The Swan edged out by Workie’s C

First blood drawn in openers

The new Airdrie and District Darts League season got underway last Monday night.

Two teams fancied to do well this season met as The Swan faced Workmen’s C.

The Chapelhall men got off to a great start, with Jim Parker hitting 16 and 18-dart wins.

But Workies C responded as Martin Moulds hit a brace of maximum 180s and won in 20 darts.

Gordon Jackson notched 17 and 21- dart victories to give the hosts a 4-2 lead. However, a 20-darter from Billy Orr and a 21-dart win for Andy Muirhead ensured it was level at the break.

Despite The Swan taking the first pairs game, they suddenly ran out of luck and the ‘C’ squad held their nerve to take their first two points.

Champions Carsons Bar had little difficulty in seeing off The Boar’s Head although the visitors did give it all they had.

New Workmen’s A captain Lee Barber will give youth every chance to blossom.

Not finishing in the bottom three is the target but they had a tough first match as The Clansman came calling. Barber led the way with a 180 and 19 and 21-dart victories but, try as they might, his new-look side did not have the firepower to cope.

Up at Wilson Arms, league stalwart Jeanette Higgins fancied her chances of sneaking something from Workmen’s B.

When Keven Brereton hit a 180 and scored a 17- dart victory, her dreams had every opportunity of coming to fruition.

Although the visitors never really hit top gear, 180s from Guy Ferguson and Stevie Carson eased them into the game and an 18-darter from Davie Cunningham ensured a 6-2 lead at the interval. Victory was confirmed in the first pairs tussle. Bank Social Club fought out a decent draw with The Forge. Frank Toal was on the mark for the home team with a 180 and Gavin Crawley was on top form for the latter with a 17-darter.

It was a hard task for the Albert Bar at the Eagle Inn who got off to a good start – Pat Hanlon hitting a 21-darter.

The Albert held fast but outstanding darts from Ped Cummings put them under the cosh.

Games won in 20 and 21 darts with a 180 and a 152 checkout received warm applause and helped the Eagle to success.