The MOST EPIC POOL MATCH of All Time - The Color of Money Match - Efren Reyes vs. Earl Strickland

[@DrDaveBilliards]

*Contents:* 0:00 - Intro 0:49 - Day 1 (to 35) ---- 6:42 - Earl refusing rack 3 times ---- 8:15 - Earl shark move #1 8:57 - Day 2 (to 75) 12:13 - Day 3 (to 120) ---- 13:01 - Earl 5-pack 15:46 - The Comeback ---- 21:17 - Earl shark move #2 ---- 29:29 - Earl shark move #3 34:45 - Wrap Up *Supporting Resources:* - original video: kzbin.info?list...​ - more great match videos: billiards.colostate.edu/video...​ - shirts, posters, caps, mugs featuring Efren and Earl: drdavebilliardtshirts.com/​ *CORRECTIONS:* - at 2m33s, I mention "all 120 games," but there were many more than that (237). - at 8m57s, Day 2 was a race to 75 (not 70). - at 12m21s, Efren's score is temporarily shown as 698 (instead of 69). - at 21m45s, Earl's score goes down from 110 to 109. The scoring error was earlier. The 109 is correct.

[@justgotluckygodspeed9878]

Great content! Nice work! Job very well done! More Power!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

@@justgotluckygodspeed9878 Thank you! I'm glad you liked it.

[@johnapplegate4020]

My brother use to have this on vhs in 2007..I believe. When I’m Highscool with no internet or tv. This was on rerun for years..

[@DrDaveBilliards]

@@johnapplegate4020 ... the good ole days. :)

[@user-sb3wh3dd4v]

Dear Dr Dave, I REALLY like your commentary style. You speak proper English, in whole sentences with clear diction. Those triats plus your deep knowledge of the game make you the ALL-TIME BEST commentator for this game. I think any sport network should get YOU for the next big events, if they ever happen again.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I appreciate your positive feedback and vote of confidence. Thanks.

[@ralphlink08]

AGREEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!!!

[@badassgenevideos]

Wow the match progressed like a story in a movie. I saw this match when on tv when I was young and i didn't realized this was so epic. Certainly Earl has a demeanor of a villain / anti hero. And Efren a silent humble protagonist. And he climbed a very steep hill for a comeback and wining it. WOW!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Well stated.

[@lucass430]

You're a hero, dr. Dave! Thank you for this video

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thank you, and you're welcome! I aim to swerve. :)

[@0ldCat]

Efren's comeback was epic! One for the history books, to be sure. His composure is as impressive as his prowess on the pool table. Absolute legend! 😸

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Well stated.

[@psycholuigii8616]

Truly the most epic game of all time. Didn't feel like 35 minutes at all! Thanks Dr.Dave much appreciated.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I'm glad the time flew by. You're welcome.

[@DavePlaysPool]

Massively appreciate the time and effort Dr Dave! Legendary as usual 🙌

[@DrDaveBilliards]

You're welcome. And thanks!

[@MrPanghe]

Analyzing, commentating, video editing, etc. All superb! Never cease to amaze me Dr. Dave.. U deserve a commentator slot in a big pool tournament..

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thanks for the vote of confidence. I appreciate it.

[@nikodelrey]

I didn't read the comments until the end because I didn't want any spoilers. Really enjoyed watching this!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I'm glad to hear it.

[@quantumimmortality551]

yes! please more highlight vids like this Dr. Dave!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

FYI, I already have quite a few at this playlist: kzbin.info/aero/PLH9d4KFY28XscHllvlP_rVC1jQjDXZmYD I also plan to do more. Thanks for the feedback.

[@ziggy6698]

It's amazing just how dominant Efren is despite his break. It's almost like he never took the break seriously just to give his opponents a chance.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

He GOaT lucky! He also figured out the break on the 3rd day.

[@zanethind]

Yeah but he knew you can break soft and still run out and win. Corey Deuel used this tactic

[@rjp2295]

13 hours....... "ain't nobody got time for that"....... I made time for that :D absolutely incredible

[@DrDaveBilliards]

If you have the time and attention span, it is most definitely worth it.

