Darts News Oct 2000 - Jan 2001 |
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October 2000
MINISTER TAKES RED FOX INVITATIONAL TITLE AS DOLAN CRASHES.
Reigning King of Darts Paul Dolan sensationally lost a minor tournament on home turf, throwing immediate doubts over his ability to retain his title at Darts 2001. In the tournament in the Red Fox Inn, Killorglan, Co. Kerry last weekend, Dolan finished last in a field of three behind Paddy Farren and Gary Corcoran who took the title. Dolan amazingly lost twice to Farren who in turn lost both his games to Corcoran. In the final game, Corcoran required victory for the title against Dolan who needed the win to force a three way playoff. Corcoran eventually ground out an uncharacteristic win in what proved to be another of a series of dull games.
A shellshocked Dolan commented after 'yes I was poor. I found the venue difficult and home advantage no help. I was concerned losing to Farren twice. Losing to Corcoran was a fluke. I can only learn from games like this, but I am fully determined to successfully defend my title next Spring.' Corcoran's comments appear that he agrees with Dolan. 'Paul's a class act and I'm confident he'll be a major player next Spring. I'm delighted to get the victory over him even though it was a 301 event which is alien to me. I've never beaten him before so even though it's a minor event it's a victory I'll savour.'
Although only a minor event, alarm bells have been set off in the Dolan camp as defeat to the likes of Corcoran was unthinakble for him. Most rational observers would expect him to bounce back strongly and be a major contender for 2001. But given that no King of darts has ever retained his title, doubt may be planted in his mind which may affect his poise and confidence.
CAT'S TOUR OF OZ OVER
1998 King of Darts Johnny the Cat Heaney has left Australia. The Cat departed for Australia in October 99 after his non-appearance at Darts 99. It is believed he left to take time off from the world of darts. Insiders reveal that Heaney is now in South East Asia promoting darts among the youth. It is possible that he may be back in time for the 2002 event.
DOLAN ACCUSED OF 'ASTOUNDING ARROGANCE'
King of Darts Paul Dolan has been accused of astounding arrogance from some traditionalists as it was revealed he voted for himself in the 'who is the greatest King of Darts' poll on this site. Dolan is currently tied with 97 champ Tom Henry on 40% of the vote but it was revealed that this total did include a vote from himself. Dolan admitted voting for himself. 'I was not at any of the other events so cannot comment on the quality of darts or the champions. As a result I can only vote for myself'. However Dolan's statement was rejected by hardline traditionalists. 'This is astounding arrogance by Dolan. If he has not seen the other events then he should not vote. What happened to the modesty and humility of previous champions? I hope the Cat comes back from Nam and stuffs him.'
December 2000
CONROY RETURNS FROM US TRAINING CAMP
Hardman Barry Conroy has returned from a two month stint in the USA where it is reported he underwent intensive training for Darts 2001. Insiders revealed that Conroy has now appointed a personal trainer, a Russian man named Sergi. Following his reasonable showing in Darts 2000, where he ground out a win over Digger Matthews but lost heavily to eventual champ Paul Dolan, Conroy is keen to become a major contender for Darts 2001. His training program at the minute is thought to be working on his attention span and general alertnesss.
Conroy refused to speak to reporters on his return however photographs of his entourage were leaked to the press.
NO DECISION ON TOURNAMENT DATE YET
No decision has been made by the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs as to when the date of Darts 2001 will be held as the commitee continue to deliberate over a number of submissions from assorted potential competitors. The Lynch entourage is not expected back from his Australian tour until March 2001, as Lynch is delaying his return by a week to play an invitational in New York. More possible good news is in the air as rumours are circulating that 1998 King of Darts Johnny 'The Cat' Heaney is due for a possible return to these shores in April 2001. If this were to be the case the Minister would be keen to enter negociations with Heaney to delay the event until April. This would cause a conflict with the Committee's original desire to have the event moved back to February. Definitely out of darts 2001 is stylish Swinford man Big Dave Heaney who completes a hattrick of feeble tournament withdrawals. Heaney is reported to have gone on the Australian tour for a year to replace the returning Lynch. Rumours of Conor Guinan and Paul McGettrick defecting to the Australian tour are also in circulation but yet to be confirmed.
