Sunderland AFC stars test their skills against darts legends in special event

Gary Anderson, left, and Phil Taylor, right, took on four Sunderland AFC stars in a special night of darts.

Phil Taylor and Gary Anderson – who have 18 world darts titles between them – were at the Stadium of Light for a special event.

The sporting evening saw the duo face off against Sunderland players Jack ‘The Lad’ Rodwell, Lee ‘The Mole’ Cattermole, Vito ‘Italian Stallion’ Mannone and Billy ‘Cheese Strings’ Jones, who all showcased their skills on the oche.

Lee Cattermole was the most impressive footballer on the oche.

The fun event had a competitive edge, and culminated with a re-run of the 2015 PDC World Darts Championship final, which Anderson won.

Hundreds of fans were at the night, which sold out in a matter of hours at one of just five venues to host the two darts legends in the event.

‘The Power’ Taylor defeated ‘The Flying Scotsman’ in the final encounter, after impressing throughout the night.

From a Sunderland perspective, though, Cattermole was the star man, impressing as he threw 100 with his first three darts.

Vito Mannone takes aim under the watchful eye of Gary Anderson, Phil Taylor and Billy Jones.

The midfielder said: “It was a great event to be part of.

“Myself and the lads were actually a little bit nervous, but Phil and Gary were brilliant in giving us tips and helping to put us at ease.

“I think all the fans there on the on the night had a great time.

“They were certainly a lively crowd, and money was raised for the Foundation of Light too, which is a fantastic cause.”

For further information on events at the Stadium of Light, visit www.safc.com, call 0871 911 1555 or email conf&banq@safc.com.