What do you think about 2007 World Pool Championship in Philippines?

Question

I think you probably heard, Daryl Peach of England became WPC 2007 champion against Filipino superman, Roberto Gomez....

Daryl's win against Alcano and Bustamante are impressive for me but his win against Gomez was not.....

Daryl's victory was absolutely a fluke. At score 15-15 race to 17, gomez just miss the 5 ball but on the next turn Daryl miss the 9 which seems to be the chance for Gomez, unfortunately he miss it too. Daryl sunk the 9 to make it 16-15 and win the 32nd rack. As you might not know, Gomez just made so many mistakes. Gomez should be the Champion. Daryl is just lucky..

Gomez defeat was big upset to me and I know it may affect my mental game in Pool.

On the other hand, Daryl's victory in Pool might bring new boastfulness from England....Steve Davis will be envious....

Answer 1

it's a big shame for him (gomez) and big shame to the Philippines. Just a win, gomez blow it out, we lost.

Answer 2

It was too boring because there was too much safety play that the match took over four hours to finish.  Both finalists played safe most of the time that we failed to see some daring and spectacular shots.  I think great players should take bold shots once in a while and not resort to safety play all the time.

Answer 3

Wow ... for sheer drama, I don't think I can recall a finals that was as exciting.  Both players were making good shots then turning around and making silly mistakes.  I really feel for Gomez.  He had the chance, but maybe it was asking too much from him to ride out the extreme pressure.  

Remember he was able to reach the finals when more tested champion players than him (Django, Efren, Ronnie) had fallen by the wayside.  He should feel good about his accomplishment as it is.  Biggest paycheck of his career, biggest stage of his young career.  First-ever qualifier to reach the finals.  He is really a virtual unknown.  Bawi na lang sa susunod na mga laban.

Watching the game, I felt that Gomez was weak with safeties and with the kickshots.  Last year, Alcano was able to show a more well-rounded game even though he used the now controversial soft break.  Of course Peach had an even simpler game.  He didn't do well with the thin cuts etc.  Overall, Filipinos are still the most creative and imaginative in pool.

Sigh ... is it a sign that there is a changing of the guards in Philippine pool?  We should really send out the younger players to get more experience and seasoning so they can handle tournament pressure better.  Joven Bustamante in his quarterfinal match had a lot of unforced errors.

Nevertheless, congratulations to all our 15 gallant players.  To Roberto Gomez, you did us proud! I can predict we'll be seeing more of you in the near future. Relax and enjoy your runner-up finish!