DAVAO CITY — The Davaoenos filled the activity center of Atrium of Gaisano Mall, hoping to see up close some of the magical shots that have made Efren “Bata” Reyes the icon of the sport for almost two decades now.

They got it right as Reyes wowed them with his surgical-like touch that many local fans considered as almost unthinkable. So when the smoke of battle finally cleared, Reyes emerged victorious in what many labeled as a dream challenge match.

Recalling the brilliance that won him countless of international titles, including the prestigious World 9-Ball Championship, Reyes outclassed former world double champion Ronnie Alcano, 5-1.

Reyes’ victory over Alcano proved that the 54-year-old Pampangueño remains a force to reckon although he has yet to win a big one of late. Though his showdown with Alcano was just an exhibition, Reyes was nevertheless happy over the turn out of the crowd.

“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 of the Senate President Manny Villar Cup.

“I hope I inspired the Davaoeños into taking this sport, which,” added the charismatic icon.

In the match witnessed personally by Villar, Davao City Mayor Rudy Duterte, Davao Rep. 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.