to 116. With Gary on 176. I hit another 100 to leave 16, to which Gary hit 140 to leave 36! I composed myself and I could tell the crowd where willing this to go in! First dart landed just outside D8, the second landed right in the middle! With a massive cheer yet again from the Irish boys! So a great result winning 4-1. And very pleased with myself again!
Into the last 32 now and up against the very consistent Scott Rand! Scott is a very (very) slow player but very solid. Scott won the bull, and I set off in the way I finished against Anderson. I was down to D16 in no time, but missed 3 vital darts at it to let Scott take out his D10! I won the next leg in 15 darts reasonably comfortably. We shared the next few legs with some very good darts. So 3-2 to Scott on my throw it was now, setting off with 80 Scott hit a 180, which kept him in front. I left 32, to which Scott had left 40 and was now throwing for it for the match, to which he hit second dart! So the run for the Rhino was over! Was this down to that missed darts at 32 in the 1st leg? Or was Scott’s pace my problem! I'll let you decide! So back tomorrow now for the main event - the Pdc players championship.
Sundays players championship at the gleneagles hotel in Killarney, the draw was made at 11:30 to start at 12noon. I was drawn against Brain Woods. I won the bull to throw first! I started ok hitting a 100 but after that I really struggled for some unknown reason, I lost the leg and Brian won the next leg. I won the 3rd leg and played ok. I lost the next 4 legs but i’ve got say brain did play well, hitting a 128 finish in the last leg! So a 6-1 loss in the 1st round, not what I was wanting!
So over all the weekend was a up and down one for me. Having played so well on the Saturday then played so average on the Sunday! Well on to Germany on Friday for two players championships at Gladbeck.
Hopefully play all weekend like I had on Saturday.
So till next time!
Come on the Rhino^>
Cheers
Dave
Blog entry #9 - 2nd October 2011
Hiya everyone!
Another weekend away, this time at the City West Hotel in saggratt ,Co Dublin, Ireland. T he venue is the home of the PDC World Grand prix, starting the Monday following the players championships. 96 entrys on the saturday and 95 on the Sunday. The draw was made at 11:30 to start for 12 as usual, my 1st round opponant was Wayne Mardle. Wayne won the bull to throw 1st - The 1st leg wasn't the best in which Wayne won! He also wo the 2nd leg taking out 109 T19-12-D20! I then won the 3rd leg and the 4th! Back on throw, I won the next 3 leg to go 5-2 in front Wayne won the next, and I won the last to win 6-3! A winning start so pleased with that!
2nd round I was up against 3 times former world champion John Part! I won the bull to throw 1st, I can't remember all the scores as this was high scoring and with some high finishes aswell, John broke me straight away with a 12 dart leg and I broke straight back with a 12! I won the 3rd and the 4th with a 122 finish, T18-18-BULL. I then missed the bull to go 4-1 up for 90! John won the leg, I won the next and John leg to make it 3-2! John then won the next with a 132 finish 25-T19-BULL 3-3. I won the next 2 legs to lead 5-3, John won the next 3 legs to win 6-5, these legs included 3x180 2 for John 1 for myself and a 177 from John! He also hit an 135 on the bull! So my day had come to an end but I played well yet again!
2nd players champs: the draw was done and I had draw a good friend in Gary Welding, this was funny as on the day before we had been talking about the rugby, with Leeds rhinos beating warrington to make the grand final, wigan were playing st Helens to see who would meet the rhinos! And it was st helens that it turned out to be, and gary is from st helens and a big fan of saints! So they was a bit of banter before the game started as it was rhinos v saints in round 1. Gary won the bull and throw 1st! I won the 1st 2 legs in quick time! Then I missed 2 darts at D12 for 84 to go 3 up! Gary hit his D20 to make it 2-1. I won the next leg in 14 darts! Gary then Gary won the next 2 legs to make it 3-3! He won these games due to myself missing doubles 1st! I got my game back together and won the next 2 legs and Gary won the next to make it 5-4! I won the next leg having hit 2x140 and 100, then setting up 32 to hit with my 2nd dart next time!
