UPCL Cricket - Week 15 Part 1

We're back after a long break, but unfortunately, we are unable to host the game on our site at the current time. We hope to restore this in the future, but for now, we will be playing through Miniclip. We begin the week in...

GE Stadium, Southridge: The Waves end a pair of road games here, while the Defenders have two of the first three games this week at home. Snuggle had a predictably slow start for Oceanside, gathering a mild 241 to start the scoring in this game. Southridge got off to a stronger start with 368 from Bianca, as the rookie did well for her team. Caitlin broke free for the Waves on her turn, putting them much farther ahead with 768 in a strong appearance. The Defenders' Debby couldn't cover the deficit, or even come close, scoring a meager 20 to put the hosts behind halfway through the game. Celestia proved stabilizing for Oceanside, contributing a good 580 to pad their lead some more. Stephanie made a bit of progress against the deficit for Southridge, collecting 726 to help her team get in range. Dewey slipped up with 162 for the Waves, giving them a final of 1751 for the game. Hughbert gave chase but ended short with 354 after a ball bounced off the back of his bat. The Defenders took the loss with 1468. Oceanside is 17-15, while Southridge is 15-17 after the close game.

Henry Ford Memorial Stadium, Pronger: The Tridents end their eight-game home stand against a soft opponent, the last-place Crowns. Nightfur gave Royal a fighting chance at the start of the game, lining a crisp 512 to establish a lead. Precious showed very little concern for the attack against her team, replying with 846 to give Pronger a noticeable initial lead. Jake failed to cover the deficit for the Crowns, ending with only 144 on a weak turn from the veteran. Zach covered that damage, but couldn't extend the Tridents lead by much with his 160, a poor effort from the sophomore. Kayla was able to cover the deficit for Royal, chipping a decent 384 to get them back in the fight. Spot was very frustrated with the bowling going against him, taking three false starts and then only scoring 57 on his fourth try, hurting the Pronger lead as the game will be close for the final players to decide. Hannah had a measly 24 for the Crowns, an embarrassing mark that leaves them at 1064 and all but guarantees a loss. Potter was sloppy in his turn, but the 220 gave the Tridents 1283 and the win, which is all that matters in the end. Pronger goes to 15-11, while Royal is 7-19 in a disappointing loss.

GE Stadium, Southridge: The first of a home-and-home between these teams is now, with the return at the end of the segment. Acorn did reasonably well for himself and Lighton on the opening turn, striking 483 in a good performance. Bianca shot back for Southridge in full force, rallying her way to 632 to give the hosts an early lead. Spirit had a bad swing at the end of her turn for the Prestige, poking 234 to cover the deficit very lightly. Debby has entered a home slump for the Defenders, ending on a measly 64 this time around, which leaves them just behind at the midway mark. Twinkie I applied a bit more pressure for Lighton, carving out 506 to give them a significant lead. Stephanie kept the back-and-forth of the game going with her 602 for Southridge, pulling them ahead with a player each to go. Salmo popped a decent 295 for the Prestige, putting their final score at 1518, which will force a reply from the hosts. Hughbert couldn't do it, taking a big swing too soon and ending with a pathetic 16 to leave the Defenders in a loss with 1314. Lighton improves to 11-15, while Southridge slips again to 15-18 and will be hungry for revenge in nine league games.

Nissan Infinity Stadium, Infinity: The Torpedoes look to take second place as they host the Cascades, who play in the third of a seven-game road trip. Jasmine had a good pace going but lost control of her swing and ended with a solid 328 for Freedom to open the scoring. Smudge was very good for Infinity on her turn, pulling them ahead with 503. Stinky shot back with only 3 for the Cascades, losing control of his swing very early but not early enough to earn a false start replay. Solaris charged forward with 739 for the Torpedoes, doing very well to pad their lead at the halfway point. Roxy fired back with 624 for Freedom, attempting to keep them in the game with the cut into the deficit. Whiskers tried to stave it off but had plenty of complaints about the pitch conditions, as she tapped 274 to give Infinity a small boost. Nikolai had just 49 for the Cascades, giving them a loss with 1004 in a tough game in which they couldn't keep up. Mr. Snowman added 454 for the Torpedoes at the end, icing their win at 1970. Infinity makes the leap to 20-8, while Freedom gets knocked back to 9-13.

AT&T Oceanside Stadium, Oceanside: The Waves return home to face the Eagles, who begin a four-game road trip at a pivotal time in their season. Goldy slapped a strong 479 for Everton on her turn, setting the tone at an appropriate pace. Snuggle seemed to have a slightly better pace for Oceanside, but an earlier exit put his team behind when he scored 408. Puff III left her turn highly disappointed, taking only 152 after skying a ball earlier than expected, harming the Eagles' lead. Caitlin answered with a solid 447 for the Waves, putting them ahead at the halfway point in an almost balanced game. Kirstin made things worse with 155 for Everton, failing to cover the deficit as the visitors fall into trouble. Celestia stayed in line for Oceanside, padding their lead with another 470 as they've taken a firm grip on the game. Blizzard had only 361 for the Eagles, leaving them far short of the mark at 1147 in their loss. Dewey iced the Waves win with his own 208, leaving them at 1533 in a good game for the hosts. Oceanside is up again to 18-15, while Everton drops to 18-11, slipping farther down the standings as their formerly dominant offense eludes them.

The Intel Pitch, Diamond: The Gems host their hated rivals, the Shores, in the Bloodbath Derby. The Shores are in the second of a three-game road trip, while the Gems play a one-off at home. Bear seemed to forget the rivalry factor, hitting a light 102 for Whitewater in a poor opener. Smokey had a much hotter start for Diamond, ripping 578 to give them a big lead. Twinkie III covered the deficit with ease, slugging 932 to put the Shores in the lead after their second attack. Citrus has struggled at home, and this was no different, with just 215 coming from the star as the hosts fall behind. Marsell did his part to extend the Whitewater lead, adding a supporting burst of 707 to their offensive efforts. Pedey stumbled at 207 for Diamond on his turn, furthering the deficit with a player each to go. Shaggy chipped a decent 343 for the Shores, finishing their scoring at 2084, a good mark that they believe will hold. Rosalina tried to make a mark with 546 for the Gems, but this left them at 1546 in the loss. Whitewater improves to 10-11, while Diamond is 10-23 with the loss.

Sprint Pitch, Victoria: The Spurs are in action at home for the third of a four-game home stand, hosting the Stills at the start of their two-game road trip. Todavía got off to a good start with 416 from Easter, pacing their attack fairly well early on. Spice answered with a solid 391 for Victoria on her turn, keeping the game close initially. Sierra didn't have a good performance with only 192 for the Stills, weakening their lead after the second attack. Yekaterina fired back in a big way for the Spurs, swatting 542 to give them the lead at the halfway mark. Sparkles tried to keep her pace healthy, but her final swing just went too high, and she added a mere 211 for Todavía as they fall farther behind. B. Chapman continued her recent surge for Victoria, churning out 844 to extend their lead significantly in this game. Bells had a paltry 36 for the Stills, never getting comfortable as they ended their loss with just 855 total. Wario had a terrible 7 for the Spurs, but they already had the game under control, winning with 1784. Victoria finally gets a lucky break, going to 10-17, while Todavía is 16-16 on the year.

FedEx Ground, Eastside: The Torpedoes look to close the gap on first place while keeping their road play hot, while the Sharks try to find comfort at home. Smudge struggled to keep an appropriate rhythm for Infinity on her turn, ending up with 346 to close out the first turn. Chelsea was much more decisive on her turn for Eastside, clobbering 735 to give the hosts a big lead early on. Solaris got greedy on his turn and paid for it dearly, ending on a measly 21 for the Torpedoes, who are entering a crisis. Taylor stayed composed despite a weak pace for the Sharks, hitting 370 on her turn to keep the lead strong. Whiskers tried to make a rally for Infinity on her turn, but it didn't work, and she fell with 169. Niki tapped another 360 for Eastside, padding their lead a little more before the final players come to bat. Mr. Snowman ended with a labored 383 for the Torpedoes, bringing their losing score to 919, snapping an eight-game win streak on the road. Paps added 112 for the Sharks, putting them at 1577 in the win, their fifth straight at home. Eastside is on a surge to 13-18, while Infinity drops back to fourth at 20-9.

McDonald's Pitch at Pirates Park, Atlantic: The Pirates and Eagles are close in the standings, and each need to reverse their recent misfortunes. Goldy did well in the opening turn for Everton, tallying 469 to give them the stable start to the game. Delila didn't have the easiest time for Atlantic, chipping only 249 on her turn as the hosts will play from behind. Puff III didn't seem to be having trouble until she struck a ball too high and ended on only 169 for the Eagles. Isabella cashed in on the opportunity presented to her, putting the Pirates ahead as she hit 433. Kirstin didn't exactly help the cause for Everton, scoring only 215 as she had a bad swing. Americus crushed 1069 for Atlantic, leaving no doubt to the quality of their lead as the final players come to bat. Blizzard had 240 for the Eagles, getting distracted near the end of her turn to leave the visitors in a loss with 1093 total. Klaus takced on 441 for the Pirates, giving them 2192 in the big win. Atlantic snaps a six-game home losing streak to get to 18-11, passing the now 18-12 Everton side as their slide into mediocrity continues.

