2024
KDDL Orkney beat Shetland 11-8 to win the Inter-County Cup
The match was livestreamed and can be seen on the Rohallion Orkney YouTube page: Huge thanks to George Brown for the fantastic coverage. Watch it here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cx0wlkW3JwY
The main hall of the Kirkwall Legion played host to the first intercounty darts match between KDDL Orkney and Shetland Darts Association on Orkney soil since 2019, and what a tremendous spectacle it was. The Orkney boys, comprising players from parishes in the North, South, East and West of the county were eager to take back the trophy they lost last year which ended their record breaking run of 9 wins in a row.
A custom built backdrop was in situ this time around, complete with LED strips around the oche, which had been crafted and assembled by Sean Stanger Joinery and Building, with Sean Stanger, Robbie Stanger and Sean Smith doing a meticulous job. Rendall furnishings supplied and fitted the carpet for the oche, with Robbie Norquoy using his decorating experience to leave a fine finish to it all. Orkney Television Enterprise supplied a huge 85” television screen on which Brett Dickinson used his visual wizardry to connect the computer and video equipment to for the viewing pleasure of the 200 or so spectators who were in attendance, about a third of whom were from Shetland. Background music, players walk-on tunes and backround lighting were provided by Alan Garriock of Garriock's Disco Orkney. And to top it off, the match was being streamed globally on the internet by George Brown on his Rohallion Orkney YouTube page.
And so the scene was set for the main event in both Association's calendars. The question was: Could the match live up to the setting? The answer was a resounding yes, as those in the crowd and almost four thousand viewers (from as far away as Australia) on YouTube could attest to.
Craig Taylor was once more captaining the Orkney side and met earlier in the day with his Shetland counterpart, Maurice Clark, to swap team sheets.
As is customary in the event, the reserves get the chance to warm up the crowd in a match which doesn't count towards the final result, but still means an awful lot to those involved. Orkney's Stevie Moar and Ian Findlay took on Peter Peterson and Gareth Pottinger, with the Shetlanders taking the first leg, but it was the Orkney pairing who staged a comeback to the take the reserve match 2-1.
Jamie Drever, in only his second appearance, was given the unenviable task of opening the show. A task which was made all the more difficult on learning he would be up against Shetland's best player Liam Sutherland. Jamie appeared undaunted by the task, seemingly thriving on the pressure, as he broke Liam's resolve and recorded a 2-0 win.
Shetland had opted for a strong start, with county regular Stuart Paul up next to face Brett Dickinson who was also winning his second cap. There was a shaky start for the Orcadian but he hung in until, with 256 points to go in the deciding leg, he let fly with a 180 followed by a two dart checkout to win 2-1.
Orkney continued their winning ways with the vastly experienced duo of Ian Linklater and Robbie Stanger both winning 2-0 over Frank Watt and Ramsey Hogg (180) respectively. Thoughts of a whitewash were quickly swept aside as double trouble saw Stevie Linklater lose out to Craig Smith, despite Stevie scoring a 180. Orkney's main man, Kevin Gray, swept aside John Philip Sandison 2-0, with an impressive 15 dart second leg. Orkney 5, Shetland 1 at the halfway point in the singles.
Shetland rallied at this point, beginning what was an amazing comeback with a string of 2-0 wins for Richard Hughson (with a 180 and 15 dart leg), Craig Main, Roger Irvine and Clive Burgess over Stevie Garner, Brian Moar, Paul Foubister (180) and Wayne Monkman to tie the match at 5 games apiece. The tension in the hall was mounting and this had the makings of a real classic.
Erlend Lennie took on the much more experienced Philip Mowat and things looked desperate for the Orkney side as Philip raced ahead in the first leg, missing darts at a double, only for Erlend to produce a breathtaking 144 checkout from out of nowhere. With the adrenaline flowing, Erlend piled in a 180 as he secured the second leg to put Orkney back in the lead. Bruce Moar had the chance to extend the lead but fell short with finishing woes to Matt Fraser, who narrowly missed a specatacular 167 finish himself. The singles were over and the score was tied at 6-6.
A short break ensued, at which players and officials were treated to a lovely supper by Ellie Newlands. Having been suitably fed and watered, the doubles matches began with Kevin and Wayne restoring the home side's lead with a 2-0 win over Liam and Craig Main. Robbie and Ian then saw off Roger and John Philip with another 2-0 scoreline, with Robbie registering a 180. Shetland's Ramsey started his doubles match with partner Craig Smith by scoring his second 180 of the night as they went one leg up, but Brian and Brett provided the scoring power they were paired together for, as they clawed their way back for the win to put Orkney 9-6 ahead in the race to 11.
Philip and Clive took advantage of more missed doubles from Stevie Linklater and Bruce to win 2-0, with fellow Shetlanders Stuart and Richard overcoming Paul and Stevie Garner by the narrowest of margins to reduce the deficit to one game once more, ensuring that the match would continue into the fours, which follow the one leg 1001 format. 9-8 to Orkney.
At this point, the final doubles match was going to be crucial. A win for the home side and the visitors would require to win all remaining games, but a loss and the tie would then become a lottery. The crowd were in full voice by this time, encapsulated by the drama unfolding, with both sides being willed on at every throw. It would be enough to unsettle the most experienced of players but Jamie and Erlend, with only 5 caps between them, played like seasoned pro's as they produced a stunning 2-0 demolition of Frank and Matt to put the Orkney lads on the cusp of victory.
Having foreseen this possibility when writing his team sheet, Craig hit Shetland with arguably the KDDL's four biggest hitters over recent months and Shetland's resolve could be seen to wilt. Kevin, Robbie, Brian and Brett dug deep and gave it all they had, which Liam, Craig Smith, Ramsey and Craig Main struggled to keep up with. Chances fell to Robbie and Brian to win it but, as Shetland landed within striking distance, it was yet another of the stars of the future, Brett, who showed absolute nerves of steel as he struck gold on double 8 with his second dart before being swamped by his teammates. Final Score Orkney 11 Shetland 8. Kevin Gray won the man of the match trophy with an average of 77.04, beating Shetland's Richard Hughson who had 75.84.
Shetland captain Maurice Clark congratulated Orkney on their win and made comment about the amazing atmosphere before Craig Taylor thanked the Shetland team for what had been an edge of the seat match. He pointed out that while Orkney had won the match, the real winner was the sport of darts and the enduring friendship between the associations. He went on to thank all those involved with the setup as well as the officials comprising MC's Robbie Norquoy and Kevin Peace; scorers Elizabeth Irvine, Aidan Nicolson, Josh Alexander and Ryan Wilkie; Computer scorers Mark and David Shearer and statistician Davy Henderson. He made special mention of the bar staff at the Legion and Shirt sponsor the Brig Larder, who provided new shirts for this year, and capped the evening with a round of applause for Paul and Hazel Firth who stepped in at the eleventh hour to offer a venue for the afterparty.
Attention switched to the Masonic the following day for the Anniversary Shield, which is an open competition with separate events for the men and the women. Usually a day more reknowned for friendship than quality darts, this time there was both on show. Charlie and her bar crew kept the thirst at bay, while Mitzi Collingwood ensured nobody went hungry as the day wore on.
49 men entered and by semi-final stage only one Shetlander, Ramsey Hogg, remained but his progressed was halted by Brian Moar who sneaked through after a nail biting final leg. Ian Linklater had been on form all day and he beat Robbie Stanger 4-2 to progress. The first four legs of the final were tied, and many would expect the standard of play to slip after such a gruelling weekend of play, but Ian bucked the trend and went up through the gears as he deservedly won the match 5-2, completing a hat-trick of wins in the competition over the years. The ladies competition was won again by Katie Croy.
Team selected
The KDDL Orkney team to take on Shetland on April 19 2024 in the Kirkwall Legion was finalised, following a play-off and final voting process, after a highly successful series of ranking events throughout the league season.
Captain Craig Taylor.
Players: Kevin Gray, Ian Linklater, Brett Dickinson, Stevie Garner, Erlend Lennie, Jamie Drever, Bruce Moar, Stevie Linklater, Brian Moar, Paul Foubister, Robbie Stanger, Wayne Monkman.
Reserves: 1. Erland Ritch 2. Ian Findlay 3. Stevie Moar 4. Josh Alexander (Erlend Ritch later withdrew).
The KDDL Orkney team to face Shetland are pictured with shirt sponsor George Stout from The Brig Larder.
