Lloyd Happy To Handle Pressure

COLIN LLOYD will head to Blackpool this weekend in determined mood as he defends the Stan James World Matchplay.

Lloyd won his second major title when he defeated John Part 18-12 last July to claim the coveted trophy, which had been won for five successive years by Phil Taylor.

After defeats to Taylor in the Budweiser UK Open and Chris Mason in the first round of the Las Vegas Desert Classic last month, Lloyd is itching to get back to top form.

He meets Southend's Steve Maish in the first round at Blackpool's Winter Gardens, and has set his sights on the £30,000 first prize.

"There will be a little bit of pressure on me, but I don't think it will affect me too much," he said. "It was a goal of mine to win it and I've done that.

"Obviously it would be great to defend it and I'll be giving it 100% effort to do that, but I'm not putting pressure on myself.

"I'm really looking forward to it, and hopefully I'll be up for it and perform. It's going to be a great tournament."

Live Commentary and match highlights will be available throughout the Stan James World Matchplay for DartsTV subscribers, along with a free scorecentre to follow the action.

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