Dennis Orcollo
World No.1 Dennis Orcullo asserted his top ranking yesterday by handily beating determined challenger Carlo Biado, 11-8, in the finals of the 9-ball division of the BSCP National Pool Championship at the Star Billiards Center.
By beating Biado, Orcullo exacted sweet revenge against Biado, who had beaten him in their two previous meetings this year, first in the 2011 World 10-Ball Championship last May and second in the 8-ball division of the current BSCP Nationals last week..
The reigning World 8-Ball champion had to come from behind to snatch the victory from Biado, who had earlier won the 8-ball finals against Alan Cuartero.
Down 3-6, Orcullo climbed back into the match and raced ahead to the finish line.
"I knew he would dictate the tempo because he already had the feel of the TV table after playing in the 8-ball finals," said Orcullo moments after clinching the 9-Ball title and the P50,000 prize on top of it.
"But I just waited for the perfect opportunity to launch a comeback by pouncing on his dry breaks and missed shots. Luckily, I was able to complete the win."
With Orcullo winning the 9-Ball division, the race to the grand championship of the BSCP nationals has become tighter. Both Orcullo and Biado sport a victory each in the 3-game format of this Philippine national pool championship.
For Orcullo, the alternate break format used in the Nationals is a format that is beneficial to all players.
"This format is favorable to all players unlike the winner's break format. Once you start winning consecutive racks, your opponent starts losing composure and confidence," he said.
