We're back with more pool for today, beginning with a rematch from yesterday...
GE Stadium Events Center, Southridge: Bianca v. Twinkie III. The Defenders rookie advanced in their meeting yesterday, but this one is 10-ball with the red cue. Southridge's Bianca played the better game in game 1, and was rewarded as Whitewater's Twinkie III couldn't convert on a kick attempt. Bianca shot long-distance to the top right on the 10, sinking it for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Defenders' Bianca outplayed the Shores' Twinkie III again in game 2, forcing the visitor into a couple of misses and making multiple balls on most of her turns. Bianca secured the series at 2-0 by making the 10 on her second try for the win. Game 3 was the sloppiest of the series, with both players leaving some shots in the open with aggressive tactics. Twinkie III had a three-ball run late in the game, but Bianca would be the one cleaning up the last two shots to win, sweeping the series 3-0 to advance again.
Sprint Hall, Victoria: Yekaterina Vasilyeva v. Midnight. Staying on the same red cue 10-ball bracket, we play our second series of the day. Victoria's Yekaterina had a huge five-ball run in game 1, the highlight for her, but a late fade allowed Westside's Midnight to make the last two balls for the win and a 1-0 series lead. The Spurs' Yekaterina recovered in game 2, as a defensive game early turned into quite the battle late with the Rockers' Midnight challenging. She missed on the 9, allowing Yekaterina a chance to finish the game, which she did, tying the series at 1 in the process. Game 3 came down to the final shot, but it was Yekaterina scratching while shooting the 10 that turned the tide in favor of Midnight, who tapped in the 10 to win and take the series 2-1. Midnight advances to the second round, traveling to Pronger's Ford Forum to face the Tridents' Zach.
Sprint Hall, Victoria: Spice v. Waluigi. This is the second series in a venue doubleheader, with the players shooting 15-ball with the silver cue, and the winner will face Eastside Shark Paps in the second round. Victoria's Spice made a couple of difficult shots in game 1, keeping Maplewood's Waluigi behind her in a skill sense. Things got tricky around the 7, which eventually went in combination for Spice to take the game 1 win and a 1-0 series lead as she hit the 15 to the top left. Game 2 was quite forgettable for both players, as the poor break from the Spurs' Spice led to minutes of poor and sloppy shooting, culminating in a miss on the 15 by the Lumberjacks' Waluigi. Spice tapped it in to win, clinching the series at 2-0 despite her iffy shooting. Spice iced the series at 3-0 in game 3, having two close calls on the 15 before a 5-10-15 combination sank it in the top side to get the win over an overwhelmed Waluigi, sending Spice to host Paps next round.
McDonald's Hall, Atlantic: Delila v. Panda. One of the historically worst players meets this year's worst qualifier in 8-ball with the silver cue. Atlantic's Delila showed promise with a five-ball run from the break, but she couldn't get any more after that, hitting a wall that saw Southern's Panda rally all the way back to take the win with short runs for a 1-0 series lead. The Pirates' Delila was concerned of a game 2 collapse as well, as she worked a seven-ball run only to see the Monarchs' Panda answer with a four-ball run. Delila made the 8 to the top side to end the scare, tying the series at 1. Delila went deep on a six-ball run in game 3, including making three stripes on the break. Panda answered with a five-ball run, and while Delila did make the last stripe, she missed on the 8. Panda buried a three-ball run-out to swipe the series 2-1, earning him a trip to Cisco Arena in Tysini to face the Hummingbirds' Charli.
Pepsi Arena, Lighton: Salmo v. Sally. The red cue returns to action for 9-ball, with a rookie going against a longtime star. Archtown's Sally held off a strong start from the Lighton Prestige rookie Salmo, answering in the end with a four-ball run-out to give Sally the win and a 1-0 advantage in the series. Game 2 went much the same, with the Prestige's Salmo getting in a few shots early on, but the Arrows' Sally had other plans for the finish. Using remarkable foresight and positioning, Sally made the end very easy in her five-ball run-out, clinching the series at 2-0 with the victory. Sally couldn't quite keep up the routine in game 3, leaving the 9 available for Salmo to bank to the top side on an impressive shot that make it a 2-1 series overall. Sally heads to the second round with the win.
House of 10 Windows, Del Sur: Panda v. Misty. The blue cue gets its first series of the day, playing Accuracy. Game 1 was very tight, with Southern's Panda inducing a miss onto Westside's Misty early on. She returned the favor late, forcing overtime, and Panda missed again, giving Misty the 1-2 win for a 1-0 series lead. The Monarchs' Panda played a bit tougher in game 2, forcing the Rockers' Misty to take three straight misses that would prove too much for her to come back from. Panda did fade at the end with a tough spread of shots, but he held on for a 3-5 win to tie the series at 1. Panda thrilled the crowd in game 3, falling behind early only to quickly put Misty down by multiple shots. The final favored Panda 2-5, giving him the series at 2-1 and sending him into the second round for a second time today.
IBM Cathedral, North Modernistic: Cheddar v. Patches. The silver cue is back for more 8-ball, with the winner of this series set to face Roxy in the next round. North Modernistic's Cheddar had a bit of a slow start, but Boston's Patches couldn't make an impact, and Cheddar used short runs in the middle and late stages of the game to get the win, ending on a sweet kick of the 8 to the top right for the 1-0 series lead. In game 2, both players had four-ball runs to start their effort. The Nighthawks' Cheddar back it up with a three-ball run, while the Swifts' Patches only made two and fouled, giving Cheddar a tap-in on the 8 to get the win and clinch the series at 2-0. Patches had the early advantage in game 3, but Cheddar wiped it out with a five-ball run, ending on a scratch but also with a highlight double-pot of the 9 to the bottom side and 13 to the bottom right. Cheddar recovered enough to make a three-ball run-out with excellent positioning to secure the sweep at 3-0, sending her to the next round to face Roxy at this venue.
Home Depot Forum, Web City: Dani v. Leonardo. The last series before the break has the silver cue up for Accuracy. Game 1 saw Midland's Leonardo fall behind early on, and while he tried to make things difficult for Web City's Dani, she proved slippery and he couldn't keep up with her. The final score favored Dani 3-6, giving her a 1-0 series lead. Game 2 appeared to be heading down the same path, but a critical bank of the 5 to the bottom side put the Predators' Leonardo in control. The Spiders' Dani reeled for two misses in a row, and she would take the 2-4 loss in the end, allowing Leonardo to tie the series at 1 with his win. Dani had Leonardo on the ropes for much of game 3, with only a scratch causing her trouble late in the game. Leonardo failed to pressure her, and Dani won 2-4 to take the series 2-1 and advance to the second round.
Home Depot Forum, Web City: Dani v. Nikolai. The Spiders newcomer will stay in action, leading off the night with 15-ball and the red cue in the second half of her doubleheader. Web City's Dani had quite the break, sending the cue ball flying off the table. Small errors piled up for her in the game, which allowed Freedom's Nikolai to have free reign in the end, as he put up a four-ball run-out for the win and a 1-0 series lead. Game 2 was a bit sloppy, with the Cascades' Nikolai producing a soft break that proved troublesome for most of the game. In the end, the Spiders' Dani missed on the 15, and it fell in line for Nikolai to take, giving him the series as well as he went up 2-0 in the series. Nikolai had a four-ball run to pace his game 3 attack, and while Dani kept things competitive, her late miss on the 15 gave away another game to Nikolai, as he advanced on a 3-0 sweep. Nikolai will face the Meteors' Nibbles in Viewpoint Sound's Volkswagen Stadium Events Center in the next round.
Kraft Forum, Royal: Hannah v. Lorde. Inexperienced players go head-to-head in this series of Rotation with the red cue. Commerce's Lorde had to weather a heavy early attack from Royal's Hannah in game 1, but she came out just fine, rallying to tie and eventually win the game 8-5 for a 1-0 lead in the series for Lorde. In game 2, the Tradewinds' Lorde started on a four-ball run, only to be caught immediately by a four-ball run from the Crowns' Hannah. Lorde got away on the second escape, as a miss by Hannah led to Lorde kicking the 9 into the bottom left and then banking the 10 to the bottom side for the 8-4 win, sealing the series at 2-0 with the victory. Lorde should have had game 3 as well, dominating early only to give up a four-ball run-out to Hannah at the end of an 8-7 loss. The series still favored Lorde 2-1, sending her to the second round.
Mercedes-Benz Forum, Harrison: Twinkie II v. Max. The silver cue ends its 8-ball obligations for the round with this series. Game 1 went horribly wrong for Harrison's Twinkie II, as she was already behind when she illegally potted the 8, giving Queens' Max an expedited win and a 1-0 series lead in embarrassing fashion. The Flames' Max came out with a four-ball run from the break, answered directly with a four-ball run from the Specters' Twinkie II on what was her only turn in game 2. Max shot right back with a four-ball run-out to seal the game, using clever shot selection and execution to get the win and a 2-0 series lead. Twinkie II applied a lot of pressure in game 3, working her way to a six-ball run early on. Max made somewhat of a comeback, but Twinkie II banked the 8 to the bottom left to get the win, making it a 2-1 series. Max will travel Westside's BMW RockDome to face the Rockers' Goatee in the second round.
Volkswagen Stadium Events Center, Viewpoint Sound: Dominic v. Leandra. The last series of the day is a battle between brother and sister in 7-ball with the blue cue. Viewpoint Sound's Dominic seemed to have the edge in game 1, but a late miss on the 7 ruined the game, as Tysini's Leandra cashed in on a bank to the bottom right for the win and 1-0 series lead. Leandra fared very well in game 2 as well, as the Hummingbirds' star used the Meteors' Dominic missing on the 2 as the catalyst for her quick finish. Leandra needed only two shots, making a 3-7 combination to the top left to secure the game and clinch the series at 2-0. Leandra completed the 3-0 sweep of her brother with a three-ball run-out in game 3, with two tough cuts and a bank of the 7 to the top side to end it effectively. Leandra is through to the second round.
We'll continue to play at approximately this pace as long as the shooting is passable.
Tuesday, February 28, 2017
Monday, February 27, 2017
Tournament 2017: B-level 1st Round - Day 5
We're back for a day of games today in pool, beginning with...
HP Field Events Center, Midland: Rainmane v. Shiny. The first series of the day has the red cue up for 9-ball between these veteran players. Midland's Rainmane had control early in the game with a good break, but she lost it late, with Web City's Shiny serving up a four-ball run-out to take the win in an aggressive finish to earn a 1-0 series lead for the visitor. The Spiders' Shiny held control in game 2 for awhile, but when the Predators' Rainmane found a clean shot, she took advantage, reversing the script from the first game as she closed a four-ball run-out for the win, tying the series at 1 with another quick game. Shiny looked to have game 3 in the bag, going on another late game run, but her five-ball run ended in a scratch while making the 9, gifting the win and the series, 2-1, to Rainmane. The stunning end sees Rainmane to the second round.
Sprint Hall, Victoria: Spice v. Paige. Two very talented players battle it out in another red-cue administered series of 9-ball. Victoria's Spice managed to survive a couple of tough shots in game 1, allowing Queens' Paige to make progress in the game. Spice would have the closing shots, making a four-ball run-out for the win and a 1-0 series lead. The Flames' Paige was able to hold off a mid-game run by the Spurs' Spice, which ended when her 6-9 combination to the bottom right came up a bit short. Paige rallied with a four-ball run-out to claim the win, tying the series at 1. Neither player established much of a grip on game 3, although Spice did work an early four-ball run after some sloppy turns. Paige blew her chance to answer it, and Spice would win with the last two shots to secure the series at 2-1 and send herself into the second round.
Ebay Center, Queens: Paige v. Charli XCX. The Flames veteran is back in a quick turnaround, playing 8-ball with the silver cue against the Hummingbirds sophomore. Queens' Paige had a great start, working a five-ball run from the break, but it wouldn't last, as a late miss on the 8 coupled with two three-ball runs from Tysini's Charli kept her close, and she made the last two shots to win for a 1-0 series lead. The Hummingbirds' Charli had an early three-ball run and a four-ball run later with collateral given to the Flames' Paige, sandwiching the host's five-ball run to get close. Despite the help from Charli, Paige missed on the 8, and Charli tapped it in to win, giving her the win and clinching the series at 2-0 as well. Paige and Charli combined for an interesting game 3, beginning with Charli's bad break and ending with Paige losing on a stick violation for knocking the balls off position and then illegally potting the 8 on the same shot, giving Charli a 3-0 sweep to move on to the second round.
Home Depot Forum, Web City: Dani v. Zach. The red cue is back for a series of 10-ball as these players start anew with their new teams. Impatience slowed the game for both players, but it cost Web City's Dani most, as her miss on the 9 allowed Pronger's Zach to finally settle in and make the last two shots for the win, giving him the 1-0 series lead. More poor shooting kept game 2 competitive, as a number of combination players when awry. The Tridents' Zach did have a three-ball run end in a scratch, but the Spiders' Dani was unable to assert herself, and Zach would later win to clinch the series at 2-0. Game 3 went relatively fast, compared to the rest of the series, and Zach had a pair of three-ball runs, the second ending the game as he made the 8-10 combination at the bottom right, earning him a 3-0 series sweep to take into the second round.
Capital City SuperCenter, Capital City: Nicole v. Tigerette: The Sharpshooters' newest player takes on the Tradewinds captain in 9-ball with the silver cue. Capital City's Nicole prevailed in game 1, with her break causing a defensive battle with Commerce's Tigerette to eventually be settled with a three-ball run-out from Nicole, giving her the 1-0 lead in the series. The Tradewinds' Tigerette mixed things up a bit in game 2, allowing the Sharpshooters' Nicole some early leeway before making the last five balls over two turns to tie the series at 1 with her win. Game 3 came down to an errant massé shot by Nicole, who clipped the 6 as she potted the 3 illegally, allowing Tigerette to bury the 4-9 combination from ball-in-hand for the win and a 2-1 series win. Tigerette advances with the stroke of good fortune.
Samsung Arena, Whitewater: Twinkie III v. Bianca. Youth Movement club-mates match up in another 9-ball series, this one with the blue cue. Game 1 appeared to be heading for sloppy status until Southridge's Bianca pulled off a four-ball run-out, capitalizing on one of many misses by Whitewater's Twinkie III as the rookie takes the 1-0 series lead. The Defenders' Bianca never gave the Shores' Twinkie III a chance in game 2, as Bianca potted the 9 on the break to the top right, the first time that's been done all Tournament year, to clinch the series at 2-0. Bianca backed it up with a game 3 win as well, taking the game on a three-ball run-out in a high-paced battle with Twinkie III. Bianca took the series in a sweep, 3-0, to advance to the second round.
Pepsi Arena, Lighton: Acorn v. Daisy. The red cue is back for 10-ball in this series, pitting a savvy veteran against a shaky rookie. Lighton's Acorn didn't have the easiest time on his hands in game 1, as Modernistic's Daisy provided quite the challenge. Acorn got the win with a tap-in after Daisy missed a kick on the 10, and Acorn took the 1-0 series lead. The Union's Daisy made a five-ball run in game 2, putting quite a scare into the Prestige's Acorn, but he was eventually given the chance to finish the game and made the last two shots, earning the win for a 2-0 series lead. Acorn maintained a possession edge in game 3, effectively preventing Daisy from building any momentum as Acorn casually took the win to make it a 3-0 series sweep. Acorn is through to the second round.
GE Stadium Events Center, Southridge: Debby Ryan v. Midnight. The red cue is up again, playing 8-ball in this series. Game 1 featured Southridge's Debby jumping out to a nice lead, only to see Westside's Midnight proffer quite the challenge with a six-ball run. It became a close game, but Midnight's missed jump on the 8 allowed Debby to close the game with a bank of the 8 to the bottom left for the win and a 1-0 series lead. Game 2 was similar to game 1, lacking just a piercing run from the Rockers' Midnight over the middle. The ending still saw Midnight make a mistake, and the Defenders' Debby used this to once again bank the 8, this time to the bottom right, for the win, giving her a 2-0 series lead. Debby opened game 3 with a six-ball run, ending only on a scratch, which was quickly answered by Midnight's six-ball run as well. The game proceeded to a tight finish, with Debby doing an errant jump, only for Midnight to miss on the 8, giving Debby a clear path to the win and the 3-0 series sweep. Debby will play on into the second round.
Sprint Hall, Victoria: Yekaterina Vasilyeva v. Chelsea. The silver cue will get the next series of 8-ball, coming after the mid-afternoon break. Eastside's Chelsea took her time in getting into game 1, but she knocked Victoria's Yekaterina back quickly when she did, working a five-ball run to take the lead and winning two turns later for a 1-0 series lead. Game 2 displayed some shakiness on both sides, but primarily for the Spurs' Yekaterina, who was barely able to keep up with the Sharks' Chelsea for much of the game, and she never got around the visitor, who won with a tap-in on the 8 after Yekaterina missed it. Chelsea secured the series at 2-0. Chelsea completed the 3-0 sweep in game 3, holding off an early run by Yekaterina and then getting a bit lucky that Yekaterina missed the 8. Chelsea had a three-rail kick on the 14 to the bottom side on the turn before she took the game, which sent her into the second round.
Ford Forum, Pronger: Potter v. Chris. The silver cue remains at the table for this series of 7-ball. Capital City's Chris emerged with the win in game 1, getting a bit of luck to go his way when Pronger's Potter missed on the 7 and he was able to knock it in to take a 1-0 series lead in an otherwise even game. The Sharpshooters' Chris showed his veteran savvy after the Tridents' Potter missed on the 2. Chris worked a three-ball run-out, ending on a 4-7 combination to the top right to earn the win and make it a 2-0 series lead. Potter had complete control in game 3, taking the win fairly easily with six of the seven potted balls including the winning shot to cut the series to 2-1. Chris still advances to the second round.
