Reports 2022

Week 15

Only one place to start in week 15 of the CRF Shrewsbury Premier Darts league & that was at the ADMIRAL DUNCAN where the league leaders hosted second placed MASONIC & it would be a case of de ja vu where the Admiral Duncan would repeat there 5 v 3 winning trick, ensuring a second defeat of the season for the Masonic.  Kevin Rogers (22.29 inc 180) set the Baschurch side on the way only for Dean Rogers (24.85) to level after edging out Daffyd Edwards (24.05) who had fired to maximums in a game that went the full 5 legs.  Terry Nash (27.83) restored the host lead which was then extended by Paul Ashworth (22.43 inc 180). Paul Rowley (26.25) hit back for the Masonic but it would be in vain as Mike Coyne (23.06) won the crucial final singles match defeating Vaughan Owens in another  last leg decider. Victory was  confirmed in the first pairs through Nash & Edwards which allows the Admiral Duncan to open up a three point lead at the summit.

INN ON THE GREEN remain third following a 6 v 2 home win against the CHARLES DARWIN.  Both teams traded blows early on with Jay Adams (18.84 inc 15 dart leg) & Rob Paine (24.64) who fired a brace of maximums, securing wins.  From that point the home side went into overdrive with the IOTG reeling of the remaining  four singles matches despite a brilliant 11 dart leg from Nigel Neale (22.78).  Adam Joseph (24.94) & Gareth Ashley (22.24) headlining for the IOTG who secured a third successive victory whilst it’s just one win in Six for the Charles Darwin who remain in Ninth place overall.

The BROOKLANDS were the biggest movers of the week, up two places from Sixth to Fourth as they too registered a 6 v 2 home win.  The Telegraph provided the opposition & it was them that led twice early on following wins from Graham Wall (23.67) & Dan Jones (20.31).  Sandwiched between these wins, Paul McMullen (20.62) had struck for the hosts who then levelled through James Mansell (23.86).  Team mate Matt Elsey (28.55) then won a high quality game 3-1 against Steph Clarke (25.38) Which saw both players registering maximums Brooklands team captain, Steve O Callaghan (23.32) claimed the final singles in the deciding leg.  A sixth successive victory was secured as the hosts took both pairs matches & that sees the Telegraph’s winless run stretch to ten games as they remain Eleventh overall.

Both the MYTTON & the COMPASSES had to be content with a share of the spoils following an enthralling game that saw the lead change hands several times.  Neil Evans (19.53) had set the Compasses off in the right direction only for the hosts to hit back with a brace of 3-0 wins for Steve Sparrow (21.78) & Lawrence Colley (21.17).  Jon Mansell (26.11) defeated fellow Salopian Ed Price (24.39) to level up once only for Tony Burton (24.43) to regain the lead for the Mytton. The Compasses replied through Shaun Watton (20.72) in the final singles before taking the lead through Jon Mansell & Tony Middleton who both hit Maximums. Ed Price & Steve Sparrow claimed the final pairs & a point for the Mytton whose four game winning run is ended.  Both teams drop one place with the Compasses one place ahead of the Mytton in fifth.

For the second successive week HOP & FRIAR won all six singles matches following a very impressive performance away at bottom placed WHEATSHEAF.  Evonne Taylor (26.84) fired a 14 dart leg  & Steve Ritchie (24.24 inc 180)  laid the foundations that saw the Hop register their first 8 v 0 success of the season as they remain Seventh overall. They did however not have things all their own way as the Wheatsheaf took legs in three of the singles matches before forcing both pairs to a deciding leg & it can only be a matter of time before they register their first point.

The BEECHES also made the ideal start in their game at the WOODMAN taking the first two games through Roger Williams (20.31) & Paul Andrew (24.64 inc 180) without conceding a leg.  Tom Hancock (18.52) made it three after defeating Steve P Davies (19.16) in the deciding leg before Steve Tweddle (18.54) made it four. The Woodman replied following a 3-0 win for Tony Wilson but hopes of a comeback were extinguished after Wayne Evans was pipped in the deciding leg by Dave Perks who pitched a maximum.  Both pairs went the way of the Beeches who secured a first win in eight games to pull five points clear of thirteenth placed Woodman who suffer successive 7 v 1 defeats.

And finally, The DICKIN return to winning ways after a four game wait following a comfortable 6 v 2 win away at the HEATHGATES.  Having opened up a 2 v 0 leas through Ben Grocott & Neil Southern (20.19) Ian Evans (20.04) halved the deficit for the Heathgates.  Back came the Dickin with a hattrick of 3-1 wins for Andy Evans (23.36), Kev Williams (23.21) & Gary Crowther (27.26) that secured the victory that sees the Wem side consolidate in eighth place, nine points clear of the Heathgates who remain tenth.

Week 14

Week 14 of the CRF Shrewsbury Premier Darts League saw the second half of the season start much the same as the first one finished with CHARLES DARWIN taking more points out of the top two.   After last week’s fine draw at second placed Masonic, this week it was the turn of ninth placed Charles Darwin  to host  league leaders ADMIRAL DUNCAN where a similar 4 each draw was played out that ended the leaders ten game winning run.  Rob Paine (23.79) fired a maximum & a 16 darter, Tony Lloyd (21.12) & Nigel Neale (20.31) were on the mark for the hosts Whilst Terry Nash (24.24) who also fired a 16 dart leg, Jamie Kynaston (19.01) 151 outshot & Dave Beesty (24.24) 118 out, had the number of the opposition.  With the scores level going into the pairs the Duncan through Nash & Kynaston took the first before Tony Lloyd & Shane Knight took the final match for the hosts to secure a draw which cuts the lead at the top to one point.

Just below the Ninth placed Darwin, TELEGRAPH & HEATHGATES also shared the spoils.  In a game where the Telegraph led three times it was all about quality finishing with five ton plus checkouts recorded.  Leading the way & by some at that was Matt Hyde who landed the highest finish of all 170 to join Brookland’s Jason Davies who achieved the feat in Week 4.  Teammate Dan Jones (19.83) checked out on 132 during his five leg defeat against Ian Evans (19.69) who had a 115 finish.  Earlier on Graham Wall (20.41) had put the Telegraph ahead in a 3-1 victory that included a 120 finish.  Dave Wilding (21.17) doubled the advantage before the Heathgates responded through Evans & Duncan Morris (22.96).  Steve Guyatt concluded the finishing with a 154 check out before teaming up with Evans in the final pairs to secure the draw. Telegraph are now nine games without a win  & remain one place behind the Heathgates in Eleventh, level on points.

BROOKLANDS were never behind at fourth placed COMPASSES having led 2 v 0 following last leg wins for Jason Davies (21.73) who had a 130 outshot & Matt Elsey (21.46) who fired a maximum.  The hosts retaliated through Scott Dockerty (23.86) who went one better with two maximums & Scott Towers (20.38) to level up but once more the Brooklands forged ahead & this time they didn’t relinquish the lead.  Paul McMullen (20.58) & Steve O Callaghan (21.58) were the victors who then paired up in the final match to secure a fifth successive victory for the Brooklands who remain sixth.

One place behind in Seventh are the HOP & FRIAR who secured a much needed second win in six games following a comprehensive home win against WOODMAN.  The hosts who took all six singles registering an impressive one dart team average of 22.81 per dart conceded just four legs.  Evonne Taylor (23.45 inc 18) setting the standard in the first game, backed up by Steve Ritchie (22.43) who hit two maximums. Martin Riggs (20.59) also bagged a maximum before Sarah Roberts (24.04) completed an excellent team performance. Tony Wilson who himself fired a 180 & Wayne Evans combined in the final pairs to prevent the whitewash but the Woodman are one of the bottom.

INN ON THE GREEN remain in third place after recording a 5 v 3 double over the DICKIN. Although the visitors were never behind they were made to work for the victory right from the first game where Sacha Rothwell (18.95) edged out Che Kerin (18.36) over five legs.  Dickin levelled through Ben Grocott (18.14) only for the IOTG to regain the lead through Gareth Ashley (21.32) in another last leg decider.  Gary Crowther (28.88) fired two maximums as the Wem side levelled for a second time but there would be no more comebacks as the visitors surged ahead once more through Adam Joseph (25.90 inc 180) before saving the best to last with Craig Davies (30.06) who plundered a maximum in a 13 dart leg. Although the Dickin claimed the first pairs the IOTG secured a sixth victory in seven games after Gareth Ashley & Sacha Rothwell took the final pairs in the deciding leg.  It’s now four successive defeats for the Dickin who drop one place to Eighth.

Fifth placed MYTTON unbeaten home record remains intact having overcome a BEECHES side who took an early lead through Roger Williams (21.04).  Steve Sparrow (16.96) swooped to level before Ed Price (20.09) put the hots ahead. Lee Burton (20.58) increased the hosts advantage after defeating Steve Tweddle (20.18 3-1 in a game where both players registered maximums. Although Mike Rogers (20.18) reduced the arrears the Mytton secured victory by claiming the remaining games.  The Beeches are now seven games without a win as they remain Twelfth.