On to round 2 now I was up against the very inform Paul Nicholson, I won the bull to throw 1st. I didn’t set off too well and quickly found myself way behind and then the leg had gone! Paul then won the next 3 legs with an barrage of 140s and 137s and a couple of 180s! I won the 5th leg in 4 darts with Paul sat on 32 after 12 yet again! Paul won the next 2 legs in very much the same way! n So a 6-1 defeat! Iv got to say if he carried on playing like that he would of been on course to win the event and that's with Phil Taylor on the same half of the draw! But it wasn't to be!
So over all yet again very happy with how I performed, just can seem to get a run going, as the draw seems not to be in my favour at present time, having played 2 of the best out of 4 players in 2 days on the player champs tour! But nevermind I’ve got the belief it will turn my way! So a weekend off now - going to Blackpool for a couple of days with the family! Maybe a night out with are good friends Wez and Stacie Newton and we get to see little frazer:-) . I really really hope Wes isn't there though! Why - you ask? That will mean my good friend will be in the semi finals of the world grand prix!! Come on the warrior!!
Till next time from Killarney in Ireland!
See you all later!!
Come on the rhino^>
Cheers
Dave.
Blog entry #8 - 25th September 2011
Onto the 2nd round now up against 28th seed Steve 'the bomber' Brown! S teve was after a good run as he is on the board for qualifiying for the Grand Prix next week in Dublin, so i know it was going to be tough game! Steve won the bull and threw first, after 9 darts I'd left 54, steve was on 121, which he took out on the bull for a 12 darter! I did a 12 darter in the next with a 104 check out, and after 9 darts steve only wanted 81! The game was going really good for us both, with a couple more 12 darts and a couple of 15 darts it was 4-4! It didn't seem to matter how well either of us played, we couldn't get a break of throw! The 9th leg was a good leg for both of us and after 12 darts I'd left 40! With steve setting up 32 after 15 darts! So this was my chance to break! But it wasn't to be wiring D20 with all 3 darts they couldn't of being any closer with out been in! The 10th leg I was in front leaving 68! Steve hit a 180 to leave 40! I hit the T20 but again wired double 4 with 2 darts, I couldn't belive I'd missed yet again! Steve hit his required 40 with his 3rd dart! So game over, but very pleased with the way I played, so now on to Sunday a hopefully bit of the same!
Day 2: arrived in the venue around 10am and a really warm day outside, this was to prove decisive through the day as the venue was split in to 2 rooms of a small size compared to the PDC venues used in England! The draw was made and I was on board 16 against good friend of many a year, Barrie Bates! I won the bull. and then the 1st leg in 15 darts! I then won the 2nd in 13 darts and 3rd in 15 darts! Baz won the 4th with throw, I won the 5th leg and Baz won the 6th so i found myself 4-2 up. I then had a 15 dart leg with throw, and won the 8th leg in 15 darts! A good start and a win most importantly!
Round 2 I was up against another welshman and former world champion in Richie Burnett, Richie is another good friend. Me, Richie, Wez Newton, Barrie and Steve Evans always sit with each other on the pro tour. Richie won the bull and set off with a 12 darter. I then won in 15 darts. Richie then won the next 2 legs in around 17 darts, I didn't play well, but the heat in the room was getting very hot! You could say this is an excuse but everyone was complaining, even the likes af Paul Nicholson, and Gary Anderson, who play in hot conditions more than most! Back to the game and 3-1 down! I made it 3-2 with an 17 dart leg - Richie won the next 3 legs to win 6-2 in 12,13 and 15 darts and hit 4 x 180 on the last 3 legs! So the weekend was over for the Rhino!
Overall a good performance over the 2 days with a little better finishing could of being better! So now it's on to the city west in Dublin.
Well done to both the weekend winners Garry Anderson Saturday, and Richie Burnett on Sunday, this win for Richie also gained him a place in the Grand Prix next week in Dublin after the players championships, live on “sky sports.”
Till next time
'com on the Rhino^>'
Cheers
Dave.