Audi Hall, Terrace City: Kiwi v. Stephanie Livilotti. The silver cue gets another 8-ball series, with this winner facing Chelsea. Southridge's Stephanie made game 1 a bit uncomfortable for Terrace City's Kiwi, as she had her behind for much of the game. Kiwi was the one who pulled off the late trick, forcing Stephanie into a bad shot that gave Kiwi two tap-ins to win for a 1-0 series lead. Game 2 came down to a scratch at the end of a five-ball run by the Knights' Kiwi, setting her back and leaving her with a difficult shot that she missed. The Defenders' Stephanie answered with a pair of four-ball runs, the latter finishing the game in her favor to tie the series at 1. Game 3 took on the form of a race, as both players were effective in the game. It came down to Stephanie missing a tough cut on the 7, allowing Kiwi to drill the 8 on her second try to the top left, giving her the win and a 2-1 series win. Kiwi will oppose Chelsea.
Mercedes-Benz Forum, Harrison: Sydney Sierota v. Hoot. The blue cue returns to action for a series of 12-ball, with the winner facing Paps. While far from flawless, Viewpoint Sound's Hoot played the better game 1, getting himself in position quicker than Harrison's Sydney. He had a mistake in executing his shots, but Sydney didn't challenge, and Hoot took the win for a 1-0 lead in the series. Game 2 saw the Meteors' Hoot give away a wild-card ball on the break, making his game much more difficult. The Specters' Sydney took advantage of this, playing a patient and occasionally defensive game until she was able to kick the 11 to the top right for the win, tying the series at 1. Game 3 started off alright for Sydney, as she took a commanding lead after the break, but she would give up three wild-card balls in the game, the last one securing the win for Hoot, who had half of his shots made for him. Hoot took the series 2-1, and will face fellow Oriental United member Paps in the second round in Eastside's FedEx Arena.
That's all for today, with more to come tomorrow.
HP Field Events Center, Midland: Rainmane v. Shiny. The first series of the day has the red cue up for 9-ball between these veteran players. Midland's Rainmane had control early in the game with a good break, but she lost it late, with Web City's Shiny serving up a four-ball run-out to take the win in an aggressive finish to earn a 1-0 series lead for the visitor. The Spiders' Shiny held control in game 2 for awhile, but when the Predators' Rainmane found a clean shot, she took advantage, reversing the script from the first game as she closed a four-ball run-out for the win, tying the series at 1 with another quick game. Shiny looked to have game 3 in the bag, going on another late game run, but her five-ball run ended in a scratch while making the 9, gifting the win and the series, 2-1, to Rainmane. The stunning end sees Rainmane to the second round.
Sprint Hall, Victoria: Spice v. Paige. Two very talented players battle it out in another red-cue administered series of 9-ball. Victoria's Spice managed to survive a couple of tough shots in game 1, allowing Queens' Paige to make progress in the game. Spice would have the closing shots, making a four-ball run-out for the win and a 1-0 series lead. The Flames' Paige was able to hold off a mid-game run by the Spurs' Spice, which ended when her 6-9 combination to the bottom right came up a bit short. Paige rallied with a four-ball run-out to claim the win, tying the series at 1. Neither player established much of a grip on game 3, although Spice did work an early four-ball run after some sloppy turns. Paige blew her chance to answer it, and Spice would win with the last two shots to secure the series at 2-1 and send herself into the second round.
Ebay Center, Queens: Paige v. Charli XCX. The Flames veteran is back in a quick turnaround, playing 8-ball with the silver cue against the Hummingbirds sophomore. Queens' Paige had a great start, working a five-ball run from the break, but it wouldn't last, as a late miss on the 8 coupled with two three-ball runs from Tysini's Charli kept her close, and she made the last two shots to win for a 1-0 series lead. The Hummingbirds' Charli had an early three-ball run and a four-ball run later with collateral given to the Flames' Paige, sandwiching the host's five-ball run to get close. Despite the help from Charli, Paige missed on the 8, and Charli tapped it in to win, giving her the win and clinching the series at 2-0 as well. Paige and Charli combined for an interesting game 3, beginning with Charli's bad break and ending with Paige losing on a stick violation for knocking the balls off position and then illegally potting the 8 on the same shot, giving Charli a 3-0 sweep to move on to the second round.
Home Depot Forum, Web City: Dani v. Zach. The red cue is back for a series of 10-ball as these players start anew with their new teams. Impatience slowed the game for both players, but it cost Web City's Dani most, as her miss on the 9 allowed Pronger's Zach to finally settle in and make the last two shots for the win, giving him the 1-0 series lead. More poor shooting kept game 2 competitive, as a number of combination players when awry. The Tridents' Zach did have a three-ball run end in a scratch, but the Spiders' Dani was unable to assert herself, and Zach would later win to clinch the series at 2-0. Game 3 went relatively fast, compared to the rest of the series, and Zach had a pair of three-ball runs, the second ending the game as he made the 8-10 combination at the bottom right, earning him a 3-0 series sweep to take into the second round.
Capital City SuperCenter, Capital City: Nicole v. Tigerette: The Sharpshooters' newest player takes on the Tradewinds captain in 9-ball with the silver cue. Capital City's Nicole prevailed in game 1, with her break causing a defensive battle with Commerce's Tigerette to eventually be settled with a three-ball run-out from Nicole, giving her the 1-0 lead in the series. The Tradewinds' Tigerette mixed things up a bit in game 2, allowing the Sharpshooters' Nicole some early leeway before making the last five balls over two turns to tie the series at 1 with her win. Game 3 came down to an errant massé shot by Nicole, who clipped the 6 as she potted the 3 illegally, allowing Tigerette to bury the 4-9 combination from ball-in-hand for the win and a 2-1 series win. Tigerette advances with the stroke of good fortune.
Samsung Arena, Whitewater: Twinkie III v. Bianca. Youth Movement club-mates match up in another 9-ball series, this one with the blue cue. Game 1 appeared to be heading for sloppy status until Southridge's Bianca pulled off a four-ball run-out, capitalizing on one of many misses by Whitewater's Twinkie III as the rookie takes the 1-0 series lead. The Defenders' Bianca never gave the Shores' Twinkie III a chance in game 2, as Bianca potted the 9 on the break to the top right, the first time that's been done all Tournament year, to clinch the series at 2-0. Bianca backed it up with a game 3 win as well, taking the game on a three-ball run-out in a high-paced battle with Twinkie III. Bianca took the series in a sweep, 3-0, to advance to the second round.
Pepsi Arena, Lighton: Acorn v. Daisy. The red cue is back for 10-ball in this series, pitting a savvy veteran against a shaky rookie. Lighton's Acorn didn't have the easiest time on his hands in game 1, as Modernistic's Daisy provided quite the challenge. Acorn got the win with a tap-in after Daisy missed a kick on the 10, and Acorn took the 1-0 series lead. The Union's Daisy made a five-ball run in game 2, putting quite a scare into the Prestige's Acorn, but he was eventually given the chance to finish the game and made the last two shots, earning the win for a 2-0 series lead. Acorn maintained a possession edge in game 3, effectively preventing Daisy from building any momentum as Acorn casually took the win to make it a 3-0 series sweep. Acorn is through to the second round.
GE Stadium Events Center, Southridge: Debby Ryan v. Midnight. The red cue is up again, playing 8-ball in this series. Game 1 featured Southridge's Debby jumping out to a nice lead, only to see Westside's Midnight proffer quite the challenge with a six-ball run. It became a close game, but Midnight's missed jump on the 8 allowed Debby to close the game with a bank of the 8 to the bottom left for the win and a 1-0 series lead. Game 2 was similar to game 1, lacking just a piercing run from the Rockers' Midnight over the middle. The ending still saw Midnight make a mistake, and the Defenders' Debby used this to once again bank the 8, this time to the bottom right, for the win, giving her a 2-0 series lead. Debby opened game 3 with a six-ball run, ending only on a scratch, which was quickly answered by Midnight's six-ball run as well. The game proceeded to a tight finish, with Debby doing an errant jump, only for Midnight to miss on the 8, giving Debby a clear path to the win and the 3-0 series sweep. Debby will play on into the second round.
Sprint Hall, Victoria: Yekaterina Vasilyeva v. Chelsea. The silver cue will get the next series of 8-ball, coming after the mid-afternoon break. Eastside's Chelsea took her time in getting into game 1, but she knocked Victoria's Yekaterina back quickly when she did, working a five-ball run to take the lead and winning two turns later for a 1-0 series lead. Game 2 displayed some shakiness on both sides, but primarily for the Spurs' Yekaterina, who was barely able to keep up with the Sharks' Chelsea for much of the game, and she never got around the visitor, who won with a tap-in on the 8 after Yekaterina missed it. Chelsea secured the series at 2-0. Chelsea completed the 3-0 sweep in game 3, holding off an early run by Yekaterina and then getting a bit lucky that Yekaterina missed the 8. Chelsea had a three-rail kick on the 14 to the bottom side on the turn before she took the game, which sent her into the second round.
Ford Forum, Pronger: Potter v. Chris. The silver cue remains at the table for this series of 7-ball. Capital City's Chris emerged with the win in game 1, getting a bit of luck to go his way when Pronger's Potter missed on the 7 and he was able to knock it in to take a 1-0 series lead in an otherwise even game. The Sharpshooters' Chris showed his veteran savvy after the Tridents' Potter missed on the 2. Chris worked a three-ball run-out, ending on a 4-7 combination to the top right to earn the win and make it a 2-0 series lead. Potter had complete control in game 3, taking the win fairly easily with six of the seven potted balls including the winning shot to cut the series to 2-1. Chris still advances to the second round.
Audi Hall, Terrace City: Kiwi v. Stephanie Livilotti. The silver cue gets another 8-ball series, with this winner facing Chelsea. Southridge's Stephanie made game 1 a bit uncomfortable for Terrace City's Kiwi, as she had her behind for much of the game. Kiwi was the one who pulled off the late trick, forcing Stephanie into a bad shot that gave Kiwi two tap-ins to win for a 1-0 series lead. Game 2 came down to a scratch at the end of a five-ball run by the Knights' Kiwi, setting her back and leaving her with a difficult shot that she missed. The Defenders' Stephanie answered with a pair of four-ball runs, the latter finishing the game in her favor to tie the series at 1. Game 3 took on the form of a race, as both players were effective in the game. It came down to Stephanie missing a tough cut on the 7, allowing Kiwi to drill the 8 on her second try to the top left, giving her the win and a 2-1 series win. Kiwi will oppose Chelsea.
Mercedes-Benz Forum, Harrison: Sydney Sierota v. Hoot. The blue cue returns to action for a series of 12-ball, with the winner facing Paps. While far from flawless, Viewpoint Sound's Hoot played the better game 1, getting himself in position quicker than Harrison's Sydney. He had a mistake in executing his shots, but Sydney didn't challenge, and Hoot took the win for a 1-0 lead in the series. Game 2 saw the Meteors' Hoot give away a wild-card ball on the break, making his game much more difficult. The Specters' Sydney took advantage of this, playing a patient and occasionally defensive game until she was able to kick the 11 to the top right for the win, tying the series at 1. Game 3 started off alright for Sydney, as she took a commanding lead after the break, but she would give up three wild-card balls in the game, the last one securing the win for Hoot, who had half of his shots made for him. Hoot took the series 2-1, and will face fellow Oriental United member Paps in the second round in Eastside's FedEx Arena.
That's all for today, with more to come tomorrow.
Sunday, February 26, 2017
Tournament 2017: B-level 1st Round - Day 4
We're back with new games of pool to be played. First up today...
Apple Center, Todavía: Sparkles v. Twinkie II. The blue cue plays 7-ball to begin the day in easy form. Todavía's Sparkles absolutely dominated game 1, working a five-ball run from the break and using a scratch from Harrison's Twinkie II to make the last two balls from ball-in-hand for the win, taking a 1-0 series lead. The Specters' Twinkie II stayed more competitive in game 2, and a couple of tough misses by the Stills' Sparkles opened up the game, which Twinkie II took on the last two shots to tie the series at 1. Sparkles' errors in game 2 would also cost her game 3, as Twinkie II made the 6 and 7 on the break, the latter to the top left on a spectacular first and only shot to swipe the series away 2-1. Twinkie II will advance to the second round.
GE Stadium Events Center, Southridge: Hughbert v. Snowball. A Defenders rookie debuts against the Blades captain in Rotation with the silver cue. Southridge's Hughbert did well in his first game, winning game 1 by an 8-5 score over Swordpoint's Snowball. The highlight came on his two-rail kick to sink the 6 in the top left as part of a four-ball run. Snowball answered with her own four-ball run halted by a scratch that allowed Hughbert to grab the win and a 1-0 series lead. The Blades' Snowball made a highlight in game 2 with a 5-12-9 kick combination to the bottom side as the fourth of a five-ball run to answer the Defenders' Hughbert making two balls on the break. Snowball would get to the edge of winning before Hughbert rattled off a six-ball run-out, stealing the 8-7 win and a 2-0 series lead in a thrilling battle of players on opposite ends of the experience spectrum. Snowball found another highlight on a 1-4 combination that deflected off the 6 and into the bottom side in game 3 from a terrible angle. Snowball would later deny Hughbert of the sweep after he rallied to tie on a four-ball run. The game ended 8-6 for Snowball, but Hughbert won the series 2-1 to advance to the second round.
Coca-Cola Field Exhibition Center, Boston: Sweetheart v. Stinky. The games continue with 10-ball and the blue between these veterans. Boston's Sweetheart took the early edge in game 1, getting the win over Freedom's Stinky in a very competitive match that saw Sweetheart bury the 10 Stinky left near the bottom left corner for a 1-0 series lead. Game 2 was nearly as close as the first, but the Cascades' Stinky won this time, using a four-ball run-out to get the win in response to a five-ball run by the Swifts' Sweetheart. Stinky's win tied the series at 1, setting up what should be a close finish. Game 3 started a bit sluggish, but once it got going, Stinky was in full control, making a seven-ball run-out to take the win and secure the series at 2-1 with his strong play. Stinky will happily glide into the second round.
IBM Cathedral, North Modernistic: Peach v. Nikolai. The blue cue stays up for this series of Rotation between inexperienced players. Peach started by making two balls on the break, and she didn't looked concerned at any point in game 1, even as Freedom's Nikolai nearly tied it in the middle of the game. Peach replied with a three-ball run-out to win 8-3, a calm effort from the rookie-captain. The Nighthawks' Peach seemed to not even show in game 2, poorly breaking and then allowing the Cascades' Nikolai to work his way to an 8-1 win without much resistance, tying the series at 1. Game 3 was a tale of two halves, as Nikolai collected a large lead with a four-ball run putting him on the brink of a win. Peach rallied back, using a five-ball run to get close before tying the game, but she missed the final shot, and Nikolai made it to win 8-7 and advance to the second round in a 2-1 series win.
FedEx Arena, Eastside: Paps v. Dominic. The newest Shark gets to open up their brand-new pool venue against a new Meteor, as 15-ball is played with the silver cue. Eastside's Paps brought the crowd to their feet in the new building, winning game 1 early with a glancing hit off the 5 to sink the 15 at the top left, taking a 1-0 series lead over Viewpoint Sound's Dominic, who had little impact. The Sharks' Paps wasn't quite as in control in game 2, but he made a four-ball run-out at the end, sitting the Meteors' Dominic down 2-0 in the series after an impressive closer from the host to secure advancement. Game 3 saw a defensive approach from both sides after Paps had a poor break. Dominic's inability to stop scratching ultimately cost him, as Paps made the 11-15 combination to the top right from ball-in-hand to win and make it a 3-0 series sweep. Paps will ride that success to the second round.
Coca-Cola Field Exhibition Center, Boston: Puff II v. Twilight. Two of Reality's best members square off in 8-ball with the blue cue. Boston's Puff II made a ball on the break, and that provided her an edge in the early going, where Central's Twilight took a defensive stance. Puff II stayed on the offensive and would charge to the end to win the game, giving her a 1-0 series lead. The Warriors' Twilight felt very good about her game 2 chances, making a five-ball run on her first turn, but it proved to be all she had, as the Swifts' Puff II came from behind to win on an eight-ball run-out, securing the series at 2-0 with the remarkable effort. Game 3 was much more of a grind for both players, with Twilight overcoming a pair of scratches to take the win after a scratch from Puff II, who would go on to win the series 2-1 anyway, moving into the second round.
AT&T Hall, Oceanside: Celestia v. Lexi. We're playing more 8-ball now, as the red cue gets a turn. Game 1 saw Celestia burst out to an early lead, but the Oceanside rookie struggled in the middle, allowing Harrison's Lexi to get back in the game. It wouldn't matter, as Celestia closed her win on a three-ball run-out to go up 1-0 in the series. The Specters' Lexi came back in game 2, keeping the Waves' Celestia at bay long enough to methodically sink her suit and the 8, earning what appeared to be a slow-forming blowout win to tie the series at 1. The players exchanged gifts in game 3, but this proved to be less valuable to Celestia, who was already behind after Lexi's opening four-ball run. Lexi needed only two turns after getting the gift to end the game, giving her the 2-1 series win over Celestia.
Nike Field Events Center, Commerce: Tigerette v. Paps. The focus shifts to 12-ball with the blue cue in this series. Paps needed only two turns in this game, as the Eastside newcomer worked a four-ball run-out with favorable positioning to defeat Commerce's Tigerette in game 1, earning the visitor a 1-0 series lead. The Sharks' Paps had a bit more of a challenge in game 2 with getting into position after making two balls from the break, but the Tradewinds' Tigerette helped out with a wild-card ball. He quickly returned it, and while Tigerette had a chance to rally, she couldn't complete the effort. Paps used a three-ball run-out for the win, clinching the series at 2-0 as well. In game 3, Paps got nothing from the break, and he had to hold off Tigerette for a bit, but his set-up work was superb, allowing a three-ball run-out of tap-ins to stand for the win, earning a 3-0 series sweep again for Paps.
