ISSUE 4 - AUGUST 2016
EE your FR y monthl darts e zin a g a m e
WORLD MATCHPLAY SPECIAL EDITION!
JAMES wade WADE IN BUOYANT MOOD AHEAD OF WORLD MATCHPLAY IN BLACKPOOL PLUS WORLD MATCHPLAY WALLCHART - MARK WEBSTER - JABBA’S JABBer
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CONTENTS 4-5 | NEWS FROM THE OCHE | What a few weeks it has been. We chat to Gary Anderson about his preparations, while BetVictor reveals a charitable gift for every nine-dart leg in Blackpool. 6-9 | THE MACHINE MOTORS ON | James Wade is in elite company at the World Matchplay – just six other people have lifted the famous trophy. Find out why he has such an affinity with the major. 10-13 | WORLD MATCHPLAY PREVIEW | Every player analysed, with odds, previous performances and useful information. Your one stop shop for everything Matchplay related.
14-15 | WORLD MATCHPLAY WALLCHART | What does every major tournament need? A wallchart! Get your hands on our special for the World Matchplay and never miss a moment.
18-19 | WORLD SERIES | The PDC’s top names have certainly wracked up the air miles of late. Take a look back at trips to New Zealand and China as Ando and MvG battle for top honours. 20 | EUROPEAN TOUR | The World Soft Darts Championship has roared to life in recent weeks, while the BDO’s best have been battling for further silverware. We bring you all the headlines. 21 | FLOOR FOCUS | The PDC headed to Barnsley earlier this month, with the final Blackpool slots up for grabs. See who snuck in through the back door and who surged to victory.
16-17 | WEBBY WEAVES HIS MAGIC | A deadly left-hander and a genuinely nice guy to boot! Mark Webster is returning to his best and chats to us about his targets ahead a crunch time of year.
22 | SOFT TIP AND BDO | The World Soft Darts Championship has roared to life in recent weeks, while the BDO’s best have been battling for further silverware. We bring you all the headlines.
welcome to issue four of down the barrel
23 | EQUIPMENT SPOTLIGHT | Want to throw like the best? We take a look at the latest equipment on the market, bringing you news from the industry’s biggest names and innovators. 24 | TOP TWEETS | Twitter’s where it’s at for talking darts – and with the World Matchplay on the horizon, that’s even more the case. Take a look at the most excitable, funny and entertaining messages of the past few weeks. 25 | QUICKFIRE QUESTIONS | He’s the voice of darts and boxing – but did we leave him speechless with any of our questions? MC John McDonald faces our grilling, even leaving in one piece…just. 26 | DARTING DATES | A week of top class action at the BetVictor World Matchplay given you an appetite for more? Well, there’s plenty of tungsten being thrown in anger. Just take a look at our calendar! 27 | JABBA’S JABBER | Most mere mortals would have wilted when drawn against Michael van Gerwen. But not our Jabba. He can’t wait to face MvG in Blackpool and tells us precisely why. 28 | NEXT MONTH | Reached the end already? We hope you’ve enjoyed your read – make sure you’re on our subscription list for more of the same next month! Subscribe and never miss a copy, keep visiting www.downthebarrel.co.uk, following us on Twitter and like our Facebook page.
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uro 2016 is done, Wimbledon is over and the Rio 2016 Olympics are a month away. Summer sport is pretty much done, right? Wrong! With darts’ finest heading for Blackpool, it’s like Christmas has come five months early for one of the globe’s fastest growing sports. The BetVictor World Matchplay is one of the highlights of the darting calendar, surpassed probably just by the William Hill World Championship. As soon as you step inside the magical Winter Gardens, look skyward and see the stunning golden ceiling you’re captivated. A major for the true darts connoisseur, every single last arrow thrown in the aweinspiring surroundings will be anticipated with bated breath. For the next week or so, the Fylde Coast and one of Britain’s most traditional seaside destinations is the place to be – and we’ll be guiding you along the way! Admittedly, we first have to apologise. Usually out in the final week of the month, it hasn’t escaped our attentions that we’re now halfway through July and you’re only getting your latest edition of Down The Barrel. Our calendars haven’t broken, our clocks haven’t stopped. Just sometimes life throws a few curveballs that we can only say sorry for delaying the mag we hope you so enjoy! Conveniently, it’s allowed us to put together this whopping World Matchplay special for your delectation. But what’s in it? Well, you’ve probably already seen six-time finalist and former champ James Wade on the front. The Machine is in scintillating form at the moment and he’s exclusively told us just how much he loves Blackpool and is looking forward to targeting glory he admits he should have enjoyed more of. Sticking with the lefties, Mark Webster has popped in to DTB Towers to catch up on a fine few months that have seen him show that class is permanent, with just form being temporary. MC John McDonald stepped into the hotseat for an immensely entertaining quickfire grilling, while fans’ favourite and our mate Jamie Caven was at his usual candid best, lifting the lid on just why the Matchplay is just so majestic. We hope you enjoy – until next time! Chris and Jim A Down the Barrel publication. For more information and to advertise email info@downthebarrel.co.uk Pictures: Lawrence Lustig/PDC unless otherwise stated Design and words copyright of Down the Barrel
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NEWS The latest news from the world of darts.