HENRY SET FOR 2001 RETURN
One star who is more certain of a return for the 2001 event is 1997 King of Darts Tom Henry. Henry boycotted the 2000 event in protest at the escalating levels of yob culture which were prevalent at Darts 99. As a result of the crackdown on yob culture and the excellent discplinary levels at Darts 2000, Tom Henry is believed to be returning for Darts 2001. Henry is arriving in Dublin on the week of the 18th December for discussions with the committee and a social function with members of the players association. Given his one year break and the reported step up in lifestyle, Tom Henry could be a lead contender in Darts 2001
TRIMLESTON DARTS GOES MOBILE
Trimleston Darts has now gone mobile with a new WAPsite at http://tagtag.com/darts2001
Now you can catch up on the latest using a WAP enabled mobile phone.
2nd January 2001
DARTS SEASON OFFICIALLY OPEN
The PDC Skol world championships are in full swing and the 2001 darts season is in full flight. We wish a happy new year to all darts fans, players and giants.
RUMOURS OF DAVE HEANEY RETURN YET TO BE CONFIRMED
A series of rumours which have emanated from Australia that gifted Mayo athlete 'Big' Dave Heaney is to return to Ireland over the coming months have yet to be substantiated. The rumours, which were spread by Heaney's former stable mate Colm Lynch were posted on the Darts 2001 website's Message Board claim that Heaney will return to Ireland prior to the Summer and may possibly be available for Darts 2001. Lynch also speculates that Heaney will not play, as he has a history of bottling out prior to the event.
Dave Heaney exploded onto the Darts scene in 1998 and was rated as the most gifted player seen on the practice boards. He was signed to Trimleston Darts club in 1999 but pulled out of the 1999 event after a series of ugly incedents in Rathmines. In 2000 he also pulled out citing the pressures of being a 'dual star' and concentrated on his disastrous Gaelic football career. Many maintain that if Heaney ever did enter the event he would win easily but detractors have slammed Heaney citing that he would not stand the pressure and simply never turns up anyways.
GUINAN KEEN TO PLAY IN EVENT
Conor 'The high priest' Guinan has stated publicly that he wishes to play in Darts 2001 and hopes that the committee can be flexible in the scheduling of the event. In an emotional New year eve event in his hometown of Ferbane, Co.Offaly, Guinan pledged his utmost to partake in darts 2001 and take the title back to Ferbane. Despite his plans to go on the lucrative Australian tour for a year, Guinan maintains that Darts 2001 is still high in his list of priorities. He told punters 'I'd also like to stuff Jimmy Styles again to show him who's boss'.
JAMES HENRY SLAMS TRIMLESTON DARTS CLUB
Darts Badboy James 'The Druid' Henry has slammed the Trimleston Darts club for their lack of ambition and declining standards. The club, who stage the annual extravaganza but have yet to have a member win the event on home soil has seen its number dwindle since its heyday of the late 90s. Henry stormed 'in 1997 you had me, Al Heaney, Oakley and Dunne as credible contenders and we were unlucky not to win the event. Since that Al and Dave Heaney have been allowed to leave the club and no efforts were made to keep our finest talent. The club is now a temple for drunken has-beens'
However Minister for Posts and Telegraphs Gary Corcoran dismissed Henry's suggestions. 'I agree we haven't been as prominent in the last year but we are a small club who are struggling to compete in this changing economic society. We are currently pleased with our practice matches so far but it is likely that none of us will be considered favourites for the big event.'
Since losing the likes of the Heaneys, Colm Lynch, Diggger Matthews and Henry, the club now consists of the Minister, Dan 'The Madman' Grennan and new recruit Colm 'Mad Dog' O'Donnell. O'Donnell is a seasoned campaigner who has knocked about on the London circuit for years and is regarded as a formidable talent.
18 January 2001
DOLAN AND MAD DOG TO LOCK HORNS IN PSYCHOLOGICAL WARFARE
King of Darts Paul Dolan and newcomer Colm 'Mad Dog' O'Donnell are to clash this weekend in a series of booze fuelled encounters. Dolan, who despite winning darts 2000 in fine fashion has always had question marks over his head about his stamina and tolerance has welcomed the chance to tackle O'Donnell in a bar stool blitz. O'Donnell, a dark horse for the title, told reporters 'I am new to this game and need to test the waters. Dolan is the number one ranked player and the rankings don't lie. There is no better place to start than at the top.' The face-off will take place in a series of midland venues, and the move has been welcomed by the committee. A spokesman said 'these men are amateurs and one must salute their efforts to raise the profile of the game'. However the committee would not comment on suggestions that there would be no actually dartsplay involved.