Pepsi Arena, Lighton: Twinkie I v. Oreo. The last series before a break has the red cue in action for Rotation between these two strong veterans. Terrace City's Oreo established a lead fairly quickly in game 1, and Lighton's Twinkie I was not precise enough to challenge Oreo, who would eventually cruise to an 8-3 win through short runs, giving her a 1-0 series lead. The Knights' Oreo was on the brink of victory in game after a stunning second option sinking of the 10 to the bottom side (missed at top right). The Prestige's Twinkie I refused to fall that easily, going on a four-ball run-out to counter the prior three-ball run, giving her an 8-7 win to tie the series at 1 with. Game 3 started very tight, but Oreo slipped off at the end, losing thanks to defense from Twinkie I that set her up for the last two shots of an 8-3 win. Twinkie I took the series 2-1, and seemed pretty chuffed about it.
Kraft Forum, Royal: Hannah v. Lexi. After the break, the silver cue is back for 15-ball between two inexperienced players. Royal's Hannah had game 1 under control in the early going, but a late miss allowed Harrison's Lexi back into the game. She took advantage of it, with Lexi winning on a five-ball run-out for a 1-0 series lead. The Specters' Lexi set up the Crowns' Hannah for failure in game 2, giving her an impossible shot and then using the ball-in-hand to take a cheap win on a 1-15 combination to the top right, securing Lexi the series at 2-0. Game 3 was a bit more of the same as game 1, with a tight start giving way to another five-ball run-out from Lexi as she stormed her way to a 3-0 series sweep to advance into the second round.
Samsung Arena, Whitewater: Shaggy v. Leonardo. These two Solid Core teammates will face off in 15-ball with the silver, with the winner to oppose Lexi. Midland's Leonardo came up with the game 1 win, but it was not pretty, as both he and Whitewater's Shaggy struggled after the latter's poor break. Leonardo leads the series 1-0. The Shores' Shaggy stayed in the series with a slightly more smooth game 2 win, ending with a four-ball run-out to tie the series at 1. The Predators' Leonardo did little of note in game 2, beyond making a few standard shots. Shaggy made her move in game 3, dominating with two balls on the break, a seven-ball run in the middle, and then the final two shots for the win, clinching the series for herself at 2-1 while bumping out her son-in-law. Shaggy will oppose Lexi in the second round.
IBM Cathedral, North Modernistic: Luigi v. Ice Cream. The last series of the day features Urban division rivals in 9-ball with the blue cue. North Modernistic's Luigi saw a high share of possession in game 1, boosted by a four-ball run, but it was Commerce's Ice Cream winning on the last two shots of the game for a 1-0 series lead. The Tradewinds' Ice Cream didn't have the best of luck in game 2, but two critical misses by the Nighthawks' Luigi proved far more costly. His first miss was a 4-9 combination to the bottom right at short range, and his second was a miss on the 9 to the top left. Ice Cream cleaned up the latter with ease to secure the series at 2-0. Ice Cream needed a bit of good fortune in game 3, and she got it, as the players exchanged three-ball runs over the middle of the game, but Luigi missed the 9, and Ice Cream tapped it in to make it a 3-0 series sweep. Ice Cream plays on into the second round.
We'll be back tomorrow with a similar slate of games. We'll try to settle into the 30-45 games per day range as I progress back into regular health and stamina.
Apple Center, Todavía: Sparkles v. Twinkie II. The blue cue plays 7-ball to begin the day in easy form. Todavía's Sparkles absolutely dominated game 1, working a five-ball run from the break and using a scratch from Harrison's Twinkie II to make the last two balls from ball-in-hand for the win, taking a 1-0 series lead. The Specters' Twinkie II stayed more competitive in game 2, and a couple of tough misses by the Stills' Sparkles opened up the game, which Twinkie II took on the last two shots to tie the series at 1. Sparkles' errors in game 2 would also cost her game 3, as Twinkie II made the 6 and 7 on the break, the latter to the top left on a spectacular first and only shot to swipe the series away 2-1. Twinkie II will advance to the second round.
GE Stadium Events Center, Southridge: Hughbert v. Snowball. A Defenders rookie debuts against the Blades captain in Rotation with the silver cue. Southridge's Hughbert did well in his first game, winning game 1 by an 8-5 score over Swordpoint's Snowball. The highlight came on his two-rail kick to sink the 6 in the top left as part of a four-ball run. Snowball answered with her own four-ball run halted by a scratch that allowed Hughbert to grab the win and a 1-0 series lead. The Blades' Snowball made a highlight in game 2 with a 5-12-9 kick combination to the bottom side as the fourth of a five-ball run to answer the Defenders' Hughbert making two balls on the break. Snowball would get to the edge of winning before Hughbert rattled off a six-ball run-out, stealing the 8-7 win and a 2-0 series lead in a thrilling battle of players on opposite ends of the experience spectrum. Snowball found another highlight on a 1-4 combination that deflected off the 6 and into the bottom side in game 3 from a terrible angle. Snowball would later deny Hughbert of the sweep after he rallied to tie on a four-ball run. The game ended 8-6 for Snowball, but Hughbert won the series 2-1 to advance to the second round.
Coca-Cola Field Exhibition Center, Boston: Sweetheart v. Stinky. The games continue with 10-ball and the blue between these veterans. Boston's Sweetheart took the early edge in game 1, getting the win over Freedom's Stinky in a very competitive match that saw Sweetheart bury the 10 Stinky left near the bottom left corner for a 1-0 series lead. Game 2 was nearly as close as the first, but the Cascades' Stinky won this time, using a four-ball run-out to get the win in response to a five-ball run by the Swifts' Sweetheart. Stinky's win tied the series at 1, setting up what should be a close finish. Game 3 started a bit sluggish, but once it got going, Stinky was in full control, making a seven-ball run-out to take the win and secure the series at 2-1 with his strong play. Stinky will happily glide into the second round.
IBM Cathedral, North Modernistic: Peach v. Nikolai. The blue cue stays up for this series of Rotation between inexperienced players. Peach started by making two balls on the break, and she didn't looked concerned at any point in game 1, even as Freedom's Nikolai nearly tied it in the middle of the game. Peach replied with a three-ball run-out to win 8-3, a calm effort from the rookie-captain. The Nighthawks' Peach seemed to not even show in game 2, poorly breaking and then allowing the Cascades' Nikolai to work his way to an 8-1 win without much resistance, tying the series at 1. Game 3 was a tale of two halves, as Nikolai collected a large lead with a four-ball run putting him on the brink of a win. Peach rallied back, using a five-ball run to get close before tying the game, but she missed the final shot, and Nikolai made it to win 8-7 and advance to the second round in a 2-1 series win.
FedEx Arena, Eastside: Paps v. Dominic. The newest Shark gets to open up their brand-new pool venue against a new Meteor, as 15-ball is played with the silver cue. Eastside's Paps brought the crowd to their feet in the new building, winning game 1 early with a glancing hit off the 5 to sink the 15 at the top left, taking a 1-0 series lead over Viewpoint Sound's Dominic, who had little impact. The Sharks' Paps wasn't quite as in control in game 2, but he made a four-ball run-out at the end, sitting the Meteors' Dominic down 2-0 in the series after an impressive closer from the host to secure advancement. Game 3 saw a defensive approach from both sides after Paps had a poor break. Dominic's inability to stop scratching ultimately cost him, as Paps made the 11-15 combination to the top right from ball-in-hand to win and make it a 3-0 series sweep. Paps will ride that success to the second round.
Coca-Cola Field Exhibition Center, Boston: Puff II v. Twilight. Two of Reality's best members square off in 8-ball with the blue cue. Boston's Puff II made a ball on the break, and that provided her an edge in the early going, where Central's Twilight took a defensive stance. Puff II stayed on the offensive and would charge to the end to win the game, giving her a 1-0 series lead. The Warriors' Twilight felt very good about her game 2 chances, making a five-ball run on her first turn, but it proved to be all she had, as the Swifts' Puff II came from behind to win on an eight-ball run-out, securing the series at 2-0 with the remarkable effort. Game 3 was much more of a grind for both players, with Twilight overcoming a pair of scratches to take the win after a scratch from Puff II, who would go on to win the series 2-1 anyway, moving into the second round.
AT&T Hall, Oceanside: Celestia v. Lexi. We're playing more 8-ball now, as the red cue gets a turn. Game 1 saw Celestia burst out to an early lead, but the Oceanside rookie struggled in the middle, allowing Harrison's Lexi to get back in the game. It wouldn't matter, as Celestia closed her win on a three-ball run-out to go up 1-0 in the series. The Specters' Lexi came back in game 2, keeping the Waves' Celestia at bay long enough to methodically sink her suit and the 8, earning what appeared to be a slow-forming blowout win to tie the series at 1. The players exchanged gifts in game 3, but this proved to be less valuable to Celestia, who was already behind after Lexi's opening four-ball run. Lexi needed only two turns after getting the gift to end the game, giving her the 2-1 series win over Celestia.
Nike Field Events Center, Commerce: Tigerette v. Paps. The focus shifts to 12-ball with the blue cue in this series. Paps needed only two turns in this game, as the Eastside newcomer worked a four-ball run-out with favorable positioning to defeat Commerce's Tigerette in game 1, earning the visitor a 1-0 series lead. The Sharks' Paps had a bit more of a challenge in game 2 with getting into position after making two balls from the break, but the Tradewinds' Tigerette helped out with a wild-card ball. He quickly returned it, and while Tigerette had a chance to rally, she couldn't complete the effort. Paps used a three-ball run-out for the win, clinching the series at 2-0 as well. In game 3, Paps got nothing from the break, and he had to hold off Tigerette for a bit, but his set-up work was superb, allowing a three-ball run-out of tap-ins to stand for the win, earning a 3-0 series sweep again for Paps.
Pepsi Arena, Lighton: Twinkie I v. Oreo. The last series before a break has the red cue in action for Rotation between these two strong veterans. Terrace City's Oreo established a lead fairly quickly in game 1, and Lighton's Twinkie I was not precise enough to challenge Oreo, who would eventually cruise to an 8-3 win through short runs, giving her a 1-0 series lead. The Knights' Oreo was on the brink of victory in game after a stunning second option sinking of the 10 to the bottom side (missed at top right). The Prestige's Twinkie I refused to fall that easily, going on a four-ball run-out to counter the prior three-ball run, giving her an 8-7 win to tie the series at 1 with. Game 3 started very tight, but Oreo slipped off at the end, losing thanks to defense from Twinkie I that set her up for the last two shots of an 8-3 win. Twinkie I took the series 2-1, and seemed pretty chuffed about it.
Kraft Forum, Royal: Hannah v. Lexi. After the break, the silver cue is back for 15-ball between two inexperienced players. Royal's Hannah had game 1 under control in the early going, but a late miss allowed Harrison's Lexi back into the game. She took advantage of it, with Lexi winning on a five-ball run-out for a 1-0 series lead. The Specters' Lexi set up the Crowns' Hannah for failure in game 2, giving her an impossible shot and then using the ball-in-hand to take a cheap win on a 1-15 combination to the top right, securing Lexi the series at 2-0. Game 3 was a bit more of the same as game 1, with a tight start giving way to another five-ball run-out from Lexi as she stormed her way to a 3-0 series sweep to advance into the second round.
Samsung Arena, Whitewater: Shaggy v. Leonardo. These two Solid Core teammates will face off in 15-ball with the silver, with the winner to oppose Lexi. Midland's Leonardo came up with the game 1 win, but it was not pretty, as both he and Whitewater's Shaggy struggled after the latter's poor break. Leonardo leads the series 1-0. The Shores' Shaggy stayed in the series with a slightly more smooth game 2 win, ending with a four-ball run-out to tie the series at 1. The Predators' Leonardo did little of note in game 2, beyond making a few standard shots. Shaggy made her move in game 3, dominating with two balls on the break, a seven-ball run in the middle, and then the final two shots for the win, clinching the series for herself at 2-1 while bumping out her son-in-law. Shaggy will oppose Lexi in the second round.
IBM Cathedral, North Modernistic: Luigi v. Ice Cream. The last series of the day features Urban division rivals in 9-ball with the blue cue. North Modernistic's Luigi saw a high share of possession in game 1, boosted by a four-ball run, but it was Commerce's Ice Cream winning on the last two shots of the game for a 1-0 series lead. The Tradewinds' Ice Cream didn't have the best of luck in game 2, but two critical misses by the Nighthawks' Luigi proved far more costly. His first miss was a 4-9 combination to the bottom right at short range, and his second was a miss on the 9 to the top left. Ice Cream cleaned up the latter with ease to secure the series at 2-0. Ice Cream needed a bit of good fortune in game 3, and she got it, as the players exchanged three-ball runs over the middle of the game, but Luigi missed the 9, and Ice Cream tapped it in to make it a 3-0 series sweep. Ice Cream plays on into the second round.
We'll be back tomorrow with a similar slate of games. We'll try to settle into the 30-45 games per day range as I progress back into regular health and stamina.
UPCL Cricket - Week 9 Part 1
We're back to start a new week of cricket action, with the first game in...
IBM Nighthawks Nest, North Modernistic: The Nighthawks end a three-game home stand looking for revenge for last week's high scoring loss to the Volcanoes, who play the second of four straight road games. Starlight had no trouble in starting the game with 686 for Pacific, a great effort from the superstar captain. Peach was shut down quickly on a deflection play, ending with 74 for North Modernistic in a brutally weak start. Ms. Kitty couldn't extend the Volcanoes lead much, ending on 92 in a poor turn from the veteran. Luigi helped the Nighthawks get back into the game with 573 on his turn, making things close at the halfway mark. Leonette answered with 515 for Pacific, restoring their lead in a good performance. Cheddar tracked well for North Modernistic, earning 556 to make the game even closer before the final players take their turns. Chicky Phil stepped up with 842 when he needed to, sending the Volcanoes to a final of 2135, which makes the game more difficult for the hosts. Bright couldn't complete the rally, ending on 564 as the Nighthawks fell with 1770. Pacific is cruising now, going to 14-7, while North Modernistic falls back to 8-8.
The Intel Pitch, Diamond: The Gems are in a one-off at home, facing a Knights team they'll see again soon playing a road game for schedule filler. Kiwi put a bit too much spin on her last swing, ending at 201 as Terrace City starts in a weak position from the mistake. Smokey drilled 747 for Diamond to open the scoring for the hosts, giving them a substantial lead early on. Jennifer failed to keep the pressure up for the Knights, falling with 141 as the game begins to slip from their grasp. Citrus supported her captain with an extra 640 for the Gems, giving them a critical lead at the halfway mark. Oreo went big for Terrace City, carving out 767 for the visitors to get them back into the game after falling far behind early. Pedey slipped at 202 for Diamond, trying to corral a backhand and getting beat by the fast-paced next offering that closed the gap a bit. Stripes fell short with 424 for the Knights, giving them 1533 in a close loss. Rosalina had a messy turn with 106 for the Gems, giving them 1695 in the win. Diamond improves to 7-10 after a bye week, while Terrace City is 11-7.
Blades Fusion ProGlide Park, Swordpoint: The Blades end a four-game home stand by hosting the Volcanoes, who are in the third of four straight on the road as a busy stretch in their schedule ends. Starlight began with 262 for Pacific in a mediocre turn after the league's long break between games. Snowball showed much less rust for Swordpoint, hammering 608 to give the hosts a nice lead at the start. Ms. Kitty had an errant hit that sent the ball behind her wicket, setting her down with 136 for the Volcanoes. Dreamy didn't get much more, taking only 144 for the Blades after an aggressive swing went unfavorably for the veteran. Leonette failed to block two offerings at the same time, ending on 164 for Pacific as they continue to scuffle as a team. Bandit smacked 453 for Swordpoint, padding the lead late in the game to keep the hosts in firm control. Chicky Phil had a reasonable 463 for the Volcanoes, but they took the hard loss with 1025 total. Stealth shrugged off 235 for the Blades to give them the win on a total of 1440 in a somewhat sloppy game. Swordpoint is up to 12-7, while Pacific falls to 14-8 with the loss.
Cisco Tysini Field, Tysini: The Hummingbirds hope to progress upward again, while the Stills are in the second of a six-game road trip. Easter pounded out 551 for Todavía at the start of the game, giving them a solid base to build on. Princess fired back with 352 for Tysini, keeping them in range but noticeably behind early on. Sierra nearly matched that with 343 for the Stills, protecting their lead pretty well with the performance. Leandra scooped out 700 for the Hummingbirds, getting them much closer to a lead. Sparkles put in a good outing for Todavía, registering with 537 to boost their lead just as it was coming under attack. Charli failed to keep up, poking a mere 144 for Tysini as they've fallen behind again with a player each to go. Bells might have left the game a bit open, as her 227 only brought the Stills to a final of 1658. Brownie made it close, going with 424 for the Hummingbirds to put them at 1620 in the narrow loss. Todavía's win carries them to 12-12, while Tysini is 4-10 after the loss in the T-Line Derby.
Microsoft Pitch, Del Sur: The Monarchs try to right their season with this game against the Wolves, who play in their second of a seven-game road trip. Juno led things off for Stonebridge with 391 in the opening turn, a solid performance cut a bit short by a deflection. Panda replied with 340 for Southern, keeping things close between the teams after the first turn. Frosty picked up another 481 for the Wolves, as they seem to hold an advantage in this game so far. Hoppy regained a bit of the deficit with 499 for the Monarchs, keeping the game close halfway through. Cobalt faltered a bit with 375 for Stonebridge, dropping the pace of the game down a peg. Pounce covered the deficit with 423 for Southern, giving them the small lead heading into the final players' turns. Prism recouped the effort with 456 for the Wolves, icing their game at 1703 total in a match that will come down to the end. Shannon fell short for the Monarchs, squandering the advantage on 394 individually for 1656 total in the loss. Stonebridge gets up to 9-10, while Southern sinks to 5-10.