AT&T Oceanside Hall, Oceanside: The Waves wrap up a pair of home games, while the Tradewinds close up a decent four-game road trip. After a couple of technical errors, Tigerette got on track for Commerce with a massive 650 to establish their lead early on. Snuggle didn't even cover half of that for Oceanside, tapping an early 320 for the hosts to start with. Ice Cream cancelled out most of the damage done by Snuggle with her 306 for the Tradewinds, holding their lead steady. Caitlin made a dent in the deficit for the Waves with 447, bringing them a bit closer at the halfway mark. Lionel kept pace for Commerce pretty well, adding a bit more with 495 after a ball bounced off his bat handle and out of play. Celestia did not allow Oceanside to be easily felled, slapping 876 to give them a late lead in the game. Lorde had 235 for the Tradewinds on her turn, bringing their final to 1686, which forces a small response from the hosts. Dewey did enough with 227 for the Waves, giving them the win on 1870 overall. Oceanside is 19-15 after a resilient game, sending Commerce to 10-17.

McDonald's Pitch at Pirates Park, Atlantic: The Pirates look to build on their last win against the lowly Crowns. Nightfur had a decent pace but couldn't last very long with her swinging position, taking only 177 for Royal. Delila showed a bit of improvement with 439 for Atlantic to open their offense this time. Jake countered with a big second attack of 635 for the Crowns, covering the deficit to give them a strong lead this time. Isabella couldn't recover for the Pirates, ending on just 211 on a weaker turn that puts them behind at the midway mark. Kayla ended on a bit of an odd bounce, but it couldn't take away the 464 she produced for Royal to pad their lead. Americus tried to rally for Atlantic, but fell apart early at 155 to do more damage than good late in the game. Hannah iced the Crowns' offense at 1791 with 515 individually, putting them in a good position to win. Klaus covered that with 536 for the Pirates, but his impact on the deficit was irrelevant as they lost with 1341 total. Royal goes to 8-19, while Atlantic is 18-12.

Pepsi Prestige Park, Lighton: The Prestige hope to sweep the Defenders in this return from a match earlier in the segment. Bianca had a very rough go early for Southridge, falling out at 144 in a poor performance from the rookie. Acorn shot back with a more stable 448 for Lighton, giving them a solid lead early on. Debby had a paltry 60 for the Defenders on her turn, putting them in a deep hole with the failed second attack. The Prestige's Spirit was not great on her turn, with 255, but they hold a decent lead at the halfway point. Stephanie had to tap a ball on her backhand at least three times, and she still couldn't clear it away, ending at 144 when she took out her wicket, putting Southridge in a bit more trouble. Twinkie I had only 166, as Lighton remains in the lead of this sloppy game with a player each to go. Hughbert had only 89 for the Defenders on his turn, giving them a loss with 437 total, a brutally low score. Salmo added 192 for the Prestige, giving them 1061 in the win. Lighton is 12-15, sweeping Southridge, who are now at 15-19.

That's all for this cricket segment. More to come in the next few days.

Tournament 2017: A-level First Round - Day 16

We're back for the last day of the week, as we'll be taking at least Saturday off. I'm considering also taking Sunday off from pool to play some cricket, but we'll see on that front. We begin today with...

Subway Arena, Stonebridge: Cobalt v. Goatee. The last series of 7-ball with the blue cue for this round is up, pitting rookie against veteran. Westside's Goatee didn't have the best start to game 1, but quickly found her shot as Stonebridge's Cobalt bumbled around the table. Goatee brought the game to an end with her four-ball run-out, earning her a 1-0 series lead. The Rockers' Goatee earned a big win in game 2 as well, starting with a miss on the break, but then making all seven balls in a row on her second turn as the Wolves' Cobalt just watched. Goatee clinched the series at 2-0 with the immaculate run. Goatee didn't have to pull out a run in game 3, instead waiting for Cobalt to leave a combination set up. That was the 2-7, which Goatee made to the bottom right to earn a 3-0 sweep. Goatee heads to Chevrolet Center in Everton, facing the Eagles captain Goldy in the second round.

Coca-Cola Field Exhibition Center, Boston: Patches v. Sydney Sierota. The silver cue steps up for some 9-ball now. Harrison's Sydney had a noticeable edge in possession in game 1 over Boston's Patches, not enough to dominate with but certainly strong enough to get the win on short runs. Sydney leads the series 1-0. The Swifts' Patches was much better in game 2, even putting up a four-ball run, but she couldn't make the 9, missing it twice. The Specters' Sydney tapped it in on the second try, giving her the win and the series at 2-0. Patches continued her better play in game 3, and caught a lucky break when Sydney scratched late in the game. Patches made the last four balls over two turns to get the win, making it a 2-1 series win for Sydney. Sydney heads to the second round.

Nike Field Events Center, Commerce: Ice Cream v. Sugar. The blue cue is back for Rotation between these sweetly-named foes. Commerce's Ice Cream had an excellent start in game 1, building a nice lead, only to see Harrison's Sugar charge in front on a five-ball run. This was all the joy Sugar had, as Ice Cream clamped down to get the 8-5 win in a methodical manner, earning a 1-0 series lead. The Specters' Sugar had a luckier and better game 2, frequently making unintended shots to keep her game going. The Tradewinds' Ice Cream took a more traditional approach, but ran out of time in the end, as Sugar locked down the win at 8-6. Sugar left no doubt as to who was taking the series in game 3, coming out with a blazing shot and quickly locking down an inefficient effort from Ice Cream. Sugar won 8-2, taking the series 2-1. Sugar will be in Victoria's Sprint Hall to face her sister, the Spurs captain Spice, in the second round.

Nestle's Warriors Hall, Central: Dustin v. Dreamy. The red cue makes its debut today in 8-ball between these two stars. Swordpoint's Dreamy had a slow start in game 1, watching as Central's Dustin picked through his suit relatively easily. Eventually, Dustin stalled out, and a five-ball run got Dreamy back in the fight. Dreamy would later win as Dustin's defense failed, giving her a 1-0 series lead. The Warriors' Dustin put up a good fight in game 2, as the Blades' Dreamy quickly pressured him with her six-ball run near the start of the game. Dustin scrabbled a bit with his shooting, but found a five-ball run-out in the end, earning the win to tie the series at 1. Dustin never caught up in game 3, matching Dreamy with opening three-ball runs, but taking a later scratch that ruined his offense. Dreamy took the win and a 2-1 series, earning a trip to HP Field Events Center in Midland to oppose the Predators' Leonardo in the second round.

House of 10 Windows, Del Sur: Hoppy v. Shannon. A pair of Southern Monarchs meets in 15-ball with the red cue. Neither player really managed to assert themselves in the game, chipping their way through the rack. Near the end, Shannon had a scratch while trying to get position on the 14, allowing Hoppy to make the last two shots from ball-in-hand for the win and a 1-0 series lead. Shannon brought game 2 to a much quicker end despite Hoppy's decent play early on. On her second-to-last turn, Shannon rattled the 15 around toward the bottom right, and when Hoppy left it aligned, Shannon made the 4-15 combination for the win, tying the series at 1. Shannon seemed to be bossing play in game 3 pretty well, including a late four-ball run, but Hoppy didn't care, making the 10-15 combination to end a two-ball run-out for the win, which also gave her the series at 2-1. Hoppy beats her teammate to get to the second round.

Pepsi Arena, Lighton: Acorn v. Debby Ryan. It's a battle between captains in 12-ball, as the silver cue returns to action for this series. Lighton's Acorn thought game 1 would be easy after making a four-ball run on the break, but Southridge's Debby answered with a four-ball run of her own. Debby later missed contact, allowing Acorn to establish himself well, and Debby couldn't defend forever, so Acorn picked up the win and a 1-0 series lead. The Defenders' Debby had a better game 2, as the Prestige's Acorn had a less favorable break and couldn't get his last three shots positioned. Debby cashed in on this with quick shooting and a couple of fortunate bounces to pick up the win, tying the series at 1. Debby had a very good break in game 3, making a pair of balls and adding one more to up the pressure. She spent most of the game chasing her final shot toward the bottom left, and while Acorn pieced together a three-ball run, he missed his only chance to win on a wild kick. Debby took the game and a 2-1 series win to advance to the second round.

Verizon Field Events Center, Pacific: Ms. Kitty v. Yekaterina Vasilyeva. The blue cue is back for Accuracy. Neither player seemed to plan on missing in game 1, until a very late one from Pacific's Ms. Kitty. Beyond getting the 0-1 win for the 1-0 series lead, Victoria's Yekaterina had a double-pot with the 6 to the bottom left and the 15 to the top right for a highlight shot. In game 2, missing was a more common occurrence, especially for the Spurs' Yekaterina, who had quite a bit of difficulty keeping her shot in line. The Volcanoes' Ms. Kitty played fairly well while pacing the game, earning the win 2-5 to tie the series at 1. Game 3 started much like game 2 with the sloppy play, but went much more like game 3 over the long haul, as it took until a late miss by Ms. Kitty to split the players. Yekaterina held on at the end to win 1-2, taking the series 2-1 to get to the second round.

Intel Center, Diamond: Citrus v. Snuggle. The blue cue stays in action for this series of Rotation between high-profile veterans. Diamond's Citrus faced almost no resistance from Oceanside's Snuggle in game 1. Citrus basically had her way with the game, going on short runs and using Snuggle's lack of defense to create her own offense. Citrus won 8-1, taking a 1-0 series lead in short order. The Gems' Citrus came out cold in game 2, allowing the Waves' Snuggle to build up quite the lead initially. Citrus slowly worked her way back into the game, nearly tying it before Snuggle broke free at the end to win 8-5, tying the series at 1. Snuggle nearly had game 3, building up a huge lead early on. Citrus evened the score with a six-ball run, surging late, but both she and Snuggle missed the last ball on their first tries. Citrus won 8-7 when she potted it on her second chance, taking the series 2-1. Citrus will host the Everton Eagles' Blizzard in the second round.

