Saturday’s first session was certainly full of drama at the fourth World Seniors Darts Championship from the Circus Tavern in Purfleet.
Legends Steve Beaton, Richie Burnett, John Henderson, Robert Thornton and multiple WSD major winner Leonard Gates battled with lesser known qualifiers Graham Usher, Ross Montgomery and Derek Coulson joining them.
Coulson was first into the semi-finals with a convincing 3-1 victory over the defending Champion John Henderson, the Welshman had already taken out big names in the persons of Merv King and Tony O’Shea and his fairy-tale run continued.
Recent tour card holder Graham Usher revealed his passionate side after struggling in the early stages against America’s multiple WSD major winner Leonard Gates.
The American had started the stronger but Usher seemed to take offence at something early in set 2 and it brought out a fiery nature only rarely glimpsed before from the Englishman. The momentum he gained saw him level the encounter at 1-1.
‘The Gambler’ continued his newly discovered form and surged into the lead in set 3. he eventually claimed it 3-2 before taking the next, and the match, with further reply.
Steve Beaton’s debut appeared to be heading for a perfect conclusion as he overcame close friend, and 1995 Lakeside Champion, Richie Burnett. The Bronzed Adonis repeated his efforts in the final of the 1996 BDO World Championship final for a relatively comfortable 3-0 victory for the man who has most recently stepped off the PDC tour tour.
Ross Montgomery completed the semi-final line-up in Purfleet. ‘The Boss’ defeated his fellow Scot and two-time former world seniors champion Robert Thornton 3-1 to ensure a new name on the trophy in 2025.
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Images: Chris Sargeant / WSD
