Penparcau’s Martin Thomas is through to Champions Week of the Modus Online Live League after a remarkably consistent week leading up to the playoff finals last night.

Tom’o won an incredible 16 out of the 19 games he played in Southampton, the third defeat coming in the final against Conan Whithead.

The 48-year-old, tired after the final which was played late into the night, was packing his bags to head off to Coventry to compete in the pro tour’s PDC Super Series 5 at the Ricoh Arena (5-8 July), as he gave his verdict.

“What an experience. I’ve loved it to be honest. If you’d given me 16 games out of the 19 before the start I’d have taken it.”

On finding his rich vein of form he added: “I used to put a lot of pressure on myself and now it’s more like it’s not the end of it if you miss. My focus is better as is my concentration and mindset.

“I just feel more comfortable with the game of darts. Before I used to worry about it, but now it’s if they go they go and there’s nothing you can do about it if they don’t.”

He added: “The feedback from back home has been immense, thank you to everyone for all the comments. Social media for me has increased a lot. The phone doesn’t stop ringing. I’d like to thank you all and also all of my sponsors.”

As he was getting ready to leave his hotel room he gave his thoughts on next week’s tournament: “You’re playing against the best in the world and if you don’t take your opportunities they’ll take you out.

“It’s just nice to mix it with the big boys and be a part of it. If it never happens again at least I’ve achieved what I’ve always wanted to do, play top level darts.”