Blog entry #7 - 6th September 2011
THE PDC ProTour returned to the UK on Saturday and Sunday with a pair of Players Championship events at the Moorways Centre in Derby. The Derby weekend is the second of three recent events to come ahead of the cut-off for World Grand Prix qualification. I am really out of contention to qualify for the WGP but you never know - winning one of the pro tour events could change all that!
Saturday the draw was made at 11:30 to start at 12noon as usual. I was drawn on board 13 against number 27 seed Mark Hylton. This was going to be a tough game as Mark is playing well having quailified for the Matchplay back in July, where he lost out in a very good game to the eventual champion Phil Taylor. So I knew I had to be on top of my game! The 1st I missed 3 darts at D20, only for Mark to take out 112-20-T20-D16. He then broke me in 15 darts whilst I was sat on tops. The 3rd leg he won with an impressive 132 finish- bull-bull-D16. I won the 4th leg and the fifth. Mark won the next with an 118 finish T20-18-D20. So I was 4-2 down now, Mark won the next 2 legs but in the 7th leg I missed another 3 darts at 32! In the last, leg Mark won pretty comfortably. So a 6-2 loss and not the start I was after! But as they say trebles for show doubles for........ You know the rest!
On to Sundays event and I was drawn up against a good friend in Joe Cullen, Joe is a great young player with a great deal of experience already. Joe won the bull and had the throw, I won the 1st leg which was a bit scrappy from the both of us, but I managed to get to and hit the double 1st. I won the 2nd leg in around 15 darts. In the 3rd leg Joe had left 20 I was on 87 with Joe to throw, he missed 3 darts at 20, and I took out the 87 in 2 darts T17-D18 3-0. Then Joe broke me straight back then held his throw to make it 3-2 to me. The next 2 legs when with throw to make it 4-3 and I held again to make it 5-3. 9th leg Joe to throw and I managed to get in front leaving 40 after 12 darts! Joe left 32 after 15, so I had 3 clear darts for 40 and the match, but missed, leaving Joe to hit his D16 5-4! Should of been sat down having a drink now! 10th leg I played pretty well in and managed to hit D8 for a 15 dart leg! So a 6-4 win to “the Rhino”. I was happy with how I played in parts of the match!
On to Round 2, I was up against 16th seed - “The matchstick” Co Stompe. Co won the bull to throw first. I played OK in the match but Co was that little bit better and didn't miss a finish! I found myself 5-0 down, but I had missed a couple of doubles in 2 of the legs which could of made a difference. I did win the next 2 legs to get to 5-2 but Co hit a 15 darter in the last leg and I was a little too far back from the off! So a 6-2 loss for the Rhino. The better player won on the day and he scored well and finished very well.
So over all not a brilliant weekend for The Rhino but I will return and hopefully I can work on them doubles and not give stupid legs away!
Till next come on the Rhino!
Cheers
Dave.
Blog entry #6 - 28th August 2011
But Saturday I did attend the Watsons Shipley Open. As I have mentioned before Watson’s are my main sponsors and without them i would be struggling to do the PDC tour. So the Rhino had to be out to impress (just kidding really - they fully back me regardess). The turn out wasn't as high as expected but the quality was high and some good games were on the cards! Failiar names I have said before such as Les Delderfield, Willy Kershaw, Brendon Marron, Daz Twist, Bob Pinder, Tony Darlow, James Barton. But some new faces to a lot of people, but not to me, such as James Marcroft, Mark Aspinall, Craig Barrett, Ben Fairley, and Lee Whitworth (son of paul), and of course James & Ian Watson!
Also on the Saturday the Leeds Rhinos were taking on the Wigan Warriors at Wembley in the final of the challenge cup. The Rhinos lost in a very good final to very strong Wigan side who are the best team in the super league at present time. But hopefully one Rhino could be a winner today!!
The Rhino had been lucky enough to receive a bye in the 1st round, but no fix! The draw was done by Mick Dodds and Harry Firth the comp organisers who ran the comp fantastic as usual! Thanks Guys and so the Rhino was into the last 32 without throwing a spear!
