Aaron Devine produces fine form to take latest trial

Westmeath County Darts

The tenth Westmeath darts trial took place in Don’s Bar, Moate, on Sunday October 26, with 30 throwers turning up to the oche.

Points were at a premium as the trials near their conclusion, with only two remaining. Every point is now crucial in the battle to make the county team.

There were six groups of five, with the top two in each group qualifying automatically for the knockout stages, while the four best third-placed players completed the last 16 line-up.

Some excellent darts were thrown in the group stages, with Jason Waters, Johnny Broughan, Chris Connor and Peter Donlon all in fine form.

The last 16 produced several intriguing ties. James Joyce overcame Chris Connor 3-1 with some outstanding darts, Peter Donlon edged out Johnny Broughton 3-1 in a close encounter, while Aaron Devine defeated Ray Enright 3-2 after a great battle.

The quarter-finals served up more high-quality action. James Joyce saw off Ben Corcoran in an excellent contest, Aaron Devine produced superb darts to beat Jason Waters 3-2, Harmon Hannon continued his fine run with an impressive 3-0 win over Peter Donlon, and Mick Smyth prevailed 3-2 against Ger Forde in a thrilling game.

Quarter-final results: J Joyce bt B Corcoran 3-2; A Devine bt J Waters 3-2; H Hannon bt P Donlon 3-0; M Smyth bt G Forde 3-2.

In the first semi-final, Aaron Devine faced James Joyce. Devine took the opening leg in 16 darts before Joyce replied with a 15-darter, but Devine finished strongly to win 3-1.

The second semi-final saw Mick Smyth take on Harmon Hannon. Many expected Hannon to continue his impressive form, but it was Smyth who dominated, winning 3-0 with excellent darts, including three tons in one leg and some clinical finishing.

That set up a final between two in-form and deserving newcomers, Smyth and Devine.

In the opening leg, Smyth took it in 16 darts, hitting back-to-back 140s. Devine responded in the second with a superb 130 checkout to level the match at 1-1. Smyth then produced a 116 checkout to move 2-1 ahead, before Devine levelled once more at 2-2. Smyth regained the lead at 3-2 with a tidy 74 finish, but Devine showed great composure to take the sixth leg and force a decider.

The final leg was a tense, high-quality shootout. With Smyth sitting on 58, it looked like he would get his chance, but Devine - needing 134 - checked it out superbly to seal a 4-3 victory and a well-deserved win on the day.

Both players earned great credit for a thrilling final, producing top-class checkouts and consistent scoring throughout.

Westmeath Darts wish to thank Don’s Bar, Moate, for their hospitality, which was much appreciated by all in attendance.

The 50/50 draw winner was Kevin Gilmore - congratulations to him.

The next trial takes place in Shamrocks, Mullingar, on Sunday November 23 at 2pm. Registration closes at 1.30pm - all are welcome.