Three-time World 8-ball pool Champion Gareth Potts faces a challenge of a different kind this weekend as he takes on former European Champion, Oly Bale, in a best of 59 frame match for a cool £20,000.

Gareth said recently, “Money matches like this do not come around very often so it is almost a once in a lifetime chance.”

Potts and Bale both make no secret of the fact that there is some dislike between them which should add additional bite to an already tense and exciting match.

Oly, who hails from Bridgwater, is likely to have the best of the support as the event is being held up the road at Yeovil in Somerset. Potts will also himself be bringing two coach loads of fans from the potteries as everyone clambers to get some of this action.

Bale, who is regarded by many pundits as the underdog in this match, has a very good record against Potts in short race tournaments. He does realise that the length of this match makes a big difference though, “A longer match is obviously going to suit Gareth’s game more than mine, but if I can get out of the blocks fast and play my normal game then I can win.” He told to Cuesport News today.

This match is one that has been talked about for around 12 months and it has taken until now to finally get it on. Anticipation is high and both players have been practicing hard for what could be a make or break match. A hard match to predict but expect it to be close.

For those of you that cannot make the trip, or who prefer watching from the comfort of your own home, you can watch this match as well courtesy of Cuesport TV. The match is available as part of a subscription which can be purchased for as little as £2.95. The match is January 16th 2010 and starts at 5:30pm UK time.

Be Sociable, Share!

•