My overall evaluation of the match is that Dennis was not well prepared to play on this particular table and remained somewhat uncomfortable on it for the first two and half days, gradually getting the feel of it a little bit at a time. He was still behind by 5-6 games on day three when he seemed to find his stroke and his game. That's when I first saw him get loose and start to play his A game. He quickly closed the gap and ended the day only one game behind.
For all the world it looked like Tony was ripe to be had on day four. Many were saying that Tony would fold under the pressure. I didn't think that would be the case and I said so to several people, saying I didn't think Tony's game would go down and Dennis had to continue with his best pool, and he did! What was unexpected was that Tony would raise his game even higher, finding and shooting several remarkable shots that turned games around. Dennis helped him out by failing to run balls when he had the chance. Normally we would expect to see Dennis run seven or eight and out with an open table and this was not the case. He was running three, four and five and getting stuck. Even getting six balls ahead was no guarantee of a win. Tony would bank a ball off the end rail and tie the game up or go ahead in a blink of an eye.
In the end it was Tony's high caliber offense that took the day, Dennis waving the white flag and offering his hand. Dennis was a gracious loser and quietly packed his equipment while Tony basked in his victory. To their credit both men acted like true sportsmen throughout the four days. There was no whining or complaining, or even any talking while the other man was at the table. They were quiet (VERY QUIET) and serious, both intent on doing the best they possibly could. It was beautiful pool between two greats of the game.
I appreciate those who reached out to me and thanked me for my commentary. For those who would attempt to belittle me, I defy any of you to pick out on a television monitor the insane shots Tony found in the pack. It was Efrenesque the way he fooled everyone in the room, commentators included. I was literally stunned by some of the shots he pulled off. Also his ability to kick open balls toward his hole was mesmerizing as well. The way Tony banked with utter confidence and pocketed long difficult shots with ease left me in awe of his ability. Yet in spite of all Tony's numerous skills, Dennis found a way to battle him neck and neck to the end. If ever there was a match that calls for a rematch, this would be it. :thumbup2:
