Mosconi Cup 2022 Live Stream Online: Niels Feijen expects fireworks from Earl ‘The Pearl’ Strickland in Las Vegas ‘The Terminator’ Niels Feijen expects veteran pool legend Earl Strickland to light up Las Vegas as ‘The Pearl’ steps back into competition mode for Team USA at the 2022 Mosconi Cup. Strickland, 61, didn’t think he would be picked again, having missed out on last year’s tournament at Alexandra Palace after being forced to withdraw due to a positive Covid-19 contact trace on his flight to London.
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Strickland is a pool icon, having battled some of the biggest names, from snooker legend Ronnie O’Sullivan in 1996 to claiming MVP in 2005 as the USA beat Europe 11-6.
Dutchman Feijen, an eight-time event winner, told Sky Sports: “What happened last year to Strickland was heart-breaking. He got pulled out of the tournament and had to stay in his hotel for 10 days.
“That was horrible for him, so getting back into the team is great and great for the event. It’s also great for the Vegas crowd, who desperately need to get behind the home side.
“I remember one of the last times I played in the States, and it was pretty rowdy, so if you’re not feeling great, it can get to you. I hope for the event that they get on it, and let’s hope Team USA can make it a tight contest.
“The crowd will be ready, pumped, and on a mission to be there from the first ball on the first day rather than when they’re ahead because that can make all the difference.”
Captain Jeremy Jones opted for Strickland to join his side of Shane Van Boening, Skyler Woodward, Oscar Dominguez, and Tyler Styer with ‘The Pearl’ out for payback.
“Of course, this is redemption for Earl because he was ready last year. He was playing a lot of pool with Van Boening, but I think he desperate to put on a show – even at his age,” said Feijen.
“The balls don’t know how old you are because you’re committed and motivated, so I think he wants to prove a point. He’s still able to compete at that high level and score some important points for the team.”
