James Wade explains why Phil Taylor was his toughest opponent
Saturday 16 March 2019 14:47, UK
James Wade has revealed how Phil 'The Power' Taylor's ability to hit "magical finishes at the right time" made him the most difficult opponent to face.
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Sixteen-time world champion Taylor built a 51-14 head-to-head record against Wade including the 2010 Premier League Darts final.
"He hit two nine-darters against me and, if he hadn't, he wouldn't have won," Wade remembered.
"The perfect timing, unfortunately."
Wade is now flying high in the Premier League, whitewashing Daryl Gurney a week after beating Michael van Gerwen.
But he still remembers the difficulty of playing Taylor who retired after the 2018 World Championship.
"He made some magical finishes, at the right time," Wade said. "I had never played a player who did what he did, at certain times in games, that would really hurt you.
"You knew Phil would always play well. And if he played a bad game he would drag you along.
"It's strange - I lost to him so many times but I always thought I would beat him. I never had doubt. I knew I would have to play well. It was enjoyable.
"He was dedicated. He sacrificed his whole life for the game. I'm not sure there is another player who would do that.
"I can't do that, because I'm not the ultimate darts player. He is."
Premier League heads to the Motorpoint Arena, Nottingham on Thursday, March 14. You can also stay up to date with all the action by following us @SkySportsDarts and get all the latest news, previews and interviews www.skysports.com/darts