Audi Knights Pitch, Terrace City: The Knights hope to capitalize on the Lumberjacks, who make the short one-off trip west in hopes of snapping a five-game losing streak on the road. Fluffina had a reasonably good start for Maplewood with 401 in this game. Kiwi crumbled at 138 for Terrace City, leaving them in a bad position early in the game. Diddley fired back with 464 for the Lumberjacks, extending their lead significantly in a great effort. Jennifer put a dent in the deficit with 647 for the Knights, getting them closer at the halfway point of the game. Bryant replied with 475 for Maplewood, staving off the attack from the hosts effectively enough for now. Oreo charged back with 631 for Terrace City, pulling the hosts ahead with a player each to go in a thrilling comeback effort so far. Waluigi got locked up with tough offerings, falling at 21 points to give the Lumberjacks a loss with 1361 overall. Stripes brought a quick end with 33 for the Knights, icing their effort at 1449 total. Terrace City is 12-7 with the win, bumping Maplewood back to 11-11.
BMW RockDome, Westside: The Rockers return home after a lengthy road trip to face the Specters, who are running out of time to save their season. Sydney was caught out of position and took only 24 for Harrison in a weak opening effort. Misty was far from strong on her turn, just getting her bat on a backhand before falling to a flailing hit at 171 for Westside to produce a small lead. Twinkie II got beat on an awkward bounce, cutting her down at 173 for the Specters as she did little to help their score. Goatee mastered her turn, using a cautious pace and swing to establish herself, and she only ended on a bad bounce at 1078 for the Rockers, who have a massive lead. Lexi posted 231 for Harrison on her turn, making a small impact on the suddenly-gargantuan deficit. Midnight cancelled out her performance with a modest 267 for Westside, maintaining the lead effectively. Sugar came up short at 215 for the Specters, leaving them with 643 in the harsh loss. Slinks tried to pull off a double-tap play at the end, but went too hard and ended her turn with 353, bringing the Rockers to 1869 in the win. Westside improves to 11-3, while Harrison is 3-13 with the loss.
Starbucks Cup, Archtown: The Arrows look to salvage a five-game home stand in its last game, as they've been 0-4 so far, facing the a Cascades side in the second of a four-game road trip. Jasmine went with 321 for Freedom, playing a high-pace but risky aiming game in a reasonable turn altogether. Sally looked like she was on track to best that mark, but her pace fell out from underneath her, and she had only 254 for Archtown at the end, giving them a slight deficit. Stinky fell into the same trap for the Cascades, ending on 309 after a good game turned sour very quickly. Sleepy B. broke out with 499 for the Arrows on her turn, giving them the lead at the game's midway point. Roxy covered the deficit with 371 for Freedom, but not by much, leaving the visitors exposed. Ruby couldn't keep up, falling at a measly 46 for the Arrows as they will trail late in the game. Nikolai bashed 576 for the Cascades at the back of the lineup, putting them at 1577 total. Dusky fell out at 253 for the Arrows, leaving them at 1052 in a seventh straight home loss. Freedom is up to 6-6 on the year, while Archtown is down to 6-15.
Nike Field, Commerce: The Tradewinds look to continue recent success against a surprisingly sturdy Waves side. Snuggle drilled 577 for Oceanside at the start of the game, a good effort for the captain of the team in the Nightwave jerseys. Tigerette hit back with 712 for Commerce on her turn, flexing some muscle early in the game for the purple and gray adorned hosts. Caitlin fired back with 548 for the Waves, covering the minor deficit with a solid performance. Ice Cream lost a bit of ground for the Tradewinds, taking only 490 on her turn after being distracted by a high-arcing ball that barely found safety but left her out of rhythm for the next swing. Celestia rose to the occasion for Oceanside, slicing 675 on her turn to put the hosts under some pressure. Lionel couldn't quite cover the deficit, as his 571 left Commerce a bit behind, but either team could take this one. Dewey fell off a bit at 376 for the Waves, giving them 2176 overall in a high-offense game. Lorde carried the day for the Tradewinds, pummeling 671 to give them a win with 2444. Commerce improves to 6-8, while a four-game road winning streak for the Waves ends as they fall to 10-10.
McDonald's Pitch at Pirates Park, Atlantic: The Pirates continue a seven-game home stand in its second game against a bottom-dwelling Hummingbirds side in need of a season lifeline. Princess popped 395 for Tysini in a fairly solid outing for the visiting captain. Delila blasted 806 to assert herself and Atlantic in the early lead with a terrific performance. Leandra couldn't keep up for the Hummingbirds, as her 369 left them a bit short still. Isabella answered with 329 for the Pirates, keeping them firmly in the lead at the halfway mark. Charli didn't make any progress for Tysini, bowing out at 216 in a mediocre outing for the sophomore. Americus replied with 790 for Atlantic, likely securing the game at this point with another strong individual effort. Brownie produced 368 for the Hummingbirds, and they take the loss with 1348 for the game. Klaus added 225 for the Pirates, putting their winning mark at 2150. Atlantic is 12-3, now in 2nd place and a half-game back of the Eagles in first, while Tysini slides to 4-11 with the loss.
Chevrolet Field, Everton: The Eagles seek a sweep of the Meteors in this game, but the visitors will be well-rested after having last week off. Mams had her worst road effort of the year so far, taking 296 for Viewpoint Sound as it appears their hosts are going to play tough. Goldy was unable to back up her bowling with any offense, taking a measly 20 for Everton at the start. Hoot ripped 509 for the Meteors in response, adding significantly to their lead. Puff III kept control of the game for the Eagles, covering the most recent damage with her 539 to stay in range halfway through the game. Nibbles played a firm turn, but it was a bit short, ending at 341 for Viewpoint Sound as they try to maintain the lead. Kirstin couldn't keep up, taking 272 for Everton as they slip a bit farther behind with a player each to go. Dominic slipped at 263 for the Meteors, closing their offense at 1409 and giving a small chance for a comeback. Blizzard was knocked down at 367 by a deflection, giving the Eagles 1198 in a disappointing loss. Viewpoint Sound's win puts them at 6-10, while Everton is 13-4, losing control of 1st place after the season split materialized.
Volkswagen Stadium, Viewpoint Sound: The Meteors hope their recent upset win will serve them well at home as they take on the Pilots. Valencia established Golden well with 479 on her turn, a strong opener to face a confident opponent. Mams couldn't control her swing well enough, falling with 171 for Viewpoint Sound as they'll play from behind in this game. Dusty didn't help the Pilots strengthen their lead, taking a meager 112 on a poor turn for the resurgent veteran. Hoot's clever flick to the back 4s kept his turn going to earn 416 points for the Meteors, making it a very close game at the halfway point. Strut blew things up with 1006 for Golden, setting them far ahead after his stunning performance. Nibbles got beat while trying to use a backhand save, as the next offering downed him at 117, hurting Viewpoint Sound deeply. A. Charlton had only 135 for the Pilots, giving them 1732 overall. Dominic failed to reply well, with his 120 leaving the Meteors in a loss with 824. Golden is now 9-7 for the season, while Viewpoint Sound drops back to 6-11.
Up next is a bit of pool action, and there should be more cricket in the coming days as a schedule will be attempted to be enforced.
IBM Nighthawks Nest, North Modernistic: The Nighthawks end a three-game home stand looking for revenge for last week's high scoring loss to the Volcanoes, who play the second of four straight road games. Starlight had no trouble in starting the game with 686 for Pacific, a great effort from the superstar captain. Peach was shut down quickly on a deflection play, ending with 74 for North Modernistic in a brutally weak start. Ms. Kitty couldn't extend the Volcanoes lead much, ending on 92 in a poor turn from the veteran. Luigi helped the Nighthawks get back into the game with 573 on his turn, making things close at the halfway mark. Leonette answered with 515 for Pacific, restoring their lead in a good performance. Cheddar tracked well for North Modernistic, earning 556 to make the game even closer before the final players take their turns. Chicky Phil stepped up with 842 when he needed to, sending the Volcanoes to a final of 2135, which makes the game more difficult for the hosts. Bright couldn't complete the rally, ending on 564 as the Nighthawks fell with 1770. Pacific is cruising now, going to 14-7, while North Modernistic falls back to 8-8.
The Intel Pitch, Diamond: The Gems are in a one-off at home, facing a Knights team they'll see again soon playing a road game for schedule filler. Kiwi put a bit too much spin on her last swing, ending at 201 as Terrace City starts in a weak position from the mistake. Smokey drilled 747 for Diamond to open the scoring for the hosts, giving them a substantial lead early on. Jennifer failed to keep the pressure up for the Knights, falling with 141 as the game begins to slip from their grasp. Citrus supported her captain with an extra 640 for the Gems, giving them a critical lead at the halfway mark. Oreo went big for Terrace City, carving out 767 for the visitors to get them back into the game after falling far behind early. Pedey slipped at 202 for Diamond, trying to corral a backhand and getting beat by the fast-paced next offering that closed the gap a bit. Stripes fell short with 424 for the Knights, giving them 1533 in a close loss. Rosalina had a messy turn with 106 for the Gems, giving them 1695 in the win. Diamond improves to 7-10 after a bye week, while Terrace City is 11-7.
Blades Fusion ProGlide Park, Swordpoint: The Blades end a four-game home stand by hosting the Volcanoes, who are in the third of four straight on the road as a busy stretch in their schedule ends. Starlight began with 262 for Pacific in a mediocre turn after the league's long break between games. Snowball showed much less rust for Swordpoint, hammering 608 to give the hosts a nice lead at the start. Ms. Kitty had an errant hit that sent the ball behind her wicket, setting her down with 136 for the Volcanoes. Dreamy didn't get much more, taking only 144 for the Blades after an aggressive swing went unfavorably for the veteran. Leonette failed to block two offerings at the same time, ending on 164 for Pacific as they continue to scuffle as a team. Bandit smacked 453 for Swordpoint, padding the lead late in the game to keep the hosts in firm control. Chicky Phil had a reasonable 463 for the Volcanoes, but they took the hard loss with 1025 total. Stealth shrugged off 235 for the Blades to give them the win on a total of 1440 in a somewhat sloppy game. Swordpoint is up to 12-7, while Pacific falls to 14-8 with the loss.
Cisco Tysini Field, Tysini: The Hummingbirds hope to progress upward again, while the Stills are in the second of a six-game road trip. Easter pounded out 551 for Todavía at the start of the game, giving them a solid base to build on. Princess fired back with 352 for Tysini, keeping them in range but noticeably behind early on. Sierra nearly matched that with 343 for the Stills, protecting their lead pretty well with the performance. Leandra scooped out 700 for the Hummingbirds, getting them much closer to a lead. Sparkles put in a good outing for Todavía, registering with 537 to boost their lead just as it was coming under attack. Charli failed to keep up, poking a mere 144 for Tysini as they've fallen behind again with a player each to go. Bells might have left the game a bit open, as her 227 only brought the Stills to a final of 1658. Brownie made it close, going with 424 for the Hummingbirds to put them at 1620 in the narrow loss. Todavía's win carries them to 12-12, while Tysini is 4-10 after the loss in the T-Line Derby.
Microsoft Pitch, Del Sur: The Monarchs try to right their season with this game against the Wolves, who play in their second of a seven-game road trip. Juno led things off for Stonebridge with 391 in the opening turn, a solid performance cut a bit short by a deflection. Panda replied with 340 for Southern, keeping things close between the teams after the first turn. Frosty picked up another 481 for the Wolves, as they seem to hold an advantage in this game so far. Hoppy regained a bit of the deficit with 499 for the Monarchs, keeping the game close halfway through. Cobalt faltered a bit with 375 for Stonebridge, dropping the pace of the game down a peg. Pounce covered the deficit with 423 for Southern, giving them the small lead heading into the final players' turns. Prism recouped the effort with 456 for the Wolves, icing their game at 1703 total in a match that will come down to the end. Shannon fell short for the Monarchs, squandering the advantage on 394 individually for 1656 total in the loss. Stonebridge gets up to 9-10, while Southern sinks to 5-10.
Audi Knights Pitch, Terrace City: The Knights hope to capitalize on the Lumberjacks, who make the short one-off trip west in hopes of snapping a five-game losing streak on the road. Fluffina had a reasonably good start for Maplewood with 401 in this game. Kiwi crumbled at 138 for Terrace City, leaving them in a bad position early in the game. Diddley fired back with 464 for the Lumberjacks, extending their lead significantly in a great effort. Jennifer put a dent in the deficit with 647 for the Knights, getting them closer at the halfway point of the game. Bryant replied with 475 for Maplewood, staving off the attack from the hosts effectively enough for now. Oreo charged back with 631 for Terrace City, pulling the hosts ahead with a player each to go in a thrilling comeback effort so far. Waluigi got locked up with tough offerings, falling at 21 points to give the Lumberjacks a loss with 1361 overall. Stripes brought a quick end with 33 for the Knights, icing their effort at 1449 total. Terrace City is 12-7 with the win, bumping Maplewood back to 11-11.
BMW RockDome, Westside: The Rockers return home after a lengthy road trip to face the Specters, who are running out of time to save their season. Sydney was caught out of position and took only 24 for Harrison in a weak opening effort. Misty was far from strong on her turn, just getting her bat on a backhand before falling to a flailing hit at 171 for Westside to produce a small lead. Twinkie II got beat on an awkward bounce, cutting her down at 173 for the Specters as she did little to help their score. Goatee mastered her turn, using a cautious pace and swing to establish herself, and she only ended on a bad bounce at 1078 for the Rockers, who have a massive lead. Lexi posted 231 for Harrison on her turn, making a small impact on the suddenly-gargantuan deficit. Midnight cancelled out her performance with a modest 267 for Westside, maintaining the lead effectively. Sugar came up short at 215 for the Specters, leaving them with 643 in the harsh loss. Slinks tried to pull off a double-tap play at the end, but went too hard and ended her turn with 353, bringing the Rockers to 1869 in the win. Westside improves to 11-3, while Harrison is 3-13 with the loss.
Starbucks Cup, Archtown: The Arrows look to salvage a five-game home stand in its last game, as they've been 0-4 so far, facing the a Cascades side in the second of a four-game road trip. Jasmine went with 321 for Freedom, playing a high-pace but risky aiming game in a reasonable turn altogether. Sally looked like she was on track to best that mark, but her pace fell out from underneath her, and she had only 254 for Archtown at the end, giving them a slight deficit. Stinky fell into the same trap for the Cascades, ending on 309 after a good game turned sour very quickly. Sleepy B. broke out with 499 for the Arrows on her turn, giving them the lead at the game's midway point. Roxy covered the deficit with 371 for Freedom, but not by much, leaving the visitors exposed. Ruby couldn't keep up, falling at a measly 46 for the Arrows as they will trail late in the game. Nikolai bashed 576 for the Cascades at the back of the lineup, putting them at 1577 total. Dusky fell out at 253 for the Arrows, leaving them at 1052 in a seventh straight home loss. Freedom is up to 6-6 on the year, while Archtown is down to 6-15.
Nike Field, Commerce: The Tradewinds look to continue recent success against a surprisingly sturdy Waves side. Snuggle drilled 577 for Oceanside at the start of the game, a good effort for the captain of the team in the Nightwave jerseys. Tigerette hit back with 712 for Commerce on her turn, flexing some muscle early in the game for the purple and gray adorned hosts. Caitlin fired back with 548 for the Waves, covering the minor deficit with a solid performance. Ice Cream lost a bit of ground for the Tradewinds, taking only 490 on her turn after being distracted by a high-arcing ball that barely found safety but left her out of rhythm for the next swing. Celestia rose to the occasion for Oceanside, slicing 675 on her turn to put the hosts under some pressure. Lionel couldn't quite cover the deficit, as his 571 left Commerce a bit behind, but either team could take this one. Dewey fell off a bit at 376 for the Waves, giving them 2176 overall in a high-offense game. Lorde carried the day for the Tradewinds, pummeling 671 to give them a win with 2444. Commerce improves to 6-8, while a four-game road winning streak for the Waves ends as they fall to 10-10.
McDonald's Pitch at Pirates Park, Atlantic: The Pirates continue a seven-game home stand in its second game against a bottom-dwelling Hummingbirds side in need of a season lifeline. Princess popped 395 for Tysini in a fairly solid outing for the visiting captain. Delila blasted 806 to assert herself and Atlantic in the early lead with a terrific performance. Leandra couldn't keep up for the Hummingbirds, as her 369 left them a bit short still. Isabella answered with 329 for the Pirates, keeping them firmly in the lead at the halfway mark. Charli didn't make any progress for Tysini, bowing out at 216 in a mediocre outing for the sophomore. Americus replied with 790 for Atlantic, likely securing the game at this point with another strong individual effort. Brownie produced 368 for the Hummingbirds, and they take the loss with 1348 for the game. Klaus added 225 for the Pirates, putting their winning mark at 2150. Atlantic is 12-3, now in 2nd place and a half-game back of the Eagles in first, while Tysini slides to 4-11 with the loss.
Chevrolet Field, Everton: The Eagles seek a sweep of the Meteors in this game, but the visitors will be well-rested after having last week off. Mams had her worst road effort of the year so far, taking 296 for Viewpoint Sound as it appears their hosts are going to play tough. Goldy was unable to back up her bowling with any offense, taking a measly 20 for Everton at the start. Hoot ripped 509 for the Meteors in response, adding significantly to their lead. Puff III kept control of the game for the Eagles, covering the most recent damage with her 539 to stay in range halfway through the game. Nibbles played a firm turn, but it was a bit short, ending at 341 for Viewpoint Sound as they try to maintain the lead. Kirstin couldn't keep up, taking 272 for Everton as they slip a bit farther behind with a player each to go. Dominic slipped at 263 for the Meteors, closing their offense at 1409 and giving a small chance for a comeback. Blizzard was knocked down at 367 by a deflection, giving the Eagles 1198 in a disappointing loss. Viewpoint Sound's win puts them at 6-10, while Everton is 13-4, losing control of 1st place after the season split materialized.