My 1st opponent was Sam Walker in the best of 7 contest, I didn't know Sam, so had to be on my toes, as he had already played a round early and won. The Rhino was up and at him from the off, winning the first 2 legs. The third leg when to Sam against my throw, then Sam held his throw only due to me missing doubles so it was 2-2 and not the best of starts! But the Rhino took the next 2 legs to win 4-2! Not the best of performances but a win! And if you notice the Rhino normally starts very good then drifts away! Was today going to be different?
Last 16 i was up against Peter Taylor. This was a good game going all the way! The Rhino had won the bull which proved decisive in the final leg! But I was to blame as missed double in the previous leg could of cost me! But didn't thankfully! I won the last last leg in 15 darts! Again, too close!!
Into the 1/4s now and up against a very good player in Mark Aspinall, who I think hadn’t dropped a leg so far, so playing well. The Rhino hit the bull to throw 1st and with some very good scoring and finishing in the first 3 legs I was in a commanding lead at 3-0 up! The fourth leg was a good leg for the both of us, but Mark missed 3 darts at D10, I hit the D20 required in 1 dart! The Rhino was on the rampage and was getting better as the comp when on. . . .
Semi final time and now best of 9 legs! The Rhino was up against Willy Kershaw yet again, willy had beaten me last week in the BDP at east leeds snooker centre! this was always going to be a good game! With willy going 3-1 up this wasn't looking good again. . . But four very good legs on the bounce to follow saw the Rhino through to the final!
In this Semi Final match- Willy Averaged 78.84 to my 82.55. 21 100+ scores and 8x 140+ scores in this match. The first two legs were shared in 19 (W) and 23 (D) darts. Willy took the next two to lead 1-3 in 17 darts and 17 again (the fourth leg I missed the bull for a 164 checkout). My next four legs to win 5-3 were in 18, 15, 16 and 17 darts.
The Final best of 11: The Rhino was taking on the Grim Reaper - Les Delderfield. Who had beaten Steward Ireland in the other semi final. Les is a great player very unorthodox! He throws at 19s most of the time but can hit 180's for fun also - (strange player to watch but very good). This was a great game played by both players,and there as to be a winner! and this was......................................................................................... THE RHINO winning by the closest of margins 6-5! Fantastic Final!
The final was full of breaks of throw. Only 3 of the 11 legs were won on throw as the game swung around. Les won the first leg in 16 darts, including back to back 140s. The Rhino responded with back to back 14 darters (wth 3x140s) and a 15 darter to lead 3-1. Les pegged one back in 17 and I took a scrappy 6th leg! 4-2 now, and Les kicks off with a 180 and takes the 7th leg after four missed doubles from me! Soon avenged in the next leg though as I go 140-140-140 against the throw and win in 13 darts to lead 5-3 and one away from the title!
But Les was not done yet - he takes advantage of two missed match darts at D20 by me to break back in 19. Then holds in 17 with me sat on tops! So its into the decider - I had the throw, I start with 100-180-140 to leave 81 after 9 darts. Les keeps pace though with 140-140-100 to leave 121 after 9. I step up for the title - its 19-12- and a missed bull! But Les fails to step in, hitting 46 to leave 75. So on 25, I hit S9, miss one at D8 before the Rhino plants the tournament dart in the middle of D8!
The averages in the final were 89.88 to the Rhino and 83.93 to Les!
Till next time
COM ON THE RHINO^>
Cheers
Dave.
Blog entry #5 - 21st August 2011
Saturday was the East Leeds Snooker Centre in Crossgate Leeds for a Bradford darts promotions comp. This is where the Rhino grew up as i’ve said before!
With the attendance a little lower for a BDP event of 100 players rather than the usual 120 plus, this due to people on holiday, the final of the York darts promotions at the Huntington wmc on and also a couple of the big names of Garry Thompson, Martin Atkins in Sweden for a bdo event.
But there was still plenty of talented players on show! Brian Dawson, Les Delderfield, Joe Cullen, Willy Kershaw, Brendon Marron and last BDP winner Jamie Wilson, and lots more too!
