With what happened in this match I was wondering... If guys like Jimmy Fusco, or Artie or any of the super tough movers from years ago had 7 to 0 leads on Dennis in that match same equipment in your opinion would Dennis been able to win those games or was there defense so good they wouldnt have given Dennis any air in THOSE spots.. Im just referring to those games... I never saw Artie or Jimmy play but I have heard they were brutal about giving up any shots...
P.S. How would Eddie Taylor have done against Dennis? I realize different era, balls etc.. just an educated guess would be nice..
Artie, Fusco, Varner, and Hopkins are just four players that come to mind and they all respected the score and knew how to protect leads. I can't see Artie blowing 7 to 0 leads, there's no way he loses a game leading 7 to 0 unless all balls are in play and his opponent comes with a flyer and runs out.
I believe that there are quite a few players, top players that don't put enough emphasis on protecting leads, i've seen too many large leads go down because players shoot ill advised shots. Players today at least a large percentage of them are geared to play aggressively and because of that they are quick to shoot an aggressive risky shot when their leading. Do I think that's right? Of course not, but they do win games with that mindset but imo not enough to off set the ones they lose. Pagulayan, and Orcullo are solid players not only because they strike balls great, and not because they have a good cue ball but they also play the score well, yes that's what makes them tough to beat they just have better table management then most all other one pocket players of today.
That's one of the things that I like about the Hackers game, he plays the score well and protects leads the way the game is supposed to be played. In spite of him being a "Cabbage Head"
Every one have a nice day.
Dr. Bill