[@pillaichan]

Thank you for the effort and time put into this video. It was a very entertaining watch.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I'm glad to hear it. This one took a ton of time and effort, so it is good to know people (or at least you) like it.

[@MrPat1953]

Excellent video thank you

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thank you, and you're welcome. FYI, I have more like this here: billiards.colostate.edu/videos/pool-matches/ Enjoy!

[@robertobrenes5283]

I watch ALL the match a few years ago, it took me like 8 days! it was awesome seeing that comeback

[@djamo1969]

Best match ever. Thank you, Dr. Dave!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thanks for the first comment. I hope you actually watch the full video, and I hope you find it entertaining.

[@djamo1969]

@@DrDaveBilliards Yessir, I will later tonight when I have time. Edit: Looks like supper in the Jameson household will be 35:22 late tonight, but it was worth it! LOL

[@DrDaveBilliards]

@@djamo1969 I'm glad to hear it (except for the late dinner part). :)

[@djamo1969]

@@DrDaveBilliards Haha, I made the kids grilled cheese when they got out of school; that’s what made me realize I had time to watch now.

[@alberttanas2138]

...the two man who define billiard pool table at its finest...my god idol pearlmagician...

[@robertmeadows1657]

I happened to find myself having dinner with Mark Wilson last evening and he told a story about this match involving Earl being down on a shot when a lady who was a bit out of his sight line gently and slowly raised her hand to scratch at her collarbone. Earl stood up and said, “I’ll give ya fifty bucks if ya quit itchin’.”

[@DrDaveBilliards]

You can always count on Earl for quotable quotables.

[@ronthepoolstudent]

I have watched the match in its entirety...🤷🏻‍♂️😊 Earl would be my pic for the greatest nine ball player during that era but his inner demons wouldn’t allow him to stay focused throughout the duration of this match thus earning him this title. Once Efren started pocketing on the break and making his late move, Earl began to falter. This in my opinion was the greatest match ever. Efren Reyes won by never giving up. In fact...he raised his concentration level at the time most would have folded. EPIC!!!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

It was definitely Earl's match to lose. He had many chances to win.

[@bbpapa353]

Thanks for condensing 13hrs down to 35mns. Wouldn't want to sit thru 13hrs. But even though you condensed it, you never lost the feel the tense atmosphere and excitement of the match. Great editing to put the best parts together and make it thrilling. This was the greatest match ever played. The two greatest champions of this era at their peak battling for $100,000! Played 237 total games. Amazing skill and endurance for both. Reyes is the GOAT. In their Farewell Tour together in Germany Strickland spoke to the crowd and said publicly Reyes is the best player. That says it all.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

You’re welcome. Well stated.

[@ClocktowerDreamhouse]

Superb documentation of this historic match. Thank you for providing your insightful commentary and condensing the highlights so it may be enjoyed by many. 🎱

[@DrDaveBilliards]

You're welcome. I agree that more people would enjoy it in this format.

[@DUK703]

Greatest pool channel of all time. You're the goat, Dr. Dave

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thanks! There is only one pool-related GOAT ... Efren.

[@whalesmiff5712]

Thanks Dave for condensing and adding thoughtful commentary to this legendary match! Much love to ya

[@DrDaveBilliards]

You're welcome, and thank you. I aim to swerve. :)

[@randyattwood]

Amazing. Thank you for putting this together.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

You're welcome. I had fun doing it.

[@lucillealuning8772]

Thank you for this analysis! I'd wanted to watch this match, but it's too long. I have no time. Then, I saw your video. I didn't skip the ads. You deserve it for watching a 13-hr+ match and giving great analysis without any biases. Keep up the great work!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I'm glad you liked it. Thank you for watching. FYI, I have a lot more videos like this in my "Most Famous Pool Shots and Matches of All Time" playlist: kzbin.info/aero/PLH9d4KFY28XscHllvlP_rVC1jQjDXZmYD Check them out.