Volkswagen Stadium, Viewpoint Sound: The Meteors hope their recent upset win will serve them well at home as they take on the Pilots. Valencia established Golden well with 479 on her turn, a strong opener to face a confident opponent. Mams couldn't control her swing well enough, falling with 171 for Viewpoint Sound as they'll play from behind in this game. Dusty didn't help the Pilots strengthen their lead, taking a meager 112 on a poor turn for the resurgent veteran. Hoot's clever flick to the back 4s kept his turn going to earn 416 points for the Meteors, making it a very close game at the halfway point. Strut blew things up with 1006 for Golden, setting them far ahead after his stunning performance. Nibbles got beat while trying to use a backhand save, as the next offering downed him at 117, hurting Viewpoint Sound deeply. A. Charlton had only 135 for the Pilots, giving them 1732 overall. Dominic failed to reply well, with his 120 leaving the Meteors in a loss with 824. Golden is now 9-7 for the season, while Viewpoint Sound drops back to 6-11.
Up next is a bit of pool action, and there should be more cricket in the coming days as a schedule will be attempted to be enforced.
Saturday, February 25, 2017
Tournament 2017: B-level 1st Round - Day 3
We're back in what should be a fairly standard day of games. We begin with...
Honda Driftwood Coliseum, Pearl: Neopolitan v. Twinkie I. The silver cue will get first dibs today, playing 15-ball between two talented veterans. Game 1 was incredibly close, as both players worked with short runs for most of the game. The finish saw Pearl's Neopolitan fall out after a three-ball run, and Lighton's Twinkie I scooped up the last two shots for the 1-0 series lead on her win. The Prestige's Twinkie I capitalized on a dominant effort in game 2, ending the game early with a deflected shot off the 7 to pot the 15 in the bottom right, giving her a 2-0 series lead over the ineffective Surfer Neopolitan. Game 3 went just as poorly for Neopolitan, who couldn't lock in her shot as Twinkie made eight balls on her last three turns to get the win and a 3-0 series sweep, heading strongly into the second round.
UPS Hall, Maplewood: Fluffina v. Roxy. The silver cue stays in action for this series of 8-ball. Maplewood's Fluffina had a rough start to the game but appeared to catch up with Freedom's Roxy late until a couple of bad shots allowed Roxy to regain control and take the win for a 1-0 series lead. The Cascades' Roxy had some trouble with precision in game 2, struggling to play at the level necessary to oppose the Lumberjacks' Fluffina, who had a four-ball run and a patient finish to get the win, tying the series at 1. Fluffina thought she had a choppy game 3 under her control as well, working a three-ball run to get onto the 8, but her miss opened the door for Roxy to steal the win, and she did with the last two shots for a 2-1 series win. Roxy heads to the second round as well.
GE Stadium Events Center, Southridge: Debby Ryan v. Spirit. The game is 15-ball again, with the red cue getting a shot today. Southridge's Debby seemed to have more confidence early in the game, and while both players lulled in the middle, Lighton's Spirit was unable to break her slump later, allowing Debby to take a 1-0 lead in the series after winning with a six-ball run-out. The Prestige's Spirit came alive in game 2, allowing the Defenders' Debby to do some work early on before Spirit unleashed a four-ball run and backed it up with a five-ball run-out, tying the series at 1 with her big win. Spirit seemed primed to get things moving in game 3, but early struggles and a late miss on the 15 conspired against her, and Debby won the game with a tap-in to seal the series at 2-1. Debby advances to the second round with the win.
Coca-Cola Field Exhibition Center, Boston: Puff II v. Mario. The red cue gets another 15-ball series, with the winner facing last series' winner. Boston's Puff II had a fairly average game, keeping pace with Central's Mario in his career debut. Things changed as Puff II ended game 1 by making the 9 in the top right and getting a perfect deflection that sent the cue careening into the 15 at the top side, giving her a lucky but pretty 1-0 series lead with the highlight finish. The Warriors' Mario had the bulk of possession in game 2, including a strong five-ball run near the end, but a late collapse allowed the Swifts' Puff II to take the last two balls on two turns, giving her the win and a 2-0 series lead. Mario showed promise in game 3, making a seven-ball run that was ultimately rewarded by Puff II chipping her shot on the 15, which Mario tapped in for the win to cut the series to its final of 2-1. Puff II will get the nod to advance into the second round to host Debby of the Southridge Defenders at this venue.
McDonald's Hall, Atlantic: Isabella v. Nightfur. The red cue stays in action for 12-ball in this series, featuring a highly hyped rookie hosting a seasoned veteran. Atlantic's Isabella looked immediately up to the task in this debut, playing with a three-ball run on the break that Royal's Nightfur expertly answered. Isabella did not flinch, instead running out her last three shots to get the win and a 1-0 lead in the series. The Pirates' Isabella took a slower approach in game 2, establishing defense with her last ball. The Crowns' Nightfur answered with a three-ball run, but couldn't counter the defense at all, leaving Isabella open to make her last shot, securing the series at 2-0. Isabella couldn't complete the sweep, unable to form a plan of attack while Nightfur charged through a five-ball run to pace herself to the win. Isabella still took the series 2-1, advancing to the second round.
Toyota Arena, Freedom: Stinky v. Smudge. The silver cue returns to action for a series of 7-ball. Infinity's Smudge showed much more interest in attacking in game 1, putting two threatening shots on the 7. Freedom's Stinky made no action to counter, and Smudge used the 3 and 5 as deflecting agents in a tough but successful potting of the 7 in the bottom side for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Cascades' Stinky was much more successful in game 2, capitalizing on a scratch by the Torpedoes' Smudge on her break. Stinky had a five-ball run and then made the 7 on his second try after Smudge missed it, getting the win to tie the series at 1. Stinky had the better of play in a tough game 3, but it didn't do any good, as Smudge closed the series for herself at 2-1 with a three-ball run-out. Smudge is through to the second round with the win.
Cisco Arena, Tysini: Leandra v. Max. The last series before the mid-afternoon break features the blue cue in 10-ball. Tysini's Leandra had some struggles early in game 1, but Queens' Max didn't offer a stern challenge to her play, and Leandra was able to take the 1-0 series lead, winning on a four-ball run-out with excellent set-up play. The Hummingbirds' Leandra dominated in game 2 as well, piecing together a late five-ball run erased by a scratch on her try at the 10. The Flames' Max proved very grateful, taking the 10 to the bottom right, stealing the win away to tie the series at 1. Max played with fire a lot in game 3, one time illegally potting the 10 to the top left on a kick-combination from the 5 that went uncalled. Leandra was in control late, but her two misses on the 10, one for a scratch, allowed Max the easy victory, and it also gave him a 2-1 series win. Max heads into the second round after a gutsy performance in this series.
Google Hall, Modernistic: Daisy v. Goldy. The Union rookie gets her debut in Accuracy with the silver cue against the Eagles captain. Modernistic's Daisy had a slight edge in game 1, keeping Everton's Goldy at bay for much of the game until finally pinching her out at the end, taking a 3-4 win for a 1-0 series lead for the hosting rookie. The Union's Daisy fell behind quickly in game 2, allowing the Eagles' Goldy to build up a lead that was erased by two scratches. The two battled closely and went deep into overtime, where Goldy's third miss was finally punished by Daisy, who won 6-7 to seal the series at 2-0. Daisy ended up with the sweep, pushing Goldy around early and then coasting to the 4-5 win as she missed her last three shots. The rookie Daisy advances to the second round with the 3-0 series sweep.
Mercedes-Benz Forum, Harrison: Lexi v. Bandit. The game is now 9-ball, and the blue cue will be used in this series. Harrison's Lexi seemed to have the early advantage in game 1, shooting much more reliably than her opponent, but it was Swordpoint's Bandit who won, taking a 1-0 series lead with his four-ball run-out at the end. The Specters' Lexi answered back in game 2, taking a similar approach to her play. The Blades' Bandit was pretty much empty after an opening three-ball run, and Lexi would tie the series at 1 by winning with a four-ball run-out, showing much confidence in her shot. Game 3 took on the style of a sprint race, with both players shaky but firm in their shooting. Lexi would be the first to buckle, scratching on the 8 to gift Bandit a free shot her converted on the 9 to take the series 2-1. The result sends Bandit through to the second round.
Coca-Cola Field Exhibition Center, Boston: Patches v. Chelsea. The blue cue remains at the table for 12-ball in this series between two of the best from last year. Eastside's Chelsea didn't have much going well for her in game 1 until Boston's Patches gave away a wild-card ball. This allowed Chelsea some flexibility, which she exploited to win within two turns, going ahead 1-0 in the series. The Swifts' Patches had an easier time in game 2, still giving away a wild-card ball but also using more effective defense and strategy to complicate the table for the Sharks' Chelsea. The visitor Chelsea tried to make a quick run at the start, but got locked up with Patches, who would rally at the end with a fortunate bounce to win and tie the series at 1. Patches received two wild card balls from Chelsea in game 3, making up for her previous generosity all at once. These were both done out of desperation, as Chelsea tried to assert her position but failed, making the Patches victory all the easier. Patches takes a 2-1 series win into the second round.
Amazon Field Exhibition Hall, Golden: Valencia v. Tigerette. Two more captains square off in this 10-ball series with the blue cue. Golden's Valencia didn't have the best of times early in game 1, and she eventually lost control to Commerce's Tigerette, who backed up a four-ball run with a three-ball run-out sandwiched around Valencia's scratch as Tigerette went ahead 1-0 in the series. The Pilots' Valencia was more aggressive in game 2, using an early six-ball run to shake the Tradewinds' Tigerette a bit. It worked, as Tigerette was imprecise late in the game, giving Valencia the chance to make the last two shots for the win, tying the series at 1. Valencia again asserted herself in game 3, using a four-ball run against Tigerette. Things got tight at the end, but Valencia was able to force Tigerette into missed contact, and she made the last two shots from ball-in-hand for the win and a 2-1 series win. Valencia is into the second round with the effort.
Intel Center, Diamond: Smokey v. Shawn. The silver cue is back in action for Accuracy with this series. Midland's Shawn was firm in keeping a good game going in game 1, taking only one miss in a 1-3 win over Diamond's Smokey, who couldn't quite match the performance. Shawn leads the series 1-0 early on. The Predators' Shawn appeared to have game 2 in his hands, but things fell apart very quickly with three straight misses, and the Gems' Smokey swooped in with the 3-4 win to make it a 1-1 series with the crafty win. Smokey was again solid in game 3, forcing Shawn to take a number of risky shots just to keep up. Smokey couldn't make the performance last through the end of regulation, but overtime was quick, as Shawn went empty on the break and Smokey buried two balls on his only shot for the 2-3 win to seal a 2-1 series win. Smokey goes on to the second round.
Ford Forum, Pronger: Spot v. Fuchsia. The last series before the break is in 10-ball with the silver cue in a battle of rookies. Midland's Fuchsia did put up a three-ball run early in game 1, but she faded after this, and it looked like two inexperienced players until Spot brought down the 10 for Pronger, tapping it to the bottom right to take a 1-0 series lead with his win. The Tridents' Spot did well in game 2, making an early three-ball run and using a five-ball run-out at the end to block out any chance for the Predators' Fuchsia to rally back. The win secured the series at 2-0 in favor of Spot after a good pair of games. Spot completed the sweep with another bold effort in game 3, fighting off Fuchsia in their closest game of the series to get the win and a 3-0 series sweep. Spot's debut ends with him going to the second round.
Chevrolet Center, Everton: Blizzard v. Wario. Play resumes with the red cue getting a look at 10-ball in this series. Everton's Blizzard looked a bit shaky at times in game 1, missing contact twice during the game. Victoria's Wario capitalized with good shots on these plays, and the latter allowed him to take the win and a 1-0 series lead with the last two balls potted in the game. Wario played well again in game 2, but the Spurs rookie was denied the win by a late scratch after a pair of three-ball runs. The Eagles' Blizzard made the 10 from ball-in-hand to snag the win in this game, giving her the win and tying the series at 1. Game 3 saw a much more defensive stance from both players, as they forced each other to take tougher shots. This eventually benefited Wario, who got a good line on the 10 after Blizzard couldn't convert a tough cut. Wario ended the game in a win and a 2-1 series win to go to the second round.
Games should return to a more normal schedule this week. A recent abdominal injury kept me out of action this week as I had to rest quite a bit. Cricket should also return in the coming days.
Honda Driftwood Coliseum, Pearl: Neopolitan v. Twinkie I. The silver cue will get first dibs today, playing 15-ball between two talented veterans. Game 1 was incredibly close, as both players worked with short runs for most of the game. The finish saw Pearl's Neopolitan fall out after a three-ball run, and Lighton's Twinkie I scooped up the last two shots for the 1-0 series lead on her win. The Prestige's Twinkie I capitalized on a dominant effort in game 2, ending the game early with a deflected shot off the 7 to pot the 15 in the bottom right, giving her a 2-0 series lead over the ineffective Surfer Neopolitan. Game 3 went just as poorly for Neopolitan, who couldn't lock in her shot as Twinkie made eight balls on her last three turns to get the win and a 3-0 series sweep, heading strongly into the second round.
UPS Hall, Maplewood: Fluffina v. Roxy. The silver cue stays in action for this series of 8-ball. Maplewood's Fluffina had a rough start to the game but appeared to catch up with Freedom's Roxy late until a couple of bad shots allowed Roxy to regain control and take the win for a 1-0 series lead. The Cascades' Roxy had some trouble with precision in game 2, struggling to play at the level necessary to oppose the Lumberjacks' Fluffina, who had a four-ball run and a patient finish to get the win, tying the series at 1. Fluffina thought she had a choppy game 3 under her control as well, working a three-ball run to get onto the 8, but her miss opened the door for Roxy to steal the win, and she did with the last two shots for a 2-1 series win. Roxy heads to the second round as well.
GE Stadium Events Center, Southridge: Debby Ryan v. Spirit. The game is 15-ball again, with the red cue getting a shot today. Southridge's Debby seemed to have more confidence early in the game, and while both players lulled in the middle, Lighton's Spirit was unable to break her slump later, allowing Debby to take a 1-0 lead in the series after winning with a six-ball run-out. The Prestige's Spirit came alive in game 2, allowing the Defenders' Debby to do some work early on before Spirit unleashed a four-ball run and backed it up with a five-ball run-out, tying the series at 1 with her big win. Spirit seemed primed to get things moving in game 3, but early struggles and a late miss on the 15 conspired against her, and Debby won the game with a tap-in to seal the series at 2-1. Debby advances to the second round with the win.
Coca-Cola Field Exhibition Center, Boston: Puff II v. Mario. The red cue gets another 15-ball series, with the winner facing last series' winner. Boston's Puff II had a fairly average game, keeping pace with Central's Mario in his career debut. Things changed as Puff II ended game 1 by making the 9 in the top right and getting a perfect deflection that sent the cue careening into the 15 at the top side, giving her a lucky but pretty 1-0 series lead with the highlight finish. The Warriors' Mario had the bulk of possession in game 2, including a strong five-ball run near the end, but a late collapse allowed the Swifts' Puff II to take the last two balls on two turns, giving her the win and a 2-0 series lead. Mario showed promise in game 3, making a seven-ball run that was ultimately rewarded by Puff II chipping her shot on the 15, which Mario tapped in for the win to cut the series to its final of 2-1. Puff II will get the nod to advance into the second round to host Debby of the Southridge Defenders at this venue.
McDonald's Hall, Atlantic: Isabella v. Nightfur. The red cue stays in action for 12-ball in this series, featuring a highly hyped rookie hosting a seasoned veteran. Atlantic's Isabella looked immediately up to the task in this debut, playing with a three-ball run on the break that Royal's Nightfur expertly answered. Isabella did not flinch, instead running out her last three shots to get the win and a 1-0 lead in the series. The Pirates' Isabella took a slower approach in game 2, establishing defense with her last ball. The Crowns' Nightfur answered with a three-ball run, but couldn't counter the defense at all, leaving Isabella open to make her last shot, securing the series at 2-0. Isabella couldn't complete the sweep, unable to form a plan of attack while Nightfur charged through a five-ball run to pace herself to the win. Isabella still took the series 2-1, advancing to the second round.
Toyota Arena, Freedom: Stinky v. Smudge. The silver cue returns to action for a series of 7-ball. Infinity's Smudge showed much more interest in attacking in game 1, putting two threatening shots on the 7. Freedom's Stinky made no action to counter, and Smudge used the 3 and 5 as deflecting agents in a tough but successful potting of the 7 in the bottom side for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Cascades' Stinky was much more successful in game 2, capitalizing on a scratch by the Torpedoes' Smudge on her break. Stinky had a five-ball run and then made the 7 on his second try after Smudge missed it, getting the win to tie the series at 1. Stinky had the better of play in a tough game 3, but it didn't do any good, as Smudge closed the series for herself at 2-1 with a three-ball run-out. Smudge is through to the second round with the win.
Cisco Arena, Tysini: Leandra v. Max. The last series before the mid-afternoon break features the blue cue in 10-ball. Tysini's Leandra had some struggles early in game 1, but Queens' Max didn't offer a stern challenge to her play, and Leandra was able to take the 1-0 series lead, winning on a four-ball run-out with excellent set-up play. The Hummingbirds' Leandra dominated in game 2 as well, piecing together a late five-ball run erased by a scratch on her try at the 10. The Flames' Max proved very grateful, taking the 10 to the bottom right, stealing the win away to tie the series at 1. Max played with fire a lot in game 3, one time illegally potting the 10 to the top left on a kick-combination from the 5 that went uncalled. Leandra was in control late, but her two misses on the 10, one for a scratch, allowed Max the easy victory, and it also gave him a 2-1 series win. Max heads into the second round after a gutsy performance in this series.
