Thrilling Conclusion of Day 2 at the $10,300 EPT High Roller in Cyprus
The excitement at the 2024 PokerStars European Poker Tour (EPT) Cyprus reached fever pitch on Day 2 of the $10,300 EPT High Roller, held at the luxurious Merit Royal Diamond Hotel Casino & Spa. The stakes were high, as a starting field of 215 entries was whittled down to just 24 players who will return for the final showdown. This day of intense play consisted of twelve 50-minute levels, each filled with dramatic swings, strategic showdowns, and high-stakes moments.
Steve O’Dwyer Takes the Lead
Emerging at the top of the pack is Steve O’Dwyer, who ended the day with a remarkable chip stack of 2,235,000. Known for his deep runs in international poker circuits, O’Dwyer is a veteran with a wealth of experience. He currently ranks 13th on the all-time money list, boasting over $44 million in career earnings. This tournament marks O’Dwyer’s opportunity to secure his eighth EPT trophy, a feat that would solidify his status as one of poker’s all-time greats.
Following closely behind O’Dwyer is Diogo Coelho from Portugal, whose skillful play has brought him to a solid 1,995,000 chip count. Coelho is not just making waves this tournament, but has already captured the title in the $2,200 Eureka High Roller, banking over $350,000 this week alone. Completing the top three is Shankui Li from China with 1,725,000 chips, who has also shown his prowess throughout the event.
Day 2 Action and Key Eliminations
The day began with renewed energy as 51 players registered late, boosting the initial field size. This surge contributed to a massive $4,423,200 prize pool, with 63 players guaranteed a share. The minimum cash on offer was $18,300, while making the final table comes with a guaranteed payout of $92,400. The eventual champion will take home an impressive $865,700.
Action was swift and brutal, as players such as Sonny Franco, Dimitar Danchev, and Parker Talbot saw their tournament hopes dashed early on Day 2. By the first break, notable players had been eliminated and the tension only intensified.
The Battle for Chip Dominance
As the day progressed, O’Dwyer and Coelho cautiously played for chips, notably Coelho, whose top pair held strong against Michel Molenaar. Li caught significant momentum in the latter half of the day, particularly after a dramatic cooler against Aliaksandr Shylko, showcasing his capabilities in high-pressure situations.
The end of Day 2 saw formidable competitors lingering in the top ten, including the likes of Niklas Astedt, Andras Nemeth, and Stoyan Madanzhiev. Each player is poised to make a significant impact as we head into the final day.
Final Table Expectations
With the remaining players returning on Sunday, October 20, at noon local time, the anticipation builds for the final table. The remaining competitors will resume play at Level 23, with blinds set at 10,000/25,000 and a 25,000 big blind ante. Expect a fierce battle where every decision counts and the pressure mounts as players vie for the coveted EPT High Roller trophy.
The prestigious setting of Cyprus not only adds to the allure but also intensifies the competitive atmosphere. Fans and players alike can expect a gripping conclusion to a week filled with thrilling moments and high-stakes poker action.
Stay tuned for comprehensive coverage as PokerNews brings you all the updates from this exhilarating final day!
