MANILA - The Philippines almost had another champion on Monday but “The Ice Man” of Finland dashed the Filipinos hopes as he defeated Lee Van Corteza in the World Ten Ball Championship finals held at the World Trade Center in Pasay City.

Mika Immonen of Finland beat Corteza 11-6 in the championship match to pocket the $60,000 top prize..

With the win, Immonen strengthened his claim as one of the world's hottest players this season with a streak of big wins including the US Open, Tournament of Champions, World Classic 10-Ball, and the Qatar International Open. The 5 victories combined now gives him $190,000 in prize money.

The first 6 racks were even for the 2 players at 3 all in the race-to-11 match.

Immonen however took advantage of an error by Corteza and immediately took 3 successive racks. The Finnish pool player never looked back after that as he controlled the match until the score reached 11-6.

Immonen had also won a title in the Philippines when he beat Efren “Bata” Reyes in the Philippine Open in 2003.

Despite the loss, Corteza, who got $30,000 in prize money for the second-place finish, said he was happy with his effort. He, however, also admitted making an error.

“Masaya naman ako sa laro ko this week, madami akong magagandang laro at mga matches. Sayang lang ito kasi nagkamali sa isang preparasyon ko at ayun nakuha na niya ‘yong momentum,” said Corteza.

He said he would be using this experience ti further advance his career.

“Makakatulong din itong experience na ito sa akin at mapapaganda ko pa ‘yong career ko,” said Corteza.

Immonen had gained entry to the final match by beating another Filipino, Antonio Lining. With a report from TJ Manotoc, ABS-CBN News