And finally, MASONIC returned to winning ways & cut the lead at the top to one point following a 7 v 1 home win against the WHEATSHEAF.  Ash Hilditch (30.08) with the nights highest average that featured two maximums, 13 dart leg & a 100 finish. Andy Kynaston (24.92) & Vaughan Owens (22.10) were also on the mark whilst Wheatsheaf’s Charlie Fletcher prevented the whitewash as the Frankwell side remain bottom.

Week 13

Week 13 of the CRF Shrewsbury Premier league proved to be lucky 13 for the WOODMAN who at the thirteenth attempt secured their first win of the season, away at bottom placed WHEATSHEAF recording a 6 v 2 success . John O Callaghan (20.23) & Wayne Evans (19.03) led the charge for the Woodmen who had took the first four games, although they were made to work for the victory with three games going the full five leg distance.  Ryan Page (21.45) with the solitary singles win for the Wheatsheaf whose wait for a first point continues.

At the top, ADMIRAL DUNCAN doubled their advantage to two points after they inflicted a first home defeat of the season on neighbours DICKIN.  Daffyd Edwards registered a 30 + average  which featured 3 maximums & a 13 darter whilst his captain Terry Nash (23.39) survived several match darts against Gary Crowther (21.46) to not only preserve his 100 % individual record but put the visitors in overall control. Team mates Paul Ashworth (24.63) fired a maximum as well as a 106 check out before Mike Coyne (23.17) sealed a tenth successive victory for the Admiral Duncan.  Andy Evans (21.39 & Kev Williams (22.15) were the only victors for  the hosts who crashed to a fourth successive defeat as they slip two places to Seventh.

Second place MASONIC had to be content with just a point following visit to CHARLES DARWIN.  In a game that saw the lead change hands numerous times, Andy Kynaston (18.96 inc 180) & Dean Rogers (27.91) appeared to have given the Masonic the edge only for the hosts to respond in some style.   Nigel Neale (25.26) & Rob Paine (26.59) inflicted respective singles defeats on Ash Hilditch (25.42) & Paul Rowley (26.23 inc 2 180s) to put the Darwin ahead.  The Masonic hit back through Vaughan Owens (19.52) in the final singles before taking the first pairs to nudge ahead once again. However  Neale & Paine combined successfully once more to take the final pairs in the deciding leg that saw Nigel fire a second maximum of the night.  A second draw in three for the Darwin who remain ninth whilst Masonic’s nine game winning run is ended.

INN ON THE GREEN returned to winning ways consolidating third place following their visit to the TELEGRAPH.  The hosts led early on through Mark Walker (19.59) although there only other success would come from Steph Clarke (22.16) in the final singles match.  In between the IOTG reeled four successive singles victories to regain control.  Craig Davies & Gareth Ashley posting sub 25 one dart averages before the visitors went on to take  both pairs matches in the deciding leg to condemn the Telegraph to a second successive 6 v 2 defeat that sees them remain in Eleventh place.

The mid table clash at the HOP & FRIAR went with form as visitors MYTTON emerged victorious to increase their winning run to three games.  The hosts had the better of the early exchanges with Evonne Taylor (24.64) & John Roberts (27.83) claiming 3-0 wins.  Sandwiched in between these games, Glyn Thomas (25.24) had a 13 dart leg as the Mytton fought back before Lawrence Colley (23.33) levelled overall defeating Sarah Roberts (25.18 inc 180.) over five legs.  The momentum had now shifted to the Mytton who took the remaining two singles matches through Ed Price (25.91) & Steve Sparrow (21.21) to open up a 4 v 2 lead.  Despite John & Sarah Roberts claiming the first pairs victory was secured through Price & Thomas that sees the Habberley outfit move up two places to fifth. Back to back 5 v 3 defeats for the Hop who drop to Eighth.

A first win in five games looked on the cards for the BEECHES who raced into a 3 v 0 lead at home to the BROOKLANDS but it would be the visitors who would end the night with a winning run preserved.  Paul Andrew (22.77) fired a 15 dart leg that included a 135 check out in the first game of the night to give the Beeches the perfect start that was backed up by team mates Roger Williams (19.22) & Tom Hancock (19.77).  Paul McMullen (23.48) replied for the Brooklands & it was very much game on when James Mansell (19.96 inc 180) doubled the visitors tally.  The final singles game of the night went the full five legs & saw Brooklands captain Steve O Callaghan (22.47) edge out Dave Perks (21.83) to level up & with momentum now with the visitors they claimed both pairs in the deciding legs to claim a 5 v 3 victory that sees them move up two places to Sixth.  Very tough on the Beeches who remain Twelfth 3 points clear of the bottom two.

The COMPASSES also found themselves three nil up at home to neighbours HEATHGATES  & despite a fightback managed to hold on to register a second 5 v 3 victory in successive weeks.  Shaun Watton (18.38) & Tony Middleton (22.53 inc 120 Checkout) triumphed over 5 legs before Scott Towers (21.61) appeared to put the Compasses on the right track only for the Heathgates to respond in kind with victories for Anthony Jebb (18.11), Duncan Morris (21.79 inc 180) & Steve Guyatt (23.12) to level up overall going into the pairs.  Compasses hit back taking both games with dropping a leg with Shaun & Tony securing the victory that keeps the Ditherington side in fourth place. For the Heathgates its now three games without a win as they remain in tenth place.

Week 12

The stand out game in Week 12 of the CRF Shrewsbury Premier League came at the INN ON THE GREEN where the high flying third in the league hosted fourth placed COMPASSES in a quality game of darts which saw a match winning average of 25.31 per dart.  Andy Williams (22.58 inc 16darts) got the show on the road putting the IOTG one up only for the Compasses to hit back taking the next three games at a cost of just one leg.  Scott Towers (23.62) featured a 121 outshot was followed by Scott Dockerty (27.62) who had a brace of maximums, a 102 finish & a 15 dart leg as he defeated Adam Joseph (27.57) who himself had two maximums.  Jon Mansell completed the hat trick of  wins for the visitors registering the nights highest average, 34.16 that saw legs of 14 darts & two 15 dart legs that included a maximum & a 103 finish.  Craig Davies (25.91 inc 180.) reduced the arrears for the hosts but the two game advantage for the Compasses was restored in the final singles match through Shane Watton (18.31) who triumphed in the deciding fifth leg.  Although the IOTG took the first pairs the Compasses secured a memorable 5 v 3 victory through Jon Mansell & Scott Dockerty to inflict a first defeat on the IOTG in seven games & close the gap in the table to just one point.

Elsewhere, & the top two, Admiral Duncan & Masonic enjoyed 6 v 2 wins at the expense of Telegraph & Woodman respectively.  League Leaders ADMIRAL DUNCAN  had to come from behind after Mark Walker (21.78) took the first singles.  The TELEGRAPH’S only other success came in the last singles through Steph Clarke (24.62).  In between the Baschurch side took four successive singles led by Mike Coyne (26.84 & Terry Nash (24.64 inc. 180) whilst Paul Ashworth (22.26)  had a 121 checkout. A clean sweep in the pairs ensured a ninth successive victory from the league leaders who continue to hold a point lead at the top over the MASONIC who accounted for second bottom WOODMAN.  Paul Rowley(26.37) set the hosts on the way as they  raced into a 4 v 0 lead before Wayne Evans (18.88) fired a 107 finish claiming a win over five legs to reply for the Woodman.  Vaughan Owens (28.56 inc. 180) sealed the win for the Masonic who inflict a third 6 v 2 reverse for the Woodman in four games as they remain second bottom.

It was honours even at the HEATHGATES who had to come from behind three times to ensure a share of the spoils against the BEECHES.  Roger Williams (21.16) & Tom Hancock (19.43) had put the Bayston side two up & although team mate Steve Tweddle (19.27) took out 114 he was unable to add to the lead as Ian Evans (19.10) hit back for the “Gates”.  Duncan Morris (21.76) fired a 13 dart leg as well as family bragging rights with a 3 v 2 victory over Marin Morris (20.20) to level overall.  Mike Rogers (20.25) restored the Beeches advantage only for Phil Atter (18.81) to square up once more before both pairs were inevitably shared which ensures the Heathgates one point lead over the twelfth placed Beeches remain intact.

There was something of a shock at the CHARLES DARWIN who enjoyed a narrow but deserved victory over the DICKIN.  The visitors had led through Che Kerin before Tony Lloyd levelled. Gary Crowther (22.10) restored the Dickin’s advantage but once more the Darwin replied with another deciding leg victory through Rob Paine (19.83 inc. 180).  For a third time the Dickin restored the lead, this time through Kevin Williams (19.26) & yet again the lead was short lived as Nigel Neale (19.06 inc. 180) levelled before the hosts gained the initiative in the first pairs (Knight & Paine). It was left to Captain Neale to nail the winning double in the deciding leg of the final pairs match to give the Darwin just a second victory in five games as they consolidate in Ninth place.   

