USA win the Mosconi Cup 12 - 9

Delighted American skipper Johnny Archer admitted his pride with his team’s performance after they retained the Mosconi Cup, defeating Europe 12-9 in Holland.

Archer said. “I’m so proud of the guys – the whole team did well and it was a great effort.

“Earl and I didn’t play our best, but the new guys – you can’t say anything bad about them.

“Rodney is definitely our MVP – he was awesome and Charlie’s struggled the last couple of years but he showed he’s a fighter.

“We’re going to enjoy the moment – it was a great tournament so thanks to the fans, you bring it all out of us and also to Barry Hearn, the promoter.

“We’re looking forward to having it on American soil next year – it’s hard when you only have one or two fans against 500 and when they come to the States we have more fans than them so it balances out!”

Rodney Morris, who was voted the Most Valuable Player after completing the event with a 100 percent record, added. “I had a great time the whole week and it was great to win because a lot of times we play well and didn’t win.

“It’s an honour to win the MVP award but really it’s the whole team who deserves it.”

And Charlie Williams, who potted the final 9-ball, revealed he was delighted to rest the ghosts of last year, when he failed to win a point.

“I’ve had nightmares for a year but this feels really good – I didn’t expect to hit the winning 9-ball because I had a chance to do that before and you don’t often get it twice.

“Earl said that to contribute to the team you have to have a winning record so this feels great and to hit the winning 9-ball is a dream come true.

“Everyone played their part – it was Gabe’s first year and he didn’t choke, he won four matches and that showed what we’re made of.”

Dejected European captain Oliver Ortmann was gracious in defeat. “Congratulations to the American team, they played a great tournament. Thanks to Dutch crowd for their support, hopefully we’ll beat them next year but they’re a tough team to beat.

“Everyone played great and we were fighting but somebody has to win and lose, that’s the way it is.”

Matchroom Sport - 20/12/2004