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Even Taylor believes that Wade will win big titles in the next decade and he surely now has the belief to do just that.

But don’t take anything away from the maestro, who again produced the goods. In the last couple of months, the critics have been sharpening their knives….Taylor has responded and how!

Wade certainly set up a terrific final and a cheque for £15,000 will soften the blow of falling at the final hurdle.

He made a brilliant start….he had ice running through his veins and turned the heat up on Taylor, who was clearly feeling the pressure. The Young Gun raced into a 4-1 lead thanks to two brilliant 100 check-outs. The next nine legs went with throw. It was thrilling stuff but Wade paid a heavy price for missed doubles at a crucial time. He could easily have been 10-5 in front at the third break….instead, Taylor clawed his way back and Wade led 8-7. In the 14th leg Wade missed a dart at double 20 and in the 15th leg, he missed two darts at double 8…Taylor stepped in to punish him…..it proved to be a huge turning point.

‘The Power’ found that familiar surge and it was Wade who wilted. The 23-year-old looked tired and there is no doubt that Taylor’s vast experience of the big finals was the key to his victory.

After missing out at the UK Open and Las Vegas Desert Classic, you had the feeling all week that Taylor wasn’t going to make it a hat-trick of ‘Major’ tournament defeats.

Taylor won ten of the next 12 legs to take him to the verge of victory and although Wade kept battling away, there was no coming back.

‘The Power’ averaged 100, with Wade on 91 and they both hit five 180s.

Taylor said: “I am totally overwhelmed. When James first came out, he was brilliant and I was struggling, so I knew I had to up the ante. This week he has been sensational and he has let his darts do the talking. This tournament is just getting bigger and better and after the disappointment of losing in Bolton and Las Vegas, this feels just as special as winning my first World Matchplay.”

Wade said: “I think the occasion got to me in the end but I have had a brilliant week and I want more of the same! I gave the best player ever a run for his money, so I have got to be happy.”

2006 Stan James World Matchplay Final:

Phil Taylor 18-11 James Wade

Winner: £30,000 + 30 world ranking points

Runner-up: £15,000 + 24 world ranking points

BY STUART PYKE