STRONG SUPPORT FOR CAT IN ONLINE POLL
In an online poll at the Darts 2001 website, there has been strong support among internet users for Johnny 'The Cat' Heaney to regain his title at the Darts 2001 event. Over 38% of voters believe that the Cat will be triumphant this Spring, despite the Cat having yet to confirm his entry. A agent for Heaney said 'John is still is Asia and will be returning to Europe in March. Whether he is to compete in Darts 2001 has not been decided. The welfare of our client is our highest concern.' Heaney remains a cult figure among those who witnessed his display at Darts 99 and is regarded as an all time giant of the game.
MARCH DATE LIKELY FOR DARTS 2001
No date has been confirmed for Darts 2001 but sources suggest that the most likely date at present is Saturday March 10th.
LYNCH, GUINAN AND MCGETTRICK DOUBT
Colm Lynch is doubtful for Darts 2001 as it is unclear whether his Australian tour will be finished by March. The Cavan hardman still has a number of fixtures to fulfil and may not be back in time for darts 2001. Also doubtful are Conor Guinan and Paul McGettrick. The duo are heading on the Australian tour in March and may be unavailable for the event, although both players are hopeful of appearing. Definitely competing will be the talented Ringsend pair of Pat Kelly and John Joyce. Neil 'Super Robot' Corcoran has also confirmed his attendance.
22 January 2001
KING OF DARTS DOLAN SNUBS O'DONNELL - WILD SCENES IN WEST OFFALY
King of Darts Paul Dolan has been roundly attacked from all corners for a disgraceful snub to Darts newcomer Colm 'Mad Dog' O'Donnell and for a number of loutish acts. O'Donnell had cancelled a family holiday to play in an invitational friendly tournament in Cahill's, Belmont, Co. Offaly at the behest of Dolan. Locals were shocked to learn that Dolan had pulled out of the event at the last minute, preferring to attend a pantomine. 'Mad dog was seething,' said Jimmy aged 9 who watched the depleted event, 'I couldn't believe Dolan would snub the event to look at lads in a horse-suit.' For the record Gary 'The minister' Corcoran recorded a facile win over O'Donnell who was visibly ill at ease with his game. Interestingly a brother of Pa 'The Collosus' Ryan was spotted in the vicinity of the arena most likely on a fact finding mission. O'Donnell refused to comment on Dolan's outlandish snub but Corcoran was reflective, 'Paul has had a busy schedule lately but we were disappointed he could not appear at the Cahill's event.'
SCUFFLES
Dolan did appear later at the after event function causing scuffles and angry exchanges as he goaded O'Donnell and taunted Corcoran continually. Supporters had to be separated by locals as the situation threatened to escalate. Star of Darts 97 and 98 Conor 'The High Priest' Guinan witnessed the scenes and expressed his disgust. 'This is typical of Dolan. You didn't see Pat Kelly or Tom Henry behave in this way when they were Kings of Darts. I wouldn't call it yob culture but it disgusts me.'
BOTCH
To add insult to injury, Dolan later botched transport plans for the players and was drunk and disorderly. Local lad Kieran, 18 added, 'I was chatting Mr Corcoran about the event and wishing him the best for the 2001 event. Our good humoured conversation was interupted by Dolan roaring insults from across the street about the healthy fast food Mr Corcoran was eating. It left a sour taste in my mouth and I am not surprised many of the publicans are unwilling to have Dolan appear at their venues.'
ALLEGATIONS OF MINISTER'S INCREASED SCHEDULE CONFIRMED
Gary Corcoran has responded to allegations of a news report originating from Kerry that he has upped his training for Darts 2001. Speaking this morning, Corcoran said 'I have indeed been practicing more for Darts 2001 than in previous years. I feel I have not done myself justice in the last few years and aim to move a few places up the rankings. Practice is a useful method for players of my ability to attempt to compete with the likes of Joyce, Kelly, Conroy and the Henrys.' However Corcoran went on to deny allegations that he was on a special diet. 'I am not on a special diet,' he said. 'Also, allegations I ripped a TV cord from the socket are also misleading. I simply dislodged it with my foot by accident.'
29 January 2001
LYNCH OUT OF DARTS 2001
Cavan Hardman Colm Lynch has withdrawn from the Darts 2001 spectacular. In a short statement released to the press from Australia at the weekend, Lynch stated 'it is with sadness that I, Colm Lynch announce my non-participation from Darts 2001. Since my appalling showing in Darts 2000, I have been based in Australia and it is fair to say my motivation for hard work and preparation have diminished greatly. I have attempted to start preparing for the event but clearly I am not right and I am not willing to risk setting myself back further. I want to be at 100% as I feel I am well capable of challenging for the crown but I do not want to let myself or my fans down.' Lynch was later approached for a comment and said he would be keeping in contact with events from ither Australia or possibly New York where he his due to complete his world tour. However Lynch reacted furiously at suggestions from reporters that he is struggling to control his weight. 'These allegations are a load of shite,' said Lynch, adding 'you can shove it up your holes.'
