I watched every match from beginning to end. It was one of the best Mosconi Cups ever. Great play by both teams, and almost all were exciting matches. No one played bad as far as I could see. Every player had their good moments as well as their bad ones. But far more good than bad is what I witnessed. There was some amazing play by both sides. Fantastic shotmaking, remarkable cue ball positioning and superlative safeties. Ten GREAT players locked horns this week in London and someone had to win. If the same two teams play again next year, it could easily go the other way.
Team Europe was inspired from the first ball being struck, partly by the very supportive home crowd, and partly from a desire to avenge their disheartening loss last year, when they were favored. But Team USA refused to fold, fighting back to win some hard fought matches, when they absolutely had to. Like I said, one GREAT Cup!
It's a tribute to the American pros that they handled the pressure of York Hall so well. Lesser players couldn't have done that. The last four days only made me admire Shane, Johnny, Rodney, Dennis and Corey that much more. ALL World Class players!
I agree that congratulations are in order for Team Europe. They beat a strong US squad of seasoned vets. Mika played great all the way, Ralf played like Ralf (especially at the end), Karl was the best "rookie" this side of Dennis Hatch, Nick showed why he is considered a great clutch player and Darren was UNBELIEVABLE! Darren came up with big shot after big shot, and always under pressure. Sure he got a couple of rolls, but there is a reason why you get rolls. It usually happens when you go for a very difficult shot....and succeed!
I love The Open and DCC is a lot of fun, but for sheer excitement nothing matches the Mosconi!