Darts: Nine dart finish boost for Gurney

LONDONDERRY darts professional Daryl Gurney received a great boost in confidence last night (Thursday) on the eve of this year^s Six Nations Darts Tournament, by hitting a nine dart finish at a warm up event in Drumahoe

The event at the Traveller^s Inn gave local arrows enthusiasts the opportunity to take their chances against the sports big names. And Daryl Gurney was joined at the local hostelry by fellow professionals Tony O^Shea and Daryl Fitton.

Earlier this year, all three of these professionals made a great impact at the BDO World Darts Championships at the famous Lakeside venue at Frimley Green in Surrey.

O^Shea eventually lost out in the final to Ted Hankey, having battled against his great pal Fitton. However, it was Daryl Gurney who made a fantastic impression on his debut catching the eye of the legendary thrower Bobby George who tipped him for great things in the future.

Daryl lost out to former World Champion Martin Adams, but is tipped to be back in force in the years to come.

Speaking to the Sentinel about his nine darts triumph, Daryl said: "It is a great boost in confidence. The last time I had a nine darter was about seven years ago.

"It was very, very hard. I hit 180, and the boys were telling me I was on for a nine darter. It was worse when I hit the next one and I said to them all ^give me a break^, then I hit the 141 out shot and that was that."

Speaking about the Six Nations Tournament, due to begin tomorrow morning at the City^s Everglades Hotel, Daryl Gurney said: "We will be there early to see the draw and we want to be around competing in the final stages on Sunday."

The prestigious tournament will see players from Ireland, England, Scotland, Wales and Holland all vying for the title and 22-year-old Gurney feels the Irish contingent have a good chance of sealing a victory.

Story By: Londonderry Sentinel