Round 9 Preview

The Eastern Suburbs Poker Tour is back for Round 9. For the third time this season, competitors will be making there way to Johns place in anticipation of one of the most exciting rounds to date. Of course, all the action can be seen right here on theespt.blogspot.com but for now lets look at how they line up.

SAM
Current points leader and holding a 4 point margin over John, Sam's form has been a little inconsistent of late but last rounds win should give him confidence. May play a little conservative though in trying to match John and maintain his points lead. A win though would just about wrap up the series.
Prediction: cant write off the series leader, but conservative play may cost him. Biggest opponent is beer consumption.

JOHN
Sitting 4 points off the lead, John looks like the only one capable of challenging Sam. With home ground advantage he will be looking for a strong performance to close the gap. Yet to win a round yet this season, his performance have been consistent and he will be keen to take out Round 9 on home turf.
Prediction: Always a strong performer, home soil will do him well. Should do well again as long as his focus is on the game and not Sam and the championship

NICK
Has proved a worthy opponent and sits in a comfortable thrid position. Maybe too far back to challenge for the championship but a win tonight could make for a very interesting final round. Could be a lot closer but has been one of the unluckiest players this season. Thats poker though
Prediction: With luck on his side, will still be fighting long into the night

ARIF
Had Arif played more rounds he would most definately be amonsgt the top 3. Won 2 rounds early but has dropped off. Still sits in fourth though and a win tonight will certaintly put him in contention for a top 3 position
Prediction: Will struggle to find early season form and may find himself with an early night

ROB
Having won 2 rounds from just 5 starts, and a second last round on home soil, Rob has proven to be a formaiddable opponent and would definately be a chance for the title had he played every round. Knows how to play the game and wont see the 12 point gap to nick as unattainable.
Prediction: Will again be a force to reckon with

JASON
A very consistent player and would also be a lot higher had he played all rounds. Already a victory behind him, he does have the goods for another. Weaves his stuff quitely, almost goes under the radar.
Prediction: Will probably challenge early and a good chance to be there at the end

EMIL
The least careful of all with his money. Doesnt mind taking a risk. Usually doesnt pay off and thats why he is sitting near the bottom of the table. A crowd favourite though.
Prediction: Whipping injuries will force him to miss this round

STEVE
Only played three rounds but hasnt really looked like challenging the top contenders. More interested in verbally abusing Sam. Not a patient player and if things dont go his way early, sour grapes is his fruit of choice.
Prediction: Will be focused too much on verbally abusing Sam again and will fail to impress anyone

SHAUN
Like steve, only played three rounds but that doesnt tak away from the fact he is sitting bottom. Can only go up though, if only one position, adn tonight could be his night
Prediction: Havent seen enough to make any real call but may challenge into the night.


So there you have it folks. remember, all the action can be seen right here. BBQ starts at 7, drinking at 6, poker to follow.