5 v 3 was also the final score at the BROOKLANDS who emerged victorious against the HOP & FRIAR in another game that wasn’t decided until the third leg of the last pairs match.  Evonne Tayler (22.51 inc. 180) had put the visitors ahead before Paul McMullen (23.24 inc. 180) & Steve Felton (18.47)  hit back for the hosts.  John Roberts (26.57) levelled matters up overall only for the Brooklands to reel of the final two singles through Matt Elsey (23.42 inc 112 finish) & Steve O Callaghan (21.02). The Hop took the first pairs & reduced the lead to one game through Darren Lane & Evonne Taylor who had also had a 120 checkout) & it was left to O’Callaghan & Elsey to take the final pairs & claim a hard fought third successive victory for the Brooklands.  Its now three defeats in four for the Hop but they still remain Seventh in the league,  one place above the Brooklands.                                                                               

Finally, bottom placed WHEATSHEAF  went down to a heavy defeat on their travels at the MYTTON although the hosts were made to work for the victory with three singles matches going the distance.  Ed Price (28.36) fired a maximum & a 100 finish whilst Steve Sparrow (23.95 inc. 128) put the hosts in control whilst Glyn Thomas weighed in with a maximum ass the Mytton went five up.  Undeterred,  Ryan Page (18.54)  had the nights highest finish of 132 & was the solitary winner for the Wheatsheaf but the wait for a first point of the season continues.

Week 11

Wins for the top three in Week 11 of the CRF Shrewsbury Premier Darts league although leaders ADMIRAL DUNCAN will have been relived to emerge victorious at fourth place COMPASSES.  Terry Nash (25.42) edged out Tony Middleton (22.57 Inc 100 finish) to put the Baschurch side ahead only for former player Scott Dockerty (26.36) to level up.  The Duncan replied taking the remaining four singles with Mike Coyne (31.31 inc 180) the stand out player.  The Compasses took both pairs to put a respectable glo

ss on the final score but it’s now two defeats in three games for the Ditherington outfit.

Third placed INN ON THE GREEN also secured a 5 v 3 away win although that score line appeared remote after Roger Williams (21.62) & Tom Hancock (18.32) had put home side BEECHES 2 v 0 with respective 3-2 wins. The IOTG hit back taking the next three games without conceding a leg.  Adam Joseph (27.83) Craig Davies (19.77 inc 180) & Gareth Ashley (22.10) doing the damage before Paul Andrew (19.62) took the final singles game for the hosts to level up once more.  The visitors secured a fourth successive win after claiming both pairs to condemn the Beeches to a fourth successive defeat as they remain twelfth overall.

No such problems for second placed MASONIC who romped to a 7 v 1 home win against DICKIN ARMS.  Jason Evans (21.79) which included a 17 dart leg gave the hosts the ideal start before Andy Kynaston (25.20) went one better with a 16 dart leg to double the advantage.   Andy Evans (23.86) hit back for the Dickin but that was as good as it got for the Wem side who would claim just one more leg in the remaining five games.  Ash Hilditch (23.86), Paul Rowley (24.24 inc 180) & Vaughan Owens (23.96) putting the seal on a fine performance that sees the Masonic register a third successive 7 v 1 win as they remain one place & one point behind the league leaders.

Despite racing into a four nil lead that saw the HOP & FRIAR concede just one leg they still needed a final pairs win to secure a first victory in three games as visitors HEATHGATES staged a second half fightback.  Ladies duo  Evonne Taylor (24.27)  & Sarah Roberts (22.77) impressed early on with respective 15 & 18 dart legs for the Hop & Friar before Heathgates duo  Duncan Morris (22.16)  & Steve Guyatt (25.97 inc 15 & 18 darters) hit back.  Bothe players then combined to take the first pairs for the “Gates” only to be denied by John & Sarah Roberts in the final pairs match to ensure a 5 v 3 home win for the Hop who remain in Sixth place.

It was honours even in the game between the TELEGRAPH & CHARLES DARWIN which saw the hosts two nil up early on following wins for           Mark Walker (18.84) & Graham Wall (22.77).  Shane Knight (22.28 inc 177) & Tony Lloyd (19.93) responded for the Darwin who would trail once more after Dan Jones (21.41) edged out Toto Noriel (20.42 inc 180) in the deciding leg. Once more the Darwin leveled, this time though captain Nigel Neale (20.60) so it came as no surprise that both pairs games would be shared out with both teams claiming a victory in the deciding third leg. The point for the Telegraph, there first in five games move up one place to tenth, one place behind the Charles Darwin.

Finally, & the bottom two, WHEATSHEAF & WOODMAN suffered respective home defeats to mid table BROOKLANDS & MYTTON.   Ben Davies Jermaine (23.28 inc 180) had levelled for the Wheatsheaf having defeated Matt Elsey (22.09) in a five leg thriller.  This came after Jason Davies (21.02) had put the Brooklands ahead. Once Paul McMullen (20.55) had restored the Brooklands lead there was no way back for the Wheatsheaf & it was left to Brooklands captain Steve O Callaghan (23.66) which included a 16 dart leg & a maximum to put a seal on a second successive 6 v 2 victory, which ensures the Wheatsheaf remain bottom.

Downstream at the Woodman who despite going down 7 v 1 took legs in the first five matches against an unpredictable Mytton side who had previously had just one victory in five.  Ed Price (23.74) & Tony Burton (18.53) both registered maximums in 3 -1 victory’s for the Mytton whilst John O Callaghan (21.20) was the sole winner for the Woodman although team mate Steve P Davies took out a 103 finish & captain Brian Haynes fired a maximum for the Woodman.

Week 10

The top five all registered wins in Week 10 of the CRF Shrewsbury Premier Darts league whilst bottom two encountered tougher times as both fell to 6 v 2 defeats on the road.

ADMIRAL DUNCAN continue to set the pace at the top with an emphatic 8 v 0 home win against a BEECHES side that suffered a third whitewash of the season.  So much was the hosts dominance they yielded just three legs with Kev Rogers (26.83 inc 180) showing the way first on.  Team mates Daffyd Edwards (28.36), Mike Coyne (28.36) & Terry Nash (22.77) who had a brace of maximums maintained the standard as they posted a 24.32 one dart average.  Beeches duo Paul Andrew & Roger Williams plundered maximums but it’s a third successive defeat for the Bayston Hill slide who drop one place to Twelfth.

Second placed MASONIC continue to remain one point behind the leaders after a comfortable 7 v 1 home win against MYTTON.  Paul Rowley (33.40) with the nights highest average that featured a maximum, 120 outshot & a 12 darter led the charge ably backed by Ash Hilditch (28.36) & Andy Kynaston (23.12) who both hit maximums.  Ed Price (24.82) included a 110 finish was the solitary winner for midtable Mytton who fall to a first defeat in four.

INN ON THE GREEN continue to impress this season following a third successive win, although they didn’t have it all their own way after visitors HOP & FRIAR went one up through Evonne Taylor (22.36 inc 180).  The hosts levelled though Jay Adams (18.79) before Craig Davies (25.40)  fired 15 & 16 dart legs which included a 141 check out in a quality game against Steve Ritchie (26.55 in. 180) to put the hosts ahead for the first time.  Although John Roberts (24.39) levelled the IOTG responded taking the next three games to secure the victory.  Gareth Ashley (28.90) fired 14 & 17 dart legs once more impressing as the IOTG remain very much in the mix in third place. Hop & Friar remain Sixth but are now three points off the top five.

COMPASSES held there nerve as they returned to winning ways away at the CHARLES DARWIN.  Having trailed early on after Tony Lloyd (20.31) fired a trademark 171 the Compasses hit back to win the remaining five singles matches with four of them matches going to the deciding leg.  Matt Williams (21.44) checked out on 102 whilst Jon Mansell (22.67) got the better of Nigel Neale (20.12) who hit 177.  Shaun Watton (19.59) saw the Compasses to victory rendering the final two pairs matches academic despite the hosts claiming both. Compasses remain fourth just three points of top whilst the Darwin slip one place to ninth.

The big movers of the week are the HEATHGATES, up two to tenth following a second successive 6 v 2 victory, this time at home to bottom placed WHEATSHEAF. This was a match that almost went the distance with 32 out of a possible 36 games being played & seven scores of 171 or more registered.  Heathgates found themselves two up through Anthony Jebb & Ian Evans who hit the game’s first maximum.  Ben Davies Jermain (20.34)  halved the advantage overcoming Dave Evans (180) in five legs.  Phil Atter (20.39) replied for the Heathgates who then secured a hard earned victory with wins for Steve Guyatt (22.43) & Duncan Morris (23.57) who both hit maximums.  Ade Powell fired a 171 in the first pairs match which also saw Charlie Fletcher with a maximum for the Wheatsheaf who battled to the end securing a second game in the final pairs.