Volkswagen Stadium Events Center, Viewpoint Sound: Nibbles v. Paps. When the action returns, the red cue is up for 9-ball in this series. Eastside's Paps showed a flair for the dramatic kick in game 1, as he made the 7 on a kick-bank to the bottom left, and then potted the 9 on a kick, deflating Viewpoint Sound's Nibbles in the late stages. Paps took the win for a 1-0 series lead. The Sharks' Paps opened game 2 with a commanding three-ball run, but nearly saw it go to waste as the Meteors' Nibbles had a three-ball run late. Nibbles lost it with a bad miss on the 9, and Paps cleaned it up for the win, clinching the series at 2-0. Game 3 went at a very fast pace, as Nibbles worked a four-ball run on his first and only turn, ending in a scratch that set up Paps for a challenging but successful five-ball run-out to take the series in a 3-0 sweep. Paps will play in the second round at Amazon Field Exhibition Hall in Golden, facing the Pilots' Strut.

Pepsi Arena, Lighton: Acorn v. Whiskers. Southwestern rivals renew their battle in Rotation with the red cue. Lighton's Acorn had a couple of nice runs in game 1, doing enough with those to put pressure on Infinity's Whiskers. The second run, going three balls, put Acorn on the verge of the win, but it took a few turns before he locked down the 8-4 victory to earn a 1-0 series lead. The Torpedoes' Whiskers had a good game in game 2, but only after the Prestige's Acorn stalled out after a big opening run. Whiskers made a three-ball run to tie the game, and then won with a four-ball run-out a few turns later to take the 8-5 victory, tying the series at 1 as well. Whiskers had to fight for game 3, as neither player was willing to take much of a risk in their decisive game. Whiskers prevailed, as Acorn couldn't back up his defense with any meaningful offense, while Whiskers chipped here and there to get the 8-3 win and 2-1 series win. Whiskers advances to the second round.

Subway Arena, Stonebridge: Prism v. Ms. Puppy. A rookie hosts a captain in a series of Rotation, this time with the blue cue. Stonebridge's Prism came out hot in game 1, and while Modernistic's Ms. Puppy could have made it a closer game, she missed a number of shots, including a late 8-12 combination that Prism would convert as a double-pot for the 8-1 win and 1-0 series lead. The Wolves' Prism started a bit slower in game 2, and the Union's Ms. Puppy proved happy to pick up the slack, even working a four-ball run to gain the lead at one point. This was a short-lived lead, as Prism made a four-ball run-out to take the victory on an 8-6 win, securing the series for herself at 2-0. Ms. Puppy had a great game 3, saving a bit of face with a three-ball run-out to cap an 8-1 victory over a much more lethargic Prism. The series still favors Prism, who will host Southern Monarchs captain Panda in the second round at this venue.

Subway Arena, Stonebridge: Prism v. Wings. The Wolves rookie makes it a doubleheader to close the day, facing a Surfers veteran in Accuracy with the blue cue. Stonebridge's Prism had quite the fight on her hands against Pearl's Wings, who made a double-pot on his first shot. They each missed mid-game, and then a missed contact by Wings was the only other slip-up. Prism iced her 1-2 win with a double-pot to the top side and bottom right, going ahead 1-0 in the series. The Wolves' Prism had a less stellar performance in game 2, but she managed to induce a series of missed shots on the Surfers' Wings late in the game. Wings' desperation fueled the errors, and Prism sailed to a 3-6 win to clinch the series at 2-0. Game 3 ended in poor fashion, as neither player did much in the way of shooting in the lame-duck game. Prism ended up earning the 3-0 sweep on a sloppy 5-7 win, as Wings couldn't hold his line when Prism missed. Prism advances to the second round.

We should have cricket tonight, and a more traditional set of series tomorrow in pool.

Tournament 2017: A-level First Round - Day 15

We're back for a new day of games. This should be split into an afternoon and evening session, due to some cricket activity this morning and hopefully tonight. We begin with...

Coca-Cola Field Exhibition Center, Boston: Puff II v. Celestia. The blue cue leads off the day in Accuracy. Game 1 started out perfectly fine on both sides, but the last ball began to give Oceanside's Celestia trouble. Boston's Puff II couldn't do anything about it until she forced overtime, where her soft break got her in trouble. Celestia eventually walked away with a 5-6 win for the 1-0 series lead. The Waves' Celestia didn't exude confidence early in game 2, as the Swifts' Puff II had her on the ropes for much of the early part of the game. She recovered at the end, forcing Puff II into two late misses, giving Celestia the 3-4 win and the series at 2-0. Celestia dominated in game 3, taking the appearance in an 0-5 shutout as Puff II struggled right from the start this time. Celestia took the series in a 3-0 sweep to get to the second round.

GE Stadium Events Center, Southridge: Hughbert v. Puff I. The silver cue comes out to play in 15-ball. Southridge's Hughbert did a fair job of scoring on offense in game 1, but his defense lacked. Modernistic's Puff I had a chance on the 5-15 combination that didn't fall, but she would convert the 8-15 combination to the bottom right for the early win and a 1-0 series lead. Game 2 went at a crazy finishing pace, as the Union's Puff I looked to be fine even when her five-ball run over the middle of the game ended. The Defenders' Hughbert had other plans, trickling his way to a five-ball run-out for the win to tie the series and set up a crucial finale. Puff I had a pretty good appearance in game 3, staying a bit more consistent than Hughbert, who was all over the place. He had good short runs, but couldn't reliably convert on them. Puff I's steady pace earned her the win when Hughbert tripped up at the end, and Puff I advanced with a 2-1 series win to get to the second round.

Sprint Hall, Victoria: B. Chapman v. Dani. Two good friends meet in a series of 7-ball with the silver cue that will see them try to best each other. Web City's Dani was the first to find her shot in game 1, as Victoria's Chapman had a short run cut short by a miss on the 5. Dani countered with a three-ball run-out to get the win and take a 1-0 series lead. The Spiders' Dani had control of game 2 in its late stages as well, as the shooting was better for both players. Dani took her chance at the 7, cutting it toward the top right, but it hung onto the lip of the pocket. The Spurs' Chapman quickly played a light shot to tap it in, winning the game to tie the series at 1 after Dani's narrow miss. Dani brought a surprising and quick end to game 3, pulling off an odd-angle kick combination on the 3-7 to the top side for the win. The shocker shot sends Dani to a 2-1 series win and a second round date with the Swifts' Gradley on the road in Boston's Coca-Cola Field Exhibition Center.

AT&T Hall, Oceanside: Caitlin v. Gradley. The silver cue gets another look, playing 8-ball this time. Boston's Gradley had a five-ball run early in game 1 after an awkward break from Oceanside's Caitlin, who would later recover with a couple of short runs and impressive defense to hold Gradley off late. A missed shot from Gradley allowed Caitlin to finish the comeback victorious for a 1-0 series lead. The Waves' Caitlin had a much better break in game 2, and paced play with a four-ball run. The Swifts' Gradley made some progress, but blocked his own shot late in the game, and Caitlin emerged with the win to secure the series at 2-0. Caitlin had a good start to game 3 as well, working a four-ball run, but Gradley stayed strong in a defensive position. He had Caitlin down and out as he removed his defense, but he missed on the 8, and Caitlin stormed back to win the game, taking the series in a 3-0 sweep. Caitlin hosts Coastal Division rival Mams, the Viewpoint Sound Meteors captain, in the second round.

Google Hall, Modernistic: Puff I v. Strawberry. The red cue debuts in Rotation for the day in an all-Union series between the veteran and the newcomer. Puff I got started with a ball on the break, but Strawberry eventually pulled ahead. Puff I briefly tied it again, but Strawberry charged forward on a four-ball run-out to win 8-4 and take a 1-0 series lead over her senior teammate. In game 2, the start was much slower, as Puff I held a lead while Strawberry nipped away at her heels for much of the early going. Puff I eventually broke free with a four-ball run-out in the end, winning 8-3 to tie the series at 1 game apiece. Puff I burst free with a three-ball run from the start of game 1 as well, and while Strawberry got a couple of shots in, Puff I controlled the game. Things slowed down near the end, but a scratch from Strawberry assured Puff I of an 8-3 win and 2-1 series win to advance to the second round.

Sprint Hall, Victoria: B. Chapman v. Oreo. The Spurs veteran gets another series today, hosting the Knights veteran in 8-ball with the red cue. The Spurs' Chapman did her best to put the Knights' Oreo behind early, and it looked like it could work until her shooting faltered. Oreo capitalized on late mistakes, eventually putting up a three-ball run-out to swipe the win and a 1-0 series lead. The Knights' Oreo had a strong game 2, but it didn't start that way, as the Spurs' Chapman made the first ball of the game and had quite the run early on. Oreo needed a four-ball run to get back into the battle, and then won on her next turn with a three-ball run-out to clinch the series at 2-0. Oreo had more trouble from the break in game 3, but righted herself well and with plenty of time. She nearly gave up a late run to Chapman, who had a four-ball run going when she missed the last ball in her suit, setting Oreo for a long bank on the 8 to the top left for the win. Oreo converted, making it a 3-0 series sweep in her favor to move into the second round.

Apple Center, Todavía: Sparkles v. Charli XCX. Solid players meet in 10-ball with the blue cue in this series. Tysini's Charli had a rough start in game 1, taking an intentional scratch on her first turn. Todavía's Sparkles made the 1 from ball-in-hand, but missed the 2, setting Charli up on it. Charli then worked magic, calling the 9 to the top right off a deflection from the target 3, which would bank-combination the 10 to the bottom left. The shot succeeded with the 10 glancing off the 5 and home for the win, giving Charli a stunning 1-0 series lead. The Stills' Sparkles started slow in game 2 as well, but the Hummingbirds' Charli didn't seem to have much urgency in her shooting, and Sparkles slowly grew stronger, making the final five balls on two turns to get the win, tying the series at 1. Game 3 was especially cagey early on, as it became a war to get contact on the 2. Charli eventually sank it, sparking a six-ball run, and she followed it up with another pair on her last turn before a scratch. Sparkles, while vastly outplayed in the game, won with the 10 from ball-in-hand to take the series 2-1. Sparkles advances to the second round.