1st Round, and The Rhino was up against James Barton. James is a good player and practices with Joe Cullen and Devon Petersen over Bradford way. James also played in the PDC events where a couple of years ago he played on the main stage at the Reebook in the finals of the UK open, in which he beat then world number 28 Alex Roy! So no easy draw for the Rhino! Well the Rhino got off to a good start and took the darts off James as he'd won the bull, hitting a couple of 100's and taking out 64 in 2 darts T16 D8! this was pleasing! The 2nd leg went very much the same, scores wise, but I missed 5 darts at D16 hitting it with my 6 dart! James set of with a 140 in the 3rd leg, which i followed with a 180 and 2 x 100's which hurt James as he only hit 41 and 45! I set up 32 which i hit in 3 darts! So a 3-0 win for the Rhino and a very pleasing start!
2nd round, The Rhino was up against "Little Kevin Hughes" . This name is in jest as Kev is 6' 9! Now im 6'4 and there’s not many people I have too look up to but Kev is definitely one. Hes also a good friend and also a Castleford Tiger fan! He should have the Nickname "TIGER" (For you that don't know Castleford Tigers lost out to my beloved Leeds Rhinos in the semi final of the Rugby League challenge cup a couple of weeks early missing out on a trip to Wembley!) So could the Tiger maul the Rhino? Well no! the Rhino was too strong, a 3-0 winner and throwing som really nice darts! even though Kev did miss 6 darts at double in the 1st leg, but for kev The TIGER there was no light at the end of the (wembly) tunnel! RHINOS RHINOS RHINOS! (Sorry mate had to get that in!)
On to round 3, now this was going to be a good game, I was up against Les (the Grim Reaper) Delderfield (Les is the coldest man alive!) Also Les has won 4 or 5 BDP's this year!
Les hits the bull to throw 1st. This game is a bit of a blur as I had to be on top of my game (and these write ups come from memory no-one writes things down) I won the 1st leg against the darts in roughly 15 darts, then held my throw in very much the same fashion, Les won the 3rd leg, the 4th leg was another very close game and i remember Les hitting a 171 again (I think he hit 4 of these in the game as he only throws at 19's) and I had couple of ton plus scores. I left 41 with Les wanting 131 but missing it, and i took out 41 in 2 darts 9 D16! so a 3-1 win for the Rhino and one of the co-fav's out!
Last 16 now! I was playing Mark Kerry, Mark is a friend and I have known him for a lot of years, he's also a former Yorkshire county Player, And i am led to belive that Mark was 1 of the best players around the Leeds/west Yorks area at the time. With names such as Paul Whitesmith, Mick Crowson, Andy Murray, Steve Steele, Gerry Haywood but just a few to mention he was no mug! But Mark dropped off the darts scene due to marrying his lovely wife Julie, and starting a family. But Mark is back playing in the BDP events and at times shows that ability he as, its just consistency that's lacking. This game was a little one sided and Mark never found that old form, and I played well enough to win 3-0!
1/4 final now! And was playing Willy Kershaw another player that's won a couple of BDP events and is the current BDP grand final champion! Willy hit the bull and had the throw. With a couple 100's hit by both of us willy wanted 40 the rhino on 66, willy missed with 3 darts, i took out the 66! 10, 16, D20! The 2nd leg was much the samem apart from the doubles. I missed 3 darts at 40, Willy missed 3 darts at the same double, then 3 more misses from me - willy missed 3 more too. Surely this time? No! I missed it yet again! Then Willy finished on D2! what a shambles! 1-1! And back on throw! Both players seem to be over the previous leg hitting 2x100 plus scores each. Down to the finish, I was on tops, Willy on 76 - Willy throwing, hit 20,16 and failed with the D20! I had my chance to break again, but this wasn't to be, missing 3 darts at tops again, only for willy to come back and hit his D10. The 4th leg was scrappy and yet again i missed 3 darts at D10. Only for Will to hit 56 in 2 darts 16, D20! 3-1 loss for the Rhino!
