A run of big second round defeats at this month's qualifying event has left the men's rankings wide open with some significant changes to the table. Simon Brown, Robbie Cannell and Alan Young drop out of the top 8. Ian Fields takes the lead after picking up 8 points as the losing finalist and Paul 'chap' Kelly propels himself into tied third position after his first ranking event lands him a win and 10 points.
Saturday 14 October the best of Isle of Man darts gathered at the Legion in Peel to play the National ranking events that will determine next year’s team. The men’s final found Ian Fields three legs to two down but steady scoring and a 137 left him wanting 114. He nearly found it just wiring double top to miss his chance at bringing it to three legs apiece. More missed doubles and a nasty split of d10 gave Paul ‘Chap’ Kelly the only chance he needed and the match was over 4-2.
The ladies final got off to a slow start with Nikki Bardsley conceding 2 straight legs to last year’s top ranked player Sarah Taylor, however Nikki started to fight back hitting a 140 to pull her back into the third leg. Sarah chased her double around the board but eventually pinged a d4 to win 3-0.
Local big guns, Robbie Nelson, Kevin Lane and Wayne Harrison only picked up 2 points each after 2nd round defeats opening the way for Willie Biggane, Walter McCarthy and Glenn Moorley to gain table positions. Looks like this year is going to be an interesting one. The ladies remain unchanged at the top, Nicola Libreri-Lane drops further down the table after a bout of bad form but the scores are close mid table with Nikki Bardsley, Julie Quaye, Sophie Moore and newcomer Janet Bailey tied just 2 points under the 4th spot. As are Rachel Robertson and Alana Timoney, dangerous opponents who can't be ruled out to climb the table at every opportunity. It's anyone's game this year, join us for the next ranking event at the Rosemount in Douglas Saturday 11 November 2017 at 7.30pm. Events are open to all local players. Videos of the finals and more information about our upcoming events can be found on Facebook and Twitter @iomdarts.