Capital City SuperCenter, Capital City: Chris v. Niki. The blue cue remains in action as 9-ball is played this time. Capital City's Chris made a quick impression during his opening four-ball run in game 1, making a tough cut on the 1 to the bottom side, which sent the cue flying into the 5, which also fell in the bottom side for the double-pot. Eastside's Niki came close to a win, but missed on the 9, and Chris got a well-earned win to take a 1-0 series lead with the tap-in. The Sharpshooters' Chris didn't do much of note in a rough game 2, but the Sharks' Niki similarly struggled throughout the game, just going through the motions of playing the game. Chris brought a stunning finish to things with a 7-9 kick-combination to the bottom right, getting the win for a 2-0 series lead. Chris had a great opening to game 3, playing a loose five-ball run that nearly was more when he kicked the 4 toward the bottom side. Alas, the miss meant Niki could go on a four-ball run-out in her only turn of the game for a win. Chris still took the series 2-1.

McDonald's Hall, Atlantic: Isabella v. Sparkles. The red cue is back for more 8-ball, with the winner playing Oreo, who won earlier. Atlantic's Isabella couldn't make anything on the break, but Todavía's Sparkles came up empty on her first shot. Isabella won the game two turns later on her second consecutive four-ball run, going ahead 1-0 in the series with the good play. The Pirates' Isabella pieced together a crazy four-ball run to open game 2 as well, and while the Stills' Sparkles had plenty of chances to influence the game, she missed a lot of shots and ended up with the loss when Isabella cut the 8 to the top left to win, clinching the series at 2-0. Isabella had game 3 under control quickly as well, making a six-ball run from the break and getting a bit of help from Sparkles later when she potted the last solid accidentally. Isabella then banked the 8 to the bottom side to complete her 3-0 series sweep. Isabella will host the Terrace City Knights' Oreo in the second round at this venue.

Sprint Hall, Victoria: Spice v. Smudge. It's a captains' battle in Rotation with the blue cue for this series. Victoria's Spice had the early lead in game 1, and while Infinity's Smudge tied the game on three separate occasions, she never held a lead, and Spice locked things down at the end with a three-ball run-out, including a winning kick on the 13 to the top side to take the game 8-5 and earn a 1-0 series lead. The Spurs' Spice had a great game 2, but it was one shot in particular that threw off the Torpedoes' Smudge for the rest of the game. Through traffic, Spice was able to pick out the 4 with just enough speed and placement to bank it to the bottom right, a world-class shot that laid the early foundation for her 8-3 win to secure the series at 2-0. Spice had another good effort in game 3, as Smudge put in very little to make progress. Spice ended the game with a well-hit double-pot of the 8 to the top left and the 15 to the top side, winning 8-2 for the 3-0 series sweep to get into the second round.

Intel Center, Diamond: Pedey v. Smudge. The Torpedoes captain brings the blue cue with her for 15-ball against the Gems sophomore. Diamond's Pedey seemed to hold the advantage early in game 1, but things fell apart for him later, and Infinity's Smudge found a bit of a grip. Smudge cashed in on her better play, winning on a three-ball run-out to go ahead 1-0 in the series. The Gems' Pedey returned to a position of strength in game 2, as the Torpedoes' Smudge had trouble sustaining offense. Pedey made a three-ball run from ball-in-hand after a scratch by Smudge, and then ended the game on a five-ball run-out for the win, tying the series at 1 with his good sequence. Pedey and Smudge kept a fairly even pace in game 3, neither one pulling too much of the possession. Pedey flipped it all around with an awkward stabbing shot at the 7, which sent the 11 into the 15 off a bank, and the 15 fell in the bottom right for the win. Pedey took the series 2-1, and it looks like the first kill of the year as well, knocking Smudge from the Tournament.

Nike Field Events Center, Commerce: Tigerette v. Frosty. The final series today is also 15-ball with the blue cue. Commerce's Tigerette had the better of play in game 1, including a five-ball run that just ended in a scratch. Stonebridge's Frosty didn't get a chance at the 15 though, and Tigerette still got the win with a 12-15 combination to the bottom right, putting her ahead 1-0 in the series. Game 2 proved mostly uneventful in the early stages, but things got fascinating as the Tradewinds' Tigerette played a more high-risk game later on. The Wolves' Frosty couldn't get much of a counterattack, but Tigerette missed on the 15 the first time. Frosty tried a glancing kick and missed, and Tigerette made it on the second try, clinching the series at 2-0. Tigerette had to grow into game 3 a bit, struggling at first but eventually putting Frosty away one more time with a four-ball run-out. Tigerette swept the series 3-0 to get to the second round.

That's all for the pool playing today. We're about halfway through the round by my calculations, with the expectation to end in roughly three weeks.

Tournament 2017: A-level First Round - Day 14

We're back with a brand new day of games, beginning with...

Volkswagen Stadium Events Center, Viewpoint Sound: Nibbles v. Kiwi. A hyped rookie and superstar captain meet in today's first series, 12-ball with the silver cue. Viewpoint Sound's Nibbles had a three-ball run from the break in game 1, but Terrace City's Kiwi took the upper hand with a four-ball run. Nibbles managed to defend and then make his final two balls for the win, earning a 1-0 series lead despite the great effort from Kiwi. The Meteors' Nibbles gave away two wild-card balls to the Knights' Kiwi in game 2, who couldn't seem to do anything with the added flexibility in her shooting choices. Nibbles worked patiently around the table, ending with a kick on the 3 to the top side for the win, securing the series at 2-0. Kiwi had the upper hand again in game 3, but wasted it when she couldn't pull off an intentional scratch. This led to Nibbles getting ball-in-hand for his four-ball run-out, all on prepared shots, which gave him the series in a 3-0 sweep to advance to the second round.

Nissan Hall, Infinity: Whiskers v. Solaris. The silver cue stays in action for 7-ball in this series between Torpedoes teammates. Whiskers had a slow start to game 1, but got it all figured out after Solaris couldn't pot the 3. Whiskers went on a four-ball run-out from there, picking her shots effectively to earn the win and a 1-0 series lead. Whiskers had the better of play again in game 2, but not by as much as before. Solaris had a hard time getting his shots positioned, with much of his work benefiting the lighter-hitting Whiskers, whose win clinched the series for her at 2-0. Whiskers had a good game 3, but she wasn't prepared for the move that Solaris pulled off to win it, a 5-7 combination on a tough angle to the top right. Whiskers still took the series 2-1 from her teammate, and she will host Lorde of the Commerce Tradewinds in the second round at this venue.

HP Field Events Center, Midland: Leonardo v. Jasmine. The red cue gets a look in 8-ball for this series. Midland's Leonardo began game 1 with a three-ball run, easily answered by Freedom's Jasmine. Leonardo pulled away later on a four-ball run, which Jasmine had no answer for, and three turns later, Leonardo corralled the 8 for the win and a 1-0 series lead. The Cascades' started game 2 in a stronger position, and looked even better after a mid-game scratch from the Predators' Leonardo. This was all part of Leonardo's plan, as he held on and kept Jasmine to the perimeter before creating a four-ball run-out, going backward to move forward in the win and a 2-0 series. Leonardo seemed to have the better of game 3 for awhile, but Jasmine roared back on a run. She nearly fell short anyways, struggling with the 8 before Leonardo missed on his last ball and Jasmine made the 8. Leonardo won the series 2-1 to get to the second round.

Audi Hall, Terrace City: Oreo v. Bright. Two veterans meet after the lunch break for a series of Accuracy with the red cue. Both players had an excellent start to game 1, but they couldn't make it last, and the game quickly turned ugly. In the end, Terrace City's Oreo topped North Modernistic's Bright with a 5-6 win, after exchanging a long sequence of misses. Oreo leads the series 1-0. The Knights' Oreo fell behind a bit quickly in game 2, but managed to pull even by the end, forcing overtime. Oreo made nothing on the overtime break, and the Nighthawks' Bright made the 2 to the top side for the 2-3 win to tie the series at 1. Game 3 was a far cry from game 1, as Bright remained perfect from start to finish, and only a narrow miss on a cut and a final scratch set Oreo back, giving Bright the 0-2 win and 2-1 series win. Bright will be in Whitewater's Samsung Arena to face the Shores' Shaggy in the second round.

AT&T Hall, Oceanside: Snuggle v. Delila. Elder members of their club clash in this 10-ball series with the blue cue. Atlantic's Delila had an impressive double-pot of the 1 to the top right and 6 to the bottom right in game 1, but Oceanside's Snuggle made a five-ball run and got the 10 on his second try for the win and a 1-0 series lead in a more resilient appearance. The Pirates' Delila decided to strike quickly in game 2, capitalizing on illegal contact from the Waves' Snuggle by using ball-in-hand to make the 2-10 combination to the top right, giving her the equalizing win to make it a 1-all series. Snuggle had game 3 in his grip, but his three-ball run ended with him illegally potting the 8 after calling the 10 on a deflection play. This deferred possession to Delila, who buried the 10 from where the cue lay to get the 2-1 series win. Delila advances to the second round with her smart choice to hold possession.

