One of the fiercest rivalries in darts is reignited this Thursday with the added spice of both players being in top form…
Between them they have won 20 world titles, they contested the most recent televised darts final and they also occupy the top two positions in the Premier League table. Phil Taylor faces Raymond van Barneveld in a repeat of many classic encounters with both players on top of their game.
Having said that, Barney’s return to prominence is far from complete. He still has the biggest obstacle of them all to overcome; the belief that he can once again beat Taylor.
In his pomp the Dutchman was a match for The Power. He knew it and Taylor knew it and that is what made the rivalry so fierce (in the sporting sense), intense and enthralling. These days the Dutchman exudes a defeatist attitude that is the result of years of poundings from the magic of Taylor’s tungsten.
After last week’s victory over Gary Anderson Barney joked “I’ll call in sick next week!” Clearly said in jest but also further evidence of an underlying mental obstacle that he has yet to overcome in relation to the 15-time World Champion. You certainly wouldn’t hear Taylor making a similar comment.
In their previous Premier League meeting this season Taylor, ever aware of the importance of a fast start in this tournament, raced into a 6-0 lead. Only when the pressure was off and Barney felt that the game was already lost did he start showing the level of form that he has displayed against other opponents in the Premier League.
I hope I am wrong as Barney is my favourite player on the circuit – and for that reason I won’t personally be backing this – but a bet on Taylor in the handicap markets looks to be the only betting option here.
Taylor -3.5 legs can be backed at 11/10 with sponsors 888sport.com and would pay out on an 8-4, or better, win for The Power.
Recommended Bet:
Back Taylor – 3.5 legs @ 11/10 with 888sport
All odds quoted are available on 888sport. Sign-up for a new 888 Sport account by clicking through the banner below and get a free £15 bet. By signing up for a new account you also help to keep The Betting Blog going, so if you find our tips/previews useful and would like more of them in the future please sign-up for your new betting accounts by clicking through links that you see on our website. Many thanks.
Sport: Football