Though I need to be neutral while commentating, I would also like to see Team USA do well. They haven't done much the last few years and are in the unenviable position that Team Europe used to be in - The Underdogs! I thought they had a great chance last year in Vegas and too many missed shots and poor position play doomed them. It takes character, guts and cool under pressure to win this competition.
I also like the addition of Brandon Shuff and JOHNNY ARCHER to an already strong nucleus of Shane, Dechaine and Hatch. If this team can hold it together for four days, they could pull off an upset. Europe without Ralf Souquet is missing one of their mainstays for decades. Mika has also been a strong presence for them and he's out this year as well. That said, they remain the favorite imo, especially at York Hall.
I've told a couple of the young guns for USA the atmosphere is kind of like playing a money match in a poolroom where everyone is crowded around the table, chattering away. They could relate to that assessment, so at least they know what lies ahead for them. I foresee a great Mosconi Cup and a close competition. If you can watch it live on the net by all means do so. It's about the best thing going in the pool world!