[@lucillealuning8772]

@@DrDaveBilliards Yes... I'm binge watching your videos and not skipping ads. Well, I might have skipped a couple of long ones hehehe... I like the Top 10 WILD and CRAZY POOL SHOTS of All Time most. It's very entertaining and funny!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

@@lucillealuning8772 I’m glad you liked it. That one was fun to put together.

[@kolinsingh4162]

Just started watching your channel this year. Love your videos! Appreciate your hard work and effort. Keep up the great work!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I'm glad to hear it. Thanks. FYI, if you haven't seen a lot of my stuff yet, I have 430+ videos already in my library: kzbin.infovideos When you're in a binge-watching mood, check out some of them. Enjoy!

[@carlarcepb]

This would be a great movie

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Agreed.

[@jamesdavis8731]

An amazing match. Strickland had it and then made a couple of mistakes and Efren took control. A friend of mine was the referee for this match. I wish there were more matches like this.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Agreed. It would be great to have more matches like this to watch. FYI, many really good matches are available here: billiards.colostate.edu/videos/pool-matches/

[@OshawaStateOfMind]

The safety at 30:14 is one of the greatest safeties I’ve ever seen and then followed up with an incredible combination shot. A+ defense + A+ offense = Efren Reyes

[@DrDaveBilliards]

That was a brilliant and well-executed safety. If you want to see more, check out my "Top 10 GREATEST SAFETIES of All Time by EFREN REYES" video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/n6XRd2R6r7lggpo Enjoy!

[@arvinbustos7509]

Thank you Dr.Dave I've always wanted to watch a highlights of this epic and legendary game.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I'm glad you got what you wanted.

[@lequanang7116]

Thanks dave super informative content !

[@DrDaveBilliards]

You're welcome. I'm glad you liked it.

[@markandapps]

Dr Dave why do I like all of your videos and watch them from start to finish?

[@DrDaveBilliards]

... because you are smart and awesome? :)

[@XmarkedSpot]

Superb pool in a masterful edit most competently narrated. So enjoyable!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thank you! I'm glad you liked it.

[@OM9012-j7y]

Another masterclass commentary.! Thanks Dr. Dave!!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thank you, and you're welcome. I aim to swerve. :)

[@myblacklab7]

Good job editing this in a way that made it interesting - I usually can't watch an entire pool match, even when it's edited, but this held my interest all the way through to the end.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I'm glad to here it. This took a lot of work, but I think it was worth it. Thanks for watching.

[@caseydahl1952]

28:56 thanks for restraining yourself from noting Earl didn't compensate for throw lmao

[@DrDaveBilliards]

There were actually quite a few shots in this match that were missed or almost missed due to failure to compensate for throw, but I tried to keep the "instructional commentary" (which seems to annoy some people) out of this video.

[@justsomeguy6474]

I did enjoy! Thanks! :)

[@abduhast]

Thrilling, amazing. Thanks for the great editing and commentary.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I'm glad you liked it. You're welcome.

[@ken_tx]

The best edit of this match between these two legends. Well done 👍🏼

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thank you. One of the best matches ever.

[@willstuart4504]

I'll never forget the first time I watched this Incredible marathon to 120 games.... Unfortunately, I knew in advance that Efren won ...but I had zero knowledge of HOW.... or in what spectacular way he achieved it. So by the end of the 2nd day when Earl had achieved a 17 game cushion, I remember wondering if I had somehow gotten the results wrong 🤔... and Earl the Pearl actually won this thing?? But as the GOAT.... started doing GOAT things and crept closer and closer, steadily chipping away... at what many felt was an insurmountable lead, I began to actually get nervous. Lol And I already knew he wins.... but the rollercoaster of emotions just WATCHING this match 😨 was intense. I Couldn't even imagine trying to play under those circumstances??? But the way Efren clawed his way back, never giving up hope, and he never stopped believing in HIMSELF, was truly one of the greatest comebacks in all of sport. I genuinely believe that one day somebody will make a movie about the Life and greatness of Efren Reyes. With such humble beginnings, God given talent and the perfect attitude towards the game and his opponents, he just made it so Darn easy to love the guy. 🐐

[@DrDaveBilliards]

An Efren movie would be awesome. I hope it happens some day.