The winner of the BDP this week was Daz Twist who beat John Utting in the final! All results and tables fixtures can be found atwww.bradforddartspromotions.co.uk
Overall i played pretty well considering i’d not thrown a dart for nearly 3 weeks! That massive word “IF” I had my doubles it could of been a lot better.
But a great set up at the East Leeds Snooker Centre well worth a visit with 6 permanent dartboards set up and plans to extend it to 10, good Italian restaurant pool and snooker tables, Arthur and Ben will be more than happy to see you and if you mention me you might get a free pint! (I DID SAY MIGHT!!!!)
Next week will be a busy weekend for the Rhino, Friday night back at East Leeds Snooker Centre for the last friday in the month K/O, Saturday is the Watson Darts open at shipley social club £1200 prize money you can find details on my sponsor a Rhino page or join me on Facebook. Monday its Doncaster racecourse for a diamondwire event £5500 prize fund! so a busy weekend for the Rhino!
Till next time!
COM ON THE RHINO^>
Cheers
Dave.
Blog entry #4 - 31st July 2011
The East Leeds Snooker Centre is a fantastic Venue brilliant staff & amazing food..
A great place to bring the family and play Darts, Pool or Snooker, then dine in the Italian restaurant,
you would be welcomed at any time by Arthur or Ben and their staff!
There was a good turn out and some top local players and current county and ex county players. Current Yorkshires flying machine Dave 'The Dart Knight' Copley, ex Yorkshire players Andy Murray (not the tennis player or golfer) Mark Kerry, Mick Crowson, Daz Twist, and 2 ladies that turned out to test there metal against the men, Yorkshires very talented and so likable Louise Simmonds and a young lady who's making waves, Leanna Wiltshire.
First up, the rhino was up against left hander Steve Kemp, I won the bull and threw 1st, hitting a couple of tons and finishing 1st dart on D16!
2nd Leg - Steve set off with a 140 and a 100, to my 2x100’s, Steve hit a poor score, to which I replied with an 80, and we where both down to a finish at the same time but I hit a a good score to leave 16 and Steve was on 162, he scored 85, but not to return as I hit the required D8!
3rd leg i set off with an 45, to be punished with a 180 from Steve followed that with a 140 and Steve seem to buckle only hitting a 30. this I punished yet again with another 140, then setting up 48 with my next chuck, Steve was a little way back and I took out the 48 in 3 darts! so a 3-0 win for the rhino in the 1st round!
(best of 7 now) My 2nd round was always going to be a tough game for me, this is not because i am scared to play anyone at darts, but this was because i was playing Ian Watson! Who is Ian Watson you may think? Well Ian and James are the owners of Watson Fencing and Engineering! my sponsors!! So with James at the back and a few of the staff of Watson watching and cheering on Ian i HAD to win! The game didn't go to plan for me:-( i won the 1st leg pretty comfortable, but the next 2 i lost as i couldn't hit a double to save my life! But Ian could and the lads watching let me know about it! I won the next 2 legs to go 3-2 up, the scoring was a bit scrappy in the 6 leg i was left with 102, Ian on 184. Ian to throw! Ian threw a great 180 to leave 4! I missed the 102, letting Ian back for 4! would he bottle it? No! Not at all ! Sank the D2 1st dart! 3-3 and game on! Ian was throwing 1st in the last leg, so i had to break him with a good leg! He didn't score too well in the leg, but the Rhino did! 131,140,140, to leave 90 after 9 darts! Not taking the 90 out in 3, but setting up D20 to get in 1 dart next time for a 13 darter! THAT WAS TOO CLOSE!! At least there still sponsoring me!!!
Round 3 the Rhino was up against Colin Hendry (not the footballer), Col lives just near me and we did play for the same team on a weds night at the Proggresive wmc.
He's a tough player and he's beaten me a couple of times in local league individuals! So I had to be on my game! Having won the bull I had the throw. After winning the 1st 2 legs in quick time, then had the throw in the 3rd only to be punished by Col for some sloppy scoring and not finishing! 2-1 up but back on throw! Which luckily for me Col didn't turn up - only hitting a 45 & 60, i hit 100 & 137! I won the leg in 14 darts! Then held my throw in the 5 leg to come out a 4-1 winner!