Pictured back row from left, are Stevie Moar, Wayne Monkman, Ian Linklater, Brett Dickinson, Kevin Gray, Erlend Lennie, Jamie Drever, Ian Findlay.
Front row, Stevie Linklater, Brian Moar, captain Craig Taylor, shirt sponsor George Stout, Paul Foubister, Bruce Moar.
Missing from the picture are Robbie Stanger and Stevie Garner.
The darts league would very much like to thank George and Anne for the continued support in sponsoring the team, and with brand new shirts, which is very much appreciated.
You can find The Brig Larder on Facebook and online on their website, below.
https://www.jollysoforkney.co.uk/pages/the-brig-larder
2023
The team to play against Shetland in Lerwick on April 21 has now been finalised following the end of the ranking points competitions and wildcard vote.
Captain: Craig Taylor
Players: Kevin Gray, Paul Foubister, Stevie Linklater, Brian Moar, Erlend Lennie, Ian Linklater, Kevin Peace, Brett Dickinson, Erland Ritch, Bruce Moar, Derek FIrth, Jamie Drever.
Reserves: 1.Alan Gray 2.Ian Findlay 3.Gary Wilson 4.David Henderson.
14 of KDDL Orkney's finest players, along with team captain Craig Taylor, travelled up to Shetland to take part in this years Intercounty match following a long break in the annual tie due to the coronavirus pandemic. Orkney were trying to extend their record breaking winstreak and push it to ten-in-a-row, whilst Shetland were determined not to allow that to happen.
A packed Lerwick Legion, full of appreciative darts fans, coupled with big screens, walk-on music and atmospheric lighting created a real spectacle and an electric atmosphere. The way the match ebbed and flowed really added to the excitement and gave those watching in the venue or on the live stream some real entertainment. Shetland traditionally feel stronger in the pairs matches and it was no surprise that they used their home team prerogative to start with the pairs, followed by the singles, then the fours if needed.
Brian Moar and Paul Foubister got the show underway for Orkney, coming from a leg down to take their match 2-1, a score which was soon repeated by Ian Linklater and Brett Dickinson, with Ian notching a timely 112 finish. Kevin and Alan Gray soon put Orkney three ahead with a 2-0 win , which was extended further with another 2-1 win for Stevie Linklater and Kevin Peace, with Kevin checking out on 103. Shetland finally got a game on the board as Liam Sutherland and Scott Williamson saw off the challenge of Bruce Moar and Erland Ritch, whilst Erlend Lennie and Jamie Drever would suffer the same fate in the final pairs match, making it 4-2 to Orkney at that stage.
Brian found himself first in order again in the singles and he extended his unbeaten singles record in Shetland to 6 games courtesy of a 2-1 win over Ramsey Hogg. Paul Foubister then lost out 2-1 to Tommy Williamson before Bruce Moar displayed some clinical match play to beat Clive Burgess 2-0. The highlight of the evening was always likely to be the showdown between the top player in Shetland, Liam Sutherland, and Orkney's main man Kevin Gray. Kevin did little wrong but a sublime 150 checkout by Liam in the first leg was soon followed with the second leg and it really gave the Shetland players a visible boost. Their joy at this point was to be short lived as the Linklater brother, Stevie and Ian, both recorded 2-0 wins over John Philip Sandison and Scott Williamson respectively.
The score was now 8-4 to Orkney but, with Craig having opted to start with his big guns early on in the singles, it was now a question of seeing how the less experienced players would perform? Debutant Brett Dickinson went down to 2-0 to Philip Mowat, with Alan Gray experiencing the same result in his loss to Craig Main. Kevin Peace had the wily Stuart Paul on the ropes, winning the first leg with a 105 finish, but Kevin lost momentum just as Stuart found his range and the Shetland man took the game 2-1, hitting the first 180 of the night. Erland Ritch was also playing for the first time, and he threw steady darts but lost out 2-1 to the vastly experienced Roger Irvine, levelling the overall scores in the tie in the process. Erlend Lennie lost out 2-0 to Andrew Simpson, putting Shetland ahead for the first time at 9-8 and, with momentum being a huge factor in this fixture, the signs were looking ominous for the visitors. Jamie Drever was another making his debut and he was up against another player with vast county experience, Barry Couper. Jamie displayed nerves of steel as he took the game 2-1 to finish the singles all square at 9-9.
The fours are always a complete lottery, with one leg of 1001 being the order of the day. First up for Orkney were Kevin Gray, Alan Gray, Brian Moar and Paul Foubister. The scores were always close, with Orkney just nudging ahead before a 140 from Liam Sutherland got Shetland back in it. Kevin Gray missed a dart at tops on a possible 100 finish before Shetland also missed a chance. But for a tiny deflection, Alan Gray would have sunk double 10 but instead it was Roger Irvine who hit the same double to put Shetland one game away from victory.
Next up for Orkney were Stevie Linklater, Kevin Peace, Ian Linklater and Brett Dickinson. Despite Kevin scoring a 180, the Orkney boys were always playing catchup. Shetland missed a few chances to win it, allowing Brett Dickinson one pressure dart at double 16 on a potential 112 finish, which agonisingly slid down the wrong side of the wire. Philip Mowat then stepped up for Shetland and hit double tops to send the home crowd wild. Final Score Shetland 11, KDDL Orkney 9.
The following day saw the Anniversary Shield take place downstairs in the Legion, with 64 men taking part. After an 8 hour marathon the last two men standing were Kevin Gray and Bruce Moar. Both played exceptionally well, especially considering the stamina required, but Bruce was relentless in his scoring and deadly in his finishing as he deservedly claimed the title with a 5-1 scoreline.
The KDDL would like to thank their friends in Shetland for their hospitality and friendship, it really was a superb weekend despite the result. We would also like to express our gratitude to the Brig Larder for their continued sponsorship of the team shirts. A special mention must go to HIAL too for their industrial action, which meant the team had to travel up and down via Aberdeen, costing us one or two players who might otherwise have gone, as well as numerous supporters who had originally booked to travel and subsequently had to cancel.
2020, 2021, 2022 cancelled Coronavirus pandemic
2019
Following the conclusion of the ranking points competitions and selection process for wildcards and reserves, the team to play against Shetland on April 26th is as follows:
Captain: Craig Taylor. Players: Kevin Gray, Leigh Shearer, Stevie Linklater, Ivan Leslie, Robbie Stanger, Ian Linklater, Alan Gray, Paul Foubister, Derek Firth, Ryan Tulloch, Brian Moar, Wayne Monkman.
Reserves: 1. Kevin Peace 2.Brett Dickinson, 3. Gary Wilson 4. Ian Findlay.
KDDL Orkney celebrated a convincing 11-3 victory against Shetland Darts Association on Friday, April 26, as the home side extended their winning streak to nine-in-a-row.
The main hall in the Kirkwall Legion was a new and bigger venue for the annual encounter.
The walk on music, bright lights, big screens, and vocal support from a lively crowd which packed into the hall all combined to create a fantastic atmosphere!
For those who could not make it on the night, the match was being live-streamed online, with the stream attracting thousands of views.
Home team captain Craig Taylor and Clive Burgess of Shetland met earlier in the day to swap team sheets, the order of play would be 12 singles, six doubles and three fours if required, in a race to 11 points.
MC Robbie Norquoy got the night underway welcoming everyone for the annual clash, which begins with the team first two reserves playing against each other.
Brett Dickinson and Kevin Peace got the reds off to a great start, beating Willum Gray and Peter Peterson 2-1, much to the delight of the home crowd and their teammates.
On to the main event and Shetland got off to the best start they could have wished for winning the first two singles.
Paul Foubister narrowly lost out 2-1 to Liam Sutherland, with Wayne Monkman just pipped at the post by Shetland’s top ranked player Neal Redfern.
Ivan Leslie started the Orkney fightback by getting the first point on the table for the home side by taking out Stuart Paul 2-1.
Stevie Linklater quickly made it 2-2 by taking out Arnold Brown 2-0, with Arnold hitting the first 180 of the match.
Shetland would never be ahead for the rest of the match as the KDDL players again continued to dominate the singles.
Robbie Stanger dispatched Craig Smith 2-1, Ian Linklater took out James Hall 2-0.
Two of the isles top players met next, with highest ranked home player Kevin Gray facing Whalsay’s Roger Irvine, Kevin the 2-0 victor with the help of a 180.
Derek Firth took the score to 6-2 by beating Gareth MacRitchie 2-0, with Ryan Tulloch putting the reds further in front taking out John Robert Scott 2-1.
