http://forums.azbilliards.com/showthread.php?t=441921
Actually, the US lagged better (8 to 6), and we were even in break and runs (13 each).
Mosconi Cup
- Thread starter Justin Bergman
- Start date
http://forums.azbilliards.com/showthread.php?t=441921
Actually, the US lagged better (8 to 6), and we were even in break and runs (13 each).
Stay away from the bar boxes. It's like a golfer playing mostly on a 5,000 yard course, then expecting to compete with the big boys on a 7,500 yard course.
All the best,
WW
I'm going to say one more thing hopefully make some people open their eyes. I played 3 matches. One singles where Mark Grey basically played a perfect set so he deserved to win. 5-1 I lose. Skyler and me win and Rodney and I won. So me personally, I won 2/3 matches. If anyone thinks someone is so far inferior be use you lost a race to 5 and basically didn't have a chance then I'm not sure what to say. Not bashing Europe either, they definitely played better and deserved the win. So most guys played two singles, and 1 double or 2 of each. I've lost and beaten Orcollo, SVB, etc 11-0 actually many times.
Crazy to read some of the things I've read on here I don't think is fair. Obviously Europe last 7 years have dominated. But don't think Dechaine, Skyker, and I can't go win a World title. I'm not saying this to be cocky or prove anything but I would play Albin, or Mark Gray, even 10 ball they outbreak me 9 on spot but 10 ball I've played more and still probably don't break as well. I think Darren is their best player, him and Neils. I've already played Jayson but I think he's a little better player now he's won everything. But also Skylers been to Qatar once, I've never been. We don't play those tournaments, so obsiouvly when you play 25 big events a year I hope you have some titles.
One thing I do agree with though is bar table kills us not just the points but everywhere in US most events are 7ft. Just take this year or next... I go back home, play Chohans tournament, Music City, then Derby(race to 3 banks and 1pocket), then there will be 6-7 more 7ft tournaments, then Turningstone LOL.. And they have tough fields... I could win 5 in a row and it wouldn't be as good as someone getting 5-6th in the China Open in most people's eyes
I'm also looking to start traveling and playing the bigger events. I'm going to go to Philippines for a month and after that plan on playing a lot international big tournaments.
Thanks for the nice post Justin. But for the shirt foul that match could have gone the other way. I really like the idea of you spending a month (or two) in the Philippines. I think you will love it there. There are no bar tables in the Philippines, all 9'! You will have no trouble finding games there. Any poolroom you enter someone will immediately ask you to play, and for money!
Good players everywhere, most of whom you've never heard of, but they can play. I think you'll love the challenge. A good game there is maybe a 5-10,000p bet ($100-200). That is what most good players like to play for. They always play Races, never ahead sets. Something like a Race to 15 or 21 is common. They love all Rotation games, plus Eight Ball. The good players over there prefer Ten Ball. DO NOT play Rotation with them though. You will get schooled if you do. :thumbup:
The conditions are not always the best, you must learn to adjust to all the different equipment you will encounter, and the humid conditions (bring powder!). It has done wonders for Skylar's game spending time over there. He left a boy and returned a man!
I want to assure you of one last thing Justin. You will play on winning MC teams in the future! That's my promise to you. :smile:
This is great news Justin.
I'm kind of curious since the Europeans dominate so well in the Mosconi Cup, if any of them will be stepping up to the plate to do some TWO-MAN tournaments with you. I know that some of the Europeans like to gamble.
Mosconi Cup is a unique event and doesn't represent who are the best players but who are the best players in that event.
Hopefully, by playing in a lot of big international tournaments on 9 foot table will continue to improve your resume.
Sure would like to hear from the rest of the Mosconi Cup in this forum.
JoeyA
I'm kind of curious since the Europeans dominate so well in the Mosconi Cup, if any of them will be stepping up to the plate to do some TWO-MAN tournaments with you. I know that some of the Europeans like to gamble.