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arts fans at the BetVictor World Matchplay will have extra reason to cheer on a perfect leg this year with the major sponsor poised to donate £5,000 to Parkinson’s UK for every nine-dart finish. The charity is the official charity partner of the Professional Darts Corporation in 2016, with the charity funding research for a cure into the condition as well as promoting local support networks nationwide. There have been six previous nine-darters achieved in the World Matchplay, most recently by Phil Taylor in 2014 but notably when two perfect legs were hit in successive days during the 2012 event, by Michael van Gerwen and Wes Newton. “We’ve seen some incredible darts this year and I’m sure that we’ll see at least one nine-darter at the Winter Gardens later this month - but it would be a fantastic boost for Parkinson’s UK if we could see two or more.” said BetVictor spokesman Charlie McCann. “Parkinson’s UK is a fantastic charity which is doing vital work, and it’s great to be able to help them in this way. “We’ve committed to a minimum of £5,000 donation
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to Parkinson’s UK even if no player lands a nine-darter in Blackpool, but the more the merrier as far as we’re concerned.” Parkinson’s UK Senior Business Development Manager Ghalib Ullah commented: “We’re absolutely delighted to have the generous support of BetVictor in the World Matchplay tournament. “Their donations will have an incredible impact on our vital research work – we’ll all have our fingers crossed for more than one nine-dart finish.” The 2016 calendar year has already seen televised nine-dart finishes by Gary Anderson in the World Championship, Michael van Gerwen at the UK Open and Adrian Lewis in the Premier League, with a further 12 being hit away from the TV cameras on the PDC circuit. Fans attending the World Matchplay will also be able to take part in a special Parkinson’s UK charity challenge in the Arena Bar area throughout the tournament. Volunteers will play 501 games of 501, with fans invited to join in for a small donation and a chance to win some great darts-related prizes.
gary anderson relaxed and prepared ahead of betvictor world matchpLAy R elaxed and prepared – just how back-to-back World Champion Gary Anderson believes he is ahead of the BetVictor World Matchplay. The heavy-hitting Scot enters the major that has yet eluded him on the back of a PDC World wins in Dubai, Auckland and – most recently – Japan. His Zipang Casino Tokyo Darts Masters success came thanks to an 8-6 final defeat of rival Michael van Gerwen, who has won the only other series event at Shanghai. Anderson and van Gerwen both averaged more than 100 in a match that went with the throw until the 11th leg, including a 161 checkout from the Scot. That key first break in leg 11 saw Anderson hit tops to move ahead of van Gerwen, and the Scot backed that up with a hold of throw to make the score 7-5. Van Gerwen, who was looking to make it back-toback World Series titles, took the score to 7-6 and had two darts at double 16 to take the match to a deciding leg, only to see Anderson take out 108 on tops to claim the victory. Anderson had begun the evening with a very impressive 8-3 quarter-final win over Raymond van Barneveld, averaging 103 and hitting almost 60 percent of his attempts at a double as he led from the first leg to the last. He then moved into the final with an 8-5 victory over Adrian Lewis in a repeat of their final in Auckland last month. World Champion Anderson lost the opening two legs before stringing together a run of six in a row as he put distance between himself and Lewis. Lewis battled to get back into the match, but Anderson was too strong as he ended the contest with an average of 104.71. Although a jet-setting few weeks may have been far from ideal preparation for the Matchplay, Anderson was far from concerned.
“It’s great to win here (Tokyo),” said the Scot. “I was really impressed with the Japanese guys this year, they’re getting better and better. “The win gives me confidence, and I’m looking forward to going home to relax and prepare for Blackpool, which should be a cracking tournament.” Van Gerwen had faced a tough test from Dave Chisnall in his quarter-final, but averaged almost 102 to see off a strong challenge from his rival in one of the games of the tournament. Chisnall hit six doubles from eight attempts and led 6-4, but van Gerwen strung together four legs in a row, with the aid of some heavy scoring, to take the tie away from the Englishman. Van Gerwen then secured his place in the final with a comfortable 8-3 win over James Wade in their repeat of the Shanghai Darts Masters final, which also saw the Dutchman win by the same margin. The world number one hit over 60 percent of his double attempts and two 180s as he led from the first leg onwards, but he was unable to repeat the success in the final despite another strong performance. “I had two chances to break his throw, but well played to Gary who was stronger tonight,” said the world number one. “That 108 from Gary at the end was special, but I’ll get ready for the World Matchplay now because it’s been a long tour for us.” 5
JAMES W A D E 6
Words: Chris Sweet Pictures: Lawrence Lustig/PDC
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ames Wade can’t quite put his finger on why he loves the BetVictor World Matchplay – but is adamant his name should be on the trophy more than just the once. The talented left hander mixes in elite circles at Blackpool’s stunning Winter Gardens, just one of seven winners of the summer darting extravaganza. This year he heads to the Fylde Coast with an even sharper edge to usual, arriving on the back of a remarkable 2016 that has seen a European Tour victory, Masters semi-final appearance, two ProTour finals and a Shanghai Darts Masters final. Although a trio of World Series events in less than three weeks represents a far from ideal preparation, 2007 Matchplay victor Wade – and last year’s beaten finalist – is in buoyant mood. “I should’ve won it quite a few more times,” said world number six Wade, who starts his campaign on Sunday evening against Mervyn King. “I don’t know if there’s a secret to success there, it’s just an individual
tournament and it’s the only one like it. “It’s how I started playing darts – a real darts format, it’s a true reflection of how you’re playing. In the World Championships you can win more legs and lose a game, and that to me isn’t what the game’s about – and that’s probably also because I’ve never really done well there. “The World Matchplay is a true reflection – if you’ve won seven legs or lost six legs, you see that immediately in the scoreline. It’s exactly how it is. “It’s working class people and they give you the time at the right time while also staying quiet at the right time. They will give you some hassle, of course they do – they’re there to enjoy themselves. “But when it really matters they tend to keep their mouths shut and allow you to throw your darts at important times. I’m very grateful for that because I don’t think there is any other crowd anywhere else in the world like that. “You only have to look at how many darts leagues 7
