No practice makes perfect for McKenna

Irish darts legend Jack McKenna has revealed one of the secrets of his success - he never practices.

The 60-year-old qualifier rolled back the years to clinch a memorable 2-1 win over Cliff Lazarenko in the first round of the Paddy Power World Grand Prix last night.

’Big Cliff’ edged the first set by three legs to two before McKenna took the next set 3-0.

Both players shared the first two legs of the deciding set but McKenna held his nerve to win the next two for a superb victory.

McKenna is probably best remembered as Paul Lim’s opponent when the ’Singapore Slinger’ produced a nine-dart finish at the 1990 world championship – but all that could change in Dublin this week.

The Newbridge thrower now faces the toughest test in darts on Thursday when he takes on 10-time world champion Phil ’The Power’ Taylor in the second round.

But McKenna will not prepare any differently for the clash, which means he’ll not spend any time on the practise board.

“I won’t practise, I don’t practise,” he said. “I used to years ago but now I just pick up my darts and play in a tournament.

“I used to practice for three hours a day but not anymore. If I left my darts for six months and then picked them up again I’d throw like I did last night. I just have a natural ability.”

And it is McKenna’s superb ability at the oche which could pose one or two problems for Taylor in a mouth-watering tie.

The Irish star does not fear playing arguably the greatest player ever to grace the game, and is even relishing the challenge.

“That’s another day and another game,” he added. “I’ll just play the same because I love the game.

“I love the game that much that I won’t give it up.”

Taylor is also looking forward to the match after sampling the atmosphere of McKenna’s first-round encounter.

Speaking after his emphatic 2-0 win over Keith Deller, Taylor said: “I think you are going to see a good match with Jack on Thursday.

“There was a fantastic atmosphere when Jack was playing and I can’t wait - I’m really looking forward to it.”