What is First Dart Of The Match? First Dart Of The Match Explained in 2 minutes
Jesse M. Cox Last Verified
26/06/2026
First dart of the match is a term used in darts to describe the very first dart thrown in a match.
It is important to note that a match of darts is the overall contest between two players. However, a match is made up of a certain number sets which, in turn, are made up of legs.
First dart of the match does not mean the first dart of a set or leg but only the first dart thrown in the first leg of the first set only.
A player’s target with their first dart of the match would be land a first dart treble 20, which would give the player the best possible chance of scoring the maximum total of 180. This would then put their opponent under pressure.
How is First Dart of the Match used in Sports Betting?
Betting on first dart of the match is a naturally a quick market to bet on as only the very first dart counts.
However, many bookmakers will run a first dart of the match market as it does provide an opportunity for a fast pay out.
The most popular bet will be on the player hitting a treble 20 as that will be the target, as it sets the player up for a nine-dart-finish - the ultimate achievement in the game.
However, as the 20 segment is sandwiched between the five and one score sections, they can often prove to be a popular betting option.
Did you know…
Sixteen-time World Darts champions Phil ‘the Power’ Taylor’s first ever televised match came at the BDO Canadian Open in 1988 against Chris Johns.
Taylor’s first dart of the match was a single 20 but he went on to win the leg and match.