Mosconi Cup is a unique event and doesn't represent who are the best players but who are the best players in that event.
Hopefully, by playing in a lot of big international tournaments on 9 foot table will continue to improve your resume.
Sure would like to hear from the rest of the Mosconi Cup in this forum.
JoeyA
Justin,
Good of you to post; I have yet to read the other posts. You talk graciously, and I can see the respect other pros have for you. That goes a LONG way in my book; and I love the way you play. Seen you play in Vegas BCA, and your friends/my friends like hanging with you. Your play in this Mosconi Cup held up very well; you may not say it, but I'll say that you elevate the play of your teammates, and that's the definition of a team player. You need to stay on this team along with Skylar. He's got a lot of upside to him.
--Chris
Good of you to post; I have yet to read the other posts. You talk graciously, and I can see the respect other pros have for you. That goes a LONG way in my book; and I love the way you play. Seen you play in Vegas BCA, and your friends/my friends like hanging with you. Your play in this Mosconi Cup held up very well; you may not say it, but I'll say that you elevate the play of your teammates, and that's the definition of a team player. You need to stay on this team along with Skylar. He's got a lot of upside to him.
--Chris
Justin, great shooting and thank you for representing the USA. It's awesome to have you post here. I really like the way you approach the game. It's funny, we've played twice and probably haven't exchanged words beyond 'call it', but sometimes you can just tell when someone's heart is in the right place. Blink theory, thin slicing, call it what you want. But anyone who's played you can tell, no drama, no negativity, just a passion for pool and the ambition to be the best you can.
Sounds like I'll see you in Beloit next weekend. Looking forward to it!
Sounds like I'll see you in Beloit next weekend. Looking forward to it!
theres one thing i read again and again and it bugs me a bit! many ppl say albin is great under pressure (which he is) but his skillset is not as big as in that case JBs! now im interrested in which department exactly albin has a lesser skillset?
breaking? JB admits himself not to be the best breaker
defensive game (safeties, kicking, jumping)?
cb positioning?
mindset?
winning the big ones?
tbh so far i only have seen JB playing a few times and hes quite a player for sure but not enough for me to judge him well enough....... but i saw albin playing countless times last 20 years and i dont see him lacking in any department above! do you see his stroke and his bodylanguage under pressure? hes an iceberg (sry, couldnt resist :grin: )! think he won now 9 matches at mosconi last 2 years, team USA won 10........
so please, what do i miss, where is albin lacking?
Thanks everyone. It was a huge honor getting to represent our country. Just wish we could have won because I know we can play with them.
As far as changing Mosconi, I think that's crazy. That's the one event that propel are talking about a year from now and that the fans are actually passionate about. They sell out literally days after announcing to thousands of people. It's live all over the world! How can they cancel and we are dead even after 23 Mosconi cups(one tie). I know Matchroom is smart and isn't going to lose money so why change or fix something that isn't broke? I don't like including Canada we don't need help and only player that would really really improve our team would be Alex P and prolly Morra but cmon Rodney, Dechaine, Skyler and Morra are all really really close in same speed especially races to 5.
This might sound a little harsh but I've heard like from league players that think they are pros, say give me two years as captain and I can win? Wow is all I'm going to say. Just my opinion.
As far as changing Mosconi, I think that's crazy. That's the one event that propel are talking about a year from now and that the fans are actually passionate about. They sell out literally days after announcing to thousands of people. It's live all over the world! How can they cancel and we are dead even after 23 Mosconi cups(one tie). I know Matchroom is smart and isn't going to lose money so why change or fix something that isn't broke? I don't like including Canada we don't need help and only player that would really really improve our team would be Alex P and prolly Morra but cmon Rodney, Dechaine, Skyler and Morra are all really really close in same speed especially races to 5.
This might sound a little harsh but I've heard like from league players that think they are pros, say give me two years as captain and I can win? Wow is all I'm going to say. Just my opinion.
