PHIL TAYLOR begins his challenge for an eighth Stan James World Matchplay title on Monday night, and is determined to get back to winning ways.
Taylor has suffered narrow defeats to Raymond van Barneveld in the PDC's last two major tournaments - the first time for over ten years that two successive titles have slipped through his grasp.
However, he admits that the arrival in the PDC ranks of van Barneveld in February has given him a new lease of life - despite the Dutchman edging him out in a deciding final leg in both the Budweiser UK Open and Las Vegas Desert Classic.
"They were brilliant games to be involved in," said Taylor. "When you do lose like that you're gutted but you can't be too hard on yourself.
"I'm not playing badly. I've been playing well and everything's fine even though I lost a couple of games.
"I'm quite confident going into the World Matchplay.
"People have mentioned that Raymond's not in the tournament but I'm not bothered who is there.
"I like him being in the tournaments though, it creates a good atmosphere and he has made me more determined now than ever and more professional."
Taylor saw his hopes of a sixth successive Blackpool title dashed by John Part 12 months ago with a 16-11 quarter-final defeat.
He could meet Part again in the second round this year, but is focusing only on his opening clash with 59-year-old Bob Anderson on Monday night.
"Bob's a good old player, a tough cookie to beat," added Taylor. "He's been around for a long time and has a lot of experience under his belt.
"He's no mug and it will be a good contest."
Taylor will be joined in Blackpool by fellow Stoke stars Adrian Lewis and Andy Hamilton.
Lewis made arguably his major breakthrough with a run to the last eight in 2005, before eventual champion Colin Lloyd came from behind to defeat him.
Hamilton, meanwhile, overcame van Barneveld in the PDC's qualifiers last month to win his place at the Winter Gardens.
"They're both doing exceptionally well at the moment," said Taylor, who practices every day with 21-year-old Lewis.
"I've known Adie for a couple of years and he's starting to realise his potential now. He reached his first big final at the World Series of Darts in May and the sky's the limit.
"Andy's having a great year too. He's played in two World Championships now and he knows what its like in front of the TV cameras.
"He beat Raymond too in the qualifiers, which is an achievement in itself and I'm sure he'll be confident."
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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