[@moneyball647]

Yep, what people overlook, Efren has a heart of Lion.

[@jiku9098]

Great video and excellent commentary. Still felt nervous while watching even though I know who was going to win. Thanks for condensing 13 hours worth of video into 35 minutes.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I'm glad you liked it. It took a lot of time and work to create, but I think it was worth it. Thanks for watching.

[@willstuart4504]

This is so well put together...👏👏👏 I've watched this epic tournament at least 5 times in it's entirety. Every couple years or so, it's just fun to watch such incredible pool at the highest level. That last 3rd of the match was the Greatest display of Pool I've ever witnessed.... Efren Reyes deserves the GOAT title. And Even though both players have vastly different in styles, there's no denying that they are evenly matched. This condensed video is exceptionally done and I know how long it must've taken to do... so great job mate.👍👍

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thanks. I’m glad you liked it. It was a lot of work, but it was fun work.

[@melc8049]

Thank you Dr Dave. Best narration of this great match I’ve ever seen.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

You're welcome, and thank you! I'm glad you liked it. I aim to swerve. :)

[@edwinfua6507]

First time to watch this thanks very much!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

You’re welcome. I’m glad you found it.

[@arvinbustos7509]

Excellent work on this video. Editing and commentating is superb. Thank you

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thank you! I'm glad you liked it.

[@Stonefalconetti]

That was great!! As usual

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thanks! I'm glad you liked it.

[@kennethpogue718]

Thank you Dr Dave 🙏

[@DrDaveBilliards]

You're welcome. I hope you enjoyed it.

[@theodorehui]

thanks for the effort always wanted to watch the full match but its time consuming

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I'm glad you liked it, but the full match is worth watching also.

[@sammspasm7421]

I love this guy. his face is shouting out whats inside him. GOODNESS. special thanks to you dr dave

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I'm glad you liked it. I have fun creating it.

[@jackmichalsky9878]

Thank you thank you thank you!!! You are the best 💪💪💪

[@DrDaveBilliards]

You're welcome. You're welcome. You're welcome! Thank you!

[@KevinChen-gp1gf]

Fantastic work as always. Would you do an analysis of one of the big one pocket matches? Maybe between Alex Pagulayan, Dennis Orcullo, Scott Frost, or Tony Chohan? A one pocket layout analysis also sounds interesting.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thanks for the suggestion. I'll add it to my list.

[@raymondphillips7107]

Great coverage. I believe there was a COM 2, but I can’t find it anywhere.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

There was a COM 2, but I don’t think any video is available.

[@pauljohndevera1989]

No one ever will replace bata dor being goat in billiard😘

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I hope you are wrong, because that would be special to see.

[@anikaislandresortgmail7884]

Nice and excellent presentation and summary of the epic battle between the undoubtedly 2 greatest players of all time.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thanks.

[@antoniohernandez9327]

I missed the automatic subtitles, as my english is terrible. Excellent work Dr. Dave

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thanks.

[@zyxelk7368]

Excellent, as always👍💪

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thanks.

[@getezra1]

I did watch the whole game 😀

[@keithtothehood8065]

Living legend!! BATA!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

He GOaT lucky!

[@sonnymanagbanag9946]

An Epic battle game of pool for decades to remember! The comeback Maestro. 17 deficits of the last 3 days. Beat that !

[@DrDaveBilliards]

He GOaT lucky! :)

[@korey6729]

Yo Doc you produce great content, but this is the greatest ever. Job well done.

[@korey6729]

Wanting more like this.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I'm glad you liked it. I plan to do more, but these takes lots of time so I need a break.