Google Hall, Modernistic: Daisy v. Goldy. The Union rookie gets her debut in Accuracy with the silver cue against the Eagles captain. Modernistic's Daisy had a slight edge in game 1, keeping Everton's Goldy at bay for much of the game until finally pinching her out at the end, taking a 3-4 win for a 1-0 series lead for the hosting rookie. The Union's Daisy fell behind quickly in game 2, allowing the Eagles' Goldy to build up a lead that was erased by two scratches. The two battled closely and went deep into overtime, where Goldy's third miss was finally punished by Daisy, who won 6-7 to seal the series at 2-0. Daisy ended up with the sweep, pushing Goldy around early and then coasting to the 4-5 win as she missed her last three shots. The rookie Daisy advances to the second round with the 3-0 series sweep.
Mercedes-Benz Forum, Harrison: Lexi v. Bandit. The game is now 9-ball, and the blue cue will be used in this series. Harrison's Lexi seemed to have the early advantage in game 1, shooting much more reliably than her opponent, but it was Swordpoint's Bandit who won, taking a 1-0 series lead with his four-ball run-out at the end. The Specters' Lexi answered back in game 2, taking a similar approach to her play. The Blades' Bandit was pretty much empty after an opening three-ball run, and Lexi would tie the series at 1 by winning with a four-ball run-out, showing much confidence in her shot. Game 3 took on the style of a sprint race, with both players shaky but firm in their shooting. Lexi would be the first to buckle, scratching on the 8 to gift Bandit a free shot her converted on the 9 to take the series 2-1. The result sends Bandit through to the second round.
Coca-Cola Field Exhibition Center, Boston: Patches v. Chelsea. The blue cue remains at the table for 12-ball in this series between two of the best from last year. Eastside's Chelsea didn't have much going well for her in game 1 until Boston's Patches gave away a wild-card ball. This allowed Chelsea some flexibility, which she exploited to win within two turns, going ahead 1-0 in the series. The Swifts' Patches had an easier time in game 2, still giving away a wild-card ball but also using more effective defense and strategy to complicate the table for the Sharks' Chelsea. The visitor Chelsea tried to make a quick run at the start, but got locked up with Patches, who would rally at the end with a fortunate bounce to win and tie the series at 1. Patches received two wild card balls from Chelsea in game 3, making up for her previous generosity all at once. These were both done out of desperation, as Chelsea tried to assert her position but failed, making the Patches victory all the easier. Patches takes a 2-1 series win into the second round.
Amazon Field Exhibition Hall, Golden: Valencia v. Tigerette. Two more captains square off in this 10-ball series with the blue cue. Golden's Valencia didn't have the best of times early in game 1, and she eventually lost control to Commerce's Tigerette, who backed up a four-ball run with a three-ball run-out sandwiched around Valencia's scratch as Tigerette went ahead 1-0 in the series. The Pilots' Valencia was more aggressive in game 2, using an early six-ball run to shake the Tradewinds' Tigerette a bit. It worked, as Tigerette was imprecise late in the game, giving Valencia the chance to make the last two shots for the win, tying the series at 1. Valencia again asserted herself in game 3, using a four-ball run against Tigerette. Things got tight at the end, but Valencia was able to force Tigerette into missed contact, and she made the last two shots from ball-in-hand for the win and a 2-1 series win. Valencia is into the second round with the effort.
Intel Center, Diamond: Smokey v. Shawn. The silver cue is back in action for Accuracy with this series. Midland's Shawn was firm in keeping a good game going in game 1, taking only one miss in a 1-3 win over Diamond's Smokey, who couldn't quite match the performance. Shawn leads the series 1-0 early on. The Predators' Shawn appeared to have game 2 in his hands, but things fell apart very quickly with three straight misses, and the Gems' Smokey swooped in with the 3-4 win to make it a 1-1 series with the crafty win. Smokey was again solid in game 3, forcing Shawn to take a number of risky shots just to keep up. Smokey couldn't make the performance last through the end of regulation, but overtime was quick, as Shawn went empty on the break and Smokey buried two balls on his only shot for the 2-3 win to seal a 2-1 series win. Smokey goes on to the second round.
Ford Forum, Pronger: Spot v. Fuchsia. The last series before the break is in 10-ball with the silver cue in a battle of rookies. Midland's Fuchsia did put up a three-ball run early in game 1, but she faded after this, and it looked like two inexperienced players until Spot brought down the 10 for Pronger, tapping it to the bottom right to take a 1-0 series lead with his win. The Tridents' Spot did well in game 2, making an early three-ball run and using a five-ball run-out at the end to block out any chance for the Predators' Fuchsia to rally back. The win secured the series at 2-0 in favor of Spot after a good pair of games. Spot completed the sweep with another bold effort in game 3, fighting off Fuchsia in their closest game of the series to get the win and a 3-0 series sweep. Spot's debut ends with him going to the second round.
Chevrolet Center, Everton: Blizzard v. Wario. Play resumes with the red cue getting a look at 10-ball in this series. Everton's Blizzard looked a bit shaky at times in game 1, missing contact twice during the game. Victoria's Wario capitalized with good shots on these plays, and the latter allowed him to take the win and a 1-0 series lead with the last two balls potted in the game. Wario played well again in game 2, but the Spurs rookie was denied the win by a late scratch after a pair of three-ball runs. The Eagles' Blizzard made the 10 from ball-in-hand to snag the win in this game, giving her the win and tying the series at 1. Game 3 saw a much more defensive stance from both players, as they forced each other to take tougher shots. This eventually benefited Wario, who got a good line on the 10 after Blizzard couldn't convert a tough cut. Wario ended the game in a win and a 2-1 series win to go to the second round.
Games should return to a more normal schedule this week. A recent abdominal injury kept me out of action this week as I had to rest quite a bit. Cricket should also return in the coming days.
Wednesday, February 15, 2017
Tournament 2017: B-level 1st Round - Day 2
We're back, with hopefully more games to be played today. The Tournament will go at whatever pace it finds comfortable this year, with no pressure or timeline. We begin with...
Pepsi Arena, Lighton: Spirit v. Fuchsia. The Prestige star meets the Predators rookie in a series of Rotation with the blue cue. Midland's Fuchsia started well, taking the early lead before succumbing to Lighton's Spirit just past the midway point. Fuchsia rallied back on a three-ball run, nearly winning before a scratch gifted the 8-7 result to Spirit for her to take a 1-0 series lead. The Predators' Fuchsia appeared to learn a valuable lesson, taking game 2 by an 8-3 scored without letting the Prestige's Spirit get into any rhythm this time. The result tied the series at 1. Fuchsia had a good break, but her lack of balls potted on the shot allowed Spirit to stake out the early lead, and she ended with the last two shots after a Fuchsia scratch for an 8-4 win and 2-1 series win. Spirit is through to the second round.
Capital City SuperCenter, Capital City: Missy v. Isabella. Rotation is still the game, but the silver cue gets a look as another rookie debuts on the road. Isabella got her debut off to a fabulous start, winning game 1 for Atlantic with a four-ball run-out, ending with a double-pot that left Capital City's Missy with no chance. Isabella made the 11 to the top side and 14 to the top left to win 8-5 and take a 1-0 series lead. The Pirates' Isabella lost her touch in game 2, missing every shot this time as the Sharpshooters' Missy staked out a quick lead and then hesitantly worked her way to an 8-0 shutout to tie the series at 1 after the poor game from Isabella. In game 3, Isabella recovered nicely, holding off a single rally from Missy and using frustrating defense to take the game 8-3 and earn a 2-1 series win. Isabella's successful debut has her into the second round.
Toyota Arena, Freedom: Roxy v. Princess. The silver cue stays in action to play 9-ball for this series. Roxy saw her six-ball run in game 1 go to waste for Freedom, as she under-cut the 9 on her seventh shot of the turn, and Tysini's Princess tapped it in at the bottom right to take a 1-0 series lead despite her lack of offense. The Hummingbirds' Princess ran three balls from the break, and while the Cascades' Roxy looked to have a chance at making the game interesting, she left the 2-9 combination at the bottom right, which Princess converted to secure the series at 2-0. Princess started game 3 with a six-ball run, but she ultimately faded in the end, allowing Roxy to blast the 8 on a bank double-pot with the 9 at the top left, giving the host a win. Princess still took the series 2-1 to make her way into the second round.
Intel Center, Diamond: Pedey v. Stephanie Livilotti. Young players square off in 12-ball with the red cue. Diamond's Pedey proved unable to overcome giving Southridge's Stephanie a wild-card ball. While she didn't punish Pedey's misplay immediately, she did extensive work to set herself up, and eventually had a three-ball run-out for the win and a 1-0 series lead. The Defenders' Stephanie did not have it so easy in game 2, as the Gems' Pedey pounded a three-ball run early on, and then earned a wild-card ball as Stephanie tried to plow through his defense. Pedey would be patient to get the right shot to finish the game, and he tied the series at 1 without much trouble. Game 3 proved to be a grind for both players. Stephanie fell behind early, surrendering a wild-card ball as well. Pedey eventually gave this back after Stephanie had a strategic scratch. In the end, Stephanie made her last two shots to leave Pedey empty as she took the series 2-1.
Google Hall, Modernistic: Daisy v. Snuggle. The parade of rookies continues in this series of 15-ball with the silver cue. The common theme so far in this Tournament has been lack of control in complex games, and that showed again, with multiple scratches for both players. Modernistic's Daisy seemed to figure it out late with a three-ball run, but her miss allowed Oceanside's Snuggle to take the win and a 1-0 lead in the series. Game 2 saw cleaner play on both sides, and a couple of short runs developed. The Waves' Snuggle saw his game go sideways when he left the 15 exposed near a pocket, and the Union's Daisy converted a 9-15 combination to take the win, tying the series at 1. Game 3 was a return to sloppy form for both players, and Daisy thought her scratch at the end of a three-ball run would be costly, but Snuggle couldn't make the 15 from distance, and Daisy buried it in the bottom side for the win and 2-1 series win. Daisy is through to the second round despite the iffy performance.
IBM Cathedral, North Modernistic: Bright v. Potter. The silver cue is up again for 12-ball, with a veteran on an expansion team facing a rookie. North Modernistic's Bright had his back against the wall in this game, using defense to slow Pronger's Potter. He had an early three-ball run, and then the visiting rookie cashed in when the defense fell, earning a win for a 1-0 series lead. Game 2 was a much tighter game, with both player lacking clear looks at the shots they needed. Potter went for it, and the Tridents' rookie was disappointed with illegal contact at the end, giving the Nighthawks' Bright a clean shot to bury for the win, which he did to tie the series at 1. Game 3 played much more smoothly, with Potter working a four-ball run to really pressure Bright. Potter also avoided surrendering possession late, allowing him to earn the game with his final shot, taking the win and a 2-1 series win to send us into the break.
Verizon Field Events Center, Pacific: Leonette v. Spice. After the mid-afternoon break, it's 8-ball with the blue cue. Originally scheduled for January 31, the UPCL took time off from pool for poor performance. Combined with a plethora of family matters, the league is just returning to action on February 15, and the league remains committed to ensuring high-quality play. If the games are not up to this standard, play will be halted. Victoria's Spice took game 1 for a 1-0 series lead, using her early five-ball run to stave off an attack of separate three-ball runs by Pacific's Leonette in a valiant but unsuccessful comeback effort from the veteran. Spice had a good break but suffered four scratches in game 2, allowing Leonette to patiently chip away before ending the game on a three-ball run-out to tie the series at 1 game apiece. Game 3 seemed to mirror the first stanza early on, but Spice had a bit less control and Leonette rallied for a six-ball run to put the pressure on. Spice scratched on her chance at the 8, allowing Leonette to make the last two balls, as the Volcanoes veteran beat the Spurs captain for a 2-1 series win. Leonette advances to the second round with the series win.
Home Depot Forum, Web City: Shiny v. Bright. The resumption of play continues in 10-ball with the red cue as these two familiar foes meet in the Northeast. Web City's Shiny didn't have the best break, but the two players exchanged shots fairly evenly in short runs during game 1. North Modernistic's Bright made the mistake of leaving the 10 at the bottom right after missing a double-pot, and Shiny punished it with a three-ball run-out to win and take a 1-0 series lead. The Spiders' Shiny scratched on the break again in game 2, and this spurred a five-ball run from the Nighthawks' Bright, who dominated possession in the game. Bright was only unable to get the last three balls, which Shiny took in a run to clinch the series at 2-0 with a somewhat stolen victory. Shiny found herself on her back foot in game 3, and a missed play on the 4 allowed Bright to rally with a four-ball run-out after his own previous illegal potting of the 10 to take the win and make it a 2-1 series. Shiny still advances to the second round with a highly successful series win.
Gillette Center, Swordpoint: Bandit v. Smokey. The game remains 10-ball as the silver cue takes its turn in this battle between Brute Force-backed players. Diamond's Smokey experienced some frustration with himself as a six-ball run ended in a scratch, handing the game to Swordpoint's Bandit as he buried the final two shots from ball-in-hand for the win and a 1-0 series lead. Game 2 saw The Blades' Bandit take a shortcut at the end, undermining the Gems' Smokey comeback hopes as Bandit made the 10 to the top right off a deflected shot from the 8. The win gave Bandit the series at 2-0. Game 3 saw both players take a step back in quality of shots, none more obvious than Smokey leaving the 10 at the top right at the end, allowing Bandit to tap it in for the win and a 3-0 series sweep. Bandit advances to the second round with the dominant performance.
House of Ten Windows, Del Sur: Shannon v. Charli XCX. The red cue is back for a series of Rotation as the return to play comes to another afternoon break after a short burst of games. Southern's Shannon had an edge from the start, slightly outplaying Tysini's Charli in the early part of the game. This lead became more pronounced with a three-ball run, and while Charli wiped that out, Shannon iced the game at 8-4 just after to take the 1-0 series lead. Game 2 played out much closer, with the Hummingbirds' Charli just battling off the Monarchs' Shannon in the tight game to take the win 8-6 with the last two potted balls. For the bulk of the game, the play was very back-and-forth, with the lead exchanged a number of times before the result tied the series at 1. Game 3 followed a similar pattern, with a few gutsy exchanges between the players. Shannon would get the last laugh, as a scratch by Charli left Shannon in position to win the game 8-6 and take the series 2-1 with the win. Shannon will play in the second round.
Kraft Forum, Royal: Kayla v. Juno. After the break, the red cue will continue play with 7-ball in this series. Kayla had a good first game for Royal, making a three-ball run in the middle of the game, but her miss on the 5 squandered good possession as Stonebridge's Juno took the game with the last two shots for a 1-0 series lead. The Crowns' Kayla did well in game 2 to survive a defensive stance from the Wolves' Juno, which eventually crumbled. Kayla did have a couple of late errors, but she buried the 7 on her only try, a confident shot to the top left to win the game and tie the series at 1. Kayla played well at the start of game 3, but Juno made a charge back, setting up a close finish. Juno would just rattle the 7 out of the top side, giving Kayla a tap-in for the win and 2-1 series win that sent her through to the second round.
BMW RockDome, Westside: Goatee v. Hughbert. The silver cue is in for 8-ball as the rookie Hughbert makes his career debut against the veteran Goatee. Westside's Goatee proved very unwelcoming to the Southridge rookie Hughbert, as the former had a four-ball run stalled by a scratch and a three-ball run-out after the latter failed to make much of a move. Goatee leads the series 1-0 after game 1. The Defenders' Hughbert learned a bit in game 2, playing with a bit more urgency as the Rockers' Goatee only lost a little pace on her game. The result was a tight battle that just favored Hughbert with his three-ball run-out to swipe the game and tie the series at 1 with good positioning. Hughbert thought his four-ball run in game 3 would be enough to hold off Goatee, but her seven-ball run-out proved him wrong, as she stormed her way to the win to take the series 2-1. Goatee is into the second round with a big run.
Coca-Cola Field Exhibition Center, Boston: Gradley v. Fluffina. The red cue is back for Rotation in this matchup of strong veterans. Game 1 saw both players make their mistakes, with Boston's Gradley regretting a couple of scratches most of all. Maplewood's Fluffina punished them with cutting runs, including her closing five-ball run-out to win 8-5 in the game for a 1-0 lead in the series. The Lumberjacks' Fluffina looked a bit more confident this time, keeping close in the game before the Swifts' Gradley saw his shot drop out. Fluffina cashed in with the last four potted balls, pacing her to another 8-5 win to take the series at 2-0. Game 3 also favored Fluffina, whose five-ball run in the middle gave her a lead she would hold onto until she eventually downed Gradley at 8-5 once again for the 3-0 series sweep. Fluffina is through to the second round with the performance.
Amazon Field Exhibition Hall, Golden: Strut v. Chicky Phil. The last series of the day is in 10-ball with the blue cue. Pacific is already happy with Chicky Phil, as the newest member of the team dominated the first half of game 1, and then cleaned up the 10 after Golden's Strut illegally potted it. Chicky Phil took the 10 from the spot to the bottom right to win, going up 1-0 in the series. Game 2 had a similar fast pace, with the Volcanoes' Chicky Phil putting up an early five-ball run, but the Pilots' Strut saved himself this time, legally potting the 10 to cap a three-ball run-out that allowed him to tie the series at 1. Chicky Phil took game 3 in quick fashion, making a three-ball run-out after Strut scratched on his break. Chicky Phil used the 3 to deflect the cue toward the 10, which fell at the top right for the win, giving him a 2-1 series win. This sends Chicky Phil to the second round.
After a long break between the halves of this day of games, we should be back to normal operations for the foreseeable future in the UPCL. Follow our adventures on Twitter@UnitedPCL.
Pepsi Arena, Lighton: Spirit v. Fuchsia. The Prestige star meets the Predators rookie in a series of Rotation with the blue cue. Midland's Fuchsia started well, taking the early lead before succumbing to Lighton's Spirit just past the midway point. Fuchsia rallied back on a three-ball run, nearly winning before a scratch gifted the 8-7 result to Spirit for her to take a 1-0 series lead. The Predators' Fuchsia appeared to learn a valuable lesson, taking game 2 by an 8-3 scored without letting the Prestige's Spirit get into any rhythm this time. The result tied the series at 1. Fuchsia had a good break, but her lack of balls potted on the shot allowed Spirit to stake out the early lead, and she ended with the last two shots after a Fuchsia scratch for an 8-4 win and 2-1 series win. Spirit is through to the second round.