COLM LYNCH OUT OF DARTS 2001 - REACTION
Colm Lynch's withdrawal from Darts 2001 has provoked a wide spectrum of responses from his fellow competitors. Pat Kelly was the first to offer his views. 'It is very sad that Colm cannot make it as he is both a good friend of mine and an easy first round draw.' Al Heaney was also sympathetic, 'Lench es a gud man'. However his withdrawal was slammed by old rival James Henry who dismissed the news with a terse response, 'if he doesn't come back in 2002 it will be too soon.' Neil 'Super Robot' Corcoran, Lynchs conqueror in Darts 2000 stated 'I am pleased that fascists are not welcome at the event'.
COLM LYNCH FACTFILE
1998 - Colm Lynch explodes onto the Darts scene as interval entertainment for the Darts 98 event. His short cameo fills the arena with roars of approval and as he leaves he vows to be back for the 99 event.
1999 - Colm Lynch debuts at Darts 99 scoring an impressive but easy victory over the unknown Brian Noble. However he was later embroiled in controversy as during a later game, a dart was thrown into his leg by Karl Heaney as a result of comments made by Lynch. Lynch was removed for treatment but played poorly in a dreadful quarter final against Mulvey and crashed out in ignomious manner.
2000 - Colm Lynch crashes out to Neil 'Super Robot' Corcoran in the first round despite his excellent pre-tournament form.
2001 - Colm Lynch withdraws from Darts 2001 citing preparation difficulties.
SUPER ROBOT SLAMS PROMO SINGLE MIX-UP
Neil 'Super Robot' Corcoran has lashed the producers of the promotional single he commisioned for his Darts 2001 campaign. The single which was due to be released today has been withdrawn from the shelves due to the lyrics being recorded in Japanese. Corcoran fumed 'I spent weeks writing these hard hitting lyrics like 'Super Robot on the oche, battling fascism and greed,' etc and the idiots translated them into Japanese. When they came back with the finished product I told them I don't want it!!'
Similar bad news for Conor Guinan whose single 'Sorrow of the High Priest' has failed to make any impact on the charts. Guinan will make a final decision on entering as a result. However for 'King of Darts' Paul Dolan the success story continues as over 10,000 advance orders have been taken for his forthcoming single 'I AM THE KING', a latino samba drum-bass fusion recorded in Kerry last week.
JOHNSON SECOND PLAYER TO TAKE ON RUSSIAN AS COACH
Barney 'Bad News' Johnson is rumoured to have taken on the Russian coach Serguei in a desparate bid to revive his flagging darts career. Reports suggest that Serguei, who has taken Barry 'The Baz' Conroy under his wing, has now taken on Johnson despite his reputation for trouble. An insider revealed 'most coaches won't touch Johnson. He's trouble and he's a loose cannon ready to shoot. Serguei is confident however of improving Johnson's game and taking him to the latter stages.' Johnson also has surged ahead in the Who will win Darts 2001? poll. It is believed the three men were part of a training expedition to the North East last weekend and reports suggest that the trip was a major success. The news has been slammed by Pa 'The Collossus' Ryan who raged 'why Serguei persists with these two is beyond me. He should spend the time preparing for himself and he would probably do very well.'
BETTING NEWS
No budge at the top of the field with bookies considering offering odds on 'Betting without Paul Dolan - win or come second to Dolan'. Dolan is as short as 5/4 with some firms. Gary Corcoran's victory in the Cahill's invitational has seen his odds shorten and Mad Dog's lengthen. With Lynch's withdrawal Johnson, Guinan and Reilly are the other movers.
Paul Dolan 11/8
Pat Kelly 10/3
John Joyce 7/2
AJ Heaney 5/1
Dave Doheny 6/1
John Heaney 6/1
Tom Henry 10/1
Paul McGettrick 10/1
Pa Ryan 12/1
Barry Conroy 16/1
Colm O'Donnell (16/1) 20/1
Denis Reilly (12/1) 20/1
Neil Corcoran 25/1
Gary Corcoran (40/1) 25/1
Digger Matthews 33/1
Dan Grennan 33/1
Barney Johnson (50/1) 33/1
James Henry 50/1
Conor Guinan (40/1) 66/1
Vince Meyler 100/1
Dick Hanratty 200/1
Jimmy Styles 500/1
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