The BROOKLANDS secured a first victory in Seven games with a 6 v 2 home win against WOODMAN but once more they didn’t have it all their own way with the opposition taking legs in all but one of the games.  Gavin McDonell (21.78) registered the games only maximum whilst Matt Elsey (23.75) impressed as the hosts went 3 v 0 overall.  John O Callaghan (20.17) replied for the Woodman  but a first home win of the season for the Brooklands was secured following 3 – 1 wins for both Paul McMullen (19.82) & Steve O Callaghan (19.55) which sees them move up one place to Eighth.  The Woodman remain one point & place off the bottom.

Finally, Wem outfit  DICKIN recorded a fifth successive 5 v 3 home win of the season, this time at the expense of the TELEGRAPH who had led through Mark Walker (21.13).  Andy Evans (23.83) hit back for the hosts as he edged out Dave Wilding (21.72 inc 180) over 5 legs before Neil Southern (18.10) put the Dickin ahead for the first time.  Graham Wall (19.07) replied for the Telegraph only for Gary Crowther (22.43) to restore the Dickins lead which turned into overall victory after further wins for Kev Williams (17.86) & Andy Evans / Ben Growalot in the first pairs.  Victory leaves the Dickin in fifth place whilst the Telegraph drop one place to Eleventh.

Week 9

Week 9 of the CRF Shrewsbury Premier League saw routine home wins for the top two ADMIRAL DUNCAN & MASONIC, whilst the chasing pack lost ground with both third & fourth place suffering defeats.  At the other end of the table HEATHGATES secured their first win of the season to pull away from the bottom two. 

Yet for all that excitement the only place to start is in mid table where the MYTTON hosted Eighth placed BROOKLANDS in a game which saw both sides contribute to an incredible match that saw TEN maximums, a league best Eleven dart leg & an overall combined winning one dart average of 24.61 per dart.  Glyn Thomas (21.12) fired the first of the maximums to put the Mytton one up before Dan Dean (26.64 ) took out a splendid 157 outshot to level following a superb match against Lee Burton (24.52) who had an 11 darter.  The Brooklands then exerted some control taking the next two games with conceding a leg through Matt Elsey (22.10) & James Mansell (23.48) with James pitching hat trick of maximums.  Ed Price (28.61) fired two maximums as the Mytton hit back before Steve o Callaghan (25.71) took the final singles to restore the Brooklands two game advantage.  This lead would disappear in the pairs matches however, with both going to a deciding legs, that would ultimately end in favour of the hosts to ensure a fair share of the spoils that concluded a cracking match.  It’s a third draw in four for the Brooklands who drop one place to Ninth two points & places behind the Mytton.

Sandwiched in between the two are the CHARLES DARWIN who secured a third win in four following a 6 v 2 away at the BEECHES.  Rob Paine (23.41) including two maximums led the charge, backed up by Nigel Neale (23.10 inc 180) & Tony Lloyd (20.31) as the visitors led 3 v 0, having dropped just two legs.  Steve Tweddle (19.55 inc 180) responded for the Beeches who doubled their tally through Dave Perks (18.58).  Bothe Beeches victories were secured in the deciding fifth leg.  The remaining singles game saw Toto Noriel (19.86 inc 180) strike for the Darwin who secured the overall victory in the first pairs through Sue Lane & Karen Weston as they climb to a season high Eighth, three places three places above the Beeches.

The battle of the basement also saw a 6 v 2 away win, as the HEATHGATES tasting success for the first time this season, at the WOODMAN.  Anthony Jebb edged out Steve D Davies in the deciding leg to put the visitors ahead & from that point they didn’t look back with wins for Tim Franks, Ian Evans (21.17) & Steve Guyatt (20.31).  Duncan Morris (22.23 inc 21.80) was another to triumph in a last leg decider at the expense of John O Callaghan (21.32) to give an indication of how hard the Woodman battled & they were finally rewarded in the last singles through Dan Wilson (16.34) who triumphed 3-0. The hosts doubled their tally after taking the first pairs through O Callaghan & Steve P Davies which featured a 103 finish by Steve, but it was no more than a consolation as the Heathgates, who remain twelfth, stretch their advantage to three points over the Woodman who remain one of the bottom.

A comprehensive 8 v 0 whitewash at bottom placed WHEATSHEAF see the INN ON THE GREEN move up to third.  Once more the “triple axis” of Adam Joseph  (25.47 16 darts), Gareth Ashley (24.31 17 darts) & Craig Davies (24.64 16 darts) provided the spark although they were supported by Sacha Rothwell (21.80) who also had a 16 dart leg & a 114 checkout as the IOTG are now unbeaten in five.  A tough night for the Wheatsheaf who would only register three legs despite some competitive averages that on another night would of yielded much more.

COMPASSES fell to a second 5 v 3 defeat in three games following their home encounter against Wem outfit DICKIN whose charge up the table continues.   The visitors,  made the ideal start going two nil up through Andy Evans (25.77) & Ben Grocott (19.41) & from then on were always ahead. There would be further success for the Dickin with 3-0 wins for Gary Crowther & Kev Williams but the hosts responded with a brace of 3-0 wins for Scott Towers (28.90) Jon Mansell (23.48) to keep the match alive going into the pairs & it was very much game on when Towers & Tony Middleton, who had earlier hit a 180 took the first pairs.  However, the Dickin prevailed in the deciding leg of the final pairs through Crowther & captain Dave Price to secure back to back victories that see the Wem team up to fifth, level on points with fourth placed Compasses.

MASONIC remain second after a comfortable home win over the TELEGRAPH.  Andy Kynaston (21.78) checked out on 150 to set the hosts off on the right foot but it was soon all square after Graham Wall levelled for the Telegraph. The Masonic restored the lead with interest following a brace of 3-0 wins for Ash Hilditch (22.77) who had 180 & Jason Evans (22.10) before one of the games of the night saw Paul Rowley (28.26) defeat Steph Clarke (21.61) over five legs.  With momentum now with the Masonic the Telegraph would only claim one further leg in the remaining three games as they fell to a third successive defeat that sees them remain tenth.  It’s a Sixth successive win for the Masonic who remain one point of the summit.

League leaders ADMIRAL DUNCAN made the ideal start as they raced to a four nil lead over the HOP & FRIAR.  Kev Rogers (23.39) emerged victorious over five legs in the opening game against Hop captain Chris Thompson  (20.90) before Terry Nash (28.90) featured a 14 dart leg to double the advantage.  Further wins for Paul Ashworth (22.43) & Mike Coyne (22.69) had the Duncan on the brink only for Steve Ritchie to hit back for the Hop.  It was left to Derek Rogers (23.98) to secure a sixth successive win for the Duncan with the third 3-2 home win of the night as they consolidate there one point advantage at the top of the table. 

Week 8

Week 8 of the CRF Shrewsbury Premier League went with the form book as the top Seven all registered victories whist conversely it was defeat for the bottom Seven. Therefore it is as you were with the ADMIRAL DUNCAN leading the way by one point at the top following a 7 v 1 home win over bottom placed WHEATSHEAF.  Duncan quartet Terry Nash, Mike Coyne,  Daffyd Edwards & Kev Rogers all pitching 23 + one dart averages with Kev checking out on 118 whilst Daffyd took out 123 & fired two maximums.

MASONIC remain second although they were made to work for a 6 v 2 home win against the BROOKLANDS.  Dean Stokes (27.33) & Andy Kynaston (26.84) impressed as the hosts raced to a 2 v 0 lead without dropping a leg.  Jason Evans (24.15) edged out Matt Elsey (23.10) in a last leg decider as the Masonic increased their lead before the Brooklands hit back with wins for Dan Dean (18.33) & Steve O Callaghan (23.12) who had an 18 dart leg. Sandwiched in between was a fourth singles win of the night for Masonic through Paul Rowley (23.86 inc 180) who then partnered Dean Rogers to take the first pairs & secure a fifth successive win for the Belle Vue team.

Third Placed COMPASSES had to come from behind at the TELEGRAPH after Mark Walker (18.31) had put the hosts ahead.  The visitors hit back to take the next three games without conceding a leg with Scott Dockerty recording the nights highest overall average of 30.67 per dart which included a 13 darters whilst Scott Towers (20.04) fired the games only maximum. The Compasses progress was checked by Steph Clarke (25.47) who doubled the Telegraph’s tally before  partnering Walker to take the first pairs & keep the match alive.  It was left to Dockerty & Captain Neil Evans to take the final pairs for the Compasses & 5 v 3 victory as they returned to winning ways.

HOP & FRIAR also secured a 5 v 3 away win & they too didn’t have it all their own way with CHARLES DARWIN taking an early lead through Nigel Neale (20.82). The Hop replied thorough Evonne Taylor (20.04) who fired two maximums & John Roberts (24.37) who got the better of Rob Paine (21.75) over five legs.  Toto Noriel (22.12) hit back for the hosts to level up once more before both sides traded the final two singles games to be locked at three each going into the pairs.  Both pairs matches went to the deciding leg, both in favour of the HOP who skipped to a second successive victory to remain fourth.