Up next was the elder statesman of the team, Alan Gray, who was in the form of his life, beating Shetland captain Clive Burgess 2-1, hitting a 180 on the way.
With two singles to go, the score was now 8-2.
Philip Mowat took a point back for Shetland by beating Leigh Shearer 2-1, however Brian Moar put things back on track by taking out Colin Tulloch 2-1.
The score after the singles was 9-3, the home team just two points away for victory, but the KDDL boys took nothing for granted.
There was a 15 minute break with Garriock’s Disco keeping the fantastic atmosphere going with tunes pumping out, the crowd loving it.
Back to business, and the KDDL Orkney side quickly focused on getting the job done.
Up stepped Robbie Stanger and Stevie Linklater facing Stuart Paul and John Robert Scott, the reds taking the match 2-0 including a 180 from Robbie. This took the team just a point away from victory, the scoreline now 10-3, the home crowd loving it!
Could Kevin Gray and Derek Firth win the match for the reds?…the answer was yes, as they beat Roger Irvine and Arnold Brown 2-1. Derek was left on 90, hit two 20’s with a dart at bull narrowly missed.
A hush fell over the crowd as Kevin stepped up, hit a 9 followed by double 8 to win the match, quickly sparking the nine-in-a-row celebrations which continued long into the night.
The trophy presentations then took place when league president and team captain Craig Taylor thanked all involved for making the event such a success.
This included thanks to team sponsor The Brig Larder, Kirkwall Legion chairman Dougie Manson, committee and bar staff, Eats n’ Treats for the suppers, Garriock’s Disco, OTE for providing the big screens. MC Robbie Norquoy, all those who marked and counted the averages: Jamie Drever, Paul Firth, David Henderson, Kevin Peace, Richard Polson and Nicole Norquoy.
He thanked Brett Dickinson and Brian Moar for providing the livestream of the match which attracted thousands of views, and also thanked the rest of the KDDL committee for all the work leading up to the event.
Finally, he again said that while rivals on the oche, many friendships have been made between the Orkney and Shetland players over the years, and long may that continue.
Kevin Gray was named as man of the match with the highest average of 84.95 and had the shield presented to him by Shetland captain Clive, who then presented Craig with the inter-county trophy.
Shetland Darts Association president Alasdair Harmsworth then addressed the crowd to thank the Orcadians for their hospitality, and all involved in organising the event.
The following day, the action moved to the Kirkwall Masonic Club where Anniversary Shield winners were Ian Linklater and Katie Croy, a double win for Orkney players on the day.
Ian beat his brother Stevie in the final 5-3 to retain the trophy. Katie beat eight times in a row winner Iris Anderson 4-3 from Whalsay in the ladies final, the third time the pair have met in the final of the competition.
In total 80 players entered the men and ladies competition. Many thanks to the Masonic for hosting the event.
Thanks also go to John Cairns at the Army Reserve Centre in Kirkwall for hosting players over the weekend.
Live steam of the 2019 game can be found online: https://www.facebook.com/Orkneyshetlandintercountydarts/
2018
Pictured are Steven Moar, Leigh Shearer, Robbie Stanger, Ivan Leslie, Derek Firth, Kevin Gray, Erlend Lennie. Front: Ian Findlay, Ryan Tulloch, Craig Taylor (captain), Thorfinn Craigie, Brian Moar, Stevie Linklater. Missing from the picture are Ian Linklater, Simon Parry and Brett Dickinson.
On behalf of the team Craig said that the players are once again very grateful for the continued sponsorship and support by Thorfinn Craigie and George Stout at The Brig Larder.
www.facebook.com/thebriglarder/
Match report
8 in a row victory sets new record
Darting history was made in the Lerwick Legion on Friday night when KDDL Orkney took on Shetland in the annual inter-county, in a match which saw the reds claim eight victories in -a -row, a feat never achieved before in the history of the competition which dates back to season 1971/72.
Having equalled Shetland’s record the year before in reaching seven wins in succession, set in the late 1990’s / early 2000’s, hopes were high for all involved in the Kirkwall and District Darts League to keep the run going.
With a good mixture of young blood and a core of older experienced players in the team, the KDDL Orkney side, again kindly sponsored by Kirkwall business The Brig Larder, were feeling positive going into the fixture, but as ever, still aware of the abilities of their opposition.
Team captains Craig Taylor for KDDL Orkney, and Clive Burgess for Shetland, earlier declared their team line-ups which were fed into the computer and displayed on screen.
There was a great atmosphere in the packed hall as the games progressed, the bright lights and walk on music leading to the stage adding to the occasion.
Before the much anticipated match got underway, the two reserves play a challenge match which does not count towards score, and it was the visitors who got the night off to the best of starts, when Steven Moar and Brett Dickinson took out Calum Irvine and Craig Smith 2-0.
The home captain chooses the order of play, with Clive opting to play the fours first, followed by the singles, then doubles, in the race to 11 points.
The fours are a one leg game of 1001 each time.
For KDDL Orkney Kevin Gray, Derek Firth, Ivan Leslie and Ian Linklater were first up, facing Roger Irvine, Philip Mouat, Arnold Brown and Danny Irvine, with the Shetlanders taking the first game of the night.
Orkney hit straight back with Robbie Stanger, Stevie Linklater, Brian Moar and Simon Parry taking out Neal Redfearn, Liam Sutherland, Jim Wood and Dougie Gaudie.
However, Shetland’s last fours, Stuart Paul, Gareth MacRitchie, Alan and Brian Paterson, put the blues out in front by beating Leigh Shearer, Ian Findlay, Ryan Tulloch and Erlend Lennie.
The score was now 2-1 to Shetland, but little did anyone know that this would be the only time they would be in the lead.
The singles were up next, and Orkney wasted no time in getting back in front. Simon Parry took out Alan Paterson 2-0, Ivan Leslie beat Arnold Brown 2-1 and Derek Firth also won 2-1 against Jim Wood.
Shetland’s Gareth MacRitchie halted the KDDL singles run by beating Robbie Stanger 2-0. The score in the match was now 4-3.
Stevie Linklater was up next facing Shetland’s Philip Mouat, with Stevie the victor 2-0.
Neal Redfearn fought back for Shetland by beating Kevin Gray 2-1, and with Roger Irvine taking out Ian Linklater 2-0, the match was now even at 5-5.
Brian Moar hit back for Orkney, winning against Stuart Paul 2-1.
Erlend Lennie was up next, but was beaten 2-0 by Liam Sutherland, making the match even again at 6-6.
Up stepped Ryan Tulloch who won his match against Brian Patterson 2-1, with Leigh Shearer taking his match by the same score against Dougie Gaudie.
The last singles saw Shetland peg one back by a scoreline of 2-1, when Ian Findlay was beaten by Danny Irvine.
The score was now 8-7 and the destination of the cup would be decided on the doubles.
Up first was Kevin Gray and Derek Firth who took out Neal Redfearn and Jim Wood 2-0. Ivan Leslie and Ian Linklater quickly followed that up with a 2-0 over Philip Mouat and Danny Irvine.
10-7 was the score as the race to 11 headed towards its climax.
KDDL Orkney had to wait though as Shetland again hit back with Roger Irvine and Arnold Brown getting the better of Robbie Stanger and Steve Linklater, 2-0.
At 10-8 Brian Moar and Simon Parry took on Dougie Gaudie and Liam Sutherland.
The match went to 1-1, and as usual, as the scores came down the atmosphere and noise levels in the hall went up.
Was this to be the moment that KDDL Orkney would make darting history in reaching eight wins in-a-row?
The answer was yes, as Brian slotted in double 1 to clinch the game and the match in a nervy climax to the encounter. Coincidentally, this was the fourth time that Brian hit the winning double in the game against Shetland.
The Orkney supporters in the hall went wild, including the ladies team who lost their match the night before. The music was cranked up and the celebrations began.
During the presentation of trophies, KDDL Orkney captain Craig Taylor thanked Shetland for their hospitality, and all involved in the entire weekend.
He said that having lost two long-serving stalwarts of the game in the current season, Jim 'Tattie Bogle' Scollie, and Jimmy Miller, the team dedicated the achievement of winning eight in-a -row to them.
The player with the highest average on the night, and therefore winning of the man of the match trophy was Shetland's Roger Irvine.
The following day, the men's and ladies Anniversary Shield honours were shared, Iris Anderson winning for the ladies, and Ian Linklater in the men's competition, who took the title with a fantastic final 12 dart leg against Alan Paterson, winning the match 6-3.
