Taylor Targets Lucky 13

PHIL TAYLOR has set his sights on winning a 13th World Championship title when he begins his challenge at the Circus Tavern on Monday.

Taylor will meet qualifier David Platt in the first round of the 64-man Ladbrokes.com World Championship on Monday night.

The Power is looking to take an unprecedented 13th World title, and also add a record £100,000 to his bank account by winning the tournament, which boasts a £500,000 prize fund this year.

"I've always said I wanted 13 world titles and that would mean so much to me," said Taylor.

"The prize money is fantastic, but winning more titles is my motivation.

"I think it's going to be a fantastic tournament this year. The changes are great for the game.

"But the money is just a bonus - I want that 13th title."

Taylor has added interest in this year's event after his practice partner and protgege - 20-year-old Adrian Lewis - qualified by right after moving up to 20th in the World Rankings.

"He's done really well this year, without a shadow of a doubt," says Taylor. "I'm really proud of him.

"I think he can go all the way. There is plenty of time yet and no rush so he's got to keep working hard.

"We're good for each other, me and Adie. We push each other.

"There is a secret but only we know what it is - and we're telling nothing!"

Lewis will face PDPA qualifier Dave Honey in the first round, and is looking forward to making his Circus Tavern.

"Funnily enough, I was at the World Championship last year watching Phil and I was talking to a couple of other players, and I said I wanted to make the top 25 by the end of 2005," said Lewis.

"They laughed at me, but they can't laugh now because I've done it and done better than I expected to be honest.

"It's going very well working with Phil. I'm playing well and we have been practising hard.

"Phil is brilliant and his drive is amazing - and he drives me on too."

Tickets for the first three days of the Ladbrokes.com World Darts Championship are still available - click here for details.