Down to the last 4 now! It was The Rhino v Dazzling Daz Diamond Twist! I’ve known Daz a long time and played local league, super league, and he had a short spell in the Yorkshire county team! This was always going to be a good game if Daz turned up! And He did! I won the 1st leg against the darts and then Daz broke back after i’d missed 2 darts at D16. The next 2 games were really close with good scoring and finishing. At 2-2 Daz missed D20 for a 120 finish, and I was sat on 86. Which i hit, going 18-18 bull! 3-2 now and I know that bull hurt Daz! But all credit to Daz he pulled it back to 3-3 against the throw! Into the last leg and it was Daz to throw 1st! He did play the leg very well - hitting 140-140-140 to my 100-140-43! He hit the T19 but missed 2 at D12! 1 was too far back but hit a 100 to put a little pressure on! But it wasn't to be as Daz hit D6 2nd dart for 14 darter! Game over for the Rhino! Daz winning 4-3! Well done Daz!
The Final was played between Daz and Jaz 'The Jazzler' Esteve! I didn't stay to watch the final but Jaz came out a 4-2 winner and played awesome so i was told! Well done Jazzler!
So over all an fantastic night for the club, not so good for the result for the Rhino, but i did get to see some old and new friends which is always good!
And well done to Louise Simmond on playing really really well, beating Pete Rushby (4-3) and Mark Kerry (4-1) before losing out to Daz Twist (4-1), keep it up Louise.
The Rhino is taking a break for a couple of weeks, me and the family are taking a well deserved holiday! But I’ll be back on the board on the 20th August at East Leeds Snooker Centre where Bradford darts promotion are running a BDP event - go to www.bradforddartspromotions.co.uk to find out more!
So till then take care and thanks for reading!
COME ON THE RHINO^>
Blog entry #3 - 24th July 2011
Another great turn out for bdp around 120/130 players, a few of the big names missing this weekend due to the BDO British classic at Kettering - but still a lot of talent on display in the way of Devon Petersen (last weeks winner at Harold club), Brian Dawson(2008/09 bdp champion), Willy Kershaw (current bdp champion)
and Brendon Marron (current overall table leader) plus many others!
On to the 1st round draw for the rhino and this was a tough 1, drawn against Willy Kershaw, this was the one all the all eyes were on! Could anyone pick a winner? I don't think they could!
I won the bull so had the throw first, setting off with a poor 44 only for willy to hit a 45, from that point “The Rhino” kicked in hitting 3 x ton plus scores and finishing 32 in 1 dart . 2nd leg Willys off hitting 60 & I hit another 3 x ton plus scores and missing bull for 87 for a 12 darter. Willy on 216, scored a ton, I missed the required 25, only for Willy to take 116 on d18.
3rd leg I started off hitting a 180 followed by 2 x tons and 89, hitting the required d16 in 1 dart for a 13 darter.
The 4th leg willy didn't score too well, but this maybe down to my scores of 3 x ton pluses, and finishing off in 14 darts!
So 3-1 to the rhino and 1 of the favourites out!
2nd round! I thought the draw could of gone a little easier now, but NO! Now it was Bob Pinder, I played Bob last week at the Harold club, in which i came out a 3-0 winner.
Straight from the off Bob was up against it as i set off 180, then hit 2 x treble 20's missing the 3rd by the thickness off the wire then 105 and finishing 76 in 3 darts on D20 for a 12 darter!
2nd leg I hit a couple of tons and 121 then setting up 48 which i hit in 3 darts for a 15 darter.
3rd leg went very much the same as the 1st leg! Hitting 180, 100, 60, 85, 36, D20 in 3 darts for a 18 darter, 3-0 to “The Rhino” and another good performance!
3rd round, does it get any easier? Well not really! I was now up against Bob Birkenshaw, Bob is a good, solid player and has beaten a lot of the top BDP players over the years! It wasn't going to be my turn, (was it)? I lost the 1st leg but it was not a good leg for either of us - 85s and 60s we both scored, then I missed 3 x darts at 40, for bob to hit his d12.
