Tendring Masters qualifier see darts stars head for finals

Taking place at the Comrades Sports and Social Club in Clacton, the event drew 59 competitors, marking the highest turnout of the series.

The qualifier was a pivotal contest in the lead-up to Finals Night at the Princes Theatre, and showcased both established players and newcomers.

Sare, a former Essex County player and finalist in the 2025 Tendring Open, dominated the top half of the draw.

He advanced to the semi-finals with ease, dropping just a single leg along the way. His route to the final included victories over first-time entrants Callum Rayner (3–1), Paul Foley (3–0), Steve Western (3–0), and William Cowley (3–0).

In the semi-finals, he bested Gavin Payne, a former Essex and Suffolk County player, with a decisive 3–0 scoreline.

The bottom half of the draw saw Joshua Gregory, the runner-up from Qualifier Four, again demonstrating his prowess.

He began his campaign by knocking out reigning champion Paul Williams (3–1), who faced an unexpected early exit for the second consecutive time.

Gregory then overcame Chris Denny, another newcomer, with a solid 3–0 performance, before moving past Paul Kempen (3–1) and last year's finalist Darren O'Neill (3–0).

In a tightly contested semi-final against Matthew Good, Gregory squeezed through with a 3–2 victory to secure his place in the final.

The championship match pitted Sare's experience against the burgeoning talent of Gregory.

Ultimately, Sare sealed the deal with a 3–1 victory to claim the Qualifier 5 title and secure his spot at Finals Night.

Despite this setback, Gregory’s strong showing throughout the tournament allowed him to extend his lead atop the Grand Prix Points Table, now eight points clear.

With just one qualifier remaining, he and the other contestants will be eyeing the final opportunity to stake their claims for the Grand Finals.

The last qualifier for the Tendring Masters Rab Scott Trophy will be held this Saturday, January 24, at Clacton Sports Bar, promising fierce competition with two places still up for grabs at Finals Night.

Registration for participation is open until 12.45pm, with play scheduled to kick off at 1.15pm.

Spectators can also secure their tickets for the Grand Finals Night on February 13, featuring leading figures from the world of darts - including PDC stars Ritchie Edhouse and Ryan Meikle, former Seniors star Richie Howson, and former PDC professional Steve Maish.