in l a in f e h t o t t o g I “ r o l y a T il h P t a e b , 2015 in e im t t s ir f e h t for s r a e y f l a h a d n two-a a s a w t a h t o s e ther huge positive.�
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there are up north, they like their pool, snooker and darts. They like a drink and they go out to enjoy themselves. “That’s the main thing – the crowds really do go out to enjoy themselves, they’re not so serious. When they go out they have fun and leave their troubles at home. “I like it there, but you never know. I wouldn’t write myself off, but I wouldn’t also put my name on the trophy just yet. I like the venue and I like the tournament. “It’s the best format in my opinion, the crowds are brilliant and it’s just one of my favourite tournaments for me – if not my favourite.” Such has been his form of late – combined with his love for the major – Wade is refusing to be distracted by his most recent outing at the Matchplay, beaten 18-12 by Michael van Gerwen 12 months ago. While he admits his performance in the reversal was far from his best, the 33-year-old is very much focused on the here and now. Wade said: “Last year is been and done now. I played poorly and gave it away, pretty much,
but you can’t dwell on that at all. There are so many other games and tournaments that I’ve played since, you have to find the positives out of those ones and forget the negatives. “I got to the final in 2015, beat Phil Taylor for the first time in two-and-a-half years there so that was a huge positive and it’s all good.” Blackpool wraps up a much-travelled month for the PDC’s biggest names, the World Series taking them to New Zealand, China and Japan via Barnsley before finally landing in Lancashire. On one hand, Wade acknowledges he and the Matchplay’s fellow favourites are all in the same boat with regards to preparation. However, on the other he suggests his less travel-weary rivals may have an unlikely opportunity to seize. “Everyone has got to put up with the same,” said Wade. “It’s not great preparation, it’s actually terrible – but every player in the event has had the same and we’ve all got to do the same. “There are much harder jobs out there, than one that sees us all over the world in just a matter of weeks. Again, it’s not ideal preparation for everyone but we’ve all got it the same. “No player can have an excuse or be treated any differently – within reason – as it’s what we’ve got to do. As I say, it’s our job and there are much worse out there. “Most players practise heavily for three or four weeks, but that hasn’t quite been possible for us. As I say, though, everyone is in the same situation. If anything, the players that aren’t in the World Series have a massive advantage, I think.” The rapidly-growing World Series has at least given Wade plenty of board time, his form ensuring that both his form and bank balance benefited. He reached the final four of the Auckland Masters before going one better in Shanghai, then bowing out at the semi-final stage in the Japan Darts Masters. Despite concerns over time spent ahead of one of the biggest week’s in the darting calendar, Wade is full of praise for how the global event that pits the game’s best against local talent has grown at quite the pace. “It’s really good because we’ve noticed a huge attendance difference and increase to events in recent years,” he said. “The interaction between us and the crowds is getting better and it just seems to be growing and improving every time, which is all that we could wish for. We didn’t expect it to happen this quickly, but it’s great for us, great for darts and great for the fans.” 9
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he waiting’s almost over - darts’ biggest names are poised to illuminate Blackpool in one of the sport’s most eagerly anticipated events. The stunning Winter Gardens will be transformed by the 2016 Bet Victor World Matchplay, arguably the PDC’s second biggest ranking event in the calendar. But who are you backing for glory? Phil Taylor does like to throw by the seaside – can he win yet again? Will Michael van Gerwen successfully defend his crown or will there be a new name on the prestigious trophy? Take a look at our profiles on each of the competitors, who have qualified by either being in the Order of Merit top 16 or being in the best 16 of the rest on the ProTour. Odds were correct at time of publishing.
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NAME: Michael van Gerwen WORLD RANKING: 1 PREVIOUS BEST: Winner 2015 ODDS WITH SPONSOR: 11/10 BIO: The Dutchman shrugged off disappointment in 2014 by beating James Wade 12 months ago to lift the title. And who would bet against him again, considering the year he’s having?
NAME: Gary Anderson WORLD RANKING: 2 PREVIOUS BEST: Semi-finals 2014 ODDS: 6/1 BIO: He may never have won this tournament, but his odds offer good value. We all know Anderson’s supreme quality and he will be hungry to add the World Matchplay to back-to-back World Championship wins.
NAME: Phil Taylor WORLD RANKING: 3 PREVIOUS BEST: Winner x 15 ODDS: 6/1 BIO: The Power and Blackpool go together like sandcastles and ice cream. He loves the Winter Gardens and the crowds love him. Taylor has also been showing signs of his greatness this year, warming up with an Austrian Darts Open triumph. NAME: Peter Wright WORLD RANKING: 5 PREVIOUS BEST: Semi-finals 2015 ODDS: 18/1 BIO: Having exited the Premier League before the Play-Offs and then missing out on a World Cup spot, Snakebite will be keen to bounce back. He’ll also want to do better than 2015. NAME: Michael Smith WORLD RANKING: 7 PREVIOUS BEST: Last 16 2014 ODDS: 50/1 BIO: Smith is a regular at the business end of majors and has won a handful of Euro Tour outings. However, he’s yet to taste glory on the biggest stages of all and faces stiff competition. NAME: Dave Chisnall WORLD RANKING: 9 PREVIOUS BEST: Quarter-finals x 3 ODDS: 25/1 BIO: Chizzy has reached the last eight in each of the last three years. Consistently setting his own standards even higher, don’t be surprised if he goes better this summer. NAME: Raymond van Barneveld WORLD RANKING: 11 PREVIOUS BEST: Runner-up 2010 ODDS: 28/1 BIO: A tough one to call. Barney’s near-imperious record in the sport speaks for itself – he is a true legend of the game. However, he will need to produce that class consistently over the course of the competition.