2nd leg was very much the same - scrappy - till Bob hit 140 to leave 40 and i was on 185, I hit a 100 to leave 85, Bob missed 3 darts at 40 togo 2-0 up! So it was down to me to take the 85 out - which i did in 2 dart T15-D20!
3rd and 4th leg went my way to see me through a 3-1 winner but the performance was far from good!
Down to the last 16 now! And the rhino was up against an old friend - Gary Cathcart! iIwas expected to win this and was 2-0 up in 15 and 17 darts! Gary won the 3rd leg, and he won the 4th leg even though I’d missed 5 darts at 32 to win it! 2-2 and into the last leg - it was nip and tuck down to the finish, Gary wanting 100, and myself on 104, Gary through for his 100 first, hitting T20 but missed 2 darts at double to win it! Its my chance for 104, but only managed to hit 2 single 18s and not the required treble. Then T20 to leave 8!. Would the Rhino return? No, is the answer Gary hit D5 with 1 dart! Well played Gary! It was all over !
Full results and tables at www.bradforddartspromotions.co.uk
So over all not the best day at BDP for the Rhino, having played so well to start against Willy and bob, drifted off the boil!
The Rhino’s next comp is Friday the 29th July at east Leeds snooker centre run by diamond wire promotions, if you would like to join me there look the comp up on my facebook page, or go to www.diamondwire.com
Till next time take care, and remember to sign the rhinos horn and leave me a message or just say hello!
COME ON THE RHINO!!
Blog entry #2 - 18th July 2011
A good turn out of around 120 or so. Some big names who would normally support these events were missing due to the England open in Blackpool!
But a return to these events today in the shape of fellow PDC players Joe Cullen and the very likable Devon Peterson!
My 1st round game was against Tony Forrow which I won 3-0.
2nd round I was up against a very good and young darts player Sam 'the slammer' Hastings! Sam is only around 10 years old but travels to all BDP events, I came out a 3-0 winner but he's one to watch out for!
3rd round I was up against Nigel Smith. This was a close game which I edged 3-2 taking 100 out T20 D20 in 2 darts in the decider!
Now the event starts to get down to quality rather than quantity down to the last 16!
Up next was Rob Holroyde, I don't really no Rob but he's got a swagger of confidence! But I have been there, seen that plenty of times before!!! I won the game 3-1, finishing the last leg in 15 darts on 109=19, bull, D20.
Into the 1/4s now and was going well, up now against Bob Pinder! He is a funny player Bob - never looks interested in the game but doesn't miss much! But I won this 3-0 and played some real good darts!
Semi final and this is where it ended for me! 3-2 loss to Tony Darlow, it went with darts and he won the bull so throw 1st in the last leg and held it well. The final was between Tony Darlow and good friend on the PDC tour Devon Peterson! Results for these events will be on www.bradforddartspromotions.co.uk!!!
Overall a good day for me I played pretty well and it keeps my eye in! My next comp is really close to home for me at Glasshoughton WMC in a BDP again! If you to come watch the Rhino it's open to anyone to play in or just watch!
If you do come to any comp I'm playing in please feel free to say hello! (Apart from when I am mid game of course!). Till next time! Come on the Rhino!
DAVE
Blog entry #1 - 10th July 2011
Before joining the PDC I played local darts in my (then) local pub "The Manston" along with my dad. I then progressed to play Super League, playing for "The Woodman Inn", and I then moved onto play at "The Salts Sports", which was run by Tony Farrar. In my first year I was selected to play for Yorkshire in the 91/92 season where i played in the B team then moved on up into the A team a season or two later. I played county for around 10 yrs altogether!
My form this year has been very good and I am quietly confident that things will come good on the PDC tour. I rarely get beat easy, I seem to come out the wrong side of 6-5 games sometimes, but, these games make me stronger and more determined. My main aim this year is to get in to the PDC World Championships and in to the top 64 of the pdc world rankings.
Have a look round my site and feel free to get in touch or sign my horn!
