Phil Taylor says he needs two more wins to reach the Premier League play-offs
Friday 8 April 2016 14:01, UK
Phil Taylor believes he is two wins away from reaching the Premier League play-offs ahead of Thursday's double-header in Sheffield.
The six-time champion will play twice this evening, live on Sky Sports, as he attempts to retain top spot in the table.
Taylor begins against defending champion Gary Anderson, who he defeated in Dublin, before ending the schedule with a closing match against James Wade.
"I love playing Gary and this will be another big match because we're getting into the business end of the season now," said Taylor, who holds a one-point lead at the top of the table.
"I think I need another couple of wins to be sure of getting to The O2 and I'm pushing for that now because I really want to qualify. I've done okay so far and only lost once, so I know my game's in good shape."
Van Gerwen sits just behind Taylor in second-place, tied on 13 points with Anderson, and hopes to end his wait for a win against Robert Thornton after three successive draws.
His confidence is high after the last couple of weeks so I know I'll have to play my best darts.
The world No 1 said: "I've not been at my best in the last three weeks and I've made too many mistakes, but this is a new game and I'll make sure that I'm ready for Robert.
"His confidence is high after the last couple of weeks so I know I'll have to play my best darts.
"We always have fantastic matches so I won't be taking him lightly and I'm determined to get back to winning ways and back to the top of the table."
James Wade v Raymond van Barneveld
Gary Anderson v Phil Taylor
Robert Thornton v Michael van Gerwen
Adrian Lewis v Peter Wright
Phil Taylor v James Wade
Watch Premier League Darts on Thursday, live on Sky Sports 2 HD at 7pm. Or watch live for £6.99 without a contract, on NOW TV.