IBM Cathedral, North Modernistic: Peach v. Cheddar. It's an all-Nighthawks series this time, played in 9-ball with the silver cue. Peach pretty much dominated in game 1, working two balls from the break and a four-ball run-out at the end to defeat Cheddar, who contributed very little to the offensive effort. Peach leads the series 1-0. Peach had another good start in game 2, but a rough middle of the game allowed Cheddar to built a bit of offense from a three-ball run. Cheddar ended with a kick-combination attempt, going 8-9 toward the bottom right but coming up short. Peach double-potted those balls for the win, clinching the series at 2-0. Game 3 was sloppy for both players, but especially so for Cheddar, who allowed Peach to get many more shots than she should have. Peach replied by taking the 9 late when Cheddar left it short, giving Peach a 3-0 series sweep. Peach will play in the second round.

Volkswagen Stadium Events Center, Viewpoint Sound: Mams v. Bianca. The red cue is back for 12-ball between a rising star and a rookie standout. Southridge's Bianca didn't let a rookie mistake hold her back in game 1, although she was dangerously close to losing, as Viewpoint Sound's Mams barely missed on her last ball. Bianca tapped in the winning shot for a 1-0 series lead in a close game. The Meteors' Mams had a case of de ja vu in game 2, missing her final ball at the bottom side yet again to let the Defenders' Bianca off the hook. Bianca took advantage, winning the game on her final shot after a tough fight, and she secured the series at 2-0. Bianca didn't need a lucky break late in game 3, as she pushed her way through the rack with efficiency this time, winning handily over Mams to take the series in a 3-0 sweep. Bianca heads to Pacific's Verizon Field Events Center to face the Volcanoes' Ms. Kitty in the second round.

BMW RockDome, Westside: Misty v. Zach. The blue cue is back for 7-ball in this series. Westside's Misty had a decent start in game 1, but she couldn't make it hold up long-term, and a four-ball run from Pronger's Zach shifted the momentum. Misty did get a chance on the 7, but missed it wide, and Zach potted it for the win, taking the 1-0 series lead. The Rockers' Misty got a game back by winning game 2, capitalizing on a slow start from the Tridents' Zach that culminated in him scratching. Misty made a four-ball run-out from ball-in-hand immediately after this, tying the series at 1 with her win. Misty stayed strong in game 3 as well, making a three-ball run early and then the final two shots, including a clinching 6-7 combination to the bottom right at a tough angle. Misty won the series 2-1 over Zach, and Misty will host the player Zach was exchanged for at the draft in the second round, as the Viewpoint Sound Meteors' Hoot comes to town.

Starbucks Arena, Archtown: Sally v. Stripes. Two of Empyre's members will play in 12-ball with the blue cue. Archtown's Sally had a fight on her hands in game 1, but she defeated Terrace City's Stripes by defending the top side, getting around Stripes' defense at the bottom left, and using a wild-card ball to hold Stripes off at the end, all for Sally to go ahead 1-0 in the series. The Arrows' Sally gave away the wild-card ball in game 2, briefly allowing the Knights' Stripes an advantage. Stripes had trouble with shooting from distance, which was all that Sally would give her, and Sally made her final two shots in due time to get the win despite her disadvantage, clinching the series at 2-0. Game 3 saw Sally employ a soft break that led to a three-ball run for her. Stripes controlled much of the middle of the game, but Sally ended on a three-ball run-out after Stripes couldn't hit her final ball, and Sally swept the series 3-0. Sally will host Southridge Defenders rookie Hughbert at this venue in the second round.

Chevrolet Center, Everton: Blizzard v. Chelsea. The blue cue remains in action for a series of Rotation. Game 1 saw Everton's Blizzard hold a small lead early on, only for Eastside's Chelsea to unleash a five-ball run to gain the lead. Blizzard chipped back on a three-ball run, and Chelsea still couldn't close the game, so Blizzard won 8-7 with a three-ball run-out ending on a huge bank of the 15 to the bottom left, giving the host a 1-0 series lead. The Sharks' Chelsea burst out to a lead in game 2, but she did face some early resistance from the Eagles' Blizzard, who kept the game close initially. It took Chelsea going on another short run to break away, and she ended with an 8-4 win after Blizzard just couldn't keep up. Chelsea's win tied the series at 1. Blizzard absolutely dominated in game 3, earning possession a few times from Chelsea's errors. Blizzard ended the game on a three-ball run-out with great positioning, winning 8-1 for the 2-1 series win. Blizzard advances to the second round.

Sprint Hall, Victoria: Wario v. Ruby. The silver cue is in for 15-ball between a rookie and a star. Archtown's Ruby had a decent enough start to game 1, but really came alive in the later stages, making a five-ball run-out to counter a pair of good shots from Victoria's Wario. Ruby's late burst of offense put her ahead 1-0 in the series with the win. Game 2 had none of the flurries of possession as game 1 had, instead taking a chippy and tough battle motif. The Spurs' Wario seemed to waste more of his chances to make an impact, none bigger than his light miss on the 15 at the end, allowing Ruby to clinch the series at 2-0 on a tap-in to win. Ruby began game 3 on a big five-ball run from the break, setting the tone for a fast game. By the end, it was a Wall Street game with four banks on the last six balls. Wario started this with an 8-11 bank combination to the bottom side. Ruby answered by making the 10 and the 14 on more typical bank shots, but she missed on the 15. Wario banked this in to the bottom right for the win, although Ruby advances to the second round on a 2-1 series win.

Nike Field Events Center, Commerce: Lorde v. Hoot. We end the day with a series of 10-ball with the blue cue. Commerce's Lorde had a slight edge in game 1, just barely outplaying Viewpoint Sound's Hoot in a slow-moving battle. Lorde picked up the pace at the end, working a three-ball run-out to take the win and a 1-0 series lead. The Meteors' Hoot had a five-ball run during game 2, looking to pace himself to an equalizer, but it all fell apart when he missed contact on the 10 at the end. The Tradewinds' Lorde buried the 10 from ball-in-hand to win the game, clinching the series as well at 2-0. Lorde stayed in control for much of game 3, downing Hoot yet again with a three-ball run-out to take the series in a 3-0 sweep. Lorde is through to the second round with the strong performance.

That's all for today. @UnitedPCL on Twitter is your source for all of the latest UPCL news.

Tournament 2017: A-level First Round - Day 13

Another day is on hand, getting started a bit late due to computer maintenance on the main publishing machine for the league. We begin with...

Home Depot Forum, Web City: Shiny v. Ted. A pair of Spiders teammates get things going in Accuracy with the silver cue. Game 1 was a back-and-forth battle, with Shiny holding the high ground late in the game, good enough to force overtime. Ted's overtime break was soft, and Shiny made the 10-9 combination to the top right for the 3-4 win and a 1-0 series lead. Shiny had a great effort in game 2, not missing a single shot as Ted tried and failed to keep up with the incredible pace. Shiny took the win at 0-2, clinching the series at 2-0. Shiny didn't play up to her previous standard in game 3, slipping early and allowing Ted an easy path to the win this time, although he made it interesting with a late miss. Ted won 2-3, but Shiny took the series 2-1 to advance to the second round.

Verizon Field Events Center, Pacific: Chicky Phil v. Frosty. Players in new places meet in 12-ball with the silver cue. Pacific's Chicky Phil had a chaotic break, and while he thought he did himself a favor choosing stripes, Stonebridge's Frosty made him regret it. Frosty used a wild-card ball for flexibility and managed to keep Chicky Phil from executing decently placed shots as she slowly built her way to the win and a 1-0 series lead after taking game 1. The Wolves' Frosty had a rough start to game 2, scratching a couple of times, but the Volcanoes' Chicky Phil also scratched, losing his wild-card ball. The messy opening gave way to Frosty making a five-ball run and leaving herself in good position for her last ball, which she made on her next turn for the win and a 2-0 series lead. Chicky Phil took game 3 in a similar fashion, straggling as Frosty made a few shots before he unleashed a six-ball run-out to swipe the game and save some face. Frosty still won the series 2-1, advancing to the second round.

Starbucks Arena, Archtown: Ruby v. Peach. A decorated veteran faces a hyped rookie in 7-ball, another silver cue series. Archtown's Ruby made quick work in game 1, making the 3 to the top right and the 7 to the top side for the game 1 win, stunning North Modernistic's Peach en route to a 1-0 series lead. The Arrows' Ruby had a less confident break in game 2, seemingly just scattering the balls, but a tough shove on the 7 from another ball sent it into the bottom right for another win, as Ruby clinched the series at 2-0 without the Nighthawks' Peach ever getting a shot. Ruby failed to complete the trick in game 3, but she had a pair of three-ball runs in the game. Unfortunately for her, Peach's third shot of the series was successful, as she potted the 7 to the top side for the win. Ruby took a dominant series 2-1, and will host Victoria Spurs captain Spice at this venue in the second round.

Starbucks Arena, Archtown: Ruby v. Celestia. The Arrows star takes on a Waves rookie in the back-half of a doubleheader, this time in 12-ball with the red cue. Archtown's Ruby had a great four-ball run from the break, pacing herself well in game 1, but Oceanside's Celestia didn't back down, making a three-ball run on one of three comeback turns, which saw her end with a medium-range shot on her final ball to the top right. Celestia leads the series 1-0 with the win. Celestia had a decent break in game 2, but it didn't get her far, as she struggled with her command. She gave away a wild-card ball to the Arrows' Ruby, which sparked the host on a five-ball run-out for the win, tying the series at 1. Ruby had a decent start to game 3, which saw wild card balls exchanged at various points between the players. Celestia was the late beneficiary of this, as Ruby made her second-to-last ball for her, and left her positioned for an easy win on her last shot. Celestia took the series 2-1, making it to the second round.

