The first round of the World Seniors Darts Championship has already provided plenty of excitement. We have seen some major surprises, with unexpected defeats for Simon Whitlock and Mervyn King.
On Friday, the second round is set to take place, featuring four matches in both the afternoon and evening sessions. Big names such as John Part, Robert Thornton, John Henderson, Steve Beaton, and Richie Burnett will be in action.
John Part v Ross Montgomery
Three-time world champion John Part battled past Jim McEwan in a thrilling match and now faces a tough challenge against Ross Montgomery. The Scotsman impressed in the first round with an average of 92.93 against Trina Gulliver. Montgomery seems to be in great form, but Part still possesses the ability to navigate difficult situations with his deadly finishing.
Derek Coulson v Tony O’Shea
Derek Coulson was one of the standout performers in the first round, posting an impressive 96.36 average against Mervyn King. Tony O’Shea had a more challenging encounter against Lisa Ashton but ultimately secured a 3-2 victory. Coulson is the favorite based on his performances so far, but against O'Shea, it remains to be seen whether the Welshman is a one-match wonder.
Robert Thornton v Darryl Fitton
Robert Thornton, the champion of this tournament in 2022 and 2023, faces Darryl Fitton, who convincingly defeated Martin Adams. Fitton recorded a solid 85.23 average and will certainly pose a challenge to Thornton. ‘The Thorn’ dominated in the early years of this tour, but his last title came nearly two years ago.
Leonard Gates v Mike Huntley
Leonard Gates is one of the title favorites and will face Mike Huntley, who defeated Kevin Edwards in the first round. Huntley will need to raise his game to trouble Gates, as the American has a strong baseline performance. ‘The Soulger’ is eyeing an elusive title at the Circus Tavern, having won all other World Seniors majors in 2023.
Graham Usher v Neil Duff
Graham Usher made it through the first round by dispatching Richard-Eirig Rowlands (3-0) with a respectable 85.99 average. He now faces Neil Duff, who automatically advanced to the second round following Vincent van der Voort’s withdrawal. Duff will be fresh heading into the match, but the lack of match practice might prove to be a disadvantage.
John Henderson v Chris Mason
John Henderson narrowly missed out on winning a PDC Tour Card at Q-School, but that means he can now defend his world title at the seniors’ championship. The top seed takes on Chris Mason, who won his opening round match 3-1 in sets against Mark Dudbridge.
Steve Beaton v Paul Hogan
One of the most exciting matchups of the second round. It briefly seemed that darts icon Steve Beaton would follow fellow debutants Simon Whitlock and Mervyn King in being eliminated, but ‘The Bronzed Adonis’ survived match darts against Colin McGarry. Hogan was responsible for Whitlock’s exit, defeating ‘The Wizard’ 3-1 in sets.
Richie Howson v Richie Burnett
The final match of this round features a thrilling clash between Richie Howson and Richie Burnett. Burnett narrowly edged out Kevin Painter, while Howson is set to begin his tournament. Howson recently displayed strong form in the MODUS Super Series, so ‘The Owl’ will certainly see opportunities to make a deep run for the world title in Purfleet.
Friday, Feb. 21
Afternoon session (from 1 p.m.)
Second Round
John Part v Ross Montgomery
Derek Coulson v Tony O'Shea
Robert Thornton v Darryl Fitton
Leonard Gates v Mike Huntley
Evening session (from 7 p.m.)
Second Round
Graham Usher v Neil Duff
John Henderson v Chris Mason
Steve Beaton v Paul Hogan
Richie Howson v Richie Burnett