2017
KDDL Orkney '7 in a row' team who played Shetland on April 21 in the Kirkwall Masonic, winning the match 11-7.
Captain: Craig Taylor. Players: Robbie Stanger, Kevin Gray, Ivan Leslie, Derek Firth, Stevie Linklater, Ian Linklater, Ryan Tulloch, Alan Gray, Ian Findlay, Bruce Moar, Jim Brown, Brian Moar. Reserves: 1.Stevie Moar, 2.Leigh Shearer, 3.David Henderson, 4.Wayne Monkman.
What a night for the KDDL Orkney team in the Kirkwall Masonic when they took on their Shetland rivals in the 45th annual inter-county fixture, played on April 21.
The Kirkwall based side had the record equaling seven victories in a row in their sights approaching the game, with Shetland as keen as ever to stop the successful run which saw the team in red reach six on the stage in the Lerwick Legion 12 months earlier.
This time there was more of an air of unity in the Shetland side than perhaps seen in recent years, while on the red side of the hall the tight knit Orkney team, including some new blood, was confident, but at the same time respectful of their opponent’s capabilities.
KDDL Orkney captain Craig Taylor and Shetland skipper Gareth Pottinger swapped team sheets having working out their tactics and deciding the order of play.
The names were fed into the computer and displayed on the big screen as the highly entertaining MC for the evening Robbie Norquoy prepared to get the game underway after a few words of welcome from Craig, who is also president of the Kirkwall District Darts League.
Prior to the match beginning Gareth, who is also treasurer of the Shetland Darts Association along with SDA president Alistair Harmsworth took to the stage and presented Craig and KDDL secretary Jim Scollie with a bronze Viking Galley to mark the KDDL 50th anniversary.
First up on stage were the reserve players from each side who faced each other in a doubles match, although competitive, it does not count towards the final score.
The home side pairing of Leigh Shearer and Stevie Moar got the night off to a perfect start, beating Sean Grogan and Callum Williamson 2-0, much to the delight of the KDDL side and supporters who packed the hall, the bright lights and walk on music provided by Alan Garriock and daughter Ami added to the occasion throughout the night.
On to the main event, it was game on as young Ryan Tulloch, making his debut who took on Shetland's Raymond Laurenson. The older experienced player won the match 2-0.
Robbie Stanger however leveled the match 1-1 when he beat the player returning to the county-scene after a 12-year absence, Calum Irvine, 2-1.
Shetland took the next game when Roger Irvine took out Stevie Linklater 2-0, however the match was quickly tied at 2-2 after Kevin Gray was the victor over Alan Patterson by 2 legs to 1, with Alan hitting the first 180 of the match.
Orkney then seemed to take control of the match, with Derek Firth winning 2-0 v Ian Hannah, with the help of a 119 checkout. Ivan Leslie with a 2-0 score line beat Ramsey Hogg, who also hit a 180.
Ian Linklater winning 2-1 against Barry Cooper, took the match to 5-2 KDDL Orkney.
Two more points for the home side were quickly added as Bruce Moar took out Stuart Paul 2-1, as did Brian Moar v John Robert Scott with the help of a 180.
With the score sitting at 7-2 the Shetland side rallied, taking the next three singles in a row. Jim Brown fell to Grant Thomson 2-1, as did Alan Gray by the same score to Gareth MacRitchie, despite Alan nailing a 100 finish during the match.
The last singles of the night was won by Craig Main as he beat Ian Findlay 2-0.
The match was close, the scoreboard after the singles read KDDL Orkney 7- Shetland 5, in the race to the 11 point finish line.
After a short break the play resumed.
The home team claimed the first two doubles match points when Robbie and Stevie took out Roger and Calum 2-0, boosted by a 180 hit by Robbie.
Seasoned campaigners Kevin and Derek stepped up v Gareth and Stuart, winning 2-1, taking the overall score to 9-5.
It's always a boost when a team hits the 10-point mark, however the boys in red had to wait as Shetland staged a fight back winning the next two doubles 2-1.
Despite Ian hitting a maximum 180, he and partner Ivan lost out to Alan and John Robert. Bruce and Jim faced Barry and Raymond with the Shetland pair winning on the night as the Shetland side of the hall cheered on.
9-7 the score, as the match continued. Could Shetland stage a comeback right up until the finish line?
The answer was no, as KDDL Orkney once again rallied.
Alan and Ian quickly beat Grant and Craig 2-0, edging the overall score into double figures, Orkney 10 Shetland 7, with the reds just one point away from a famous victory and a milestone in the history books.
Up stepped the pairing of Brian and Ryan who keep their cool when it mattered, they got the first leg, and as the scores came down the atmosphere and tension in the air rose even higher!.
The final throw saw Brian make no mistake, slotting in the double to win the match in front of an ecstatic home support.
The celebrations began and the music blasted out, KDDL Orkney were now 7 in a row winners of the annual encounter, matching the record reached by the strong Shetland sides of the late 1990's and early 2000's. Shetland were quick to congratulate the Orkney team and the trophy presentation took place.
Craig took the opportunity at thank all involved in the fixture, including the KDDL committee and other volunteers, and the team sponsors The Brig Larder for the support once again.
Brian Moar was named as man of the match with his 76.65 average, pipping Derek Firth who had 76.59. Third was Robbie Stanger with 73.90. Top Shetland average was Gareth McRitchie with 67.21.
Although very much rivals on the oche, the match was played in a great competitive spirit, and afterwards both teams enjoyed each other's company for numerous 'refreshments' well into the night!
A huge thank you to OTE for providing the TV screens to show the darts and scores in the hall.
We very much appreciated the support once more.
Anniversary Shield
48 men and 28 players filled the Legion the following day for the annual anniversary shield singles competitions.
Iris Anderson from Whalsay won the ladies anniversary shield for the 7th year running, beating Katie Croy in the final 4-1. Stevie Linklater won the men's shield for the fifth time, beating Simon Parry 5-3.
Jimmy Miller, founding member of the league, who has played for 50 years, enjoyed a great run into the semi-finals of the competition, taking out some big names along the way.
2016
6 years in a row winners !
KDDL Orkney team
Captain: Craig Taylor.
Players: Kevin Gray, Robbie Stanger, Stevie Linklater, Derek Firth, Ivan Leslie, Ian Linklater, Leigh Shearer, Gary Wilson, Michael Moodie, Neil Croy, Brian Moar, Bruce Moar.
Reserves (First two travel and play in opening reserve fixture) 1. Ian Wilkie, 2. Davie Henderson, 3. Ian Findlay,4. Ryan Tulloch.
* Leigh Shearer was unable to travel, Iain Wilkie stepped up into the team, with Ian Findlay playing as second reserve.
The KDDL Orkney darts team 2016 are pictured being presented with new shirts from sponsor
The Brig Larder.
Pictured back row from left are, Bruce Moar, Leigh Shearer, Derek Firth, Kevin Gray, Ivan Leslie, Michael Moodie, Iain Wilkie, Gary Wilson, Ian Linklater, Robbie Stanger.
From row from left, Stevie Linklater, Brian Moar, Craig Taylor, (captain) George Stout from The Brig Larder, David Henderson, Neil Croy.
The Lerwick Legion was the venue for the 2016 inter-county/league fixture between the Shetland Darts Association and KDDL Orkney on Friday night, April 22.
The Orkney side were on a roll, having won the last five annual meetings between the sides, with Shetland equally as determined to stop the Orkney side's recent domination of the tie.
First up on the big stage in front of the bright lights, and following the SDA's 'highly entertaining' choice of walk on music for the Orkney players, were the team reserves. This is a warm up game to give reserves the opportunity to play on the stage, and does not count towards the overall team score.
David Henderson and Ian Findlay for the KDDL took on Ian Blance and Liam Sutherland. It was a dream start for the Orkney pair as David hit a 180 with his very first throw, the pair then going on to win the fixture 2-1. A great start for the visitors.
For the main fixture, the home captain decides the order of play, with Gareth Pottinger choosing to play the doubles first, followed by the singles, and then fours if required, in the race to 11 points.
Gareth and KDDL Orkney captain Craig Taylor had each worked out their strategy, swapped team sheets, with the line up then fed into the computer, and displayed on the big screen.
First up for Orkney were Brian and Bruce Moar v Neal Redfern and Jim Wood, with the Shetland pair winning the match 2-1.
Brothers Stevie and Ian Linklater were up next and faced Roger and Gordon Irvine, who ran out winners 2-0 against the Orkney duo.