NAME: Adrian Lewis WORLD RANKING: 4 PREVIOUS BEST: Runner-up 2013 ODDS: 12/1 BIO: It’s been a little while since Lewis has struck the jackpot at a major – can this be his year? A little inconsistent in the Premier League, he showed considerable grit at the World Cup. NAME: James Wade WORLD RANKING: 6 PREVIOUS BEST: Winner 2007 ODDS: 22/1 BIO: A rare different name on the trophy, but 2007 will seem a long time ago for Wade. He went so close again in 2015 and having won a European Tour event this year will want more silverware. NAME: Robert Thornton WORLD RANKING: 8 PREVIOUS BEST: Last 32 x 6 ODDS: 80/1 BIO: Although he’s won two PDC majors, the World Matchplay has never been kind to him – he’s never beaten that first hurdle. The Thorn has undoubtedly got the talent to do well. NAME: Jelle Klaasen WORLD RANKING: 10 PREVIOUS BEST: Quarter-finals ODDS: 66/1 BIO: Darts’ Renaissance Man, Klaasen’s consistency over the past year has seen him soar back up the rankings. A dangerous operator that must not be under-estimated in the draw. NAME: Ian White WORLD RANKING: 12 PREVIOUS BEST: Quarter-finals 2015 ODDS: 66/1 BIO: A stylish run to last year’s final eight was ended by eventual winner Michael van Gerwen in a classic clash. Diamond told Down The Barrel last month he wants a return to the world’s top ten – and this is an ideal chance. 11
NAME: Kim Huybrechts WORLD RANKING: 13 PREVIOUS BEST: Last 32 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015 ODDS: 66/1 BIO: He’s no stranger to the Winter Gardens, but it’s safe to say it probably doesn’t hold the fondest memories for him. Kim has the talent to progress – and it would be a considerable monkey off his back to do so. NAME: Terry Jenkins WORLD RANKING: 15 PREVIOUS BEST: Runner-up ODDS: 150/1 BIO: Two final appearances in a competition that has been won by just seven different people reflects considerable experience that cannot be underestimated. A proven campaigner and capable of an upset or two. NAME: Benito van de Pas WORLD RANKING: 19 PREVIOUS BEST: Last 32 2015 ODDS: 80/1 BIO: One of the most-exciting young talents in the PDC and heads to the Fylde Coast on the back of two Players Championship wins this year. He will have learned plenty from his World Matchplay debut in 2015 and is one to watch. NAME: Gerwyn Price WORLD RANKING: 25 PREVIOUS BEST: Quarter-finals ODDS: 200/1 BIO: What a six months the former rugby union player has had – two Players Championship victories and an appearance in the World Cup has underlined the Welshman’s undoubted talent. Confident, and justifiably so.
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NAME: Simon Whitlock WORLD RANKING: 20 PREVIOUS BEST: Semi-final ODDS: 125/1 BIO: A genuine dark horse for glory, the Aussie offers tremendous betting value. Qualified on the back of ProTour performances, Whitlock knows he can produce performances of the highest quality.
NAME: Stephen Bunting WORLD RANKING: 14 PREVIOUS BEST: Last 16 2014 ODDS: 125/1 BIO: Bunting was left to rue double trouble against Ian White in a high-scoring affair a year ago. He should be buoyed by a relatively local crowd and a good World Matchplay can re-invigorate his impressive climb in the PDC. NAME: Vincent van der Voort WORLD RANKING: 16 PREVIOUS BEST: Quarter-finals ODDS: 200/1 BIO: A firm fans’ favourite, he will be sure to have the backing of a boisterous Blackpool crowd in summer holiday mode. But can he beat his previous best of seven years ago? The jury is out. NAME: Mensur Suljovic WORLD RANKING: 17 PREVIOUS BEST: Quarter-finals ODDS: 100/1 BIO: Last year’s run was arguably the springboard the Austrian used to be a regular force in the sport’s biggest tournaments. It would be foolish to suggest he can’t have another sterling run in 2016, even if he doesn’t go all the way. NAME: Alan Norris WORLD RANKING: 29 PREVIOUS BEST: Debut ODDS: 100/1 BIO: The Scotland-based Yeovilian can light up a stage in a second – and will be determined to do just that in Blackpool. Chuck has impressive scoring power and enters his first World Matchplay knowing the pressure will be on his opposition. NAME: Daryl Gurney WORLD RANKING: 28 PREVIOUS BEST: Debut ODDS: 100/1 BIO: The Winter Gardens may be a new experience for the Irishman, but BetVictor’s odds suggest they know the score about his ability. His run to the Dutch Darts Masters final showed Europe just how good he can be.
NAME: Mervyn King WORLD RANKING: 18 PREVIOUS BEST: Semi-finals 2009 ODDS: 300/1 BIO: The sort of player nobody will want to draw early in the competition. King has the game to make his coastal stay long and profitable. Don’t be surprised if this experienced head is there until almost the end. NAME: Justin Pipe WORLD RANKING: 22 PREVIOUS BEST: Quarter-finals 2012, 2013 ODDS: 300/1 BIO: The sponsor’s lengthy odds are probably a bit harsh on a man who often shows his best in Blackpool. Admittedly, he has struggled to replicate that form. NAME: Mark Webster WORLD RANKING: 24 PREVIOUS BEST: Quarter-final ODDS: 200/1 BIO: At Down The Barrel Towers we’re big fans of a cheeky each-way on Webby! Determined, resurgent and experienced. Just read our exclusive with him if you have any doubts over his summer potential. NAME: Josh Payne WORLD RANKING: 52 PREVIOUS BEST: Debut ODDS: 500/1 BIO: Don’t let the stats above fool you – this man means business. A Players Championship winner in 2016 and an appearance at the Gibraltar Darts Trophy show his potential. He even beat James Wade 6-5 with a 116 finish in that win. NAME: Kyle Anderson WORLD RANKING: 33 PREVIOUS BEST: Last 32 2015 ODDS: 100/1 BIO: The Australian will be relishing a return to the Winter Gardens after falling at the first hurdle to eventual finalist James Wade on debut. Impressed on the way to this year’s Coral UK Open quarter-finals.