Justin, you were by far America's best player at the Mosconi. Well played.
You should know that you are the most complete player on the team. Your dedication to excellence in all of pool's disciplines is paying off in a big way,
I feel that it's only the lack of a big break that is keeping you from contending for pool's biggest titles.
Keep up the good work and I wish you all the best going forward.
You should know that you are the most complete player on the team. Your dedication to excellence in all of pool's disciplines is paying off in a big way,
I feel that it's only the lack of a big break that is keeping you from contending for pool's biggest titles.
Keep up the good work and I wish you all the best going forward.
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PMac- I'm not saying anything bad about Albin, he won the World 9 Ball and China Open he's obviously a great player and breaks better than me for sure. But I don't think he doesn't anything better than me. I would like to play him!
About Dechaine- I think he has to play on Mosconi for U.S. He is definitely top 5 Anerican players no question. Only bad set he played was last set against Jayson and Shaw didn't even play good until the last day and Shaw basically played perfect on him. Up 10-3 and your crowd is cheering him on like crazy and crowd is really really picking on Mike bad. You can watch YouTube matches of 2016 and you can hear some noise but it sounds like nothing I mean nothing compared to being there live. There is about 20-50 people every shot yelling insults and people laughing and you cannot hear that on YouTube! So I've played money matches in other people's homes, hometown, for $30,000 and more and that's not even 1 percent of Mosconi pressure.
I'm going to say one more thing hopefully make some people open their eyes. I played 3 matches. One singles where Mark Grey basically played a perfect set so he deserved to win. 5-1 I lose. Skyler and me win and Rodney and I won. So me personally, I won 2/3 matches. If anyone thinks someone is so far inferior be use you lost a race to 5 and basically didn't have a chance then I'm not sure what to say. Not bashing Europe either, they definitely played better and deserved the win. So most guys played two singles, and 1 double or 2 of each. I've lost and beaten Orcollo, SVB, etc 11-0 actually many times.
Crazy to read some of the things I've read on here I don't think is fair. Obviously Europe last 7 years have dominated. But don't think Dechaine, Skyker, and I can't go win a World title. I'm not saying this to be cocky or prove anything but I would play Albin, or Mark Gray, even 10 ball they outbreak me 9 on spot but 10 ball I've played more and still probably don't break as well. I think Darren is their best player, him and Neils. I've already played Jayson but I think he's a little better player now he's won everything. But also Skylers been to Qatar once, I've never been. We don't play those tournaments, so obsiouvly when you play 25 big events a year I hope you have some titles.
One thing I do agree with though is bar table kills us not just the points but everywhere in US most events are 7ft. Just take this year or next... I go back home, play Chohans tournament, Music City, then Derby(race to 3 banks and 1pocket), then there will be 6-7 more 7ft tournaments, then Turningstone LOL.. And they have tough fields... I could win 5 in a row and it wouldn't be as good as someone getting 5-6th in the China Open in most people's eyes
I'm also looking to start traveling and playing the bigger events. I'm going to go to Philippines for a month and after that plan on playing a lot international big tournaments.
Justin,
I'm glad you took the time to post on here. I've met and talked to you before. You seem like a good guy. I was front and center when you double dipped Dechaine in the ...what was it...9 ball challenge? Can't remember which event. But I like the way you play...you play your heart out. I saw the finals of the 10 ball USBTC...you were so careful and determined and played damn near perfect. However, I think a lot of the criticism was NOT directed at you. Personally, I thought you did the best of team USA and had the most of my confidence.
I would really like to see you playing in the 9 foot events. It is hard to imagine a player of your caliber not being able to get some sponsorship to go play the big events overseas. Damn I sure hope you can. WPC, China Open, etc. I think these types of events would put you right there in the mix with the SVB's, Ko's, Ouschans, etc. Your demeanor and heart as as good as anyone's.