Kevin Gray and Derek Firth were up next and were 2-0 winners against Alan Paterson and George Smith Jnr, much to the delight of the travelling support.
Little did the Orkney side know, but this would be the only doubles they would win on the night.
Ivan Leslie and Michael Moodie fell to Stuart Paul and Gareth McRitchie 2-1, Robbie Stanger partnered by Iain Wilkie, who stepped up into the side due to Leigh Shearer being unable to travel due to illness, were beaten by Phillip Mowat and Marc Henry by the same score.
Neil Croy and Gary Wilson took on Barry Couper and Raymond Laurenson, with the last Shetland pairing running out 2-0 winners, taking the overall score to 5-1 to the home side.
A double hit instead of missed at crucial times in those doubles matches on the night would have made all the difference to the team from Orkney in closing the score down before the singles began, but panic from the reds....? Not at all.
Neil Croy was first up, as the singles began, but despite hitting a 180 against George Smith Jnr, George took out the game 2-1.
So, 6-1 down in the race to 11 points. Was Shetland going to run away with it? KDDL Orkney had other ideas.....
Up stepped Brian Moar who took out Gordon Irvine 2-0 with the help of a 180 and a 13 dart leg.
Ivan Leslie backed up that win straight away, by taking out Stuart Paul 2-1 in a match with included at 15 dart leg from Ivan. Robbie Stanger then took out Neal Redfern by the same score as the run continued.
Momentum - and noise - was building from the Orkney supporters, including from the Orkney ladies who won their match 11-10 the night before, a great win for the team.
Next on stage was Derek Firth and he took no time in dispatching Roger Irvine 2-0, despite Roger hitting a 180.
Kevin Gray then did the same to Phillip Mowat, with that result taking the match score to 6-6.
Shetland must have wondered what had happened to their advantage - it had disappeared.
Steve Linklater was up next, but Alan Paterson proved too strong for him on the night, and won with a 2-1 scoreline, despite Stevie hitting a 180.
Ian Linklater took to the stage and he beat Marc Henry 2-0, nailing a 180, and levelling the match 7-7.
The boys from Orkney were in no mood to give up the cup and then raced ahead, winning the next three singles in a row, all by a 2-1 scoreline. Bruce Moar took out Gareth McRitchie, Michael Moodie beat Barry Couper, with Iain Wilkie taking out Jim Wood. The match now stood at 10-7.
Youngest member of the team Gary Wilson took on Raymond Laurenson with the Shetland player winning 2-0 with the help of a 180, and put the brakes on KDDL Orkney, who were just one point away from victory.
The score was now 10-8, and where the cup would be heading would be decided on the fours. The atmosphere in the now packed venue was electric.
Stevie, Ian, Brian and Bruce stepped up against George, Alan, Phillip and Marc in the fist fours, but would it be the last?
In the 1001 one leg game, the scores quickly came down, and the atmosphere built up.
Orkney got to the double first with Brian Moar making no mistake in taking out double two to clinch victory, making it six wins a row against their northern rivals, and sparking celebrations. Coincidentally it was Brian who hit the winning double in the fixture the year before.
The trophy presentations soon followed, captain Craig Taylor took the opportunity to thank everyone involved in the weekend.
Once again he said he was proud to be involved with such a great bunch of players, who showed a great team spirit and the determination to keep the winning streak going for six years running.
He also thanked team shirt sponsors The Brig Larder for their support, which was very much appreciated, and congratulated the ladies on their win.
Youngest member of the team Gary Wilson also thanked everyone involved in making the trip such a success.
The averages were counted up and Derek Firth was presented with the man of the match trophy, with a winning average of 84.92, winning the title for the second year in a row, following his 100.2 record setting average the year before.
The next day, the highly popular men's and ladies anniversary shield competitions took place, again in the Legion.
At the end of the day's play, it was an all Orkney men's final, with Kevin Gray and Stevie Linklater contesting the match, which saw a 5-1 win for Stevie. Congratulations to him.
The ladies competition was won by Whalsay player Iris Anderson, narrowly beating Orkney's Irene Thomson 3-2 in the final.
Many thanks to our sponsors: The Brig Larder
www.facebook.com/thebriglarder www.orkneyfoodanddrink.com/the-brig-larder
2015 - 5 IN A ROW !
The KDDL Orkney team to play against Shetland on April 24th as finalised by the committee were: Captain: Craig Taylor. Team: Stevie Linklater, Kevin Gray, Ian Linklater, Jim Brown, Neil Croy, Robbie Stanger, Simon Parry, Ivan Leslie, Derek Firth, Brian Moar, Iain Wilkie, Bruce Moar. 1st reserve Billy Ward. 2. Michael Bain. 3.Gary Wilson. Simon withdrew for family reasons.
Many thanks to our sponsor
What a weekend of darts, as Shetland arrived for the annual inter-league/county matches and it all got under way on the Thursday, with the Kirkwall Ladies taking on the Lerwick Ladies.
There was disappointment as the Kirkwall Ladies lost out for the fourth year on the trot, by losing the fours, and so went down 11-9.
Then it was on to the men's match the next night.
In front of a full house, in the Masonic, they turned on the style as the Orkney boys went for five in a row — an achievement never before achieved.
They lost the reserve game, which is always the opener, when John Robert Scott and Jim Wood beat Michael Bain and Gary Wilson, but this did not count towards the overall score.
Brian Moar got the home team off to a great start with a 2 - 0 win over Whalsay’s Philip Mowat. It was 2-0 also for Robbie Stanger over Ronnie Johnson. That was soon 3-0 as Ivan Leslie beat Craig Smith 2-0.
Game four saw Kirkwall’s Derek Firth face up to the Shetland captain and multi-singles winner Neil Redfern, and what a game, as Derek simply blew Neil apart, winning 2-0 with an average score of 100.2.
This was the first time a 100 plus average has been scored in this encounter in 43 years, and rightly won Derek the man of the match award.
Soon it was 5-0 to the Orkney boys as Kevin Gray beat Grant Thomson 2-0. Stevie Linklater made it 6 with a 2 -0 win over Peter Peterson.
No legs dropped as the seventh game started, and it was to be Shetland’s first points as Roger Irvine beat Ian Linklater 2 -0.
Kirkwall were soon back on the winning trail as Ian Wilkie took full points with a 2-1 defeat of Barry Cooper, that became 8-1. Then Neil Croy took out Frank Watt 2-0 ,followed by a 2-1 win for Bruce Moar over George Smith.
That made it 9-1 — only needing two more for a famous victory. But that was halted as missed doubles by Billy Ward saw him beaten 2-1 by Stuart Paul.
But there was no let up from the Orkney boys as new cap, Jim Brown, quickly made it 10-2 with a 2-0 defeat of Kevin Llewelyn.
So one was needed going into the doubles and hopes were high as the Orkney doubles champions, Kevin and Derek, took to the stage.
But surprising missed doubles saw them go down 2- 0 to Roger and Grant. Was Shetland going to stage a dramatic comeback?
It looked on when Philip and Ronnie took their game against Bruce and Brian to 1-1.
But the Moar boys are never beaten until the last dart is in the board and it was them who hit the last dart for a 2-1 win and, of course, a winning score of 11-3 and five in a row.
Its not a record score, that stands at 11-2, a score both sides have achieved in the past.
Also on the night two special presentations were made. Vice-president Kevin Gray presented KDDL president and team captain Craig Taylor with a specially engraved quaich on behalf of the KDDL to mark his 20 years service on the committee. 11 of those have been in the post of president, making him the longest serving president in the history of the league, and second longest serving committee member, with secretary Jim Scollie a founding member from 1967.
Richard Polson was also presented with a certificate for recording the averages at the annual encounter for over 10 years.
The next day saw 81 players turn out for the Anniversary Shields fixtures in the Legion, 49 men and 32 ladies. Unfortunately both tiles headed north, with Neil Redfern beating Ian Wilkie 4-1 and Iris Anderson beating Linda Harcus 4-1, but was a great end to a great weekend.
2014 Report
On the stage in Lerwick, and at the airport with team sponsor Thorfinn Craigie from ER&T Craigie Butchers.
It was four-in-a row for victorious Orkney darts players who celebrated a convincing record 11-4 win over their Shetland rivals in the Lerwick Legion on Friday night.
The KDDL Orkney side continued their winning streak on the big stage in Shetland with a solid performance which saw the team claim their fourth win in a row for the first time in the 42 year history of the fixture for the team in red.
There was a fantastic atmosphere in venue during the game, with the flashing lights and blaring walk on music adding to the buzz of excitement around the match.