A third 5 v 3 away win, also decided in the pairs came at the HEATHGATES where the MYTTON secured a first win in three.  Indeed the visitors made the ideal start with wins for Lee Burton (20.13) & Glyn Thomas (20.87) before the Heathgates hit back through Ian Evans (20.88) & Phil Atter (23.01).  The Mytton retook the lead through Steve Sparrow (21.57) only for the hosts to level up once more with Duncan Morris (19.78) winning the final singles in the deciding fifth leg. The Mytton weren’t to be denied however taking the lead for the third time winning the first pairs though Thomas & Sparrow before Lee Burton & Ed Price prevailed in the deciding leg of the final pairs to secure the overall victory.

The INN ON THE GREEN stretched their unbeaten run to four games  as once more they put in a strong team performance, this time at home to the WOODMAN. Five of the six singles went the way of the hosts, all 3-0 with Adam Joseph (26.37) leading the way with a maximum & a 14 dart leg, backed up by Gareth Ashley (25.05 inc 180) & Craig Davies (23.48 inc 180).  Jake Elsey (18.56) was on the mark for the Woodman, also winning 3 v 0, whilst team mate Tony Wilson fired a maximum but its successive 7 v 1 defeats for the Coton Hill side who remain one off the bottom. 

Finally, it was fourth successive 5 v 3 home win for the DICKIN which early on had looked unlikely after the visitors, BEECHES led 2 v 0 through Roger Williams (19.27) & Paul Andrew (19.96 inc 180).  Neil Southern (20.40 inc 180) started the Dickin comeback that continued through Kev Williams (19.63) & Gary Crowther (21.78).  Mike Rogers claimed the final singles match for the Beeches to level up overall only for the Dickin to take both pairs with Crowther & Dave Price seeing the hosts to victory.

Week 7

Week 7 of the CRF Shrewsbury Premier Darts League saw a fourth different team installed as league leaders in the shape of the ADMIRAL DUNCAN following a 7 v 1 away win at strugglers WOODMAN.  It’s a fourth successive win for the Baschurch outfit who came from behind after the hosts led through Steve D Davies.  Kev Rogers (20.88) leveled up & after Dave Beesty (23.20 inc 180) edged out Dan Wilson (21.66) over five legs there was no looking back for the Duncan.  Terry Nash (24.24) fired the games other maximum & Mike Coyne (23.84) also impressed but it’s a heaviest defeat of the season for the Woodman who drop one place to second from bottom.

COMPASSES two week stay at the top came to an abrupt end at home to a majestic MASONIC side who emerged 5 v 3 winners.  Andy Kynaston, Ash Hilditch, Paul Rowley & Vaughan Owens won their respective singles games conceding just three legs & recoding a combined one dart average of 25.31 per dart with Ah & Paul firing maximums.  The Masonic didn’t have it all their own way with 3 -0 wins for Compasses duo Scott Towers (27.33) & Jon Mansell (24.24) but the Masonic claimed a fourth successive win following success in the first pairs (Rogers & Hilditch) which sees them move up one place to second.  A first defeat of the season for the Compasses who saw maximums hit by Tony Middleton & Scott Dockerty who now occupy third place.

A pulsating match in Habberley saw MYTTON & INN ON THE GREEN eventually share the spoils.  The home side had raced into a two nil lead thanks to Lee Burton (20.19) & Sam Sparrow (20.65) only for Adam Joseph (30.06 inc 13 darter) to halve the advantage after registering the weeks highest average.  Ed Price (26.22) restored the Mytton’s two game cushion defeating Gareth Ashley (27.53 inc 180) in a cracker.  Once more the IOTG retaliated, this time with interest firstly through Craig Davies (26.84) before Andy Williams (18.60) levelled up. Joseph & Davies then claimed the first pairs to put the IOTG ahead for the first time before the Burton brothers, Lee & Tony held their nerve in the deciding leg of the final pairs to claim a draw that ensures the Mytton remain Seventh whilst the IOTG drop one place to fifth.

Moving up into fourth are the HOP & FRIAR who enjoyed a comfortable 6 v 2 home win against the DICKIN. Ben Grocott 106 checkout proved significant as the Wem outfit led only for the hosts to reply with victories in the next three games. Both Evonne Taylor (20.49) & Martin Riggs (22.87) prevailed in deciding legs whilst John Roberts (24.64) needed just three legs to register victory.  Gary Crowther (24.64) reduced the deficit but that was as good as it got for the Dickin who tasted defeat for the first time in six games after Steve Ritchie (22.20 inc 180) claimed the final singles match for the Hop in another game that went the distance before taking both pairs without dropping a leg. 

HEATHGATES doubled their points tally for the season after gaining a deserved point away at draw specialists BROOKLANDS.  Indeed the visitors led two nil after wins for Antony Jebb (18.60) & Ian Evans (23.95) & although the Brooklands responded through Gav McDonell (17.60 inc 180) the “Gates” soon restored there two game advantage through Duncan Morris (25.38).  Matt Elsey (20.04) reduced the arrears but once more the Heathgates replied this time through Steve Guyatt (21.85)  that included a maximum & 14 dart leg  in a deciding fifth leg win over Steve O Callaghan (21.37) in the final singles. The Brooklands took both pairs secure a fifth draw of the season that see them remain eighth whilst that point sees the Heathgates move up one place to thirteenth.

CHARLES DARWIN enjoyed back to back wins for the first time this season following a comfortable win at home to bottom placed WHEATSHEAF.  Rob Paine (23.86 inc 180) put the hosts ahead only for Glen Hughes to level.  Sue Lane won a key third game for the Darwin following a deciding leg success against Charlie Fletcher who fired a maximum.  From then on the hosts seized control winning the remaining three games, conceding just one leg. Nigel Neale (22.77 inc 180) securing overall victory after fine wins for team mates Shane Knight (20.35) & Tony Lloyd (22.10) who pitched a 171.  The Wheatsheaf claimed both pairs but it’s now a third 5 v 3 reverse of the season for the Frankwell outfit.

The final game of the night saw the TELEGRAPH race in to a two nil lead at the BEECHES.  Mark Walker (23.52) & Graham Wall (19.02) doing the damage before the hosts regrouped to take the remaining four singles.  Steve Tweddle starting the fightback that was backed up by Mike Rodgers (19.37), Dave Perks (20.65) & Paul Andrew (20.24).  Dave Perks & Mike Rogers then combined to take the first pairs & secure a first win in four games for the Beeches who remain Eleventh one place & point below the Telegraph.

Week 6

Home form was key in Week 6 of the CRF Shrewsbury Premier Darts league with five of the seven games ending in home wins whilst the other two games ending all square, as three top four enjoyed home wins.

Whilst the INN ON THE GREEN were the one in top four not to they would have been content with a point against a BROOKLANDS side that had held leads of 2-0 & 4-2.  However, that tells just part of the story as both teams recorded a collective one dart average of 24.52 that saw Shrewsbury darts as the real winner.  Paul McMullen (22.10) & Dan Dean (27.88 inc 180) had put the visitors, Brooklands two up only for the hosts to hit back, firstly through Adam Joseph (26.37) which included a maximum & a 16 darter, before Gareth Ashley recorded the nights highest average 30.29 which two maximums, a 177 & a 14 darter as he overcame Matt Elsey (26.67) in a five leg epic.  Undeterred, the Brooklands hit back with further wins for Jason Davies (23.48) & Steve O Callaghan (22.98) who hit the games fifth maximum as he defeated Sacha Rothwell (23.40) over five legs. Sacha would have the final say however, teaming up with Craig Davies to take the last pairs in the deciding leg after Ashley & Joseph had claimed the first pairs to ensure a fitting draw overall. The IOTG drop one place to fourth whilst it’s a fourth draw f the season for the Brooklands who remain eighth.

The other draw came at the TELEGRAPH who came form three games down to salvage a point against the HOP & FRIAR.  Graham Wall (22.38) had put the Telegraph ahead before the visitors hit back to take the next four games.  Sarah Roberts (21.75) who had fifteen dart leg along with checkouts of 100 & 118 just about had the number of Dave Wilding (20.61) taking the deciding fifth leg, although Wilding  had the consolation the nights highest finish of 142. John Roberts (22.43) made it 4 v 1 to the Hop 4 v 1  only for Steph Clarke to hit back with the final singles for the Telegraph before combing with Wall to take the first pairs. It was left to Wilding & Don Jones to secure the draw in the deciding leg of the last pairs  to stretch the Telegraph’s unbeaten run to three games as they remain Ninth. Meanwhile, the Hop drop one to Sixth overall.

