TheOche.com

Ronnie O’Sullivan won four Snooker Premier League titles in straight succession, and Phil Taylor is looking to do the same feat in the Darts Premier League.

PDC:

Taylor has never been defeated in Premier League Darts since the tournament began in 2005, winning the first three years of the event.

“To win a fourth straight title is a massive goal of mine,” said Taylor, who opens his account against Premier League debutant James Wade in Glasgow.

“The Premier League is a huge event now and the crowds are absolutely brilliant, and it’s very special that I’ve remained unbeaten for three years.

“This will be the hardest Premier League ever, but I’m really up for it and looking forward to getting started.”

Taylor has not played competitively since a quarter-final defeat to Wayne Mardle in the Ladbrokes.com PDC World Championship a month ago.

“I’ve been practising really hard,” he added. “It’s been lonely at times but I’m really looking forward to getting back out there.

“I’m very excited about the next couple of years and this tournament is a big chance for me to start the year with a bang!”

Five-time World Champion Raymond van Barneveld has joined Taylor in taking a break from competitive following a disappointing third round exit to Kevin Painter at the World Championship.

The Dutchman enjoyed a holiday to Dubai ahead of his opening clash against Wayne Mardle in Glasgow.

“I needed a break but I’m refreshed now,” he said. “I can’t wait to play my first game against Wayne in Glasgow.”

Van Barneveld and Mardle kick off the 2008 Whyte & Mackay Premier League, with last year’s runner-up Terry Jenkins facing Adrian Lewis in the night’s second match at the sold-out SECC.

World Champion John Part makes his return to Premier League Darts in game three, when he meets Peter Manley – who joins Taylor as one of the two ever-presents from all three years of the tournament.

Taylor’s clash with Wade makes up the final game of the evening, with all matches over the best of 14 legs – with the first player to eight legs deemed the winner or the two league points being shared for a seven-all draw.

All matches will be shown live on Sky Sports One, with the action commencing at 7.30pm.

2008 Whyte & Mackay Premier League Darts
Night One, SECC, Glasgow

Raymond van Barneveld v Wayne Mardle
Adrian Lewis v Terry Jenkins
Peter Manley v John Part
Phil Taylor v James Wade

Live on Sky Sports One, 7.30pm