GARY MAWSON returns to the scene of the best weekend of his career for the Blue Square UK Open.
The American reached the final of last year's UK Open, losing 11-7 to James Wade, and enjoyed a roller-coaster ride throughout the weekend.
He took narrow victories against Darren Johnson, Alex Roy and Mark Dudbridge, and knocked out defending champion Raymond van Barneveld in the semi-finals.
"It was brilliant," said Mawson. "I couldn't have asked for much more. Runner-up, for me, was quite an accomplishment and I enjoyed it thoroughly.
"In the entire event, other than James, there was only one dart to beat me, and that was Mark Dudbridge.
"Beating Barney any time is an achievement and a thrill. It wasn't the first time I'd beaten him and I've known him for a long time, but his accomplishments over the years, like Phil Taylor's, have been enormous.
"They are looked upon as the greats of the game and when anybody takes them out it's an achievement."
His likeness to the Liverpool FC manager Rafa Benitez also helped make Mawson a crowd favourite in Bolton last year, where he was also cheered on by some of his local-based family.
"The support was just unbelievable," he said. "All my family being from Bolton is a great asset, but friends I know from living and working in the area came along too.
"The resemblance with Rafa is kindof a bonus, because everyone seems to enjoy it!
"I do too, and I think it's a lot of fun. Whenever the crowd get excited it makes everybody excited and it's good for darts."
Mawson will enter this year's Blue Square UK Open at the first round stage on Thursday night, facing Holsten Qualifier Darren Weaver.
Read a full interview with Gary Mawson in the Blue Square UK Open programme, available from the PDC Merchandise Stall at the tournament.
Tickets are still available for the Blue Square UK Open, with prices starting at £10 via 0844 871 2932 or in person at the Reebok Stadium Box Office.