NAME: Joe Cullen WORLD RANKING: 36 PREVIOUS BEST: Last 32 2012 ODDS: 250/1 BIO: The Rockstar earned his place in Blackpool on the strength of some impressively consistent ProTour showings in 2016. At 26 he still very much has age on his side and can use this major as a catalyst. NAME: Jamie Caven WORLD RANKING: 23 PREVIOUS BEST: Last 16 2013 ODDS: 150/1 BIO: Another classy performer who is likely to have the crowd on his side. Jabba told Down The Barrel recently that he’s feeling more and more confident in his game. Now is the time to shine by the sea. NAME: Steve Beaton WORLD RANKING: 26 PREVIOUS BEST: Semi-finalist ODDS: 300/1 BIO: Another competitor you would probably want to avoid in the early rounds. A hugely experienced potential banana skin if you’re a big gun and a wily opponent you don’t really want to face on debut. NAME: Brendan Dolan WORLD RANKING: 21 PREVIOUS BEST: Last 16 ODDS: 500/1 BIO: Wily. The history-making Irishman knows precisely what it takes to go far in majors, but is yet to show it in Blackpool. Although the bookies clearly don’t fancy it, he will be confident looking at the line-up. NAME: Robbie Green WORLD RANKING: 56 PREVIOUS BEST: Debut ODDS: 500/1 BIO: Hailing from just down the road and already one of the more instantly recognisable figures on the circuit, don’t dare underestimate Kong. He may have crept in at the last minute – but he’s got the ability to impress. 13
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esurgent Welsh ace Mark Webster admits he would much rather land glory in majors like the BetVictor World Matchplay than contemplate a Betway Premier League return. The popular left-hander has enjoyed an impressive eight months, with a run to the semi-finals of last October’s World Grand Prix the catalyst to prove form is temporary and class is permanent. Since his doubles-in Dublin delight, the Denbigh dartist has reached the last eight on the big stage a further two times – at the Singha Grand Slam and Coral UK Open. Combined with five marches to the quarters or better at floor events, Webster is lurking ominously in the PDC Order of Merit ahead of the sport’s annual sabbatical to Blackpool. The 32-year-old is ranked 24th in the world, almost £10,000 ahead of World Cup team-mate Gerwyn Price behind him and £9,000 behind Down The Barrel columnist Jamie Caven ahead of him. With majors offering the fastest route to rankings progression, Webster is under no illusions as the importance of doing well when it matters. However, impressing the Premier League selectors for a potential return to the competition he graced in 2011 is not something that even enters his mind. The Spider said: “It’s tough. I don’t care about the Premier League and I don’t care if I never play in that again. “But it’s the big tournaments, the ranking events that matter and are the ones you want to be involved in. “The Premier League is classed as a major but I don’t see it that way. I’m not bothered about the competition and from my point of view it is the right point of view to take because I don’t class it as a priority. “I want to be in the big ranking events. Big players do see the Premier League as a priority and I can understand that. “Maybe it will become a priority for me in the years to come – which would be great – but big TV events and doing well in them is how my ranking will improve, and that’s
what I aim to do this year.” A regular again at the business end of tournaments, Webster puts down his progress to hard graft at the practise board – and is adamant he is not going to let his position slip, even if he is taking it one competition at a time. “I’ve worked hard and I’ve had some help as well,” said Webster, who turned professional in 2009 after previously working as a plumber. “My technique and my throw weren’t great so I’ve had some assistance with that. I’ve worked on it, I’ve kept coming, I’ve kept playing and that’s the best way. “The European Tour events are massive and I need to make sure I get in as many of them as I can. “The Players Championships come around quickly as well so there’s no respite in the PDC, and that’s the way I like it. If I have a week off it does my head in. That’s how I will improve – by keeping playing and by keeping busy. “I want to be in those majors. I wanted to qualify for Blackpool and after that you just want to kick on for Ireland, and so on and so on. “You’ve just got to take one at a time, and when you’re in them you take a look at the draw and set your targets then – not necessarily before.” Webster and Price reached the last 16 of the World Cup before being upset by John Part’s Canada. In March, Webby was sunk by Phil Taylor at Butlin’s Minehead in the UK Open, producing a display he knew exactly how to improve. Webster said: “In the bigger picture of things I was pleased to reach another quarter finals, but I wasn’t happy with the game. “Things wouldn’t drop for me, I was chasing trebles all over the board and they weren’t dropping in for me. “I felt good, but there’s no point dwelling on it, I have to move on. There are plenty more big tournaments on their way. “I’ve got to be so much more consistent. If I want to regularly compete with the big guns, I know I’ve got to a lot better and a lot better than what I did at the UK Open. “I made it too comfortable there for Phil, I didn’t put on enough pressure. But I’ll learn from that, I’ll go away and hopefully I’ll be better for the next time I play the likes of Phil or Michael van Gerwen.”
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WORLD SERIES A
drian Lewis conceded his best was not good enough to deny Gary Anderson back-to-back World Series titles as the Scot produced a stunning display to prevail 11-7 in the final of the Auckland Darts Masters. World Champion Anderson had won last month’s Dubai Darts Masters title and claimed his first win in New Zealand in style as he checked out 50 per cent of his darts at a double in both the semi-finals on Sunday evening. The Flying Scotsman followed up his earlier wins over home favourite Bernie Smith and world number five Peter Wright with a stunning 11-7 defeat of Raymond van Barneveld. His 111.37 average in the competition presented by TAB and Burger King was the second best in World Series history, accompanied by eight 180s. He then produced another scintillating display to thrill the Trusts Arena crowd and take the title in the second Auckland Darts Masters, landing another eight 180s as he punished Lewis’ missed doubles to take the title. Lewis held the early advantage as the pair shared the opening six legs, but Anderson stepped in following two misses from his rival in the seventh to finish 68 on double ten to break for the first time. He also took out tops to open up a two-leg lead, with Lewis finishing 121 on the bull to respond only to see Anderson win the next two - despite two 180s from the reigning champion - to lead 7-4. Lewis followed a third-dart double nine with a 150 checkout as he cut the gap to one leg, but Anderson crucially took the 14th leg with a brilliant 11-darter, hitting six perfect darts of two 180s, and then finished 70 in the next to move 9-6 up. Lewis again responded to take the 16th, but a miss at double 12 for a 144 checkout in the next allowed Anderson in to take out 86 on the bull for a 10-7 lead, and his eight 180 of the contest helped to set up double ten as he secured the title. The Stoke-On-Trent ace said: “I thought it was a great final and I’m proud of myself. Gary took out a few great 18
finishes on the bull and so on, and deserved to win it - he showed why he’s a back-to-back World Champion. “I tried my best but it wasn’t quite enough tonight. I missed a few finishes myself and it could have been a different game if they’d gone in. “Everybody played well and it was a great tournament, and I think everybody’s happy with their performance. “Last year I lost in the final in Sydney and then won this one, so I’ve lost in the final here and hopefully I can take my form to Shanghai.” Anderson added: “I’m absolutely delighted and I enjoyed this week. Everybody played well and there’s been some great darts. “Barney hit me with everything in the first four legs of the semi-final but I got a leg and when it was 4-3 it was a different game. A few years ago I’d have probably got beaten but now I’ve got a bit of fight in me. “Adrian has played brilliantly too. He was great against Phil Taylor and he’s a very good friend of mine, and up on stage we try to have some battles - and the 180s and 140s and doubles came together tonight. Adrian missed a few of the big checkouts but that’s darts. “It’s been absolutely brilliant and the fans have been fantastic. I loved it in New Zealand last year and again this time.” Lewis had won through to his second successive World Series of Darts final with a heavy-scoring 11-9 victory over James Wade, firing in a dozen maximums before coming from 7-6 down to claim five of the final seven legs. Wade had performed wonderfully in Saturday’s quarter-final win over world number one Michael van Gerwen, but was overpowered by Lewis’ 12 maximums in their semi-final as he missed out on reaching a second World Series of Darts final. Van Barneveld, meanwhile, missed out on reaching the final in Auckland for a second successive year, despite landing six 180s and achieving a 104.85 average in his tie with Anderson.
