THE top quality Southampton Darts Series proved just how strong it is when it attracted one of the world’s top players.

And it also underlined its strength in depth when the Australian visitor was knocked out by one of the league’s regulars.

Professional Darts Corporation player Simon Whitlock, pictured, joined the weekly competition at Bitterne Park Social Club and, as expected, made his way to the latter stages.

But the PDC player, ranked 13 in the world, fell 4-3 in the quarter finals of the main competition to Luke Getty from Bassett.

Getty, who hit four maximums during the competition, went on to defeat Steve Jannaway in the semis before getting the better of Kev Woodward, from Sholing, in the final.

Lordshill player Ron Atwill won the Plate competition with victory over Will Fisher in his final.

Steve Perren hit a 161 out-shot along with a 120 and 108 but lost out in the last 16 stage.

Southampton Social Clubs League: St Denys have retained the league title with three games to spare with a 9-0 result over Bitterne Park A.

Eastleigh FC’s Sid Woolgar hit a 15- dart leg to go with his maximum as his side beat Cue Sports 6-3.