[@7870JAKE]

Hey Dr.Dave this is about my 4th or 5th time watching this video all the way through it’s so great. I can’t speak for everybody but I would definitely love more content like this!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I'm glad you like it. FYI, I have more videos like this here: billiards.colostate.edu/videos/pool-matches/ and here: billiards.colostate.edu/videos/pool-shots/ Enjoy!

[@7870JAKE]

@@DrDaveBilliards Awesome thank you!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

@@7870JAKE You're welcome. I aim to swerve. :)

[@Tedsterslab]

Can you also do the shane vs dennis race to 120 match?? Hehe... Thanks

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I think I am done for race-to-120 matches for a while, but I'll "take it under consideration." :)

[@jeffren70]

@@DrDaveBilliards C'mon Man! joe Biden.

[@alicecrawford1033]

An amazing match, and a very good breakdown and commentary, thank you for the content you make. Do you know why Stickland's score goes down from 110 to 109 at 21:45?

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I'm glad you liked it. The 110 to 109 was just an editing mistake.

[@BillyBob2015]

A pleasure to watch this match, and thanks for your edit!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I'm glad you liked it.

[@GetMeThere1]

Good analysis and summary of this world class match. For me this match demonstrated the truly stunning talent of Earl, added to the truly stunning flaws in his psychology; and it showed the always consistently great talents of Efren, added to his ENORMOUSLY effective psychology and "never lose" competitiveness. It confirmed what I've always thought about each player. You'll get a lot of well-deserved views with this one.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Well stated. Thanks.

[@CueballcontrolSometimes]

Watching that many great shots inspires me to practice more to play better.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

World class play like this is definitely inspirational. I feel better just watching. :)

[@caseydahl1952]

Dr. Dave do you record yourself saying "that was a good shot" every time or do you just use the same clip?

[@DrDaveBilliards]

It is a perfect phrase for a drinking game involving "shots." Every time I say "good shot," take a "shot."

[@masterdurick5667]

Watched the whole video. Did you watch all 13 hours?? That's a lot, kudos to you for doing it. And editing this whole thing too. This must have taken forever!!!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I did watch all 13 hours, and re-watched much of it several times during the editing process. The watching, editing, narrating, and producing took about 8 full days of work total.

[@DavePlaysPool]

@@DrDaveBilliards woah! Virtual high five!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

@@DavePlaysPool Thanks!

[@cebuanoninoy]

@@DrDaveBilliards Thank you sir for the hard work!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

@@cebuanoninoy You're welcome! I aim to swerve. :)

[@halcharles9995]

Riveting viewing, greatly enhanced by your exceptionally knowledgeable commentary! I've read about this match of course, but not seen any footage from it before - your hard work is greatly appreciated sir. Thanks very much from the UK :-D

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I'm glad you liked it. You're welcome from the US.

[@frogginbullfish8777]

I can only hope we get a video like this for SVB vs Gorst 10-Ball Race to 120

[@DrDaveBilliards]

@@frogginbullfish8777 Good idea.

[@user-hh9ni8su3p]

Earl Strickland, the player I love to hate! Versus my absolute favorite player of all time, Efren Bata Reyes. What's great is that these two legends could not be any more different when it comes to personality, and in the end the better person wins. Efren is humble, jovial, and light hearted, all around someone to be admired.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Well stated.

[@yutuberboy]

iF EFREN HAD AS GOOD A BREAK AS EARL HE WOULD WIN EASILY ANY GAME

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Agreed. The break was a big factor in this match, especially in Day 1 where Earl dominated.

[@samueltabignejr.5698]

what a great commentator with the great matches between Earl and Efren. Efren becomes the G.O.A.T. by winning this and the upcoming great matches with great other players

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I’m glad you liked it. Efren is definitely the GOAT.