I hope other pros will listen to you and find a way to do those things too. You are the only person that I can say 100% that I want to see play on the MC team again.
(FYI your buddy Jason Sword's team played my team in the BCA 8 ball...that is where I got to talk to you).
Anyway, thanks for posting...wish more of the pros would!
KMRUNOUT
thx for posting here too, good to read first hand stuff!
first, i didnt accuse you saying something bad about albin, my post was directed at one stroke who meant albin has a lesser skillset!
second, i would love to see that match, make it happen!!!
and third, enjoy next years travelling and maybe you can prove what albin already has proven! i wish you all the best!
Curious about the table
Justin...I am curious about yours or any of the Mosconi cup team members comments on the Rasson pool table that the event was played on...any major differences between that table and what you played on last year...I was on the team in charge of setting up the table in Las Vegas for the last couple Mosconi cups on American soil...just curious..I haven't played on one yet......
I think the fastest route to winning the Mosconi cup regularly is for properly maintained pool tables be installed in the boys & girls clubs of America...this model ...giving the kids proper equipment instead of an old worn out table with shit cushions and cloth....should develop more American players which is the only way we will be able to compete in the future.... the sooner this happens the better for American pool.....jmo
Gordon Graham
Seattle-Las Vegas
425-275-8255
Justin...I am curious about yours or any of the Mosconi cup team members comments on the Rasson pool table that the event was played on...any major differences between that table and what you played on last year...I was on the team in charge of setting up the table in Las Vegas for the last couple Mosconi cups on American soil...just curious..I haven't played on one yet......
I think the fastest route to winning the Mosconi cup regularly is for properly maintained pool tables be installed in the boys & girls clubs of America...this model ...giving the kids proper equipment instead of an old worn out table with shit cushions and cloth....should develop more American players which is the only way we will be able to compete in the future.... the sooner this happens the better for American pool.....jmo
Gordon Graham
Seattle-Las Vegas
425-275-8255
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Well said JB! These guys have no idea how good MD plays. I hate all the MD bashing - this guy can get down with anybody and all these idiots book him at regional winner.......they have no idea
Jason
What did you guys do to prepare for that level of pressure?
i agree with most of what you say but sky has no chance to win a world title
I'm going to say one more thing hopefully make some people open their eyes. I played 3 matches. One singles where Mark Grey basically played a perfect set so he deserved to win. 5-1 I lose. Skyler and me win and Rodney and I won. So me personally, I won 2/3 matches. If anyone thinks someone is so far inferior be use you lost a race to 5 and basically didn't have a chance then I'm not sure what to say. Not bashing Europe either, they definitely played better and deserved the win. So most guys played two singles, and 1 double or 2 of each. I've lost and beaten Orcollo, SVB, etc 11-0 actually many times.
Crazy to read some of the things I've read on here I don't think is fair. Obviously Europe last 7 years have dominated. But don't think Dechaine, Skyker, and I can't go win a World title. I'm not saying this to be cocky or prove anything but I would play Albin, or Mark Gray, even 10 ball they outbreak me 9 on spot but 10 ball I've played more and still probably don't break as well. I think Darren is their best player, him and Neils. I've already played Jayson but I think he's a little better player now he's won everything. But also Skylers been to Qatar once, I've never been. We don't play those tournaments, so obsiouvly when you play 25 big events a year I hope you have some titles.
One thing I do agree with though is bar table kills us not just the points but everywhere in US most events are 7ft. Just take this year or next... I go back home, play Chohans tournament, Music City, then Derby(race to 3 banks and 1pocket), then there will be 6-7 more 7ft tournaments, then Turningstone LOL.. And they have tough fields... I could win 5 in a row and it wouldn't be as good as someone getting 5-6th in the China Open in most people's eyes
I'm also looking to start traveling and playing the bigger events. I'm going to go to Philippines for a month and after that plan on playing a lot international big tournaments.