Ones to Watch in 2012 Update 1 by The Suit

Posted on February 22nd, 2012

A couple of months ago we had a look at the prospects for the 2012 season, which may well prove to be one of the most important and impressive seasons in the history of the PDC ( our main focus). For established professionals now is the time to consolidate; climb those rankings or protect a hard fought for position. For the those just settling in and newcomers to the circuit, the new qualification systems will give them maximum opportunity to gain exposure and ranking points for that all important top 64 placing (or will it be 48 or 32!). So after Q School and two events of each type, seeded and open, how are some of our Ones to Watch coming on?

Existing professionals

Ian ‘Diamond White’ kicked off the strongest of our little band; a tremendous opening weekend in Benidorm with a 9 dart finish and a semi-final place confirms that playing darts with less domestic and financial pressures will suit Ian perfectly. The additional £’s won here will ensure that the tour is less of a strain and his prospects are even brighter! Although the second weekend was less impressive, it is no great surprise as the Open draw format will provide both highs and lows.

Mickey Mansell – A good steady start on the first weekend and then a superb run in The World Cup, almost carrying Brendon on occasion, meant that Michael’s appearance in the last 16 in Crawley was no shock at all. Again we suggest a close watch here as Mike will just get better and better, and the more relaxed he gets the more dangerous he will become.

The Mad Monk – Also kicked off strong and consistently with good pick ups in both weekends ensuring decent placing for this season. Aaron has put in some excellent performances, but more importantly has played well in defeat. If he can maintain this start his progress will be certain this year.

The Newcomers

Johnny ‘Cam’o'flage’ Haines has taken to PDC life like a duck to water, which is no surprise as he breezed through Q School, even having a day off in the middle! The start of the main tour proved no problem to Jonny, passing on Benidorm he made his debut in close to home Crawley. So far he has played 10 games and won 8, including runs to the last 16 and the quarter-finals. His list of scalps is impressive and includes Wayne Jones and Dean Winstanley. As predicted Jonny fears no one and will cause many more shocks over the year. Obviously it will get more difficult as players become aware of him and the pressure may build, but our one to watch as certainly lived up to his billing so far.

Andrew ‘Goldfinger’ Gilding also started well, gaining a win and first money/points on his debut in Crawley. He always seemed a more careful and thoughtful player to me, so don’t be surprised if he takes a little time to adjust, but then makes huge strides as he finds his PDC feet, this it would seem is his style.

Not a bad a start for some of our Ones to Watch, however, it is early days. Look out for further updates in respect of the other guys after a few more events have passed, after all not all can set the world on fire week 1!

Tags: Andrew Gilding, Ian White, Jonny Haines, Lets Play Knockout Darts, Ones to watch, PDC Tour, The Suit
Filed under Callum Harris, Darts Blog, News, PDC |