Samsung Arena, Whitewater: Bear v. Crystal. A battle of oft-forgotten captains is ahead in Rotation with the red cue. Whitewater's Bear started game 1 on a three-ball run, giving him the early advantage. He couldn't finish the game after exchanging double-pots with Queens' Crystal, as she roared back to win 8-7 on a four-ball run-out, giving Crystal the 1-0 series lead. The Flames' Crystal showed up a bit slow in game 2, tangling with the Shores' Bear for much of the first half of the game. Bear burst free at the end on a four-ball run-out, pulling away for the 8-4 win to tie the series at 1 in what has been a competitive pair of games. Crystal had a big run in game 3, falling behind to Bear and then unleashing a six-ball rally to put her on the brink of victory. Bear tried to counter, but quickly fell at the 11, where Crystal won 8-3 for the 2-1 series win to get her through to the second round.

Home Depot Forum, Web City: Shadow v. Goatee. The red cue remains in action for 12-ball in this series between big name players. Web City's Shadow had the upper hand in game 1, holding ball-in-hand late, but he played with respect and missed contact on a kick attempt, allowing Westside's Goatee to win on her final shot from ball-in-hand for the 1-0 series lead, a contentious start to the series between players whose clubs do not get along. The Rockers' Goatee embarrassed the Spiders' Shadow in game 2, as he made only one shot in between good turn from Goatee, who had a three-ball run to pace her attack in the win that clinched the series for her at 2-0. Goatee made the best of a race-style game 3, just holding off Shadow in the end, who did himself in by making Goatee's last ball for her on an illegal contact bank-jump shot. Goatee won the series 3-0, heading to Oceanside's AT&T Hall in the second round to face Waves rookie Celestia.

Toyota Arena, Freedom: Jasmine v. Fuchsia. The silver cue is back for Accuracy in this series between a captain and a rookie. Midland's Fuchsia had a good debut in the event, not missing a single shot in her first game, an easy 0-4 win over Freedom's talented captain Jasmine. Fuchsia holds a 1-0 series lead for the effort. The Cascades' Jasmine saw game 2 go decidedly favorable for her, as the Predators' Fuchsia showed some inconsistency with her efforts. Fuchsia had a terrible game, letting an early miss spiral, and Jasmine held on for a 2-6 win to tie the series at 1, setting up a decisive game. Jasmine played well in game 3 as well, but needed a late miss from Fuchsia to have a chance. Fuchsia's miss late in the game allowed Jasmine to tap-in for the win, a 1-2 result that gave Jasmine the series at 2-1 as she advances to the second round.

Apple Center, Todavía: Easter v. Kiwi. Superstar captains collide in a series of Rotation featuring the silver cue. Todavía's Easter pulled off a big three-ball run from the break in game 1, establishing a lead that Terrace City's Kiwi showed no respect for, as she made a seven-ball run to get on the brink of victory. Kiwi slowed but didn't falter, eventually winning 8-5 for the 1-0 series lead. The Knights' Kiwi started off pretty well in game 2, but she couldn't shake the Stills' Easter, who lingered just behind for much of the game before a three-ball run game her a short-lived lead. Kiwi shot back with the final two balls to win 8-7, clinching the series at 2-0 in the hard battle. Kiwi had a hard break in game 3, but Easter took over from there, working a quick effort to win 8-3, salvaging a game out of the lost series. Kiwi heads to the second round with a 2-1 series win.

Starbucks Arena, Archtown: Dusky v. Leandra. Veterans in the middle of the pack meet in 9-ball with the red cue. Tysini's Leandra had a good effort in game 1, making it seem nearly effortless as she followed up a four-ball run with a three-ball run-out against a seemingly overmatched Dusky of Archtown. Leandra leads the series 1-0. Game 2 saw a poor performance from both players, especially for the Hummingbirds' Leandra, whose easily-potted shots in game 1 evaporated. The Arrows' Dusky came out on the good end of a bad game, picking off the 9 after Leandra missed it to tie the series at 1, setting up a decisive finale. Game 3 was a hybrid of the first two, as Leandra had a three-ball run early, and then the players exchanged sloppy shooting until Dusky buried the 9 in the bottom left for the win, giving her a 2-1 series win. Dusky will host the Todavía Stills' Sparkles in the second round at this venue.

Samsung Arena, Whitewater: Shaggy v. Neopolitan. Veterans clash in Accuracy with the red cue for this series. Pearl's Neopolitan fell behind first in game 1, but Whitewater's Shaggy couldn't quite make it hold up long term, taking a late miss that Neopolitan played off with defensive positioning. Shaggy didn't slip again, but Neopolitan took the 1-2 win for a 1-0 series lead. The Shores' Shaggy pulled off a tough win against the Surfers' Neopolitan in game 2, as Neopolitan stayed competitive up to the end but managed to falter late, allowing Shaggy to claim the 3-5 win and tie the series at 1. Game 3 went without a miss for most of the play, but Neopolitan crashed hard near the end, and Shaggy slipped up once, but she held on for a 1-3 win, taking the series 2-1 in the process. Shaggy is through to the second round with the performance.

Chevrolet Center, Everton: Kirstin v. Leandra. The silver cue is back for more Rotation, with the winner set to face Kiwi at a to-be-determined venue. Neither player proved able to develop a run in game 1, as sloppy and choppy play ruled the day. In the end, the rapid exchanges of the lead left Tysini's Leandra with an 8-7 win over Everton's Kirstin, setting Leandra ahead 1-0 in the series. The Eagles' Kirstin took her time with scoring in game 2, which worked at first, but quickly became a detriment once the Hummingbirds' Leandra started making her shots. Leandra held a big lead by the time Kirstin made her first ball, and Leandra would close with an 8-2 win to clinch the series at 2-0. Leandra burst forward in game 3 to earn the early lead, only to see a four-ball run from Kirstin threaten the lead late in the game. Kirstin missed on her kick for the 15, allowing Leandra to ice the game at 8-7, for a 3-0 series sweep. Leandra will be in Terrace City's Audi Hall for the second round against the Knights' Kiwi.

FedEx Arena, Eastside: Chelsea v. Mr. Snowman. The blue cue gets its first and last series in today's finale, in Accuracy. Infinity's Mr. Snowman had an impenetrable defensive effort in game 1, refusing to miss any shots and even working out of defense applied by Eastside's Chelsea. Mr. Snowman's smart playing abilities gave him the 0-2 win and a 1-0 series lead. Mr. Snowman had a decent game for the Torpedoes in game 2, but he would take the loss when he tried to create defensive positioning and ended up missing his shot instead. The Sharks' Chelsea pounced on this opportunity, earning the 2-3 win to tie the series at 1 in a strong performance. Chelsea had a pretty good game, but was holding a tie late in the game, eventually able to force Mr. Snowman into a couple of misses as she pulled away to the 2-4 win and 2-1 series win. Chelsea heads into the second round.

That's all for today's games, and we'll be back tomorrow pending any more technological disasters.

Tournament 2017: A-level First Round - Day 12

We should be back to normal this week, and for the next couple of weeks on as well. We begin today's games with...

GE Stadium Events Center, Southridge: Hughbert v. Paige. The first series of the day is in 12-ball, with the blue cue leading off the festivities. Queens' Paige had a good start to game 1, pacing her attack with simple shots and a good distribution to defeat a more scattered effort from Southridge's Hughbert. Paige took the 1-0 series lead when she made her last two shots for the win. Game 2 was a close one, as the Flames' Paige put up a stunning break, and then worked a four-ball run late in the game. The Defenders' Hughbert took a scratch that worked as defense, and he eventually answered on a three-ball run-out for the win to tie the series at 1. Hughbert had a good break in game 3 as well, and he staved off a late rally by Paige to get the series win at 2-1 after Paige made illegal contact on her final turn. Hughbert advances to the second round.

Coca-Cola Field Exhibition Center, Boston: Patches v. Nicole. The second series today goes after lunch, with the silver cue up for 10-ball. Boston's Patches had an early five-ball run in game 1, and continued to pace play later on, but she couldn't finish. Capital City's Nicole instead made the final two shots to win and take a 1-0 series lead. In game 2, it was the Sharpshooters' Nicole's turn to dominate play and come up empty, as her opening four-ball run and a later three-ball run were bested by the Swifts' Patches, who made the last two shots after one deferred turn from an illegally potted ball by Nicole. Patches' smart play tied the series at 1. Patches had to battle it out early in game 3, but once she made a 2-3 combination deflected off the 8, she was off to the races, defeating Nicole with a thorough nine-ball run-out. Patches took the series 2-1 with the burst of play.

Volkswagen Stadium Events Center, Viewpoint Sound: Hoot v. Twinkie I. The red cue takes its turn in 9-ball with the red cue. Viewpoint Sound's Hoot got off to a wonderful start for the series, making the 9 to the top right with a bump from the 8 on the break, as well as the 6 in the bottom right, stunning Lighton's Twinkie I for the win and a 1-0 series lead. The Meteors' Hoot had a good game 2, making a few short runs to dominate possession, while the Prestige's Twinkie I scattered her misses around the table. Twinkie I had a chance to win with a shot on the 9, but her miss gave Hoot a second chance, and he converted to clinch the series at 2-0 with this win. Hoot made it a clean 3-0 sweep, faltering a bit against an aggressive run from Twinkie I at the start of game 3, but then Hoot made a three-ball run-out for the win. Hoot will host the Everton Eagles' Blizzard in the second round.

Audi Hall, Terrace City: Kiwi v. Max. The red cue stays in action for a series of 15-ball between veterans. Terrace City's Kiwi produced a decent start in game 1, but shooting was tough after the 8. Queens' Max carved out a niche for awhile, but the 15 proved tough to sink, and Kiwi tapped it in the top side for the win and a 1-0 series lead. The Knights' Kiwi stepped up big to win game 2 quickly, making three balls on the break and then two in a row on her next turn, ending on the 2-15 combination to the top right through traffic for the win, defeating the Flames' Max as Kiwi holds the series at 2-0. Kiwi had a few more struggles in game 3, but Max was unable to capitalize on her mistakes early on. Kiwi ended up winning with a three-ball run-out, ending on a 13-15 combination to the top right to earn the 3-0 series sweep that will take her to the second round.