COMPASSES remain top following a fifth successive win, this time at home to the BEECHES who had led through Roger Williams (25.05).  the Compasses responded taking the next three games through Tony Middleton (24.24), Scott Dockerty (25.66) & Scott Towers (18.70) with both Scotts recording maximums. Paul Andrew (17.67) reduced the deficit to one but the Compasses responded taking the final three games for the loss of just one leg.  Jon Mansell (25.67) which included a 111 finish completing a fine win for the league leaders, whilst it’s a third successive defeat for the Beeches who remain Eleventh.

Second place ADMIRAL DUNCAN remain just one point behind following a comprehensive home win against the MYTTON.  Glyn Thomas (22.77) had put the Habberley outfit ahead but the host responding in ruthless fashion taking the remaining five singles recording a  24.70 one dart average in the process.  Terry Nash (25.92) & Jamie Kynaston (25.10) leading the way with Jamie firing a maximum & a 120 checkout whilst team mate Kev Rogers (22.43) took out 117.  Ed Price & Simon Sparrow registered maximums for the visitors who took both the pairs but it’s now a third 5 v 3 reverse of the season for the Mytton who remain Seventh overall.

Up one place to third are the MASONIC who enjoyed a 7 v 1 home win over the HEATHGATES.  Although Dean Rogers (20.31) gave the hosts the lead, it was all square after Ian Evans (23.85) defeated Andy Kynaston (23.26 inc 180) in a last leg decider.  Ash Hilditch (28.40) fired three maximums to restore the Masonic lead & from that point they didn’t look back claiming all the remaining games.  Paul Rowley (26.19 inc 180) & Vaughan Owens (22.56) among the winners but credit to the Heathgates who took legs in all but two of the matches as they made Masonic earn a third consecutive win.

CHARLES DARWIN secured a first win in three following a tight encounter at home to the WOODMAN.  The visitors had led through Steve D Davies only for the Darwin to reply with interest through Rob Paine (21.87), Nigel neale (19.78) & Tony Lloyd (21.17. Tony Wilson (17.71) edged out Neil Proctor over five legs but the two game lead was restored through Andy Mullinder (19.08).  Back came the Woodman taking the first pairs through Steve D Davies & Dan Wilson who had earlier fired a 171, however Nigel Neale & Andy Mullinder consigned the Woodman to a fourth successive 5 v 3 defeat that sees the Coton Hill outfit remain twelfth two places below the Darwin.

Finally & bottom placed WHEATSHEAF could consider themselves unfortunate not to have at least collected there fist point of the season having pushed an in form DICKIN over at Wem.  Indeed the visitors went ahead through Ben Davies Jermain (22.77 inc 180) before Che Kerin (18.26) replied for the Dickin edging out Bob Wynn (18.05) over five legs. The hosts gained further momentum with 3-0 wins for Neil Southern (18.10) & Gary Crowther (25.91 inc 180) although the Wheatsheaf hit back through Captain Glen Hughes.  Dave Price (19.03) won the key final singles for the Dickin but again  the Wheatsheaf replied through Hughes & Jermain to reduce the lead to just one game going in to the final pairs match. Gary Crowther & Dave Price combined to a fourth 5 v 3 victory for the Dickin who move up one place to Sixth.

Week 5

It was all change at the top, as league leaders HOP & FRIAR hosted second placed COMPASSES in Week Five of the CRF Shrewsbury Premier Darts league as the COMPASSES  plotted their way to the summit of the league following a strong performance in the pairs. The hosts had made the ideal start with captain Chris Thompson (19.54) & debutant Daniel Astbury (26.83) putting the Hop ahead.  Compasses replied with straightforward wins for Scott Towers (26.83) & Scott Dockerty (22.63) who both fired maximums before John Roberts (30.06) which featured a 14 dart leg, restoring the Hop & Friar’s lead.  Jon Mansell (25.01) levelled up once more taking the final singles before the Compasses took both pairs with Jon Mansell & Scott Dockerty confirming victory & condemning the Hop to a first defeat of the season that sees them drop to Fifth.

ADMIRAL DUNCAN move in to second place following a steady 6 v 2 win at the BROOKLANDS.  Terry Nash (29.47) put the visitors ahead only for Jason Davies (20.04) who had a 108 checkout to level.  The key third match saw Mike Coyne (23.44) edge out James Mansell (24.16 inc 180) over five legs to put the Duncan ahead once more.  Team mates Paul Ashworth (21.78) & Dave Beesty (25.13) added to a lead that was checked by Matt Elsey (25.47 inc 180). The Duncan regrouped to claim both pairs that secured a second successive victory that also saw Derek Rodgers plunder a maximum. Meanwhile its not three games without a win for the Brooklands who slide two places to Eighth overall.

INN ON THE GREEN returned to winning ways as they also enjoyed a 6 v 2 away win, in this instance at the HEATHGATES.  Ian Evans (21.62) had put the hosts ahead only for the visitors to respond with a four game winning salvo that saw the concede just two legs.  Jay Adams (20.53), Sacha Rothwell (22.45), Adam Joseph (24.24 inc 180) & Craig Davies (22.77 inc 113 finish) doing the damage. Phil Atter (20.72) took the final singles match for the Heathgates  defeating Pete Colley (21.41 inc 180) over five legs to keep the overall match alive only for the IOTG to claim both pairs & victory that sees them move up to third place. Its fourth successive defeat for the Heathgates despite maximums for Duncan Morris & Craig Walmsley & they remain one point & place of the bottom.

MASONIC complete following a 8 v 0 victory at the BEECHES.  Despite the comprehensive score line the Beeches provided difficult opposition with three games going the full five legs & four players Tom Hancock (22.16), Roger Williams (20.61), Dave perks (21.71) & Paul Andrew (20.45inc 180) all pitching above 20 per dart.  But the Masonic were imperious recording a one dart team average of 24.49 per dart.  Ash Hilditch led the way with a nights highest average of 30.67 which featured a 15 dart leg, a 112 finish & 180 in his pars match.  Paul Rowley (27.18), Vaughan Owens (23.57), Andy Kynaston (22.98) which included the nights highest finish of 157 & a maximum) whilst Josh Davenport (21.12) had a 135 checkout & Jason Evans (21.47) rounded off a superb team effort.

The DICKIN’S fine form continued as their unbeaten run stretches to four games following a hard fought 5 v 3 win at the WOODMAN.  Ben Grocott & Che Kerin had put the Dickin two up before Steve P Davies (23.72) fired a brilliant 152 checkout to reduce the deficit.  Gary Crowther (23.12) restored the two game lead which was soon wiped out following wins for Woodman duo Tony Wilson (18.65) & Wayne Evans (19.78 to level up going into the pairs.  Kev Williams & Neil Southern held there nerve in the deciding leg of the first pairs before Gary Crowther & Dave Price secured the victory for the Wem outfit that sees them move up to Sixth place overall.  Hard on the Woodman who have now suffered four 5 v 3 defeats as they remain Twelfth.

TELEGRAPH edged out the WHEATSHEAF in a close game that four ton plus finishes at Frankwell.  Ben Davies Jerman (17.84) with the first of these, 113 as he put the hosts one up.  Mark Walker edged out Bob Wynn in a crucial second game to level up before Matt Hyde (20.57) fired a 152 & 130 checkouts to put the Telegraph ahead.  Further wins for Dan Jones (23.29 inc 110 finish) & Steph Clarke (20.84) in the last leg had the Telegraph on the cusp of victory only for Ryan Page (20.05) to take the final singles, again over five legs for the Wheatsheaf.  In keeping with the rest of the match both pairs went the full distance, both in favor of the Telegraph to secure a second successive victory that sees them edge away from the lower reaches of the league.  Once more, hard lines for the Wheatsheaf whose haul of 15 legs would normally secure at least a point which at the moment still remains elusive.

The final game of the night proved to be the only success for the home side with the MYTTON securing an impressive 7 v 1 home win against the CHARLES DARWIN.  All five singles winners for the Mytton registering 20 + averages with Lee Burton (22.40) checking out 113.  Tony Burton (22.77) & Ed Price (23.86) also impressed for the hosts whilst Nigel Neale (19.21) prevented the whitewash.  Team mate Neil Proctor pitched the games second 113 finish but it’s a first defeat in three for the Darwin who drop one place to tenth.  For the Mytton, a return to winning ways sees them climb one place to Eight.

Week 4

The highlight of Week 4 of the CRF Shrewsbury Premier Darts league came at the CHARLES DARWIN where opponents BROOKLANDS player Jason Davies checked out on the magic 170 finish (Treble Twenty, Treble Twenty, Bull).  It was a timely intervention as the Brooklands were trailing 2 v 0 following wins for Darwin duo Andy Mullinder (20.18) & Toto Noriel (22.43).  Jason went on to win his match 3-0 with a one dart average of 22.43 before further wins for team mates James Mansell (17.80), Matt Elsey (22.87) & Steve O Callaghan (21.74) to put the visitors 4 v 2 up going into the pairs.  One final twist saw the Darwin take both pairs with conceding a leg. The final game pairing of Nigel Neale & Toto Noriel recording a superb 31.31 one dart average using just 32 darts to win both legs & secure a share of the spoils.

