Bata Beats Alcano in Villar Cup Challenge Match

Efren “Bata” Reyes proved that he remains a force to reckon with in the sport where he is considered a legend as he trounced fellow former double world champion Ronnie Alcano in a “dream challenge match” during the First Senate President Manny Villar Cup Davao Leg Saturday night at the Atrium of Gaisano Mall here.

The 54-year-old pool maestro came up with superb performance, highlighted by his patented magical shots, to eke out a 5-1 decision over Alcano in a rotation match to the delight of the close to 7,000 adoring Davaoeno crowd that gathered to witness the event presented by Villards: Tulong sa Pagsulong ng Philippine Sports, in partnership with the Billiards Managers and Players Association of the Philippines (BMPAP).

“I’m very happy that I’ve won as I really want to entertain the crowd, which is one of the best I’ve seen,” said Reyes, who finished joint fifth in the centerpiece Pro Elite Division, won by Roberto Gomez, of this fourth leg of the island-hopping series sponsored by Camella Communities.

“I hope I inspired the Davaoenos into taking this sport, which, as Senator Villar said, is ours,” added the charismatic icon.

In the match, also witnessed by Senate President Manny Villar, Davao City Mayor Rody Duterte, Davao Congressman Vincent Garcia and Nacionalista Party spokesman Gilbert Remulla, Reyes won the lag and, after trading safety shots with his foe, cleaned the opening rack to go up 1-0.

Alcano managed to tie the count at 1-1, but that’s all he could do as Reyes pocketed the next four racks to close out the match.