W
orld Champion Gary Anderson backed up his PDC World Series of Darts wins in Dubai and Auckland by claiming the Zipang Casino Tokyo Darts Masters title with an 8-6 defeat of Michael van Gerwen in Thursday’s final. The triumph was Anderson’s third win from four World Series events this year, with the other going to van Gerwen in Shanghaibefore the pair progressed to meet in the decider at Tokyo’s Yoyogi Olympic Hall. Anderson and van Gerwen put on a thrilling show for the enthusiastic Japanese crowd, with men averaging over 100 in a match that went with the throw until the 11th leg, including a 161 checkout from the Scot. That key first break in leg 11 saw Anderson hit tops to move ahead of van Gerwen, and the Scot backed that up with a hold of throw to make the score 7-5.
Blackpool, which should be a cracking tournament.” Van Gerwen had faced a tough test from Dave Chisnall in his quarter-final, but averaged almost 102 to see off a strong challenge from his rival in one of the games of the tournament. Chisnall hit six doubles from eight attempts and led 6-4, but van Gerwen strung together four legs in a row, with the aid of some heavy scoring, to take the tie away from the Englishman. Van Gerwen then secured his place in the final with a comfortable 8-3 win over James Wade in their repeat of the Shanghai Darts Masters final, which also saw the Dutchman win by the same margin. The world number one hit over 60 percent of his double attempts and two 180s as he led from the first leg onwards, but he was unable to repeat the success in
Van Gerwen, who was looking to make it back-to-back World Series titles, took the score to 7-6 and had two darts at double 16 to take the match to a deciding leg, only to see Anderson take out 108 on tops to claim the victory. Anderson had begun the evening with a very impressive 8-3 quarter-final win over Raymond van Barneveld, averaging 103 and hitting almost 60 percent of his attempt at a double as he led from the first leg to the last. He then moved into the final with an 8-5 victory over Adrian Lewis in a repeat of their final in Auckland last month. World Champion Anderson lost the opening two legs before stringing together a run of six in a row as he put distance between himself and Lewis. Lewis battled to get back into the match, but Anderson was too strong as he ended the contest with an average of 104.71. The win sees Anderson continue his fine international form ahead of his return to the UK to take part in the forthcoming BetVictor World Matchplay in Blackpool. “It’s great to win here,” said the Scot. “I was really impressed with the Japanese guys this year, they’re getting better and better. “The win gives me confidence, and I’m looking forward to going home to relax and prepare for
the final despite another strong performance. “I had two chances to break his throw, but well played to Gary who was stronger tonight,” said the world number one. “That 108 from Gary at the end was special, but I’ll get ready for the World Matchplay now because it’s been a long tour for us.” In the evening’s other quarter-finals, Lewis overcame Peter Wright with a narrow 8-6 triumph. The pair traded breaks throughout the match, but a 132 checkout on the bull from Lewis at 6-5 swung the game in his favour, and he admitted: “That was a massive moment. I hit the 25 and didn’t fancy it at all – when the treble 19 went in I fancied it even less but I moved across and in it went!” Reigning champion Phil Taylor was also knocked out in the quarter-finals, as he and Wade produced a classic on the Tokyo stage, with the left-hander claiming a dramatic 8-7 win despite never leading the match until he sunk the winning double in the deciding leg of a game where both players averaged over 100. The PDC World Series of Darts continues next month when the players travel to Australia for back-to-back tournaments, with the Ladbrokes Sydney Darts Masters being held at The Star Casino from August 18-20 before the TABtouch Perth Darts Masters takes place at the PCEC from August 25-27. 19
eur pean t ur
A closer look at the recent happenings on the European Tour
P
hil Taylor made up for lost time by denying Michael Smith a third European Tour title with victory in his first event in the series in two years. The Power surged to glory in the Austrian Darts Open with an impressive seven maximums, breaking throw three times as he squeezed past a resilient Smith 6-4 in the final. Smith – amongst the last two standing for a fifth time – traded breaks with Taylor, claiming the opening leg before the 16-time World Champion responded to level and move ahead thanks to double ten. However, Smith responded immediately to break back only for Taylor to once again return the favour at 3-2. A scrappy sixth leg went the way of Smith to square things up after Taylor uncharacteristically missed five darts for a two-leg lead. The 26-year-old then pulled out a majestic 130 finish on the bull to claim a 4-3 advantage and move within two of victory This only awoke the Power as he then started to play his best darts, landing an 11-darter and 12-darter to move 5-4 in front. And Taylor clinched the victory in the tenth leg with a 32 checkout to mark a successful return to European Tour action. It wasn’t all plain sailing for Taylor in reaching the final. After a hard-fought 6-3 third round victory over Kim Huybrechts, in which he wired double-12 for nine-darter, Taylor raced through the quarter-finals with a 6-2 victory over former Lakeside champion Stephen Bunting. He then faced his toughest test in the semi-finals against a confident Kyle Anderson. The Australian, who had previously knocked World
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Number One Michael van Gerwen as he hit an incredible three-bull finishes in succession in a 6-4 victory, was on the hunt for his first PDC final and very nearly had the beating of Taylor. After the pair exchanged the opening legs, Anderson raced into a 4-1 lead and was looking the most likely to reach the final. But Taylor recovered magnificently and won three straight legs to level at 4-4. Anderson again got himself in front and missed one dart for the match, but an 11-darter from Taylor set up a decider which he clinched to reach the final. Smith also had a troublesome route to the final. After recovering from behind to beat Ron Meulenkamp 6-4 in his third round game, he then repeated the same trick bring an end to Nigel Heydon’s amazing run with a 6-5 victory. He then produced his finest darts of the day in his 6-2 semi-final win over Terry Jenkins. The World number seven had darts to win every leg bar one as he raced into a 5-1 lead. Jenkins, who had beaten the in-form Benito van de Pas and Peter Wright to reach this stage, then clawed a leg back but it wasn’t enough as Smith crawled over line.