Gillette Center, Swordpoint: Dreamy v. Stephanie Livilotti. The red cue stays up for another 15-ball series. Game 1 started a bit slow, especially for Swordpoint's Dreamy with her scratches. Southridge's Stephanie opened things up with a three-ball run, which Dreamy answered on what should have been the winning run, but it ended at five balls with a bad miss on the 15 that allowed Stephanie to win with a straight-in shot for the 1-0 series lead. The Defenders' Stephanie seemed a bit more poised in game 2, going with shorter runs and more defensive leaves to make things tough for the Blades' Dreamy. The end was a close battle, but it finished with Stephanie winning again after a pair of shots to the bottom right from close range, clinching the series for her at 2-0. Stephanie had her issues in game 3 as well, allowing Dreamy a lot of early possession, but Stephanie won with a decoy shot, attempting a five-ball combination while sending the cue off the 6 into the 15, which fell in the top right for the win. Stephanie heads to the second round after her 3-0 series sweep. 

BMW RockDome, Westside: Misty v. Puff III. The blue cue is back now for a series of 12-ball. Westside's Misty gave away a wild-card ball on the break of game 1 to Everton's Puff III, who was just a shot away from making her pay for it after a three-ball run. Instead, Misty was able to answer with a run of her own, and then make her last two shots after a bank on the 5 to the top left and a tap-in on the 2 to the top side for the win, giving Misty a 1-0 lead in the series. The Rockers' Misty tried the same thing in game 2, but the Eagles' Puff III was more decisive with her shooting, making a three-ball run to really set herself apart, and then she made the final two balls while Misty was still working on setting herself up. Puff III's win ties the series at 1. Puff III had a good break, but couldn't get anything off of it, and Misty rallied with a four-ball run on her first turn. Puff III countered with a three-ball run and some defense, but Misty had good positions and eventually won, taking the series 2-1 as she punches her ticket to the second round.

Volkswagen Stadium Events Center, Viewpoint Sound: Mams v. Klaus. The silver cue is up for 8-ball in this highlight series. Viewpoint Sound's Mams might have had something had the 15 fallen on the break in game 1, but instead it was Atlantic's Klaus working an eight-ball run-out on his only turn for the win and a big 1-0 series lead for the burgeoning rookie star. The Pirates' Klaus had a nice four-ball run from the break, but he also gave away a ball to the Meteors' Mams. She worked in short runs from here, leaving just enough defense to threaten and frustrate Klaus, and then Mams won with a three-ball run-out, tying the series on a long strike on the 8 to the top left. Game 3 saw Mams make two solids and a stripe on a scratched break, allowing to stay even by taking solid. Klaus countered with a short run that developed a cluster at its end. Mams had a four-ball run and a break-up shot, and Klaus then made a three-ball run before succumbing to missed contact. Mams won on a three-ball run-out from ball-in-hand, again taking the 8 at the top left to secure the series at 2-1, sending her into the second round.

Volkswagen Stadium Events Center, Viewpoint Sound: Mams v. Puff I. The Meteors captain makes it a doubleheader as she brings in a Union veteran for Accuracy with the blue cue. Viewpoint Sound's Mams had a good start, save for an error that Modernistic's Puff I quickly matched in game 1. Puff I fell apart late, and Mams held on to win 2-4 for a 1-0 series lead. The Meteors' Mams put in an arguably stronger performance in game 2, holding off the efforts of the Union's Puff I late in the game while missing a shot in the middle and near the end of the game. Mams had just enough in the tank to earn the 2-3 win, clinching the series at 2-0. Puff I tried to put up a fight in the burner game 3, but she fell short in the end, and Mams took another victory 2-5 to sweep the series 3-0 as she makes it to the second round on another bid.

BMW RockDome, Westside: Misty v. Nightfur. The silver cue is in action for 15-ball in this series between captains. Royal's Nightfur held her own early on in game 1 as Westside's Misty had a slight edge in play. Nightfur brought the game to a sudden end with a self-termed "wave shot," hitting the 8 off the bottom rail and then sending it, the cue, and the 15 toward the top side, where the 15 fell for the win and a 1-0 series lead. The Crowns' Nightfur had a better game 2 effort, and was easily rewarded for it, as the Rockers' Misty didn't manage to change the game with a deep run. Misty also scratched at the end, allowing Nightfur to make the 15 from ball-in-hand to clinch the series at 2-0. Nightfur continued with a game 3 win to make it a 3-0 series sweep, but it nearly didn't happen, as Nightfur's scratches led Misty to a strong four-ball run late in the game. Nightfur just made the last two shots, advancing to the second round after a good series.

Toyota Arena, Freedom: Roxy v. Mr. Snowman. Two big veterans meet in 10-ball with the silver cue this series. Freedom's Roxy didn't get much done after the game 1 break, as Infinity's Mr. Snowman monopolized possession. He didn't dominate by any means, but Roxy couldn't make a shot, and her final error allowed Mr. Snowman to take the game and a 1-0 series lead on a four-ball run-out. In game 2, it was more of the same, as the Cascades' Roxy had plenty of chances and nothing to do with making them, while the Torpedoes' Mr. Snowman slowly chipped his way through the game, eventually tapping in the 10 to the top right for the 2-0 series lead. Mr. Snowman had his best game in game 3, starting slow once again but working a five-ball run-out that ended with a 7-10 combination to the top right to earn a 3-0 series sweep over Roxy. Mr. Snowman will play in the second round.

McDonald's Hall, Atlantic: Isabella v. Bright. The second-to-last series today is in 15-ball with the blue cue. North Modernistic's Bright had a great game 1, including an eight-ball run that put Atlantic's Isabella on her back foot late in the game. Bright couldn't finish the game on that turn, but he made the last two balls on his next turn, winning for a 1-0 series lead. The Nighthawks' Bright had a decent start to game 2 with a three-ball run, but the Pirates' Isabella struck back at bit early on. Bright finished the game early after lining up and converting a 4-15 combination to the top right to clinch the series at 2-0 with the win. Bright had another strong finish early in game 3, making a four-ball run-out that ended with a draw play off the 8 to sink the 15 in the top right, leaving Isabella helpless as she fell in a 3-0 sweep to Bright, who will play on in the second round.

UPS Hall, Maplewood: Waluigi v. Leonette. The blue cue will administer a series of 12-ball for today's last battle. Pacific's Leonette just edged out Maplewood's Waluigi in a hard-fought game 1, which saw both players battling for position against each other's defense. Waluigi made an error that would cost him the game by illegally potting a ball, and Leonette won two turns later for the 1-0 series lead. The Volcanoes' Leonette had a good effort in game 2, but fell behind early on to a potent first run by the Lumberjacks' Waluigi. He wouldn't be able to sustain his run, and Leonette took the win with a three-ball run-out, clinching the series at 2-0 after a thoughtful sequencing play. Leonette had a good spread on the game 3 break, and this allowed her to hold off Waluigi at the end, as his three-ball run just fell short before she tapped in her final shot. Leonette took the series 3-0 to advance to the second round, where she'll meet her older sister Misty, the Rockers captain, in Westside's BMW RockDome.

That's all for today. We'll be back with more tomorrow, with live updates on Twitter @UnitedPCL.

Tournament 2017: A-level First Round - Day 11

We end this week of games today. I would expect to see very little activity tomorrow league-wide, and Sunday will be used for cricket only, if anything. Normal operations should resume on Monday. Let's begin with...

House of 10 Windows, Del Sur: Shannon v. Whiskers. The first series today is in 12-ball with the silver cue. Infinity's Whiskers got off to a good start in game 1, getting favorable positions for her shots. Southern's Shannon was slow to start, but bought time with two scratches from Whiskers, and Shannon eventually made a four-ball run. She couldn't get a line on her final ball, and Whiskers ended with a win on her final shot to the top left, taking a 1-0 series lead. The Monarchs' Shannon lacked authority in her shooting in game 2, scratching to waste the wild-card ball the Torpedoes' Whiskers gave her from the break. Whiskers held her own in the battle, eventually getting a good shot on a kick to win, securing the series at 2-0. Whiskers had a decent break in game 3, but she couldn't get her shot going at all, and Shannon emerged with the win after a three-ball run-out across the top. Whiskers took the series 2-1 to advance to the second round.

Starbucks Arena, Archtown: Sally v. Brownie. Club-mates on Empyre meet for a series of Accuracy with the blue cue. Neither player could hold a lead in a somewhat sub-par game 1, as Archtown's Sally faltered and Tysini's Brownie couldn't take advantage until the end. Brownie held on late to win 3-5, as Sally's pair of late misses ruined her game, giving Brownie the 1-0 series lead. The Hummingbirds' Brownie floundered early in game 2 after her break spread things out well but left few clear shots. The Arrows' Sally had to enjoy the lead while she had it, as three straight misses sunk her, and Brownie went perfect from when Sally started missing. Brownie won 2-5, clinching the series at 2-0. Brownie made an absolute mess of game 3, frequently missing, but Sally proved unable to hold the lead, sending them a series of misses on the final ball before Sally made it to win 6-7. The embarrassing series ends with Brownie winning 2-1 to get to the second round.

Nike Field Events Center, Commerce: Lionel v. Acorn. The blue cue gets another try with 9-ball between these big-name players. Commerce's Lionel made a ball on the break and generally played better in game 1, but he didn't finish the game, as Lighton's Acorn found his shot in time to produce a three-ball run-out for the win, giving the visitor a 1-0 series lead. The Prestige's Acorn had a rough game 2, with a pair of scratches and numerous unnecessary misses. The Tradewinds' Lionel waited patiently before working a five-ball run-out after Acorn's missed contact at the 5. Lionel tied the series with his strong display in the win. Lionel quickly took care of game 3, potentially starting the backspin break trend for 9-ball as he used this method and sank the 9 in the bottom right to get the win and a 2-1 series win to advance to the second round.