[@sasikanthmalladi4804]

Your admiration of Efren and mild disdain of Earl shows in your tone and narration. :) I'm with you on this, though. I think Earl is one of the greatest players ever. But Efren is the GOAT! However, it's a bit sad for me to see that Early was plagued by temperament and etiquette issues throughout his entire career. And a very illustrious career it has been! Aside from that Efren is a gambler at heart. He's always been a hustler and played for money. That mindset and the steely nerves that it gives him always made him a very formidable opponent. Ice cool almost all the time. Whatever disappointments he face, he'd shrug them off or only blame and berate himself. Never once did he take it out on anyone else. His humility and demeanor is as impressive as his amazing play. Thanks for this wonderful video of one of the greatest pool matches ever. Your narration adds a lot of color and value to the vid

[@DrDaveBilliards]

You're welcome. Concerning Earl, I don't have anything against the guy ... he is one of the best players of all time, and I have tremendous respect for his level of play. I was just calling it as I saw it. Earl certainly earned (through his behavior) any "tone" I might have dished out.

[@ranchopatriot]

I've watched it all more than once. Amazing display of potting.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

FYI, I have more videos like this here: billiards.colostate.edu/videos/pool-matches/ Enjoy!

[@mourgielasbjj8957]

Making this video must had been a massive effort. Ty for the entertainment!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

It was, but it was worth it. I’m glad you liked it.

[@qxezwcs]

These two are the best of their time...

[@DrDaveBilliards]

No doubt. They are also two of the best of all time.

[@shawjoe71]

Thanks Dr. Dave, this must have taken forever to edit

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I'm glad somebody noticed. I spent about 8 days on this one, working pretty much full time (about 8 hours a day). But it was fun and worth it.

[@robbiethemighty139]

@@DrDaveBilliards thanks for your time! great video ❤️

[@shawjoe71]

@@DrDaveBilliards You are supposed to bed retired! Just kidding keep making videos please.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

@@shawjoe71 I am able to make these videos BECAUSE I am "retired." They weren't possible when I still had my "day job." I plan to keep making more since I still enjoy it.

[@murmurelamusique]

ty 😮

[@DrDaveBilliards]

yw

[@nigelsalvador]

Great video Dr. Dave. Btw I'm reading and studying your book, The Illustrated Principles of Pool and Billiards. Cheers!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thank you. I hope you find the book interesting and helpful. Good luck with your game!

[@joseperalta8295]

Dr. Dave. ---Your the man.. Thats all i got to say..

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Thanks.

[@306Marvin]

I've changed my mind Dr Dave. Overall THIS is the greatest pool match of all time!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Me too!

[@SKRUBL0RD]

nice to see that both players have seemingly equal skills but the guy who remains classy gets it

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Agreed.

[@thelittlesignpost]

That was fantastic, what a great classic match! Now, I have never played 9 ball, so I am going to have to speak with my buddies to try this game! I have played billiards, snooker and typical 8 ball pool, but never 9 ball, so I am going to look up the 9 ball rules! Thanks Dr Dave, you surgically commentated on this one!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

You're welcome, and thank you! FYI, I have more videos like this in my "Most Famous Pool Shots and Matches of All Time" playlist: kzbin.info/aero/PLH9d4KFY28XscHllvlP_rVC1jQjDXZmYD Check them out.

[@thelittlesignpost]

@@DrDaveBilliards Thank you, I will hunt them down!

[@TC.....]

holy crap! They played 120 games. What endurance! But I bet they couldn't even play one more game, that must be very tiring!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

... and just imagined if they missed a lot like typical amateurs! It would be even more grueling.

[@tommorris8125]

Can you do a video of top 50, 25, etc. Must watch pool matches of all time? Unless there's one already out there? I couldn't find it. Every once in a while, I see an old match I can't believe I haven't seen.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

See the videos and links here: billiards.colostate.edu/videos/pool-matches/

[@DrDaveBilliards]

See: billiards.colostate.edu/videos/pool-matches/ and: billiards.colostate.edu/videos/pool-shots/

[@chevive7]

They are good players all you want but man!! those huge pockets!! even my Granma could run out and I”m not kidding. Ridiculous

[@charickter]

I used to really dislike Earl for all his whining and shenanigans. I softened up on him a little as the years went by. This just reminded me why I had him where I did. It also reminds me I was right all along. Indeed, a beautiful game played by ugly people. Thank you so much Doc! A Herculean effort of which we are all the better for!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

You're welcome. Thanks for the comment.

