I woke up this morning, as I try to do most mornings, to catch the 10 am pool match on ESPN Classic. Usually what happens is I get up stumble to the couch and try my hardest to stay awake, but inevitably succumb to peaceful slumber. However, today was different. I got up turned on the TV and I saw that Earl was playing in this particular match so I was immediately interested. Besides being in my top 3 favorite players of all time Earl is always exciting to watch. I not only stayed awake for the entire match, but I was enthralled as Earl played nearly flawless 9-ball. With the exception of two shots it was some of the best I've ever seen. He was putting them in rapid fire with perfect speed and cueball control. It was like watching a machine. I know it's been debated many times already on this forum, but I just want to say again that while Earl rightfully draws some heat sometimes we should all feel privledged to have such a brilliant and exciting competitor in our sport. If every player was like Early ESPN would have us on live in primetime. Here's to you Earl. I'll be drinkin several for you tonight at happy hour.