Friday 15th saw me head over the border to take part in my second Scottish open. My previous year I ended up in the last 32, beaten by the fantastic OB, Maria O'Brien. I needed to go better to not only defend my previously gained points but to hopefully win more money to go towards future comps.
We arrived at our hotel just opposite the Erskine Bridge with just enough time to freshen up before I had to head out as Friday was Triples night. I was playing with fellow Lancashire team mates David Evans and Lee Shewan. The Normandy Hotel and darts venue was brimming with people all darting, drinking and having fun.
The darts got underway and I took a little while to get going but when I did the scores and the doubles came thick and fast. We played well as a team. After our first 3.0 victory we discovered we were then to face reigning champions of Lorraine & Dean Winstanley and Wes Newton. With no fear we threw some more. My last 6 darts were a 180 followed by a 118 check out. We had knocked out the champs. We went on a couple more games before we were finally just beaten in the last 16 of the triples.
My team mates and opponents were very complimentary about my game. Who ever said women could not play darts! Lorraine and I had a fantastic game, more than matching the men.
Saturday saw the start of the singles competition. This is the one I needed to focus on. I needed to go better than the previous year. After reviewing my draw I saw yet again Maria O'Brien was the other seeded player in my group. If I was to win all my games I would face her yet again.
I took each game at a time. First game was against one of the nicest ladies on the BDO circuit Sandra Page. We played a steady game between us and I was victorious with a 3.0 result. I ploughed on through the group and before I knew it I was in the last 16. I had gone better than the previous year but this time I faced Maria O'Brien in the Group final.
Despite trying my hardest my arm would just not do what my eyes and mind were telling it. I did hit some fantastic darts but not consistently enough. I missed what opportunities I had to hit the double. Maria was the victor once more. Hopefully one day I will get the victory but I know when I do I will have to bring my A game.
Sunday was pairs day. Myself and sister in Law Heather Connerton tried to pick up & better where we left on last year. However despite playing some great darts we were beaten by the awesome Fallon Sherrock and partner.
Scotland was done. 12 points in the bag and £40 it was time to head home and get everything washed ready for Slovakia next weekend.
Another country to cross off. Jo the jetsetter!