MANILA—Underdog Carlo Biado stunned world No. 1 Dennis Orcollo, 8-5, anew Wednesday night to arrange a title duel with Allan Cuartero in the 8-ball event of the National Open Pool Championship at the Star Billiards Center.
Cuartero, an OFW working as a house pro in Kuwait, squeaked past Ricky Zerna, 8-7, in the other semifinal of the event serving as a qualifier for the World Pool Summit.
Proving his victory over Orcollo, the reigning world 8-ball champion, in the World Ten Ball Championship last May was no fluke, Biado pounced on Orcollo’s inconsistent breaks to barge into the finals to be shown on AKTV 13 on October 9.
Biado came to the semifinals oozing with confidence after sweeping Johann Chua, 8-0, in the round of 8.
A former caddie, Biado attributed his victory to the breaks of the game.
“He (Orcollo) was struggling breaking the balls. In fact, he had three dry breaks,” said Biado.
Biado will try to exact revenge against Cuartero, who subdued him, 7-8, in their last meeting.
“I like my chances against Cuartero, but it’s not a guarantee of a win because he’s a veteran player and I lost to him the last time around,” added Biado.