pro tour
Rodriguez was a first round casualty against Yordi Meeuwisse, picking up no prize money as a consequence, and Green capitalised with wins over Scott Dale, Ryan Meikle, Jermaine Wattimena and Peter Hudson to claim a quarter-final spot and £2,250 in prize money. Austria’s Mensur Suljovic joined Green, Murnan and Ronny Huybrechts in the quarter-finals, while Saturday’s beaten finalist Steve Beaton was amongst the losers at the last 16 stage.
I
an White won his second Players Championship title of 2016 with a 6-3 victory over Joe Cullen at the Barnsley Metrodome. White followed up April’s superb whitewash of Michael van Gerwen by picking up his sixth PDC ranking title to complete the final PDC ProTour weekend before the BetVictor World Matchplay. The Stoke ace had been a first round casualty in Saturday’s Players Championship Ten - eventually won by Dave Chisnall - but bounced back in style to go all the way to the £10,000 first prize 24 hours later. White saw off Steve McNally, Jeffrey de Zwaan and Jason Marriott for the loss of only four legs in the early rounds before a 6-3 defeat of Northern Ireland’s Daryl Gurney moved him into the last eight. He then defeated Belgian brothers Ronny and Kim Huybrechts in successive matches at the quarter-final and semi-final stage, before overcoming Cullen 6-3 in the decider, taking control with an early 3-1 lead and extending the advantage to 5-2 before closing out the win. Cullen’s run to the final continued his impressive year, but after also being the Players Championship Nine runner-up in May the Yorkshireman was again left waiting for his first senior ranking title. Cullen enjoyed wins over James Wilson, Lee Evans, Mark Webster, Nathan Aspinall, Joe Murnan and Cristo Reyes on his way to the final, and picked up £6,000 in prize money in the process. Kim Huybrechts was a semi-finalist for a second successive day as he claimed a further £3,000 in prize money for his good weekend’s work in Barnsley. Reyes had threatened to snatch qualification for the World Matchplay as he overcame fellow Spaniard Antonio Alcinas, Mark Frost, Benito van de Pas, Vincent van der Voort and Mensur Suljovic in reaching the semi-finals - but he crucially lost one game short of the final he needed to win a Blackpool spot. There was, though, joy for Robbie Green as he edged Rowby-John Rodriguez out of the qualifying places with his run to the last eight. 21
BDO NEWS B
DO number one Glen Durrant is the new England Open men’s champion after scooping glory – and a £5,000 cheque – at Somerset’s Pontins, Brean Sands venue. The Northeasterner triumphed over Conan Whitehead in the final, with Wayne Warren and Scott Mitchell departing in the semi-finals. Deta Hedman pipped Aileen de Graaf in the women’s singles, knocking out Anastasia Dobromyslova and Trina Gulliver MBE in the last four. Alex Gurr and Beau Greaves are boys and girls singles victors respectively, with Adam Howard and Amy Collins having to settle with a runners-up berth. Darius Labanauskas and Madars Razma took top honours in the men’s pairs ahead of Richie Edwards and Rhys Griffin, while Hedman and Rachel Brooks were second to Dobromyslova and Lorraine Winstanley in the women’s event.
Gary Robson was all smiles after beating Dennis Harbour in the England National Singles final, with Hedman sinking Lisa Ashton in her clash for silverware.
SOFT TIP NEWS U
nited States softip star Alex Reyes (pictured) enjoyed a profitable trip across the Atlantic when he scooped World 2016 Stage Two glory in France. Reyes game out on top with 42 points, seven ahead of fellow countryman Leonard Gates who had to settle for a runners-up spot. Croatia’s Boris Krcmar and home nation favourite Cyril Blot ended the weekend in third and fourth thanks to 29 points.
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Scott Marsh was the top performing player from the United Kingdom, occupying a fifth to eighth spot having notched 24 points. Third and fourth finisher Krcmar entered the event on the back of a Stage One triumph, beating Korea’s Park Hyunchul into second. Randy van Deursen of the United States shared third and fourth with Leonard Gates – also American – as Tony Martin flew the flag for the UK, occupying a 17th-32nd spot with 17 points.
EQUIPMENT SPOTLIGHT Unicorn aficionados can now download the manufacturer’s 2017 equipment range after a star-studded launch in June. The likes of back-to-back World Champion Gary Anderson and legend Raymond van Barneveld joined the company’s stars at the unveiling. With a World Champion Player Surround, DartMate Stand and X-Flight range announced alongside the new Eclipse HD2 board, a select group of darts fans were granted front row seats at the event. Now, we can all flick through next year’s portfolio at our leisure by visiting www.unicorn-darts.com to discover the 2017 Book Of Darts. Target Darts is gearing up for the launch of its new range, with invites circulated to a select few during recent months. Last year the company that supplies Phil Taylor and Adrian Lewis among others revealed the Vision 360 dartboard lighting system that consistently illuminated the board without casting shadows. With its glitzy event scheduled for later in July, Target is promising even more, tweeting: “We’ve got a whole load of new products to show off. #TargetLaunch16 #Quality #Design #Innovation” Bridgend-based Red Dragon Darts is showing its patriotic colours by stocking the Welsh international darts shirt. Priced at £39.90 and available from its website, Red Dragon says: “As worn by the Welsh Darts International team for 2016, this official Welsh darts shirt is sublimated to the highest standard allowing this uniquely striking Welshdesigned shirt to be created.” Also available from the firm that backs Gerwyn Price is Winmau’s SightRight2 aid that allows you to perfectly position yourself on the oche. 23
ON THE
SOCIAL A selection of tweets from the world of darts.