As a warm up to the main event, the respective teams two reserves play a doubles match, and it was the visitors who claimed the first victory of the night, with the clearly delighted KDDL’s Leigh Shearer and Gary Wilson beating Nigel Llewellyn and Marc Henry 2-1.
On to the main event, and the Orkney players were determined to stamp their authority on the fixture right from the start, and they did just that.
The match consists of six doubles and 12 singles, with fours also played out if required, and as always, it is a race to get to the 11 point finish line. Shetland, being the home side, chose to play the doubles first.
First up were Brian Moar and Robbie Stanger against the Shetland veterans Paul Scarsbrook, who scored a 180, and Tommy Watt, with Brian and Robbie running out 2-0 winners, getting the visitors off to a great start.
Next up were Kevin Gray and Derek Firth who also put on a solid performance to win 2-0 against Stuart Paul and Gordon Irvine.
Stevie Linklater and Bruce Moar quickly took care of Neil Redfearn and Andrew Swannie by the same scoreline, and the team were 3-0 up, much to the delighted of the visiting side and their supporters.
The Orkney players were on a roll, with Shetland determined to turn things around, and they got their first point on the board when Gareth McRitchie and Kevin Llewellyn took out Michael Bain and Iain Wilkie 2-1.
Kirkwall’s Ivan Leslie and Neil Croy bounced right back in the next match with a 2 straight victory over Tommy Williamson and James Sinclair.
The last doubles match saw Alan Gray and Roy Foubister go down 2-1 against Roger Irvine and Barry Couper who also hit a 180.
The doubles now over, the scoreline was 4-2 to the visitors.
The reds were determined to keep the momentum going into the singles and they did, quickly winning the first two games 2-0, with Stevie Linklater overcoming Gareth McRitchie and Kevin Gray beating Roger Irvine.
The Orkney contingent were on their feet between all games - with the team, as well as the ladies team who played the night before - also in the crowd, giving the players fantastic support on the stage.
The third singles match saw Shetland's Neil Redfearn getting a narrow 2-1 win over Bruce Moar, with Neil scoring a maximum along the way.
Paul Scarsbrook, who hit a 115 finish, beat Robbie Stanger 2-0, clawing the match scoreline back to 6-4.
Little did anyone know at the time, this was to be the last point Shetland would get on the scoreboard, as the KDDL Orkney team powered to a famous victory.
Man of the match Ivan Leslie played TV quality darts in a blistering performance to beat Kevin Llewellyn 2-0, a match which impressed all in the crowd, no matter who they came to support, and included a 180 from Ivan as well as other steady 100 plus scores.
Keeping the momentum going was Derek Firth, beating Barry Couper 2-0, Brian Moar overcoming Tommy Watt 2-0, and Michael Bain, a 2-1 winner over Stuart Paul.
In a twist of fate, with the game poised at 10 -4, up next for the Orkney side was Iain Wilkie - the man who hit double 7 to win the title on the same stage 2 years earlier - a match which saw the visitors win in Shetland for the first time in 22 years.
This year time Iain faced Shetland captain Andrew Swannie.
With the score at one leg each in their game, Iain found himself on double 5 for another famous victory, he kept his cool and slotted it in, taking the game score to 11 - 4 and sparking celebrations for the Orkney players, all delighted to be part of the four-in-a -row squad!
Speaking after the game, captain Craig Taylor, who is also president of the KDDL, said that he was delighted with the performance of the players on the night, and indeed throughout the season.
He said: “Everyone who took to the stage played their part in this win. We have a great team spirit and players who can throw tremendous darts, and that showed on the night.
“When we spoke before the game it was said that we were perhaps going in to the game as favourites following our previous three wins, but it was important that we took nothing for granted, and everyone should be focussed on their own game when they were on stage. The players did just that and showed what we can do.”
On behalf of the team he thanked all involved in the Shetland Darts Association for organising the events over the weekend and for the hospitality extended to them during their stay.
He also thanked team sponsor ER & T Craigie Butchers for providing the team shirts from KT Sports, as well as Loganair for accommodating the team with their travel arrangements.
• The the Anniversary Shield competition, which was held the following day, over 80 players took part in the men and ladies competitions, which were won by Whalsay players Philip Mowat and Iris Anderson.
2013 Report
Williamson's Butchers: Tel 873986 were the sponsor of the team this year Ally Flett is pictured with the team. Thanks for the support once again!
The team to play Shetland on April 26th 2013 was: Captain: Craig Taylor. Players: Kevin Gray, Stevie Linklater, Robbie Stanger, Ivan Leslie, Mike Bain, Billy Ward, Brian Moar, Derek Firth, Bruce Moar, Iain Wilkie, Alan Gray and Neil Croy. Reserves 1st Paddy Kirkpatrick, 2nd Roy Foubister.
What a great weekend of darts, with the annual visit of the Shetland ladies and gents teams.
On the first night, the ladies were unlucky to lose 11-10.
It was on then to the big night, with the gents toeing the oche in the Masonic for the annual Inter-League/County game, with the Orkney boys going for a hat-trick of wins.
The last time that happened was in the early 1980s, and in that team was one of the present day players, Billy Ward.
The Orkney captain, Craig Taylor, decided to play the singles first, and what a start, with Kirkwall’s Michael Bain taking on the Shetland’s singles champion Neil Redfern, and Michael just blew him off the board to win 2-0.
The defeat of their star player seemed to dent the hopes of the Shetland team, and the Orkney boys took full advantage by winning the next two before Shetland got on the score sheet, with Derek Firth a bit unlucky to lose 2-1.
Another three wins for Orkney put them in a very commanding lead, at 6-1, before Shetland got their second game, with Ian Wilkie unable to find the finishing double.
But that was the last reverse Orkney had to endure, and by winning the last four singles, found themselves 10-2 up — just one away from victory, and hopes were high for a record-equalling 11-2 victory.
But the Shetland boys had other ideas and started an amazing fight back by taking the first four doubles.
The Kirkwall boys could not find the winning double until the fifth game, and the pairing of the Legion’s Ivan Leslie and new cap Neil Croy came from 1-0 down to win 2-1 and send the crowd into wild celebration as the K-DDL team won 11-6, and secured a hat-trick of wins.
Man of the match was Kevin Gray of Kirkwall, with a 74-44 average.
The next day, it was on to the Anniversary Singles, and some very fragile-looking players turned up to the Legion for the 1.30 p.m. start.
A total of 31 ladies and 41 gents braved another day, but even so, some very good games were played, and now more so than both semi-finals, which featured Orkney v Shetland in both.
After some great finishing, it was both the Orkney boys who came good, with Michael Bain beating Whalsay’s top player Roger Irvine 3-2, and Stevie Linklater getting the better of Angus Galbraith 3-1.
The final lacked the excitement of the semis, but some great finishing from Michael, including a 107 and 100, saw him home 4-1.
Other high finishes: 117 Stevie Linklater; 119 Scott Whittle; and 158 from Barry Couper. Michael also had a 114 in the team game.
There were 180s in both events from Kevin Gray, Barry Couper, Billy Ward, Andrew Swannie, Neil Drever, Andrew Burgess and Alan Gray. There might have been more, but that’s all that was reported.
Before the big game on Friday, three of the league’s long-standing players were honoured, with the trio receiving certificates appointing them honorary presidents of the K-DDL. They were Jim Scollie, Jimmy Miller and Eddie Craigie. All three have been involved with the K-DDL since 1967.
2012 Match Report
Williamson's Butchers: Tel 873986 were the sponsor of the team this year Ally Flett is pictured with the team. Thanks for the support once again!
A 22 – year wait came to an end on the big stage in the Lerwick Legion on Friday night when the Kirkwall and District Darts League side beat their Shetland counterparts 11-10 in a match which will no doubt be spoken about for years to come as an absolute classic, packed with drama and excitement.
Going into the annual fixture, being officially played for the 40th time, the Kirkwall side were the current holders of the cup, but it was back in 1990 that the KDDL side last won on Shetland soil.
The epic match came to an end around 1am in the packed venue which had an atmosphere to rival the Sky Sports Premier League of Darts.
Flashing lights, big tv screens and walk on music added to the highly charged atmosphere, and the players on both sides were certainly up for it.
At the request of the hosts, the evening started with a warm up match of the Shetland reserves John Robert Scott and Jim Wood playing Kirkwall's reserve Michael Bain and a somewhat surprised KDDL committee member Allan Brown, who had come up with the Orkney squad! Much to the delight of the home team it was Shetland who won this prematch opener.
