Everything you need to know about the Mosconi Cup
Last Updated: 06/12/16 10:41pm
The Mosconi Cup is live on Sky Sports between December 6-9 so we asked commentator Jim Wych to provide the lowdown.
What is special about the Mosconi Cup?
It brings out more emotion than any other pool tournament. Anytime there's a team environment that puts countries against countries, it's a whole different dynamic.
Like the Ryder Cup?
You see how the crowd gets into it on the golf course. Countries against countries makes it more of a pressure pot. Every shot is under the microscope, the players understand the importance. Trust me, the fans don't make it any easier for the players.
Europe have dominated recently…
In the early days, Europe never had a chance! But the tide has turned. You can only put that down to the fact that the Europeans are stronger psychologically. They're much more of a team, they bond better as friends off the table.
How can America compete?
The Americans have to re-think things because they have individuals trying to play as team. If the Europeans lose a match they don't carry it with them, they try to gee up the next player. They say 'here's the baton, you run'.
Europe's best players is Niels Feijen, right?
He's been the MVP in the past four years. He's psychologically strong and fundamentally sound. His cue action goes dead straight on the intended line even with pressure.
Who's America's best?
Shane van Boening. He's our Tiger Woods!
So we should expect a pressure cooker?
You see pressure exposed when there's unnecessary movement around the table. Little twitches, chalking up more than usual, two or three extra strolls around the table. That's when you know a player is feeling it.
Give us your prediction…
European pool is just so strong. America will do well to keep it close…
Team Europe
Captain: Marcus Chamat
Niels Feijen, Jayson Shaw, Mark Gray, Albin Ouschan, Darren Appleton.
Team USA
Captain: Mark Wilson
Shane Van Boening, Skyler Woodward, Mike Dechaine, Justin Bergman, Rodney Morris.
Watch the Mosconi Cup live on Sky Sports between December 6-9. Coverage gets underway on Tuesday from 6.30pm on Sky Sports 2 HD and Sky Sports Mix.
