Deuel and Dominguez Both Quietly Confident

Corey Deuel admits Europe are the favourites to win the PartyPoker.net Mosconi Cup but believes they may crack under that pressure.

Deuel returns to the American Mosconi side after not being selected last year when USA slumped to an 11-5 defeat in Malta.

On the eve of the event, many people believe this is the strongest European side ever and Deuel admits America will have to be at their best to claim victory.

“America, on paper, are the underdogs but I think our team are getting along and if we can gel together we will win,” said Deuel. It's Europe's cup to lose but we need to go out there and win it.

“We've won it in the past more times in the past but they have a good team this year. There will definitely be pressure on them for sure so how will they cope? I love playing in this and the Mosconi Cup is my favourite tournament to play in.

“I get along with all my team and I'm glad to see all the rest of the guys in the team. I respect their games and am looking forward to it.”

The American side features Deuel, Johnny Archer, Shane Van Boening, while two men – Oscar Dominguez and Dennis Hatch will be making their debuts.

Dominguez admits he is excited about being part of the action and is confident of being on the successful team.

“It's pretty sweet to be in the Mosconi Cup team,” said Dominguez. “To represent your country is a big honour and I'm trying to make the most of it.

“We aren't here on vacation, we're here to work and I think we have an excellent chance of winning. On paper, Europe are the favourites but we're not playing on paper.

“At the start of the year it was one of my goals to get into the Mosconi Cup team. I've only been playing pool for seven years so I'm a bit of a late starter but as I did pretty good at Valley Forge and I knew I had a chance of making the Mosconi team.

“You aren't playing for yourselves for once and in every tournament you play, it's all about being individual but now you're representing your country and your team mates so everything you work hard for, they will reap the benefits as well.

“We will have no jet lag but when you're flying across the pond then that's tough. I think it's a big advantage that it's our home court. Every mistake the Europeans make you will hear it from the crowd and that makes a big difference.”

Live in its entirety on Sky Sports in the UK, the PartyPoker.net Mosconi Cup features two five-man teams representing Europe and the USA doing battle in a series of singles and doubles matches. Now in its 16th year, the Americans hold a 10-4 lead with one tied match in 2006.

Tickets for the Mosconi Cup are available from:

http://www.ticketmaster.com/2009-Mosconi-Cup-tickets/artist/1334375

or 1-800 745 300 or from the MGM Grand on 1-800 929 1111 or 702 891 7777.