CARLOW’S Steven Lennon took to his Facebook page after his exit from the PDC World Darts Championships to thank his supporters, and also to take a swipe at those who took the time to post abusive messages towards him.

Steve Lennon reached the third round of the PDC William Hill World Darts Championship at Alexandra Palace Photo: Luke Walker/Getty Images

Lennon turned in his best performance at darts’ biggest competition with a brilliant second round win over 12th seed Krzysztof Ratajski to reach the last 32 for the first time. It also ensured the biggest payday of his career so far with all players who reach the third round guaranteed £25,000.

However, he ran into wily old veteran Mervyn King, almost 30 years Lennon’s senior, in the third round and the former BDO World Championship finalist whitewashed Lennon 4-0. Although a disappointing end, quite how anybody would see the need to send somebody abuse at this strong showing at such a difficult competition is beyond us but such is life on social media.

Lennon said: