PERFORMANCE OF THE YEAR: JOHNNY HAINES

JOHNNY Haines was expecting to be pipped to the post by Swindon Robins, but was proud to see his stunning victory over Raymond van Barneveld recognised by the town’s sports fans.

The Punk enjoyed an amazing first season on the PDC circuit which eventually saw him storm from Qualifying School all the way to the World Championships, but the highlight of 2012 was his impressive 6-5 victory over five-time world champion Barney.

Haines led the contest before being pegged back to 5-5, but held his nerve to win the deciding leg to silence van Barneveld’s home crowd to earn a victory which also secured him the Advertiser’s Performance of the Year award.

The High Street Club player was shocked to have picked up the prize, and admitted he was expected the Swindon Robins big win away at Lakeside to get the better of him.

“It is absolutely amazing to win the award, but I didn’t realise I had quite so many fans in Swindon,” he said.

“There are quite a few of us now playing in the PDC Tour events, so darts in the town is growing lots.

“It is getting bigger to bigger and it’s great the sport is being recognised.

“Beating Barney is still my best win in the game, particularly to do it in front of his home fans.

“He is a great player but maybe he took things a bit easier because he knew he was playing me, but if we ever play again he won’t make that same mistake.”