MASONIC returned to winning ways for the first time since the opening week  inflicting a first defeat of the season on previous league leaders INN ON THE GREEN in the process. Although never behind after Andy Kynaston (20.24) had put the hosts one up, they were made to work for this victory.  Adam Joseph (23.35) levelled for the visitors only for Dean Rogers (23.71 inc 180) to restore the Masonic’s lead which was then increased through Paul Rowley who pitched the nights highest average of 29.47 per darts.  Paul would also hit three maximums a feat matched by IOTG’S Gareth Ashely (27.12) who pulled one back for the visitors.  Ash Hilditch restored the two game advantage for the Masonic taking the last singles but once more the visitors hit back to take the first pairs through Ashley & Joseph & it was left to Jason Evans to checkout 121 in the final pairs (with Ash Hilditch) to secure the win for the Belle Vue who remain fifth, just one place behind the IOTG.

Returning back to top spot are the HOP & FRIAR who enjoyed a 7 v 1 victory away at the BEECHES. On first, John Roberts (25.94) fired 2 maximums & a 13 dart leg for the visitors but within half hour, Hancock (18.11 inc 180) had levelled.  Although the Hop took the remaining games they were pushed to five legs in two matches with Mike Rogers (21.20) recording a 15 dart leg whilst Dave Perks (23.30 inc. 180) checked out on 104 for the hosts.  Steve Ritchie (24.00) & Sarah Roberts (22.72 inc. 180) prevailing in those deciding legs whilst team mates Martin Riggs (24.24) had a 15 dart leg & a 143 outshot & Darren Lane (2147) completed the singles success for the Hop who remain unbeaten.  It’s a first defeat in three for the Beeches who drop two places to Eleventh.

COMPASSES continue to head in the right direction moving up one place to second following a 6 v 2 home win over bottom placed WHEATSHEAF. Ben Davies Jermain (21.95) had given the visitors the lead before the Compasses responded taking the next four games. Tony Middleton (22.43 inc 180), Scott Dockerty (21.17) & Scott Towers (25.47) amongst the winners for the home side who were pushed by a Wheatsheaf side with Charlie Fletcher (17.93) in particular impressing & there efforts were rewarded with Andy Harrison claiming the final singles game for the visitors. Both pairs games went to deciding legs which ultimately went the way of the Compasses to claim a second successive victory whilst captain Neil Evans fired the games only maximum.

ADMIRAL DUNCAN complete a top four that is separated by just one point following a ruthless home performance against the HEATHGATES that saw them triumph 7 v 1, recording an impressive “singles” one dart team average of 22.90 per dart.  Terry Nash (25.91) & Mike Coyne (24.64) setting the standard whilst there were maximums for Duncan trio Kev Rogers, Dafydd Edwards & Lee Davies.  Ian Evans (23.01) was the solitary winner for a Heathgates side that fell to a third successive defeat that now sees them one point & place off the bottom.

Despite trailing twice, the TELEGRAPH finally felled the WOODMAN by claiming the final three games to claim their first win of the season.  Graham Wall (19.25) took out 110 to put the hosts one up only for the Woodman to hit back taking the next two games through Jake Elsey (17.48) & Steve P Davies (19.68). Dan Jones (21.47) levelled up only for Tony Wilson to restore the visitors advantage.  Steph Clarke (21.30) took the final singles game defeating Wayne Evans (20.69) in the deciding fifth leg to level for the third time before the Telegraph took pairs without dropping a leg to condemn the Woodman to successive 5 v 3 defeats that leaves them just outside the bottom two, two places below the Telegraph.

For the second successive home game  the DICKIN found themselves four nil up that provided the platform for a memorable victory against the MYTTON.  Ben Grocott (20.20) edged out Lee Burton (19.82) over five legs to put the hosts ahead before Andy Evans (23.48) & Neil Southern (25.05 inc 103 finish) enjoyed 3-0 victories.  Gary Crowther (26.10) took on Ed Price (26.39) in a contender for game of the season where both players hit three maximums each. Gary triumphant in the deciding fifth leg before Kev Williams (19.21) ensured a nap hand for the Dickin.  The Mytton took the remaining singles & pairs matches but it’s a second 5 v 3 defeat of the season which see them drop four places to Eighth, one place below the Dickin.

Week 3

Whilst still in the early stages, round 3 of the CRF Shrewsbury Premier League saw just one of the top four win whilst at the other end of the table two from the bottom three registered wins.

INN ON THE GREEN are the new league leaders after they enjoyed a fine 5 v 3 win away at ADMIRAL DUNCAN.  The hosts had held a 3 v 1 lead which included wins for Kev Rogers (21.78) & Terry Nash (28.00). The IOTG responded in some style taking the remaining four games, conceding just 1 leg to claim a third successive  5 V 3 victory.  Craig Davies led the way for the visitors  with the nights highest average, 31.98 per dart which included a 13 dart leg.  Team mate Pete Colley (25.53) also had a 13 dart leg whilst Adam Joseph (25.01) provided solid support.  Admiral Duncan duo Mike Coyne & Paul Ashworth fired maximums but it’s a first defeat of the season for the Baschurch outfit who drop to seventh place.

Previous league leaders HOP & FRIAR had to settle for a share of spoils after an absorbing encounter at home to MASONIC which saw the lead change hands four times.  Masonic’s Dean Rogers (22.20) edged out Evonne Taylor (22.04 inc. 16 dart leg) in the first of four singles games that went the full five legs only for the hosts to hit back through John Roberts (24.23) who  plundered a 15 dart leg & a 134 checkout & Matin Riggs (18.73).  Paul (Rowley (26.37) included a 16 dart leg to level up once more before both teams traded the final two singles games. Darren Lane (21.40) claiming the final; singles for the Hop before pairing up with John Roberts to take the first doubles. However Ash Hilditch & Josh Davenport had the final say  the deciding leg of the last pairs to claim a point that sees the Masonic move into the top five.

CHARLES DARWIN celebrated a first win of the season at the expense of hosts, HEATHGATES.  Rob Paine (22.10) & Shane Knight (19.84) provided the ideal start for the Charles Darwin as they raced to a two nil lead. The Heathgates hit back through Ian Evans (20.61) & Duncan Morris (22.10) only for the visitors to edge ahead once more through Tony Lloyd (23.63) triumphed in the deciding fifth leg.  Although Steve Guyatt took the final singles to draw the match level for a second time Charles Darwin responded taking both pairs matches without dropping a leg.  Neil Evans fired a maximum in the final game as he teamed up with captain Nigel Neale to claim the victory that sees them leapfrog Heathgates into tenth place.

Another team enjoying a first win of the season were the BEECHES who also triumphed 5 v 3 away on their travels.  The WHEATSHEAF provided the opposition & it was the hosts that went ahead through Ben Davies Jermain (25.31) that included a 15 dart leg.  The Bayston Hill outfit replied with interest taking the next four games which included wins for Mike Rogers (20.79 inc 110 finish) Dave Perks (20.84).  Back came the Wheatsheaf through captain Tony Howells  to take the final singles match before pairing up with Ben Davies Jermain to claim the first pairs & put the game in the balance going into the final pairs match. It would be the Beeches through Paul Andrew & Dave Perks who triumphed in the deciding leg to claim the overall victory that sees them move up to Ninth place. The Wheatsheaf wait for a first point continues.

COMPASSES were another away team who would benefit from success in the last game of the night to secure victory as they were pushed all the way by the WOODMAN.  Steve D Davies had put the hosts ahead only to be repelled by a triple salvo from the visitors.  Tony Middleton (25.47 inc. 180), Scott Dockerty (28.90) who also had a maximum & a 13 dart leg and Scott Towers (21.51) inflicting the damage.  Tony Wilson replied for the Woodman before Neil Evans won the crucial final singles match against namesake Wayne in a last leg decider to restore the Compasses two game cushion.  John O Callaghan, who fired a 108 finish paired off with Steve D Davies to claim the first singles to halve the deficit before Scotts Dockerty & Towers combined to take the final match & secure back to back 5 v 3 wins for the Compasses who move into the top three. 

Despite holding the lead three times BROOKLANDS would have to be content with a point at home to the DICKIN.  Jason Davies (23.48) had given the hosts the perfect start before Ben Grocott (22.98 inc 180) hit back for the Wem side.  Steve Felton (20.73) & Matt Elsey (25.47)  both hit 17 darters in a winning cause for the Brooklands before Kevin Williams (20.24) fired a 15 dart leg responded for the Dickin.  Steve O Callaghan (22.99 inc 105 finish) restored the two game lead for the home side edging out Che Kerin (22.77) who had earlier checked out 132 on the bull, in a five leg epic.  The Dickin however would have the final word taking both pairs to claim a point that sees them remain eighth three places below the Brooklands who remain unbeaten.

