Barney battles Taylor first, before returning to the stage against James Wade
Thursday 6 April 2017 11:47, UK
Phil Taylor has compared his great rival Raymond van Barneveld to Ronnie O'Sullivan or Eric Bristow, as they prepare to meet in Dublin on Thursday, live on Sky Sports.
Taylor sits a point behind Van Barneveld following back-to-back wins, and the 16-time World Champion is excited by what could be his final big-stage battle with Van Barneveld, comparing him to snooker great O'Sullivan and 'The Crafty Cockney' Bristow - both five-time World Champions in their respective sports.
"I'm going okay - I've got 11 points and the aim is to get into the Play-Offs," Taylor told the official PDC website. "That's what I'm working towards and every point is crucial.
"It's going to be noisy in Dublin and I'll look forward to it, especially as I'm playing Barney. I always look forward to playing Barney and I enjoy it.
"It was close when we last played and I love playing him more than anyone. He's like Ronnie O'Sullivan or Eric Bristow, it's special, and I love the occasions."
The Dutchman will be bidding to extend his fine run of form in the Premier League when he doubles up alongside James Wade.
Van Barneveld is on the season's best run after winning four successive games during March, and could move top of the table.
The 2014 champion will play Taylor first, before returning to the stage against left-hander Wade for the night's final contest and has warned his opponents that he's in "dangerous" form.
"I'm happy with how it's going," said Van Barneveld. "I've won the last four matches now and I've got to take it one game at a time this week.
"It's a big night for me and I'm excited. The fans are fantastic everywhere and always in Ireland, and I love that.
"I want to take advantage of that and I'm enjoying it, and if I'm enjoying myself then Raymond van Barneveld is dangerous!"
You can see all the action from the 3Arena Dublin from 7pm on Sky Sports 3 HD. Grab a NOW TV Sky Sports Day Pass and watch Premier League Darts from Ireland on Thursday night for just £6.99. No contract.
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