Capital City SuperCenter, Capital City: Missy v. Isabella. Rotation is still the game, but the silver cue gets a look as another rookie debuts on the road. Isabella got her debut off to a fabulous start, winning game 1 for Atlantic with a four-ball run-out, ending with a double-pot that left Capital City's Missy with no chance. Isabella made the 11 to the top side and 14 to the top left to win 8-5 and take a 1-0 series lead. The Pirates' Isabella lost her touch in game 2, missing every shot this time as the Sharpshooters' Missy staked out a quick lead and then hesitantly worked her way to an 8-0 shutout to tie the series at 1 after the poor game from Isabella. In game 3, Isabella recovered nicely, holding off a single rally from Missy and using frustrating defense to take the game 8-3 and earn a 2-1 series win. Isabella's successful debut has her into the second round.
Toyota Arena, Freedom: Roxy v. Princess. The silver cue stays in action to play 9-ball for this series. Roxy saw her six-ball run in game 1 go to waste for Freedom, as she under-cut the 9 on her seventh shot of the turn, and Tysini's Princess tapped it in at the bottom right to take a 1-0 series lead despite her lack of offense. The Hummingbirds' Princess ran three balls from the break, and while the Cascades' Roxy looked to have a chance at making the game interesting, she left the 2-9 combination at the bottom right, which Princess converted to secure the series at 2-0. Princess started game 3 with a six-ball run, but she ultimately faded in the end, allowing Roxy to blast the 8 on a bank double-pot with the 9 at the top left, giving the host a win. Princess still took the series 2-1 to make her way into the second round.
Intel Center, Diamond: Pedey v. Stephanie Livilotti. Young players square off in 12-ball with the red cue. Diamond's Pedey proved unable to overcome giving Southridge's Stephanie a wild-card ball. While she didn't punish Pedey's misplay immediately, she did extensive work to set herself up, and eventually had a three-ball run-out for the win and a 1-0 series lead. The Defenders' Stephanie did not have it so easy in game 2, as the Gems' Pedey pounded a three-ball run early on, and then earned a wild-card ball as Stephanie tried to plow through his defense. Pedey would be patient to get the right shot to finish the game, and he tied the series at 1 without much trouble. Game 3 proved to be a grind for both players. Stephanie fell behind early, surrendering a wild-card ball as well. Pedey eventually gave this back after Stephanie had a strategic scratch. In the end, Stephanie made her last two shots to leave Pedey empty as she took the series 2-1.
Google Hall, Modernistic: Daisy v. Snuggle. The parade of rookies continues in this series of 15-ball with the silver cue. The common theme so far in this Tournament has been lack of control in complex games, and that showed again, with multiple scratches for both players. Modernistic's Daisy seemed to figure it out late with a three-ball run, but her miss allowed Oceanside's Snuggle to take the win and a 1-0 lead in the series. Game 2 saw cleaner play on both sides, and a couple of short runs developed. The Waves' Snuggle saw his game go sideways when he left the 15 exposed near a pocket, and the Union's Daisy converted a 9-15 combination to take the win, tying the series at 1. Game 3 was a return to sloppy form for both players, and Daisy thought her scratch at the end of a three-ball run would be costly, but Snuggle couldn't make the 15 from distance, and Daisy buried it in the bottom side for the win and 2-1 series win. Daisy is through to the second round despite the iffy performance.
IBM Cathedral, North Modernistic: Bright v. Potter. The silver cue is up again for 12-ball, with a veteran on an expansion team facing a rookie. North Modernistic's Bright had his back against the wall in this game, using defense to slow Pronger's Potter. He had an early three-ball run, and then the visiting rookie cashed in when the defense fell, earning a win for a 1-0 series lead. Game 2 was a much tighter game, with both player lacking clear looks at the shots they needed. Potter went for it, and the Tridents' rookie was disappointed with illegal contact at the end, giving the Nighthawks' Bright a clean shot to bury for the win, which he did to tie the series at 1. Game 3 played much more smoothly, with Potter working a four-ball run to really pressure Bright. Potter also avoided surrendering possession late, allowing him to earn the game with his final shot, taking the win and a 2-1 series win to send us into the break.
Verizon Field Events Center, Pacific: Leonette v. Spice. After the mid-afternoon break, it's 8-ball with the blue cue. Originally scheduled for January 31, the UPCL took time off from pool for poor performance. Combined with a plethora of family matters, the league is just returning to action on February 15, and the league remains committed to ensuring high-quality play. If the games are not up to this standard, play will be halted. Victoria's Spice took game 1 for a 1-0 series lead, using her early five-ball run to stave off an attack of separate three-ball runs by Pacific's Leonette in a valiant but unsuccessful comeback effort from the veteran. Spice had a good break but suffered four scratches in game 2, allowing Leonette to patiently chip away before ending the game on a three-ball run-out to tie the series at 1 game apiece. Game 3 seemed to mirror the first stanza early on, but Spice had a bit less control and Leonette rallied for a six-ball run to put the pressure on. Spice scratched on her chance at the 8, allowing Leonette to make the last two balls, as the Volcanoes veteran beat the Spurs captain for a 2-1 series win. Leonette advances to the second round with the series win.
Home Depot Forum, Web City: Shiny v. Bright. The resumption of play continues in 10-ball with the red cue as these two familiar foes meet in the Northeast. Web City's Shiny didn't have the best break, but the two players exchanged shots fairly evenly in short runs during game 1. North Modernistic's Bright made the mistake of leaving the 10 at the bottom right after missing a double-pot, and Shiny punished it with a three-ball run-out to win and take a 1-0 series lead. The Spiders' Shiny scratched on the break again in game 2, and this spurred a five-ball run from the Nighthawks' Bright, who dominated possession in the game. Bright was only unable to get the last three balls, which Shiny took in a run to clinch the series at 2-0 with a somewhat stolen victory. Shiny found herself on her back foot in game 3, and a missed play on the 4 allowed Bright to rally with a four-ball run-out after his own previous illegal potting of the 10 to take the win and make it a 2-1 series. Shiny still advances to the second round with a highly successful series win.
Gillette Center, Swordpoint: Bandit v. Smokey. The game remains 10-ball as the silver cue takes its turn in this battle between Brute Force-backed players. Diamond's Smokey experienced some frustration with himself as a six-ball run ended in a scratch, handing the game to Swordpoint's Bandit as he buried the final two shots from ball-in-hand for the win and a 1-0 series lead. Game 2 saw The Blades' Bandit take a shortcut at the end, undermining the Gems' Smokey comeback hopes as Bandit made the 10 to the top right off a deflected shot from the 8. The win gave Bandit the series at 2-0. Game 3 saw both players take a step back in quality of shots, none more obvious than Smokey leaving the 10 at the top right at the end, allowing Bandit to tap it in for the win and a 3-0 series sweep. Bandit advances to the second round with the dominant performance.
House of Ten Windows, Del Sur: Shannon v. Charli XCX. The red cue is back for a series of Rotation as the return to play comes to another afternoon break after a short burst of games. Southern's Shannon had an edge from the start, slightly outplaying Tysini's Charli in the early part of the game. This lead became more pronounced with a three-ball run, and while Charli wiped that out, Shannon iced the game at 8-4 just after to take the 1-0 series lead. Game 2 played out much closer, with the Hummingbirds' Charli just battling off the Monarchs' Shannon in the tight game to take the win 8-6 with the last two potted balls. For the bulk of the game, the play was very back-and-forth, with the lead exchanged a number of times before the result tied the series at 1. Game 3 followed a similar pattern, with a few gutsy exchanges between the players. Shannon would get the last laugh, as a scratch by Charli left Shannon in position to win the game 8-6 and take the series 2-1 with the win. Shannon will play in the second round.
Kraft Forum, Royal: Kayla v. Juno. After the break, the red cue will continue play with 7-ball in this series. Kayla had a good first game for Royal, making a three-ball run in the middle of the game, but her miss on the 5 squandered good possession as Stonebridge's Juno took the game with the last two shots for a 1-0 series lead. The Crowns' Kayla did well in game 2 to survive a defensive stance from the Wolves' Juno, which eventually crumbled. Kayla did have a couple of late errors, but she buried the 7 on her only try, a confident shot to the top left to win the game and tie the series at 1. Kayla played well at the start of game 3, but Juno made a charge back, setting up a close finish. Juno would just rattle the 7 out of the top side, giving Kayla a tap-in for the win and 2-1 series win that sent her through to the second round.
BMW RockDome, Westside: Goatee v. Hughbert. The silver cue is in for 8-ball as the rookie Hughbert makes his career debut against the veteran Goatee. Westside's Goatee proved very unwelcoming to the Southridge rookie Hughbert, as the former had a four-ball run stalled by a scratch and a three-ball run-out after the latter failed to make much of a move. Goatee leads the series 1-0 after game 1. The Defenders' Hughbert learned a bit in game 2, playing with a bit more urgency as the Rockers' Goatee only lost a little pace on her game. The result was a tight battle that just favored Hughbert with his three-ball run-out to swipe the game and tie the series at 1 with good positioning. Hughbert thought his four-ball run in game 3 would be enough to hold off Goatee, but her seven-ball run-out proved him wrong, as she stormed her way to the win to take the series 2-1. Goatee is into the second round with a big run.
Coca-Cola Field Exhibition Center, Boston: Gradley v. Fluffina. The red cue is back for Rotation in this matchup of strong veterans. Game 1 saw both players make their mistakes, with Boston's Gradley regretting a couple of scratches most of all. Maplewood's Fluffina punished them with cutting runs, including her closing five-ball run-out to win 8-5 in the game for a 1-0 lead in the series. The Lumberjacks' Fluffina looked a bit more confident this time, keeping close in the game before the Swifts' Gradley saw his shot drop out. Fluffina cashed in with the last four potted balls, pacing her to another 8-5 win to take the series at 2-0. Game 3 also favored Fluffina, whose five-ball run in the middle gave her a lead she would hold onto until she eventually downed Gradley at 8-5 once again for the 3-0 series sweep. Fluffina is through to the second round with the performance.
Amazon Field Exhibition Hall, Golden: Strut v. Chicky Phil. The last series of the day is in 10-ball with the blue cue. Pacific is already happy with Chicky Phil, as the newest member of the team dominated the first half of game 1, and then cleaned up the 10 after Golden's Strut illegally potted it. Chicky Phil took the 10 from the spot to the bottom right to win, going up 1-0 in the series. Game 2 had a similar fast pace, with the Volcanoes' Chicky Phil putting up an early five-ball run, but the Pilots' Strut saved himself this time, legally potting the 10 to cap a three-ball run-out that allowed him to tie the series at 1. Chicky Phil took game 3 in quick fashion, making a three-ball run-out after Strut scratched on his break. Chicky Phil used the 3 to deflect the cue toward the 10, which fell at the top right for the win, giving him a 2-1 series win. This sends Chicky Phil to the second round.
After a long break between the halves of this day of games, we should be back to normal operations for the foreseeable future in the UPCL. Follow our adventures on Twitter
Sunday, February 5, 2017
UPCL Cricket - Week 8 Part 3
We'll see how this segment goes, as personal commitments are a near guarantee to interfere. We begin the last part of week 8 with...
Home Depot Forum, Web City: The Spiders look to keep their good play at home going against the Torpedoes in their third of four straight road games. Smudge had some struggles with her swing at first, but she held on to score 375 for Infinity. Shadow kept it close, but couldn't best his daughter, picking up 327 for Web City as they'll start with a slight deficit. Solaris matched his aunt and captain's output for the Torpedoes, doubling their score with 375 of his own in a solid outing for the rookie. Ted covered the deficit for the Spiders, giving them a minor lead with his 495 at the halfway mark. Whiskers recovered from a backhand in time to spike a ball away from the wicket, but it deflected out and stopped her at 252 for Infinity. Shiny's strong pace at the start of her game fell apart late, but she still kept Web City positive with 268. Mr. Snowman botched the comeback for the Torpedoes with a measly 28, leaving them with a loss on 1030. Dani smashed 716 at the end to ice the Spiders win at 1806. Web City's win takes them to 7-11 with four straight home wins, while Infinity has lost five in a row on the road in falling to 9-7.
IBM Nighthawks Nest, North Modernistic: These two Urban Division and Expansion rivals meet for the first time, with the Nighthawks getting cozy at home while the Knights start a two-game trip. Kiwi produced 309 for Terrace City, not quite dialing in her swing enough to be more effective. Peach had to take a rushed swing to avoid a deflection, but the result was the same, with her at 108 to put North Modernistic behind their rivals. Jennifer hit 495 for the Knights, strengthening their lead with the performance. Luigi chose to take a replay after a technical error, and this was costly, with him ending at 138 on the second try, pushing the Nighthawks further behind. Oreo kept her recent road play strong with 631 for Terrace City this time, extending the lead nicely. Cheddar put a dent in the deficit with 673 for North Modernistic, trying to keep them in range near the end of the game. Stripes pounded 632 for the Knights, giving them a final score of 2067. Bright tried a rally but ended at 583, leaving the Nighthawks at 1503 in the loss. Terrace City is starting to break out of their road woes, going to 10-5, while North Modernistic is 8-7 after the division loss.
Amazon Field, Golden: The Pilots end a four-game home stand against a Spiders team making one short trip before a long home stand of their own. Shadow had an acceptable turn for Web City, scoring 344 before an errant swing brought it to an end. Another of his daughters, Valencia, answered with only 307 for Golden, putting them slightly behind through the first turns. Ted bailed on a backhand hit too soon, allowing the ball to drop behind him and take out his wicket at 287 for the Spiders. Dusty covered the deficit fairly easily, ending on 483 for the Pilots as they now own the lead midway through the game. Shiny broke free with 847 for Web City on her turn, putting them far ahead in a somewhat unexpected turn of events. Strut kept Golden in range with 675 on his turn, effectively countering the surprise burst of points. Dani tapped 280 for the Spiders, giving the 1758 overall. A. Charlton had 271 for the Pilots on a false start replay, after she just pulled out of a swing in time to earn the second chance. They ultimately lost with 1736 in a close battle. Web City continues to climb to 8-11, while Golden is down to 8-7.
Honda Driftwood Coliseum, Pearl: The Surfers play their last home game before embarking on a four-game trip, while the Hummingbirds finish a three-game road trip here. Princess shook off all her struggles in one turn, hammering 809 for Tysini to start the game quite well. Watermelon didn't have much of an answer for Pearl, collecting only 281 as the hosts will start from behind in this one. Leandra was even better than Princess for the Hummingbirds, slugging 1133 to pad the lead in a big way. Neopolitan got knocked down quickly when a ball deflected over the handle of her bat, taking her out at 141 for the lackluster Surfers. Charli squashed any hope of a comeback with her 1127 for Tysini, firmly asserting her side's dominance in this match. Boots had Pearl's first respectable performance of the game, grabbing 481 with a solid appearance. Brownie fell out at 311 after a tough deflection, giving the Hummingbirds their massive 3380 final score in an easy win. Wings had just 171 for the Surfers, ending their brutal loss at 1074. This was the best Tysini's looked all year, going to 4-9 with the win, while Pearl is down to 9-8 with the loss.
McDonald's Pitch at Pirates Park, Atlantic: The Pirates, fresh off a bye week, begin a seven-game home stand against the Tradewinds in their last of a three-game road trip that they'd like to finish undefeated in. Tigerette began the game with 587 for Commerce, setting a high bar for the hosts to hurdle. Delila answered with 343 for Atlantic, failing to match the opposing captain's output with plenty of game to go. Ice Cream was doing fine until a hooked swing sent her out at 264 for the Tradewinds, keeping their lead somewhat steady. Isabella answered with 487 for the Pirates on her turn, getting them very close at the halfway mark. Lionel just flicked a ball on his backhand, not enough to save it, and the Commerce star fell at 213, leaving his team vulnerable. Americus charged forward with 800 for Atlantic, rallying from her two-touch backhand to forehand move that kept her alive in the early stages of her turn. Lorde aimlessly swung at bad offerings and ended on 36 when the pitch became too cluttered, giving the Tradewinds a final of 1100 in the loss. Klaus went with 336 for the Pirates, icing their win at 1966. Atlantic continues to excel this year, going to 11-3, while Commerce is 5-8 after a disappointing loss.
Henry Ford Memorial Stadium, Pronger: The Tridents get their last game at home for awhile, and the Predators are set to head home after this likely competitive game. Shawn walloped his way to 458 for Midland in a solid opener for the visitors. Precious kept Pronger close in the early going, posting 395 on her turn as it will be left to the rest of the rosters to decide. Rainmane added another 408 for the Predators on her turn, keeping their lead steady. Zach has all the makings of a slump in order, as he was downed at a measly 48 for the Tridents here, hurting their comeback chances. Leonardo pummeled 711 for Midland on his turn, extending their lead again in what's become quite the dominant performance. Spot tried to keep Pronger in the fight, scooping 559 to prevent them from being completely hopeless as the final players take their turns. Fuchsia left the Predators a bit exposed, falling with 192 to give them a final score of 1769. Potter did worse for the Tridents, ending with 131 as they'll fall on 1133 total. Midland is up to 11-8 for the year, while Pronger has fallen to 6-6 after a hot start.