Getting down to the main event, KDDL captain Craig Taylor and Shetland skipper Andy Glen had their team sheets entered into the computer so that the crowd who packed into the hall could be kept up to speed with the play.
The home team decided to play the 6 doubles first with a mouth-watering opening game between KDDL champs Derek Firth and Kevin Gray taking on Shetland champs George Smith and Paul Scarsbrook.
It was the Orkney pair that won 2-1 with Kevin hitting five scores of 100 or above. Kirkwall then went 2-0 up with Ivan Leslie and Robbie Stanger beating Neal Redfern and Brian Patterson 2-0 with Robbie hitting a maximum.
Shetland got their first point on the board when Angus Galbraith and Danny Irvine beat brothers Stevie and Ian Linklater 2-1. This was despite Kirkwall winning the first leg as Stevie hit a maximum. But the away team hit back with Brian and Bruce Moar getting the better of Andrew Simpson and Gordon Irvine 2-1.
Up next were Iain Wilkie and Roy Foubister against Shetland’s Gareth MacRitchie and George Mackay. The home pair won the first leg and it looked like they were going to lose the second until George hit a brilliant 136 checkout to win the game 2-0. Then home pairing of Barry Couper and Roger Irvine levelled the match beating Martin Peace and Michael Moodie 2-1.
So with the match all square at 3-3 it was set up nicely for the 12 singles matches. Shetland put star man Neal Redfern up front and he didn't let them down beating the KDDL raking points table topper Derek Firth 2-1, hitting a 180 in the deciding leg. Again the away team hit back immediately with Ivan Leslie overcoming Angus Galbraith 2-1, with Angus checking out 106 to win the first leg.
Then Brian Patterson making his county debut for Shetland played an excellent game to take the scalp of Kevin Gray 2-1. Gareth MacRitchie put the home team two games ahead for the first time playing well to beat Robbie Stanger 2-0.
The next match was probably the crucial turning point with Bruce Moar against George Smith. George won the first leg with a good 94 checkout then when he hit a 180 in the second leg it looked all over, but the double proved elusive and Bruce took the leg, before winning the decider in 16 darts.
Stevie Linklater then once again levelled the match with a good 2-1 over Paul Scarsbrook, winning the third leg in 15 darts including a 102 checkout. The Orkney boys were now on a bit of a roll with Brian Moar playing really well to beat Andrew Simpson 2-0 with the help of a good 113 checkout in the first leg. Things were starting to look bleak for Shetland as Ian Linklater won 2-0 against Danny Irvine.
With the KDDL boys having won four in a row, Shetland’s George Mackay had a lot of pressure on him but he rose to the challenge beating Iain Wilkie 2-0.
However, the Orcadians then went 9-7 ahead with Roy Foubister edging out Barry Couper 2-1.
Shetland won the last two singles with two 2-0 wins for Roger Irvine and debutant Gordon Irvine over KDDL’s Martin Peace and debutant Michael Moodie respectively.
So the destination of the cup was to be decided with the three 4 a sides (one leg 1001).
Kirkwall put up Derek Firth, Ivan Leslie, Kevin Gray and Robbie Stanger against George Smith, Paul Scarsbrook, Neal Redfern and Andrew Simpson. The boys in red got to the double first but after a couple of misses the home team had a chance to nick it, but didn't take it. Kevin hit the double to put Kirkwall 10-9 up.
The visitors were now one away from a historic victory, but Shetland had other ideas.
Shetland’s Neal Redfern, George Mackay, Gareth MacRitchie and Danny Irvine beat Bruce Moar, Stevie Linklater, Brian Moar and Ian Linklater, with Neal hitting tops.
With the crowd now at fever pitch, and well after midnight, it all came down to the last fours, Iain Wilkie, Roy Foubister, Martin Peace and Michael Moodie, against Shetland’s Roger Irvine, Barry Couper, Brian Patterson and Gordon Irvine.
Both teams came down pretty even, but it was Iain Wilkie who hit a brilliant 180 at the crucial time to give Kirkwall the advantage. With nerves really on edge the Orkney boys were struggling to finish off the leg.
Young Michael Moodie, who was making his début on the big stage, left Iain Wilkie a shot at double 7. Shetland’s Gordon Irvine had a chance to steal the glory but just missed tops for a 78 finish.
Iain stepped up to the plate to nail double 7 with his second dart to send his team into a state of delirium!
It was the first time in 22 years the Orkney team had won in Shetland.
All in all it was a great nights entertainment for the full house watching, with the walk on music really getting the crowd on their feet adding to the brilliant atmosphere.
The Kirkwall side were cheered on by the ladies team who had travelled to play their game the night before. Some of the members of the Orkney Badminton team, in Shetland for their inter-county, and also added their vocal support.
Kirkwall’s Brain Moar won the man of the match title awarded for the highest average on the night. He had 90.74 in the doubles, 80 in the singles, and 57.75 in the fours, with an overall average of 76.16.
KDDL captain Craig Taylor thanked all involved in the darts and for the hospitality shown to the team over the entire weekend, describing the win as a “proud moment” for all involved from Orkney.
He also thanked Williamson Butchers for sponsoring the team shirts and Ali Flett’s continued support of the KDDL.
On the Saturday afternoon the anniversary shield competitions were held in the Lerwick Legion. 52 men entered as well as 32 women.
The visitors were unlucky not to take the silverware home with them. Kevin Gray lost in the final of the men's competition to Barry Couper 4-2 and Kirkwall’s Katy Croy lost in the ladies final to Iris Anderson 3-2 in a very close match which saw Iris retain her title.
On Sunday, Kirkwall ladies player Catherine Symons, running in the London Marathon, wore a shirt congratulating the men's team on their victory!
A link to the players averages can be found here: http://www.shetlanddartsassociation.co.uk/Inter%20County%20averages%202012.pdf
The celebrations begin on the stage in the Lerwick Legion.
The 2011 Inter-county took place on April 22, in the Kirkwall Masonic.
The team to play were Captain: Craig Taylor. Players: Kevin Gray, Brian Moar, Ian Wilkie, Ivan Leslie, Robbie Stanger, Derek Firth, Stevie Linklater, Bruce Moar, Paul Foubister, Ian Linklater, Billy Ward, Wayne Monkman. 1st Reserve: Mike Bain 2nd Reserve: Michael Moodie.
What a weekend of darts entertainment and fun was had when Shetland came visiting for the annual county match.
It got off to a great start on the Thursday, with a convincing 13-8 win for the Kirkwall Ladies. A good omen for the gent¹s match the following night in the new venue at the Masonic Club, all decked out with a stage, flags, posters and TV screens, just like the Lakeside ...nearly.
The Orkney team, decked out in their new Williamson's shirts took to the stage with high hopes. It did not start too well, with Shetland winning the first singles, but we weren't to know that it was the only time Shetland were to lead as Orkney reeled off the next eight games, and at 8-1, was the record score of 11-2 on the cards.
But Shetland but that to bed by winning the next two was a comeback on thecards? But, then up stepped Billy Ward, playing for the first time since 1995 and it was just like old times as he won 2-0 to take the Orkney team to 9-3 and only two away from a dramatic victory.
It was soon 10-3 as the Orkney doubles champions Derek and Kevin won 2-1. Eight games to go and only one needed. Nothing could go wrong could it? But, Shetland weren't finished and took the next three games to take the score to 10-6. Not quite panic stations, but murmurs among the packed house.
But, no worries as up stepped the Moar boys, Bruce and Brian who had a shaky first leg, but still a win. An action-packed second leg took the cup back to Orkney with a score of 11-6. A great win for captain Craig and the boys.
That was game number 40 between the two sides. Shetland are well ahead, but Orkney have shown in recent years that they are every bit as good since the team was selected on ranking points won.
Man of the match was Neil Redfan from Shetland with a 88.34 three-dart average. Top Orkney player in second place was Kevin Gray with a 83.24,which most years would have won.
A big thank you from K-DDL to main sponsors Williamson's, others OTE, Carpet Shed and the Masonic Club who put in a lot of work in setting up the hall. Also the darts committee who put in a lot or work to ensure everything went with a bang.