The final match of the night saw the biggest movers of round 3, the MYTTON who move up three to fifth following a comprehensive home win at home to the TELEGRAPH. Shaun Pryce (22.16) set the hosts on their way defeating Mark Walker (20.13) who had a 118 checkout & from then on the Mytton didn’t look back taking all the singles matches. Ed Price (21.33) & Martin Pope amongst the winners.  To their credit the Telegraph took legs in all but one of the singles before Ryan Kenny & Alfie Jones combined to win the final pairs match & stave off the whitewash. It is back to back 7 v 1 defeats for the Telegraph however who slip to second from bottom.

Week 2

The HOP & FRIAR are the early pacesetters at the top of the CRF Shrewsbury Premier DARTS League following a comfortable second victory of the season, this time at home to the WHEATSHEAF.  The visitors has made the brighter start going one up through Ben Davies Jermaine (19.54) but the lead was short lived as the Hop skipped back tacking the remaining five singles, dropping just two legs in the process.  Steve Ritchie (27.34) ably back by team mates Darren Lane (22.43) & Chris Thompson (21.34).  The Wheatsheaf claimed the first pairs James Harrop & Dan Nutter but that couldn’t prevent a second defeat of the season for the Frankwell outfit.

Hot on their heels in second on leg difference are the ADMIRAL DUNCAN who recorded a fine 5 v 3 victory away at the MASONIC.  They made the ideal start through Dave Beesty (18.96) before Terry Nash (33.40) 14 dart leg saw him to the highest average of the week as the Duncan went two up.  Masonic hit back through Jason Evans (21.35 inc 120 finish) before Paul Rowley (29.00) pitched a 13 dart leg & a maximum in a cracker of a game against Kev Rogers (25.78 inc 2 180s) to draw the scores level.  Undeterred, the Admiral Duncan went again, taking the next three games without conceding a leg to claim the overall victory.

COMPASSES secured their first win of the season following a close encounter at home to the MYTTON.  Once more the visitors led only for the home side to respond with interest.  Scott Dockerty (26.37) including a 112 outshot leading the way for the Compasses backed up by Tony Middleton (20.46 inc 109 finish), Scott Towers (19.88) & Jon Mansell (23.55) who all triumphed in the deciding leg.  The evergreen Martin Pope (22.79) checked out on 123 to take the final singles match for the Mytton who then took the first pairs to put the game in the balance before Scott Dockerty & Jon Mansell successfully teamed up in the final pairs to secure the overall victory for the Compasses who remain unbeaten.

After the DICKIN raced to a four nil lead, few would of envisaged that this match would also be decided in the final pairs match but this is what happened in the home match against the HEATHGATES.  Andy Evans (22.32), Ben Grocott (19.54 inc 180) & Neil Southern (19.26) had laid a solid platform for the Dickin before Gary Crowther (25.04) & Ian Evans (24.42) played out the game of the night that saw both players taking out 116 before Gary prevailed in the deciding leg to put the hosts four up.  The Heathgates responded in some style through Duncan Morris (21.01) & Phil Atter (20.40) & it was very much game on after Morris & Evans took the first pairs. It was left to Dickin captain Dave Price & Gary Crowther to secure what is a first victory of the season for the Dickin who move one place above the Heathgates into eight place. A proper game of darts that also saw ton plus finished for Kev Williams (111) & Gates Anthony Jebb (106).

No such dramas at the TELEGRAPH who were soundly beaten by the BROOKLANDS although the outcome could have been different had Jason Davies (20.66) not edged out Kieran Walker (22.20) over five legs in the opening game. Steve O Callaghan (23.12) & James Mansell (20.23) including a maximum were on the mark for the Brooklands whilst Graham Wall (17.95) was the solitary winner for the Telegraph.

Both the BEECHES & WOODMAN gained there first point of the season following an exciting tussle in Bayston Hill.  Woodman had led through Steve D Davies (17.42) before the Beeches retaliated taking the next three games without conceding a leg thanks to Paul Andrew (18.78 inc 180), Martin Morris (19.02) & Steve Tweedle (23.85). Woodman claimed the final two singles before both pairs were inevitably shared.  John O Callaghan & Wayne Evans staring in the final match for the Woodman to ensure a share of the spoils.

The final game of the night saw the INN ON THE GREEN record a second successive 5 v 3 win, this time away at the CHARLES DARWIN to occupy third place at this early stage of the season.  For the Darwin, it’s a second week where the overall match has gone against them in the final game as they search for a first point continues.

Week 1

The CRF Shrewsbury Premier League embarked on its ELEVENTH season this September with a full complement Fourteen teams although for two sides  they would start the season at a different venue to the last.  The Inn on the Green B had returned back to their spiritual home at the Beeches whilst the  Telegraph begin their first full season having previously been at the Royal Oak.

There would be differing fortunes for both with the TELEGRAPH gaining a respectable draw at the HEATHGATES.  The first four games going the full five legs with the “Gates” going two up through Dave Evans  & Ian Evans (20.04) before the Telegraph hit back taking the next two. Dan Jones (21.23) who would  hit the nights highest checkout of 154, & Steph Clarke (19.50) levelled up after edging out Phil Atter who fired a maximum. The remaining two singles games shared before the Telegraph forged ahead for the first time after Jones & Matt Hyde took the opening pairs only for Ian Evans & Duncan Morris to level up for the Heathgates once more in the final match.

The BEECHES were one of two teams on the opening night to fall to home Whitewashes with the MYTTON enjoying a fine 8 v 0 victory at Bayston Hill.  Shaun Pryce (23.86) set the visitors on the way with Ed Price (21.47) also impressing. A tough night for the Beeches who took five legs although Paul Andrew did fire the games only maximum.

The WHEATSHEAF were the other team to endure an 8 v 0 home defeat against last season’s champions MASONIC who displayed there ruthless streak from the first match.  Dean Rogers (23.50) defeating Ben Davies Jerman (24.41) 3-1 in a cracker of an opening match which saw Ben fire two maximums. Jason Evans (21.26) doubled the Masonic’s advantage edging out Glen Hughes (20.11) over five legs & from then on the hosts would take just one more leg.  Paul Rowley (27.33) was the pick of the rest whilst team mate Vaughan Owens checked out on 136.

HOP & FRIAR were the third & final team to record an away victory on the opening night although they were pushed by a spirited WOODMAN. A brace of 3-1 wins for Martin Riggs (22.72) & John Roberts (24.94) had put the visitors in the driving seat but they we soon pegged back by the hosts after wins for Steve P Davies (21.78) & John O’Callaghan (21.87).  Steve Ritchie (21.29) then edged out Tony Wilson (18.27) over five legs swinging the momentum back to the Hop & Friar who took the r next two games with conceding a leg to claim the victory. Stephen D Davies fired a maximum for the Woodman who had the consolation of taking the final pairs match through singles winners Steve P Davies & O’ Callaghan.

It was honours even in the encounter between BROOKLANDS & COMPASSES in a game that saw both lead twice but ultimately had to settle for a share of the spoils. Tony Middleton (22.43) fired the first of two 104 checkout’s in the match whilst team mate Scott Dockerty (24.24) pitched a 14 dart leg as the Compasses had the better of the early exchanges.  The hosts responded through captains Steve O Callaghan (29.47) who had the league’s joint highest average of the night. Steve also had a 15 dart leg that featured that second 104 outshot whilst Matt Elsey (23.75) was also victorious for the Brooklands.  The final singles match of the night saw Jon Mansell (26.84 inc 16 darts) have the better of brother James who bounced back in the first pairs checking out 116 as the pendulum swung back the way of the Brooklands only for the Compasses to take the final pairs through Scott Dockery & Jon Mansell to level for a fourth and final time.

The final two matches went the way of home sides INN ON THE GREEN & ADMIRAL DUNCAN who enjoyed respective 5 v 3 wins at the expense of DICKIN ARMS & CHARLES DARWIN.  Craig Davies (28.57) fired two 16 darts legs to defeat Che Kerin (19.74) who had a 117 finish, to put the Inn on the Green ahead and despite Andy Evans (21.78) responding for the Dickin the hosts were soon 3 v 1 ahead  after wins for Adam Joseph (23.95) & Pete Colley (20.59). Kevin Williams & Gary Crowther (23.86 inc 107 finish) hit back for the Dickin to level up going into a superbly contested pairs that both went the way of the hosts in the deciding legs. IOTG captain Graham Hamer sealing a fine win with a brilliant 114 outshot.

Finally in Baschurch, Terry Nash (29.47) used just 51 darts to put the Admiral Duncan One up against the Charles Darwin & Kev Rogers soon made it 2 v 0.  Darwin duo Andy Mullinder (22.5)& Shane Knight (19.91) hit back before Mike Coyne (21.78) regained the league for the Duncan.  Nigel Neale (23.20) took the final singles for the visitors overcoming Derek Rogers (21.34) who had a 130 outshot to level up once more only for the hosts to take both pairs without dropping a leg to claim the overall victory.