It seems to me that Colin’s mind just isn’t focused enough on the job at the moment. The guy oozes class….he is still one of the best darts players in the world but it just ain’t happening for him.
Knowing him as I do, he will be having a long hard think about the situation back home in Essex after his shock departure from the World Matchplay here in sunny Blackpool. I spoke to him before the tournament to do a preview for the Unicorn website. He sounded confident, upbeat and ready to defend his crown…..but as we all know, his defeat by Steve Maish on Monday night sent Lloydy packing.
It has been a tough few months for him away from darts. He has endured some personal problems, which will stay private….but the situation has clearly affected Lloyd’s performance.
Remember that old saying…. “Form is temporary but class is permanent”… that certainly applies in Lloyd’s case. I have no doubt that he will win major titles and be crowned World Champion in the next decade.
He will be back…..he knows he has to get his head straight and clear any doubts and demons that may be there as soon as possible.
Lloyd will now get a complete break from darts for the next three or four weeks, before he competes in the World Darts Trophy in Holland in September….by the way he has been drawn against Peter Manley in the 1st round.
But that break will do him good…..he is due to move into a new flat and it may be a good idea to forget about darts for a fortnight – and come back with head straight and ready to play.
He has fought his way to the top of the world rankings….he now has to fight again to prove a point – mainly to himself. He will be the first to admit that he hasn’t been himself since that shattering 1st round exit at the World Championships, when he was beaten by qualifier Gary Welding.
I firmly believe it is now up to Colin to put his life in order and come back stronger, fitter and tuned in over the next 18 months.
What do you think? Let me know!
Стюарт Пайк (Stuart Pyke)
25 Июля 2006 01:51