By Marlon Bernardino
Inquirer

MANILA, Philippines–Filipino Ronato Alcano stayed on course for a historic achievement in the 32nd US Open at the Chesapeake Convention Center in Chesapeake, Virginia, late Friday.

Unshaken by a loss in his previous outing, Alcano raced to a 10-0 lead and went on to post an 11-3 victory over Louis Ulrich, moving within three wins of becoming the first player ever to reign in the World Pool Championship, World 8-Ball Championship and US Open at the same time.

He won the world 9-ball title last year and the world 8-ball crown early this year.

The lanky Alcano was untouchable in his first six matches, beating among others compatriots Efren “Bata” Reyes, Jose “Amang” Parica and Warren Kiamco along the way.

But Alcano, Bugsy Promotion’s top player crashed against Shane Van Boening, 4-11, derailing his bid for an automatic shot at the hot seat.

Alcano will next face the winner between countryman Ramil Gallego and German Ralf Souquet in a match going on at presstime.

After losing to Markus Juva in the first round, Gallego rebounded mightily by posting 11 straight victories that also moved him three wins shy of an improbable title conquest.

His last prey was former US Open champion Corey Deuel, 11-7.

The Japan-based Gallego counts countrymen Reyes, Parica, Francisco “Django” Bustamante and Fil-Canadian Edwin Montal among his victims here. Gallego also beat former world champion Thorsten Hohmann and heavyweight Mike Davis.

“It’s one of the most amazing runs I’ve ever seen in billiards,” said Philippine billiard godfather Aristeo “Putch” Puyat. “Bebeng’s endurance is unbelievable and he’s winning over top caliber players.”