By Alex Moss
4 MAY 2017 • 10:26AM
Phil Taylor admits he loves playing against rival Michael van Gerwen ahead of the two facing off in the Betway Premier League in Sheffield tonight.
The 16-time world champion has been overtaken by van Gerwen as the world number one during the last few years, but heading into their latest clash at The Sheffield Arena this evening Taylor knows how important a win over his fierce rival would be.
Taylor could seal a play-off place for his farewell Premier League season should he defeat van Gerwen and other results go his way.
“Getting into the top four has been the target all season and it would be great if I can make it into the semi-finals,” he said.
“Even though I’m fourth it’s really tight, so I’ve just got to try and get the result against Michael. I love playing against him and it should be another good match.”
League leader and reigning champion van Gerwen ended his double-header in Birmingham last week with a whitewash of Adrian Lewis, before hitting a nine darter as he won Players Championship 9 on Saturday.
“I’m feeling great and it’s good that I qualified (for the play-offs last week), but I want to make sure I finish top of the table so I want to keep my form going,” the world champion said.
“I know if I win I will finish top so I’m aiming for that against Phil. It’s never easy against him but I’m confident and playing well.”
Betway Premier League
Night 14 – Thursday May 4
The Sheffield Arena
Peter Wright v Adrian Lewis
Raymond van Barneveld v Dave Chisnall
James Wade v Gary Anderson
Michael van Gerwen v Phil Taylor
Tickets: 0114 256 5656 or via http://www.sheffieldarena.co.uk
* Find out what the Weekly Dartscast team are predicting for the Premier League tonight by listening to this week’s podcast via the player below.
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