After Archer took a o­ne-game lead at 6-5, Mahan’s luck really went downhill.  In Game 12, he let go a powerful break, sinking the 1 ball.  But the cue ball scratched, giving his opponent ball in hand.  Archer lined up the 2-9 combo and nailed it into the left corner pocket, giving him command of the match.  He went o­n to win 11-6.

In the other early evening matches, recent Skins winner Niels Feijen defeated former world champ Thorsten Hohmann 11-5, while U.S. Open reigning champion Gabe Owen and Robles put o­n quite a show for the fans in attendance.  Owen held an early advantage at 4-3, but Robles battled back, taking the lead at 6-5.  The two traded games back and forth until it reached hill-hill with Owen breaking.

He sank a ball but had to play a safe o­n the 1, giving Robles an opportunity to go for the win.  A few shots later, Robles stared down the 4 ball but also saw the 9.  He cut the 4, and the cue kicked right into the 9, sending it into the pocket and Owen to the o­ne-loss side.

Today’s action will determine the final four players for tomorrow’s 2 p.m. hot seat match and quarterfinals, followed by the semifinals at 4 p.m. and the final match at 8 p.m. 

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