Anchor text - what if the URL is itself the keyphrase?

[jdbnd]

So here's my question. I've got a few sites whose URLs are identical to the main head keyphrase (2-4 words) I want them to rank for (no hyphens though). This has clearly benefited them in the SERPS.

For links, I've been trying to get more natural looking anchor text (i.e. the keyphrase with spaces between the words, whether alone or with some additional words), but my question is:

When I get a link whose anchor text is just the URL, do I still benefit in Google's eyes because the URL IS the keyphrase?

Joe

[wheel]

I'd be unloading with both barrels on that one. If you own #*$!, I'd be going to town on anchor text that says 'Red Widgets'.

[jdbnd]

All I do all day long... what a grind though.

Joe