[@joeandjoanne]

At 29:30, was the 5 frozen? if so would hitting the 5 and then cue to rail be fair hit. I'm assuming so, but would like clarity of rule. Thanks so much for the vid & commentary. Love your vids!!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Here, it didn't matter if it was frozen or not because the CB hit the 5 first and then the cushion, so the shot is legal either way (since something was driven to a cushion after CB-OB contact, in this case the CB). For more info on rules and fouls, see the resources here: billiards.colostate.edu/resources/rules/

[@abdullahmusaed4173]

thank you

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Your welcome.

[@rafaelvillamor9702]

This one is really a classic game. This is a battle of 2 of the best Pool Players of alltime. And the predicament that Efren got in amd conquered made him the best of alltime.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

He GOaT lucky! :)

[@rondo1775]

I've always thought Efren hustled Earl in this match, if not most of their matches. He really is that good.

[@rondo1775]

@Maiahi I have the feeling he always holds back as part of his nature. Then when he must he turns it on. Frankly, I think the game bores him and it's his way of challenging himself. OK, maybe it's not a hustle per se, but there is definitely two modes to his method of play. One good example is his so called wreak break, which he showed fire the first 100 games, then all of a sudden, out of nowhere, he makes the one in the side almost every break and ruins out. hmmm...

[@rondo1775]

@Maiahi I said it was a matter of his nature, not some deliberate or even an unconscious act. He became bored with the game over time and this was how it affected his play. He played mediocre pool until the very end and then turned on the afterburners. It seemed obvious, even to the most casual observer.

[@rondo1775]

@Maiahi Sorry. I honestly didn't mean it that way. Besides, it's just my opinion and I admit I'm not always good at expressing it well. Have a good day.

[@rondo1775]

@Maiahi I'm 74, started playing at 12. I can still run 2 or 3 racks on you IF I feel the challenge. Otherwise, I play at your level and just have fun. And that's all I'm saying about Efren. Live long and prosper.

[@rondo1775]

@Maiahi 1966, but, I had to be one of only a handful of Marines who never made it to Nam and still ended up with a medical discharge. Go figure. I was 17 in that picture.

[@JeffTRepublic]

34:20 This is an "It was at this moment he knew he f#@*k%d up" moment for earl. Nice video btw you've clearly pointed out each highlight of the game.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Yep. Earl gave up several opportunities to win the match. It was his to lose and Efren’s to win. I’m glad you liked it.

[@queenbestgroupever761]

Efren is the best!

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I agree. So does Earl: kzbin.info/www/bejne/iJnLo5-Zl9OgjqM

[@joneslaakso]

You lost me@ 0:30. Still, im able to tell that you did great work here dave. Awesome match. True legends. But that 030 mark almost had me. Have a nice day. 😊

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I'm glad you "got lost" and I'm glad you think the work is good. Thanks.

[@rocketceo]

Excellent summary, as usual. I only wish you had included at least some of Earl's incredibly immature and unsportsmanlike behavior after the match, whining and complaining for some time. People need to see and remember that to put his legacy in perspective. Too many promoters and tournament directors have let him get away with sharking, uncontrolled anger, abusive language, unethical play and volatile antics (like breaking his cue) that have terribly disgraced our game for decades, and I think he should have been banned from the game 30 years ago. Even uncommon skill should never be allowed to override decency and honor! You were right that these may have been the two best 9-ball players, but Efren shows the true meaning of being a Champion -- both in heart and character -- while Earl shows the exact opposite.

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Efren is a true champion and true professional. It is a shame Earl has hurt his legacy with his "behavioral issues."

[@myblacklab7]

What fun is a hero, if there is no villain? I think pool has become extremely boring due to the overly stuffy atmosphere and lack of any real interaction between opponents. Pool today seems like it's the equivalent of basketball teams only doing shooting contests, with only one team ever on the floor at any given time, except worse, because there isn't even a team.