Pepsi Prestige Park, Lighton: The Prestige make a quick stop in at home to face the Knights in the last game of their short trip. Kiwi lasted awhile but didn't strike the ball very well, ending at 272 in the somewhat poor performance for Terrace City. Acorn seemed to be doing better early on in his turn, but his pace also faded quickly, and he put up 335 to give Lighton a narrow lead initially. Jennifer didn't take advantage of the situation for the Knights, taking only 238 on her turn as they continue to play a mediocre game. Spirit showed off professional poise for the Prestige, using a backhand very effectively to continue her turn to 610 as the hosts are well ahead at the halfway mark. Oreo fired back with 550 for Terrace City, countering her brother's team to make a close game. Twinkie I strengthened the Lighton lead quite significantly with her 870, setting them in a good position with a player each to go. Stripes made a massive impact for the Knights, blasting 1023 to bring them to 2083 total. Salmo collapsed at 112 for the Prestige, giving them a final of 1927 in the loss. Terrace City has Stripes to thanks for getting them to 11-5, while Lighton falls to 5-9.
Starbucks Cup, Archtown: The Arrows have had the week off up to this game, as the Eagles come in for one of two straight road games against Northeast Division rivals. Goldy had her worst road game of the year here, picking up 344 in a still-respectable outing. Sally got a little too much under her last swing, ending at 272 for Archtown to force them to start from behind. Puff III padded the lead for the Eagles with a strong 619 on her turn, a good performance. Sleepy B. choked her turn away for the Arrows, producing a paltry 46 as they fall farther behind. Kirstin tried a backhand but didn't stay in form with the swing, taking out her own wicket to score 448 for a cruising Everton team. Ruby tallied 328 for Archtown, getting a bit unlucky with the offerings presented to her as many fell short of her sweet spot. Blizzard drilled 722 for the Eagles, putting them at 2133 overall in a presumptive win. Dusky went for 384 for the Arrows, unable to come close to the visitors as they finished with 1030 in the loss, their sixth in a row at home. Everton is now 13-2 for the year, and 4-0 in the division, while Archtown is 6-14 with an 0-3 division mark.
Samsung Whitewater Stadium, Whitewater: The Shores begin a four-game home stand against the Defenders, who play in their third of six straight road games. Bianca had her first really bad road game for Southridge, mishitting a ball to score just 32 points this time out. Bear couldn't take full advantage of the opportunity, getting too eager and falling out of line at 160 for Whitewater to take a small lead early on. Debby put the Defenders in a better position with the second attack, ripping 589 for the visitors in a strong outing. Twinkie III carved out 862 for the Shores in response, giving them the lead at the midway mark of the game. Stephanie tried to get fancy with a backhand play for Southridge, failing to corral the second ball and ending at a measly 78 points. Marsell tapped 304 to add a little bit to the Whitewater lead before the final players come to bat. Hughbert was very displeased with the pitch conditions as he bowed out with 279 for the Defenders to close on 978 in their loss. Shaggy saw a lot of bounces go her way for the Shores, knocking 791 to bring them to 2117 overall in a big win. Whitewater is 7-4 on the year, while Southridge falls to 10-10.
Nestle's Warriors Park, Central: The Eagles are back at it, facing another Northlands team, the Warriors, who are finishing a massive eight-game home stand in this Northeast Divisional. Goldy saw the pace of her game crater and then took a bad deflection to end on 225 for Everton, possibly signaling the start of a slump for the captain. Twilight ripped 894 for Central in response, another dominant effort from Central's captain to stake out a big lead. Puff III shot back with 742 for the Eagles, keeping them competitive in a high-scoring affair. Dustin chopped his way to 599 for the Warriors, keeping their lead firm at the halfway mark. Kirstin faltered on her turn, sending Everton into a downward spiral with 21 points, deepening the deficit. Mario answered with 529 to pad the Central lead quite nicely. Blizzard managed 384 for the Eagles, bringing them to 1372 in the loss, their first on the road all season. Gizmo tacked on 392 to bring the Warriors to 2414 overall in the win. Central's victory is a big one in the Northeast, as they are now 10-4, while Everton drops to 13-3. More importantly, Central leads the divisional standings at 3-0, while Everton is 4-1.
Blades Fusion ProGlide Park, Swordpoint: The Blades get a chance to assert themselves in their only game of the week, facing a slumping Tridents side going through a road doubleheader to start a four-game road trip. Precious absolutely annihilated her turn, basing 1031 for Pronger to give them a huge initial lead. Snowball tried to do a backhand save on her turn, but failed and closed with 320 for Swordpoint. Zach stumbled at 133 for the Tridents, weakening their large lead with the poor effort. Dreamy failed to make much progress, misplaying an odd bounce to take 160 for the Blades. Spot rode a fruitful groove for a long time, a great combination that allowed him to take 1113 for Pronger to extend their lead quite a bit. Bandit chipped 218 for Swordpoint, as the hosts appear resigned to the status of taking a loss. Potter tapped 112 for the Tridents, icing their prospective victory at 2389. Stealth went pretty well for the Blades with 497, icing their loss at 1195 in total. Pronger has stopped the bleeding for now, going to 7-6, while Swordpoint falls to 11-7.
Audi Knights Pitch, Terrace City: The Knights are back home to wrap up week 8, with the Tridents' doubleheader ending against them. Precious went off again in this game, rallying for 720 for Pronger to start the game in great form. Kiwi was unable to reply with 117 for Terrace City, leaving them far behind at the start of the game. Zach played well this time, picking up 466 for the Tridents to extend their lead as the game approaches half completion. Jennifer shot back with 525 for the Knights, making a small dent on the deficit. Spot crashed down with 42 for Pronger, leaving them vulnerable after the poor turn from the rookie, whose last two efforts show some inconsistency. Oreo only made a small gain with 147 for Terrace City, as time has now become their primary enemy. Potter gave the Tridents a boost with 280, putting their final score at 1508 overall. Stripes couldn't conquer a cluttered pitch for the Knights, ending with 322 and giving the hosts a loss with 1111. Pronger is up to 8-6 on a rebound finish to the week, while Terrace City drops to 11-6.
That's it for week 8. We'll have a Standings update and Players of the Week both posted to @UnitedPCL on Twitter in the coming minutes, and week 9 will likely commence on Tuesday.
Home Depot Forum, Web City: The Spiders look to keep their good play at home going against the Torpedoes in their third of four straight road games. Smudge had some struggles with her swing at first, but she held on to score 375 for Infinity. Shadow kept it close, but couldn't best his daughter, picking up 327 for Web City as they'll start with a slight deficit. Solaris matched his aunt and captain's output for the Torpedoes, doubling their score with 375 of his own in a solid outing for the rookie. Ted covered the deficit for the Spiders, giving them a minor lead with his 495 at the halfway mark. Whiskers recovered from a backhand in time to spike a ball away from the wicket, but it deflected out and stopped her at 252 for Infinity. Shiny's strong pace at the start of her game fell apart late, but she still kept Web City positive with 268. Mr. Snowman botched the comeback for the Torpedoes with a measly 28, leaving them with a loss on 1030. Dani smashed 716 at the end to ice the Spiders win at 1806. Web City's win takes them to 7-11 with four straight home wins, while Infinity has lost five in a row on the road in falling to 9-7.
IBM Nighthawks Nest, North Modernistic: These two Urban Division and Expansion rivals meet for the first time, with the Nighthawks getting cozy at home while the Knights start a two-game trip. Kiwi produced 309 for Terrace City, not quite dialing in her swing enough to be more effective. Peach had to take a rushed swing to avoid a deflection, but the result was the same, with her at 108 to put North Modernistic behind their rivals. Jennifer hit 495 for the Knights, strengthening their lead with the performance. Luigi chose to take a replay after a technical error, and this was costly, with him ending at 138 on the second try, pushing the Nighthawks further behind. Oreo kept her recent road play strong with 631 for Terrace City this time, extending the lead nicely. Cheddar put a dent in the deficit with 673 for North Modernistic, trying to keep them in range near the end of the game. Stripes pounded 632 for the Knights, giving them a final score of 2067. Bright tried a rally but ended at 583, leaving the Nighthawks at 1503 in the loss. Terrace City is starting to break out of their road woes, going to 10-5, while North Modernistic is 8-7 after the division loss.
Amazon Field, Golden: The Pilots end a four-game home stand against a Spiders team making one short trip before a long home stand of their own. Shadow had an acceptable turn for Web City, scoring 344 before an errant swing brought it to an end. Another of his daughters, Valencia, answered with only 307 for Golden, putting them slightly behind through the first turns. Ted bailed on a backhand hit too soon, allowing the ball to drop behind him and take out his wicket at 287 for the Spiders. Dusty covered the deficit fairly easily, ending on 483 for the Pilots as they now own the lead midway through the game. Shiny broke free with 847 for Web City on her turn, putting them far ahead in a somewhat unexpected turn of events. Strut kept Golden in range with 675 on his turn, effectively countering the surprise burst of points. Dani tapped 280 for the Spiders, giving the 1758 overall. A. Charlton had 271 for the Pilots on a false start replay, after she just pulled out of a swing in time to earn the second chance. They ultimately lost with 1736 in a close battle. Web City continues to climb to 8-11, while Golden is down to 8-7.
Honda Driftwood Coliseum, Pearl: The Surfers play their last home game before embarking on a four-game trip, while the Hummingbirds finish a three-game road trip here. Princess shook off all her struggles in one turn, hammering 809 for Tysini to start the game quite well. Watermelon didn't have much of an answer for Pearl, collecting only 281 as the hosts will start from behind in this one. Leandra was even better than Princess for the Hummingbirds, slugging 1133 to pad the lead in a big way. Neopolitan got knocked down quickly when a ball deflected over the handle of her bat, taking her out at 141 for the lackluster Surfers. Charli squashed any hope of a comeback with her 1127 for Tysini, firmly asserting her side's dominance in this match. Boots had Pearl's first respectable performance of the game, grabbing 481 with a solid appearance. Brownie fell out at 311 after a tough deflection, giving the Hummingbirds their massive 3380 final score in an easy win. Wings had just 171 for the Surfers, ending their brutal loss at 1074. This was the best Tysini's looked all year, going to 4-9 with the win, while Pearl is down to 9-8 with the loss.
McDonald's Pitch at Pirates Park, Atlantic: The Pirates, fresh off a bye week, begin a seven-game home stand against the Tradewinds in their last of a three-game road trip that they'd like to finish undefeated in. Tigerette began the game with 587 for Commerce, setting a high bar for the hosts to hurdle. Delila answered with 343 for Atlantic, failing to match the opposing captain's output with plenty of game to go. Ice Cream was doing fine until a hooked swing sent her out at 264 for the Tradewinds, keeping their lead somewhat steady. Isabella answered with 487 for the Pirates on her turn, getting them very close at the halfway mark. Lionel just flicked a ball on his backhand, not enough to save it, and the Commerce star fell at 213, leaving his team vulnerable. Americus charged forward with 800 for Atlantic, rallying from her two-touch backhand to forehand move that kept her alive in the early stages of her turn. Lorde aimlessly swung at bad offerings and ended on 36 when the pitch became too cluttered, giving the Tradewinds a final of 1100 in the loss. Klaus went with 336 for the Pirates, icing their win at 1966. Atlantic continues to excel this year, going to 11-3, while Commerce is 5-8 after a disappointing loss.
Henry Ford Memorial Stadium, Pronger: The Tridents get their last game at home for awhile, and the Predators are set to head home after this likely competitive game. Shawn walloped his way to 458 for Midland in a solid opener for the visitors. Precious kept Pronger close in the early going, posting 395 on her turn as it will be left to the rest of the rosters to decide. Rainmane added another 408 for the Predators on her turn, keeping their lead steady. Zach has all the makings of a slump in order, as he was downed at a measly 48 for the Tridents here, hurting their comeback chances. Leonardo pummeled 711 for Midland on his turn, extending their lead again in what's become quite the dominant performance. Spot tried to keep Pronger in the fight, scooping 559 to prevent them from being completely hopeless as the final players take their turns. Fuchsia left the Predators a bit exposed, falling with 192 to give them a final score of 1769. Potter did worse for the Tridents, ending with 131 as they'll fall on 1133 total. Midland is up to 11-8 for the year, while Pronger has fallen to 6-6 after a hot start.
Pepsi Prestige Park, Lighton: The Prestige make a quick stop in at home to face the Knights in the last game of their short trip. Kiwi lasted awhile but didn't strike the ball very well, ending at 272 in the somewhat poor performance for Terrace City. Acorn seemed to be doing better early on in his turn, but his pace also faded quickly, and he put up 335 to give Lighton a narrow lead initially. Jennifer didn't take advantage of the situation for the Knights, taking only 238 on her turn as they continue to play a mediocre game. Spirit showed off professional poise for the Prestige, using a backhand very effectively to continue her turn to 610 as the hosts are well ahead at the halfway mark. Oreo fired back with 550 for Terrace City, countering her brother's team to make a close game. Twinkie I strengthened the Lighton lead quite significantly with her 870, setting them in a good position with a player each to go. Stripes made a massive impact for the Knights, blasting 1023 to bring them to 2083 total. Salmo collapsed at 112 for the Prestige, giving them a final of 1927 in the loss. Terrace City has Stripes to thanks for getting them to 11-5, while Lighton falls to 5-9.
Starbucks Cup, Archtown: The Arrows have had the week off up to this game, as the Eagles come in for one of two straight road games against Northeast Division rivals. Goldy had her worst road game of the year here, picking up 344 in a still-respectable outing. Sally got a little too much under her last swing, ending at 272 for Archtown to force them to start from behind. Puff III padded the lead for the Eagles with a strong 619 on her turn, a good performance. Sleepy B. choked her turn away for the Arrows, producing a paltry 46 as they fall farther behind. Kirstin tried a backhand but didn't stay in form with the swing, taking out her own wicket to score 448 for a cruising Everton team. Ruby tallied 328 for Archtown, getting a bit unlucky with the offerings presented to her as many fell short of her sweet spot. Blizzard drilled 722 for the Eagles, putting them at 2133 overall in a presumptive win. Dusky went for 384 for the Arrows, unable to come close to the visitors as they finished with 1030 in the loss, their sixth in a row at home. Everton is now 13-2 for the year, and 4-0 in the division, while Archtown is 6-14 with an 0-3 division mark.
Samsung Whitewater Stadium, Whitewater: The Shores begin a four-game home stand against the Defenders, who play in their third of six straight road games. Bianca had her first really bad road game for Southridge, mishitting a ball to score just 32 points this time out. Bear couldn't take full advantage of the opportunity, getting too eager and falling out of line at 160 for Whitewater to take a small lead early on. Debby put the Defenders in a better position with the second attack, ripping 589 for the visitors in a strong outing. Twinkie III carved out 862 for the Shores in response, giving them the lead at the midway mark of the game. Stephanie tried to get fancy with a backhand play for Southridge, failing to corral the second ball and ending at a measly 78 points. Marsell tapped 304 to add a little bit to the Whitewater lead before the final players come to bat. Hughbert was very displeased with the pitch conditions as he bowed out with 279 for the Defenders to close on 978 in their loss. Shaggy saw a lot of bounces go her way for the Shores, knocking 791 to bring them to 2117 overall in a big win. Whitewater is 7-4 on the year, while Southridge falls to 10-10.
Nestle's Warriors Park, Central: The Eagles are back at it, facing another Northlands team, the Warriors, who are finishing a massive eight-game home stand in this Northeast Divisional. Goldy saw the pace of her game crater and then took a bad deflection to end on 225 for Everton, possibly signaling the start of a slump for the captain. Twilight ripped 894 for Central in response, another dominant effort from Central's captain to stake out a big lead. Puff III shot back with 742 for the Eagles, keeping them competitive in a high-scoring affair. Dustin chopped his way to 599 for the Warriors, keeping their lead firm at the halfway mark. Kirstin faltered on her turn, sending Everton into a downward spiral with 21 points, deepening the deficit. Mario answered with 529 to pad the Central lead quite nicely. Blizzard managed 384 for the Eagles, bringing them to 1372 in the loss, their first on the road all season. Gizmo tacked on 392 to bring the Warriors to 2414 overall in the win. Central's victory is a big one in the Northeast, as they are now 10-4, while Everton drops to 13-3. More importantly, Central leads the divisional standings at 3-0, while Everton is 4-1.
Blades Fusion ProGlide Park, Swordpoint: The Blades get a chance to assert themselves in their only game of the week, facing a slumping Tridents side going through a road doubleheader to start a four-game road trip. Precious absolutely annihilated her turn, basing 1031 for Pronger to give them a huge initial lead. Snowball tried to do a backhand save on her turn, but failed and closed with 320 for Swordpoint. Zach stumbled at 133 for the Tridents, weakening their large lead with the poor effort. Dreamy failed to make much progress, misplaying an odd bounce to take 160 for the Blades. Spot rode a fruitful groove for a long time, a great combination that allowed him to take 1113 for Pronger to extend their lead quite a bit. Bandit chipped 218 for Swordpoint, as the hosts appear resigned to the status of taking a loss. Potter tapped 112 for the Tridents, icing their prospective victory at 2389. Stealth went pretty well for the Blades with 497, icing their loss at 1195 in total. Pronger has stopped the bleeding for now, going to 7-6, while Swordpoint falls to 11-7.
Audi Knights Pitch, Terrace City: The Knights are back home to wrap up week 8, with the Tridents' doubleheader ending against them. Precious went off again in this game, rallying for 720 for Pronger to start the game in great form. Kiwi was unable to reply with 117 for Terrace City, leaving them far behind at the start of the game. Zach played well this time, picking up 466 for the Tridents to extend their lead as the game approaches half completion. Jennifer shot back with 525 for the Knights, making a small dent on the deficit. Spot crashed down with 42 for Pronger, leaving them vulnerable after the poor turn from the rookie, whose last two efforts show some inconsistency. Oreo only made a small gain with 147 for Terrace City, as time has now become their primary enemy. Potter gave the Tridents a boost with 280, putting their final score at 1508 overall. Stripes couldn't conquer a cluttered pitch for the Knights, ending with 322 and giving the hosts a loss with 1111. Pronger is up to 8-6 on a rebound finish to the week, while Terrace City drops to 11-6.
That's it for week 8. We'll have a Standings update and Players of the Week both posted to @UnitedPCL on Twitter in the coming minutes, and week 9 will likely commence on Tuesday.
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