There is obviously a lot of talk about the upcoming match so I thought that I would chime in with a couple of thoughts. I just started posting on AZ but have followed the forum for several years.
I think the winner of this years cup will come down to four major factors:
1. The Break. Since all 10 players are better than the table, whoever gets to the table first will be favored. There is no question that everyone playing can flat get out in the game of 9 ball. Whoever solves the breaking riddle will certainly have an advantage. With guys like SVB and Corey strategically approaching the break, I think our team will be prepared.
2. Nerves. While composure plays a part in pool no matter where you are playing, I think a team based event really magnifies that dynamic. Add to that a hostile crowd and it goes up more. This is an area that I really like our team, even though the "Justins" haven't been in this event before… I think calm under pressure is something that they both radiate. SVB, well he is SVB…… while some weren't a big fan of the John Schmidt selection to the team, I was on the other side of the fence. I think he will great for the team. John is a winner. a guy that raises his game to the level of the competition and moment. I think he will surprise some of the naysayers at the cup.
3. Team. This really is a team sport… and this year I think we have a group that will act and feel like a team. I'm guessing playing the early events together was probably a good bonding experience. I also think that this is a good group from the personal dynamic aspect. I think this group has a good mix of experience, talent, youth, hunger, and energy. That can be a really good combination.
4. Momentum. In these types of events its important that you control the momentum. Getting out to an early start can never hurt, especially when playing on someone else's home turf. I thought this is what really helped our team the last time we won. I hope our group comes out with a good mix of calm and energy. Thats a touch combination, but a winning combination.
Good luck USA!
I think the winner of this years cup will come down to four major factors:
1. The Break. Since all 10 players are better than the table, whoever gets to the table first will be favored. There is no question that everyone playing can flat get out in the game of 9 ball. Whoever solves the breaking riddle will certainly have an advantage. With guys like SVB and Corey strategically approaching the break, I think our team will be prepared.
2. Nerves. While composure plays a part in pool no matter where you are playing, I think a team based event really magnifies that dynamic. Add to that a hostile crowd and it goes up more. This is an area that I really like our team, even though the "Justins" haven't been in this event before… I think calm under pressure is something that they both radiate. SVB, well he is SVB…… while some weren't a big fan of the John Schmidt selection to the team, I was on the other side of the fence. I think he will great for the team. John is a winner. a guy that raises his game to the level of the competition and moment. I think he will surprise some of the naysayers at the cup.
3. Team. This really is a team sport… and this year I think we have a group that will act and feel like a team. I'm guessing playing the early events together was probably a good bonding experience. I also think that this is a good group from the personal dynamic aspect. I think this group has a good mix of experience, talent, youth, hunger, and energy. That can be a really good combination.
4. Momentum. In these types of events its important that you control the momentum. Getting out to an early start can never hurt, especially when playing on someone else's home turf. I thought this is what really helped our team the last time we won. I hope our group comes out with a good mix of calm and energy. Thats a touch combination, but a winning combination.
Good luck USA!