[@rocketceo]

@@myblacklab7 Sorry, John, I can't agree. Your comment translates to, "It's OK to be a villain," or "It's OK to play without sportsmanship, or character, or honesty, if the crowd is entertained." I think sportsmanship, character and honesty DO matter, ESPECIALLY for our champions and flag bearers of the game. His conduct at the end of this legendary match reflected VERY poorly on our game, and all Americans.I have seen Earl repeatedly pull major-league sharks. I have even seen Earl break, not make anything, look at his opponent and see he's not watching, and then keep shooting!!! This is unforgivable, and not excusable to me because the promoters want to sell more tickets. Character matters (or so I thought, until the last few years of presidential politics). The other thing I will say is that the game can NEVER be boring with top professionals playing. It is not only about their interaction, but about their ability to conquer this intensely complicated game. It is a battle to play the perfect game, with each player playing against himself to be the best he can be. Us mere mortals have MUCH to learn by watching them individually (forget the interplay). What shot selection? What speed? Bank or cut? Break options? Did he go for it, or play safe? Where did he play safe? Which position path, of several possible? Long follow through, medium, or check stroke? How many warm-up strokes? Feathers? How long to aim? Stroke timing, and transition? And so many more... Don't just watch the ball go in the pocket. There's plenty of excitement, and opportunity to learn, if you look for it.

[@myblacklab7]

@@rocketceo I agree with a lot of what you say, but I have my own perspective on pool that may differ from yours a bit. I don't see pool as just balls on a table that get moved around by sticks - I do understand what you're saying about the strategy and execution, and I am very impressed by what the pros can do, but I think pool is more than that. Pool is a game of psychology as well as physics and geometry. Interactions between people bring heart and warmth to the game. I can practice all day by myself, and I do that sometimes because I love the art and science of the balls on the table, but that can feel a bit empty - something is missing. When opponents are involved, then the game gets really interesting. I especially love playing people who talk, and it's the interaction between the game and the social element that brings the game to life. Hitting shot after shot in silence does not compare favorably to a lively game where everyone is joking, chatting, and maybe even sharking. I like playing classy players, and dislike rude players, but without the social interaction pool loses its soul. To hit a kick shot in perfect conditions and total silence is one thing, but to hit a kick shot with everyone watching and chattering is another. Yesterday I played some games with some cool guys and shot pretty badly, and mostly lost, but when I hit a long rail kick shot on the eight to win one of the games, it meant something. I'm not saying players should be jerks, but if interaction between people occurs, there will be heroes, anti-heroes, and villains. Professional pool today looks soulless, and I just want to see heart and soul brought into the game.

[@AlmonddeVera]

This why I think Efren will never have a documentary produced by Americans coz it will put a bad light on American players. Coz this time they will the the antagonists.

[@rbflauta]

I remember watching this on tv when i was in high school. There was a rumor that Earl broke his cue after the match

[@DrDaveBilliards]

I wouldn't be surprised, but I've never heard that.

[@zanethind]

You'd think Earl would be winning the tournament with his excellent play but it just wasn't the case on the last series of racks where Efren would turn the tables

[@xanh350]

for some reason Earl mysteriously changes his shaft when he had 17 games advantage after pocketing the nine ball at 15:32 of the video. Up until this point he was playing perfect positioning and pocketing ability. Mysteriously changed the shaft for no good reason then from that point you can notice that he missed few balls, missed position and also he miscued. Its a mystery but clear to me why he lost.]

[@grobbs666]

I'd watch a 13 hour match, maybe over a several day period, but still watch it. The problem though is the bad quality. It unfortunately makes these older matches by great players harder to watch and enjoy

[@DrDaveBilliards]

Agreed. Long, and bad quality, is an especially bad combination.

[@grobbs666]

@@DrDaveBilliards well thank you for watching/editing together that whole thing! Awesome video

[@DrDaveBilliards]

@@grobbs666 You're welcome, and thank you. I aim to swerve. :)