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facebook.com/DownTheBarrel180
Name?
quickfire questions
Age?
John McDonald
Over 50!
Nickname?
Plenty - but the Macster seems to stick behind the scenes. Best mate on tour?
with john mcdonald
PDC chief executive Matt Porter - because he pays me! walk on music?
Ride of the Valkyries. It was my regimental march when I was in the Forces and it means a lot to me. Biggest joker on tour?
Probably me followed by Dean Williams, the players’ marshall. He’s a really funny bloke. Best dressed on tour?
No question - it’s me. Worst dressed on tour?
Chris Sargeant, the PDPA photographer. He’s either going to a wedding or the hospital. most satisfying career achievement?
World finals are always great. When you have been there for the past couple of weeks, then it’s just brilliant. I’ve never had a bad one yet. Favourite venue?
I love the Leeds First Direct Arena. Favourite band/artist?
I’m quite a fan of Elton John and Stevie Wonder. I play the piano and they have been a big influence. Favourite food?
I’m vegan, so vegetables.
Favourite tv programme?
I love anything with Sir David Attenborough, I’m a massive fan of natural history. Favourite sport other than darts?
Boxing. if i wasn't a professional mc...
I’d probably be a professional golf caddy, which I have been before and I know how much I enjoyed it. MY ONE TIP FOR A BUDDING PROFESSIONAL IS
Learn the trade. Learn what they, the competitors, are all about and learn their jobs. if my house was on fire i'd save...
My Mohammad Ali picture signed by him and his daughter. We were at an event in Germany and he couldn’t get the picture on the plane, so I got it. one thing nobody knows about me
Unfortunately when you’re in the public eye, people seem to know a lot already. But I’m almost the Failed Samaritan. I do a lot of work for the charity but I haven’t been able to do the course to make me fully-qualified. 25
JULY
july 2016
CALENDAR
BetVictor World Matchplay
15th
Europe Youth Cup, Budapest, Hungary
23rd
Europe Youth Cup, Budapest, Hungary British Pentathlon – Women, Tonbridge BetVictor World Matchplay
17th
BDO Youth Festival, Wolverhampton Cheshire Open, Northwich
BetVictor World Matchplay BDO Youth Festival, Wolverhampton
16th
BetVictor World Matchplay
28th
24th
ET 6 Host Nation Qualifier, Dusseldorf, Germany
European Tour Event 6, Dusseldorf BetVictor World Matchplay
18th
BDO Shownights Winmau Invitational, Blackpool
29th
European Tour Event 6, Dusseldorf BetVictor World Matchplay
19th
30th
BDO Shownights Winmau European Darts Classic, Blackpool Pacific Masters, Victoria, Australia European Tour Event 6, Dusseldorf
BetVictor World Matchplay
21st
20th
BDO Shownights Winmau European Darts Open, Blackpool
31st
Belgium Open
BetVictor World Matchp
5th aug Players Championship 12, Barnsley
BetVictor World Matchplay
22nd
Belgium Open USA Classic
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6th aug
Players Championship 13, Barnsley
7th aug
Belgium Open
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s ’ a b Jab r e b b Ja T
he BetVictor World Matchplay is just days away – and I’m delighted to be there. On the calendar, it’s got the be the second biggest tournament after the World Championships. It’s even the number one amongst some of the players because of the atmosphere and venue, which are both just something else. The format’s also brilliant. I love playing legs as you’ve just got to hammer it from the very start. With setplay – like in the worlds – you can lose plenty of legs but still win the set and the game. The Matchplay is very unforgiving, you’ve got to go for it and be brave, and that’s why it’s one of the favourites amongst us players. There are no other tournaments like it, really. I can’t quite put my finger exactly on what it is, but it was touched on at the Worlds last year when the stage was moved 90 degrees and put along one of the longer walls at Alexandra Palace. That made it similar to the Matchplay, where the fans are all around you. You feel the atmosphere more – it’s all a lot more intense. You can’t really put it into words, but the buzz is incredible around the venue. It’s pretty much holiday time so you get a lot of family people there and you really do get the diehard fans. People plan their holidays around the Matchplay and will go specifically to Blackpool for that week to watch the darts. When you’re around the promenades, people will stop you - it’s almost showbiz stuff and such a great experience. It’s something we all look forward to. This year certainly started slowly for me and I had to change a few things like altering my routines, practise a bit more and put in more dedication. Sometimes you can get a bit lethargic doing the same thing, particularly if your game isn’t going quite right. In the industry we’re in you have to keep going and the last couple of months have seen a massive upturn in
my form. I qualified for both European Tours before the first weekend of the month in Barnsley as well, so that is great and a huge help for the rest of the year. It’s certainly a good thing to be heading to Blackpool being confident in your own ability and game. I’m looking to keep improving and I’ve been putting in more time at the board since that weekend in Barnsley. I’ll be going that extra mile to make sure I turn up in the best possible form. My wife Debbie and I had my mate Ian White and his better half Maria around for Sunday dinner the other week – but we weren’t expecting to eat so late. For the second time, us inviting them over coincided with him winning a Players Championship round. Looking forward to our cooking must put him in such a good mood – he certainly doesn’t like getting here early! Next time we’ll probably just surprise him. Ian has been playing really well, he’s the same as always. He doesn’t go in and out of form, he’s really consistent and almost methodical in his ability. He’s a really nice guy as well. It’s good to see him doing so well. He didn’t have a great Saturday in Barnsley but it just shows that you’re not necessarily playing badly if you’re beaten in the first round. You have to take your chances and be prepared to sit down if you don’t. Daryl Gurney walloped me 6-0 that weekend and didn’t miss a thing. Sometimes you’ve just got to put your hand up. It doesn’t dent the confidence because you haven’t played that badly, you have just got to get on with it. Enjoy Blackpool!
Jamie
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feature in the best digital darts magazine For more information contact us at info@downthebarrel.co.uk www.downthebarrel.co.uk twitter.com/DTB180 facebook.com/DownTheBarrel180
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Enjoy the BetVictor World Matchplay!
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