WE are getting towards the conclusion of round one with three more nights of top tungsten and could be a better night for maximums.
With the likes of Michael Smith and Robert Thornton on the coupon, the most 180s for the night in the event there is a specials coupon, we anticipate Thornton to be the narrow favourite with Smith in a close second in this market.
The match of the night is arguably Thornton versus Norris. Norris came over from the BDO in January time and has enjoyed limited success in his debut season. This includes a pro tour title back in October.
Thornton is short at 8/15 with Norris out at 2/1. The big stage for Norris will be a unique experience at this event. The compilers seem to have markets well covered, and the best of five set is a market, where the game could be over in as few as nine legs if the losing opponent does not get going.
One bet I did like the look of in the Norris game is for NO 180 in the first leg. Now when I looked at the prices, most are around 1/2, whereas Paddy Power are as BIG as 8/11. This will need some luck to help come in but the conversion rate of leg one maximums in this competition have been few and far between. In addition, players do need some time to warm up and get going. Hoping for a 140, or a stray dart will win this bet.
Thornton has a reputation for maximums but has not been hitting as many recently. Id rather oppose an even money shot for a 180 to occur in leg one than no 180. I have played this market before with success and will be cautious with a one point stake.
Michael Smith Vs Jeffrey De Zwann in the bookmakers eyes is a foregone conclusion with Smith at 1/4 generally. I did look at the 180 markets, but again compilers have this covered. De Zwann is a quick player and this will suit Smith, although when it comes to 180's we cannot place too much confidence on him especially in round one. Michael's priority is to get through the game.
With Wade playing the winner of the prelim game, the prices for this are to be confirmed, but again, Monday night does not offer too much in the way of betting plays. I will imagine Thornton to win and Smith -1.5 sets will be a popular double, but not for me.
Recommendation
- NO 180 1st leg – Thornton/Norris – 8/11 Paddy Power 1pt (Any shorter prices = no bet)
Thornton and Smith most 180`s is 2/1 with Skybet
Nice wee Double i think
I was tempted to put up the double also but something held me back on this occasion. Few bets are available tonight with pricing that has a case to make.
Tuesday and Wednesday will bring more opportunities just that best of five sets I bare in mind it can be a banana skin format if its a whitewash in all three sets
lockuptipster, well done with yesterday’s tips and look forward to the next one.
M Smith -1 180 was also considered but was the wrong side of evens. I expect Thornton to hit most 180s as the Norris throw is less consistent but the most 180s double does pay 3.34 at Boylesports
***One extra bet***
Thornton most 180s vs Norris – 1/1 Boylesports (1pt)
World Championship darts
Single:
Smith vs de Zwaan, most 180’s Smith 8/11
Double:
Thornton vs Norris, over 3.5 sets
Smith vs de Zwaan, highest checkout Smith
11/10
Smith has shown he can rack up the 180’s and this year looks as though he wants to push on and put his unprofessional issues behind him. De Zwaan is also a quick thrower who is quite handy on 180’s but I think Smith should get more as the pace of the match will be suited to him because he generally puts in his best performances when the game is fast moving and not sedate.
Norris is certainly good enough to take at least a set of Thornton and vice versa. Norris will get his fair share of 140’s and maximums so I think he could potentially be defending his throw well and on that basis the underdog should win one set for the match to go over the 3 line.
Smith is excellent on ton plus checkouts. Last year at the worlds he hit a 170 against Bunting. He is also good on other combination finishes using the treble twenty like 160, 152 as well as utilising other trebles on the board or even going the double double route on ocasions. I feel if Smith gets presented with a high out shout, there is a fair chance he will take it out whereas de Zwaan will just fall short.
Prices with Bet365
Good luck all