The Shetland report can be found on the link below:
http://www.shetlanddartsassociation.co.uk/blank.html
PAST YEARS:
Final Ranking Points Table 2009/10
Stevie Linklater 48 points, Brian Moar 38, Ivan Leslie 35, Kevin Gray 34, Paul Foubister 32, Derek Firth 27, Mark Louttit 24, Davy Cooper 22, Ian Linklater 21, Bruce Moar, 18, Willie Bremner 18, Robbie Stanger 15, Wayne Monkman 15, Ian Wilkie 14, Lee Macpherson 13, Brian Stevenson 12 and Colin Kirkpatrick 11. A further 28 players had points ranging from nine to two and includes 11 ‘B’ League players.
2010 match
Inter-county KDDL v Shetland: 5 November 2010
(This match was postponed from April because of the volcanic ash cloud).
Captain: Craig Taylor. Players: Stevie Linklater, Brian Moar, Ivan Leslie, Kevin Gray, Paul Foubister, Mark Louttit, Ian Linklater, Bruce Moar, Robbie Stanger, Ian Wilkie, Brian Stevenson, Alan Gray.
The long awaited annual Inter County match finally got played on bonfire night and fireworks were expected, with the big screen up and computer programme for averages in place and a good crowd in to watch the players were ready to do battle.
First doubles up was Jim Wood & Neal Redfern v Ivan Leslie & Paul Foubister and the Orkney boys showed they meant business with Ivan hitting a 180 with his first three darts however a 150 from Jim left Neal on tops a he made no mistake finishing the leg before going on to with the match 2-1 first blood to the home team. Next up were Paul Scarsbrook & George Smith v Brian Moar & Alan Gray despite losing the first leg the Shetland veterans came back to win 2-1 with a 68 checkout from George in the decider. The third doubles was between Ronnie Johnson & Marc Henry v Kevin Gray & Bruce Moar again Orkney won the first leg but Shetland hit back to level with Ronnie hitting a 180 in the third leg it was left to Marc to hit the winning double on his debut. With Orkney now 3-0 down they were desperate for the Linklater brothers to get them off the mark which they did, Stevie & Ian beating Roger Irvine & Richard Hughson 2-0. The fifth game was between Angus Galbraith & Gareth MacRitchie and Robbie Stanger & Ian Wilkie with a combination of good scoring from Angus and Gareth hitting the doubles the Shetland boys won 2-0 to give Shetland a 4-1 lead going into the last doubles. Next up was Andrew Simpson & Andrew Swannie against Mark Louttit & Brian Stevenson (Tone) yet again Orkney took the first leg with the help of a 180 from Tone but back came Shetland again to win the next two legs and give Shetland a very healthy 5-1 lead going into the singles.
SINGLES.
First up was Neal Redfern v Paul Foubister, the home team kept the pressure on awith Neal winning 2-1 with a 180 in the deciding leg. The visitors were now in trouble and needing a win to get them going again, Bruce Moar did just that taking the scalp of Angus Galbraith 2-0.The third singles saw Shetland again stamp there authority on the match with George Smith beating Kevin Gray 2-0. Ivan Leslie took on Paul Scarsbrook . Paul hit a 180 on the way to a 2-0 win. Next up was to be the game of the night, Andrew Simpson v Stevie Linklater, despite scoring the highest singles average of the night Stevie couldn't get the better of Andrew losing 2-1 with Andrew hitting a 67 checkout in the deciding leg which had four 140's in it, this was to be a killer game for Orkney who were now feeling to cup slipping away. Andrew Swannie v Robbie Stanger was next. Andrew put the hosts on the hill winning 2-0. Ronnie Johnson had the chance to win the cup against Brian Moar but Brian had other ideas winning 2-1. With the score at 10-3 debutant Marc Henry had the chance of glory against Ian Linklater and he had three darts at doubles 5 to do just that but it wasn't to be and Ian held his nerve to keep the match alive 10-4, with Shetland needing one more for the victory. Roger Irvine was against Ian Wilkie next and he was in no mood to let Orkney back into the match hitting double tops for a 2-0 win a take the cup back to Shetland. It was decided that the match be played out to a finish this year so with a bit less pressure but a lot of pride at stake Jim Wood was up next v Alan Gray, Jim lost the first leg which was the pattern for a lot of the games but hit back with a 118 checkout which was the highest of the night, but Alan dug in to win the game 2-1,to reduce the defacite to 11-5. Richard Hughson v Tone was the penultimate game with Richard's clinical finishing (90 & 76 outs) winning 2-0. The final game saw Gareth MacRitchie v Mark Louttit and Mark gave the away team a little consolation winning 2-0, final score 12-6 to Shetland. Neal Redfern won man of the match with a 76.60 average.
After the presentation of the trophies KDDL captain Craig Taylor made a special presentation to Tommy Watt (Shetland team captain) and his wife Sheona, he presented them with a specially made Orkney chair for providing accomodation to many of the teams for the last 30. They were also given engraved crystal glasses which Craig presented them on behalf of the Kirkwall Ladies team who did not travel to Shetland this year. The gifts once again showed the friendly nature of the darts fixture.
Everyone involved in the fixture from Orkney would like to thank the Shetland Darts Association for a great weekend of darts and fantastic hospitality. Special thanks go to all the markers and those who kept the averages throughout the night.
Thanks to the whizz kids at the SDA the players averages can be found via the link below.
www.shetlanddartsassociation.co.uk/currentseason/Intercounyaverages2010.pdf
ANNIVERSARY SHIELD
After the drama of the county match on Friday night it was back to the Legion on Saturday for the Anniversary Shield, a fine turnout of 57 players some in better fettle than others went into the draw, after the initial rounds were played the quarter final line-up included seven county players. match one saw Paul Scarsbrook beat Andrew Simpson 3-1, match two featured the only none county player Ryan (curly) Mustard, he did well to beat Orkney's Ian Wilkie 3-2, in match three Kevin Gray (Orkney) won 3-0 against Gareth MacRitchie and match four George Smith won a very tight match 3-2 against Neal Redfern. In the first semi final Ryan Mustard played superbly to take Paul Scarsbrook to a deciding leg and had three darts at tops to win but as always against the likes of Paul you only get one chance and Scarsbrook hit the double to take his place in the final 4-3. In the other semi it was a county battle repeat with George Smith beating Kevin Gray 4-3 in a very close game. So to the final and rolling back the years it was Paul & George who have had many great battles over the years on this occasion George was to come out on top winning 5-2 with some excellent darts. George also won the high checkout prize with 146.
Iris Anderson beat Zara MacRitchie in a play off to win the prize for furthest lady.
Williamson's Butchers: Tel 873986 or 878501 were the sponsor of the team this year. Thanks to them for the support.
2009 match
Thanks to Helgi's, Kirkwall's newest pub for sponsoring the inter-county team shirts in 2009.
Visit the website: www.helgis.co.uk
The 2009 fixture was a night to remember for the K&DDL team who won the trophy for the first time since 2003.
Shetland were out to increase their big lead over the Kirkwall team, but Kirkwall had been playing well in practice and were full of confidence. It showed as captain Jim Scollie decided to kick off with the singles first.
Always in these games it's so important to win the first game and Derek Firth gave the Kirkwall team the perfect start by taking out Shetland's top player Neal Redfern. Kirkwall kept it up and soon found themselves in a 7-1 lead, then 8-2, needing only three more for a famous win. But it's never as easy as that, as Shetland made it 8-4 to Kirkwall at the break.
Doubles were on next, and Shetland got the first one taking it to 8-5. Tension was high as Kirkwall fought back 9-5 then back to back wins for Shetland to make it 9-7.
Were Kirkwall going to throw it away at the end? The answer was no, as Brian and Davy put the home side one game away at 10-7.
Last of the doubles saw two ex-West Mainland players, Robbie and Ian, play a game worthy of any TV game and at 1-1 the pressure in the packed bar could be felt. But a double ten from Robbie resulted in Pandemonium as Kirkwall got their hands on the cup after a six year gap.
For the 72 year old captain Jim Scollie it was a night to remember as the last time Kirkwall defeated Shetland Jim was Lying in a hospital bed in Aberdeen awaiting a major heart operation. Thankfully he has recovered from that.
Man of the match was Neal Redfern with a 75-95 average, in third place was top Kirkwall player Ian Linklater with a 72.18 average, but every player was a top player.
The 2009 K&DDL team who played Shetland was as follows:
Stevie Linklater, Ivan Leslie, Brian Moar, Derek Firth, Kevin Gray, Bruce Moar, Wayne Monkman, Willie Bremner, Davie Cooper, Craig Taylor, Robbie Stanger, Ian Linklater.
1st Reserve: Martin Peace, 2nd Reserve: Ian Wilkie.
Captain: Jim Scollie.
2008 match