UPS Hall, Maplewood: Waluigi v. Blizzard. We've got more 9-ball to lead off the after-lunch segment of the day, with the red cue taking its turn here. Everton's Blizzard had a decent game 1, struggling at first but making the most of a miss on the 4 by Maplewood's Waluigi. Blizzard made the 4 and then a 5-9 combination to the bottom right to win, giving her a 1-0 series lead. The Lumberjacks' Waluigi played a strong game 2 as well, making an early three-ball run and then nearly doing a double-pot of the 8 and 9 at the end. Instead, he took them separately to defeat the Eagles' Blizzard, tying the series at 1. Waluigi started game 3 with a three-ball run, but he didn't get back to the table after this, as Blizzard assembled a six-ball run-out to get the win, and she claimed the series at 2-1 as well, earning a trip to the second round.

Ebay Center, Queens: Crystal v. Ted. The red cue stays in action for 15-ball in the next series between a captain and a rookie. Web City's Ted picked up a bit of position late in game 1, and ran with the momentum, keeping Queens' Crystal at bay over the last few shots. Ted had a three-ball run, and then made the 15 on his next turn to win, taking a 1-0 lead in the series. The Flames' Crystal once again played well in game 2, but she couldn't maintain her high pace of play throughout the game. The Spiders' Ted filled the void in the end, picking up some of the later shots and earning the win by making the 15 after Crystal's bank attempt went wide. Ted won the series at 2-0. Ted continued with a contentious game 3 against Crystal, as neither player shot their best in this one. Ted ended up winning with a two-rail kick on the 14 that left him with the 15 in line, and he converted to secure the 3-0 series sweep. Ted is through to the second round.

UPS Hall, Maplewood: Fluffina v. Ms. Puppy. It's an M-Line Derby and captains battle in 10-ball with the blue cue. Modernistic's Ms. Puppy showed poise in game 1, as both players had strong but inconsistent shooting. Ms. Puppy put the 10 very close to the top right, but Maplewood's Fluffina couldn't get onto it, and couldn't keep a run going. Ms. Puppy eventually converted from distance to get the win and a 1-0 series lead. The Union's Ms. Puppy got nothing on the game 2 break, and the Lumberjacks' Fluffina made her pay for this with just two shots. Fluffina made the 1 in the top left, and then the 2-10 combination to the bottom right on a rocket shot, tying the series at 1 with the quick win. Fluffina kept up the effort in game 3, missing a couple of shots by a lot but successfully countering an early three-ball run by Ms. Puppy with one of her own to finish the game and win the series 2-1. Fluffina's resilience earns her a spot in the second round.

Chevrolet Center, Everton: Goldy v. Ms. Kitty. Another battle between big-name originals occurs in 12-ball with the red cue. Everton's Goldy had a fine start to game 1, but she ended up getting defended against by Pacific's Ms. Kitty, who patiently waited until Godly made a mistake, and then struck with a five-ball run-out, sending Ms. Kitty to the 1-0 series lead with a well-shot run. The Volcanoes' Ms. Kitty had to make the best of an unfavorable spread on the game 2 break, but she showed very well, with the help of a couple of scratches from the Eagles' Goldy, who couldn't quite corral her last ball after losing her wild-card ball. Ms. Kitty finally made the shot from range to win, clinching the series at 2-0. Ms. Kitty again gave away a wild-card ball in game 3, and while Goldy held it all game, she couldn't get a position on her final ball, and Ms. Kitty fired in her last two shots to complete the 3-0 series sweep. Ms. Kitty advances to the second round.

Chevrolet Center, Everton: Goldy v. Sugar. The Eagles captain is back at it, with the red cue in 9-ball this time. Everton's Goldy had a strong start to game 1, making a three-ball run, but she had to battle with Harrison's Sugar in the later stages. Sugar just missed on the 9, allowing Goldy to tap in the winning shot for a 1-0 series lead. The Eagles' Goldy dominated in game 2, with a three-ball run from the break, and all of the last five balls after the Specters' Sugar tried and failed on a kick attempt toward the 8. Goldy mopped up this shot and then had the 9 without trouble, clinching the series at 2-0 in a more typical appearance for Goldy than the last series. Goldy had another hot start in game 3, but Sugar finally played well too, and she would get the win with a five-ball run-out, including a firm bank on the 8 to the bottom side. Goldy still won the series 2-1 to advance to the second round.

Samsung Arena, Whitewater: Marsell v. Dani. The red cue remains in action, this time for Rotation. Whitewater's Marsell had some issues with scratching in game 1, both instances allowing Web City's Dani to do some damage, but Marsell also had a pair of four-ball runs, earning a lead with the first and the 8-4 with the second to go ahead 1-0 in the series. The Shores' Marsell burst out to a massive lead on a four-ball run in game 2, but he got a little too fancy starting with the 6, allowing the Spiders' Dani to chip away at the deficit. She eventually fell 8-3, as Marsell was able to salvage the win after letting off the gas a bit. Marsell clinched the series at 2-0 with the win. Dani posted a five-ball run early in game 3, setting herself up for success, but Marsell needed only three turns to come back, and Dani offered no further resistance. Marsell ended on a three-ball run-out for the 8-5 win, sweeping the series 3-0 as he gets another bid to the second round.

Volkswagen Stadium Events Center, Viewpoint Sound: Mams v. Gizmo. The blue cue is back for 7-ball, getting this bracket close to done for the round. Viewpoint Sound's Mams did all the work in game 1, with an opening four-ball run from the break and a three-ball run-out sandwiched around a miss by Central's Gizmo. Mams takes a 1-0 series lead in dominant fashion. The Warriors' Gizmo kept himself in the series with a much-improved effort in game 2, which saw him repress the attack from the Meteors' Mams and then coordinate a four-ball run-out to pick up the win, tying the series at 1 with the good play. Game 3 saw the worst efforts from both players, as they played too cautiously to produce much offense in the hopes of not messing up. Gizmo did anyways, chipping his chance at the 7 to allow Mams a second try, which she converted for the win and a 2-1 series win. Mams is through to the second round.

Verizon Field Events Center, Pacific: Chicky Phil v. Debby Ryan. The silver cue is back for a series of Accuracy. Pacific's Chicky Phil did well early on in game 1, forcing Southridge's Debby into a mistake she would not recover from, as she slipped around late in the game. Chicky Phil eventually closed out a 2-4 win to take a 1-0 series lead. Game 2 saw a really bad shot from the Volcanoes' Chicky Phil early on, which held him back for the whole game. The Defenders' Debby almost played a perfect appearance, but had one miss late. Debby held on from here to take the 1-2 win, tying the series at 1 in a strong performance. Game 3 was unlike the other two, as neither player brought their best shooting. Debby managed to force Chicky Phil into some late misses to tie the game, forcing overtime. Chicky Phil deployed a soft break here, which was meant to leave Debby with a poor angle, but she got a deflection and sank a ball to win 5-6, advancing to the second round on a 2-1 series win.

Ebay Center, Queens: Violetta v. Debby Ryan. The Defenders captain heads out on the road for 9-ball with the red cue against a Flames rookie. Queens' Violetta started game 1 off pretty well, but Southridge's Debby made it a tough battle between the two, and Debby eventually came out on top with the last two shots to win the game for a 1-0 series lead. Game 2 started with some decent shooting, but both players faded late. It took awhile for the Flames' Violetta to figure it out, and then she made the final two shots to earn the win over the Defenders' Debby, tying the series at 1. Violetta came out in a blaze in game 3, making a five-ball run before scratching. Debby couldn't quite get on the 7 after making the 6, giving Violetta another chance, and she won with a three-ball run-out to clinch the series at 2-1. Violetta is through to the second round, where she'll host the Everton Eagles' Goldy at this venue.

Starbucks Arena, Archtown: Sleepy B. v. Kiwi. The red cue stays in action for this series of 10-ball between decorated veterans. Scratching was an all-too-common theme in game 1, as both players had two. This made their runs choppy, although Archtown's Sleepy B. almost completed a late one. Instead, Terrace City's Kiwi made the 10 three turns after her three-ball run, taking the 1-0 series lead with her win. The Arrows' Sleepy B. never saw the table in game 2, as the Knights' Kiwi made the 5 to the bottom right on the break, then the 1 to the top side, and the 10 on a deflection of the cue off the 2 to the bottom right for the series-clinching win; Kiwi leads 2-0. Kiwi didn't have her best effort in game 3, and while Sleepy B. was slow to start, she finished with a big four-ball run-out to salvage a win. Kiwi still took the series 2-1, advancing to the second round.

House of 10 Windows, Del Sur: Panda v. Celestia. We end the day with Rotation and the blue cue in this Coastal battle. Southern's Panda bounded ahead in game 1 to an early lead, and while he failed to end it in style on a failed jump shot that allowed Oceanside's Celestia a three-ball run, Panda did win 8-5 when Celestia couldn't make the 13. Panda leads the series 1-0. The Waves' Celestia had the hot start to game 2, going on a four-ball run to establish her lead well. It wouldn't hold up, as the Monarchs' Panda put a chip in it on one turn, and then gashed a six-ball run-out for the 8-6 comeback victory to take the game and the series at 2-0. Celestia built up a decent lead in game 3 as well, but Panda charged back with a four-ball run, and then battled his way to the finish in his 8-5 win, sweeping the series 3-0 to punch a ticket to the second round.

That's all for today's action, with Pool returning on Monday at the earliest. Cricket may be played over the weekend, time permitting.