After some choppy playing time recently, Tournament action is likely to stretch six straight days. Today's series begin with...
Apple Center, Todavía: Easter v. Sally. The blue cue gets the first look today, playing 7-ball between veterans. Todavía's Easter had a three-ball run from the break in game 1, but she quickly lost her touch, and Archtown's Sally took the win with a pair of shots from ball-in-hand at the end. Sally leads the series 1-0. Game 2 was a bit more competitive, as the Arrows' Sally struggled initially but played well in the middle, only to see the Stills' Easter cap the win with a three-ball run-out for the win that tied the series at 1. Game 3 saw Sally dominate possession with a six-ball run on her only turn, missing the 7 and leaving it at short range for Easter to steal the win. Easter took the series as well, the 2-1 advantage putting her in the second round.
FedEx Arena, Eastside: Salmo v. Marsell. A struggling sophomore meets a veteran in regression in Accuracy with the red cue. Whitewater's Marsell made game 1 more difficult than it needed to be, scratching and double-potting to switch the last shot rights. It didn't matter, as a late miss from Marsell paved the way for Eastside's Salmo to win 2-3 for a 1-0 series lead. The Shores' Marsell was much better in game 2, and while things started pretty evenly, the Sharks' Salmo had a couple of misses in the middle, allowing Marsell to claim a 0-2 win at the end to tie the series at 1. Marsell fell behind rather quickly in game 3, but Salmo missed contact once, leading to a spree of missed shots. Marsell held his ground, winning 2-3 to take the series 2-1 as he advances to the second round.
Cisco Arena, Tysini: Brownie v. Leonette. The blue cue returns to action with its own taste of Accuracy between veterans. Tysini's Brownie showed no trouble in collecting the game 1 win, playing perfectly while Pacific's Leonette faltered every now and then. Brownie won 0-3, taking a 1-0 series lead. The Hummingbirds' Brownie had a perfect game going until she had a pair of misses late in the game. The Volcanoes' Leonette squandered her first look at the lead, but she held on at the end, winning 1-2 to tie the series at 1 in another low-scoring game. Leonette held the lead for a lot of game 3, but she couldn't prevent Brownie forcing her into a tie through the end of regulation. Leonette's overtime break left plenty to be desired, and Brownie won 2-3 from ball-in-hand after Leonette scratched. Brownie will host the Pronger Tridents captain Precious in the second round thanks to her 2-1 series win.
Subway Arena, Stonebridge: Frosty v. Sweetheart. Longtime companions meet in 12-ball with the red cue. Stonebridge's Frosty didn't expect to take solids in game 1, but she did, and with a later three-ball run, she overcame spotting two wild-card balls to Boston's Sweetheart, whose late three-ball run fell short. Frosty poked in her last shot to win for a 1-0 series lead. The Swifts' Sweetheart struck first in game 2, but the Wolves' Frosty took over in the middle of the game, getting good positioning for herself. Sweetheart persisted and used a ball-in-hand chance to take the win on a four-ball run-out, tying the series at 1. Frosty struck early in game 3 as well, but Sweetheart got defensive positioning as the two players raced to the left corners. Sweetheart's defense held up long enough for her to make her last two balls first, giving her the win and a 2-1 series win. Sweetheart will face a Southeastern rival, the Golden Pilots' Valencia, in the second round.
Pepsi Arena, Lighton: Acorn v. Rosemary. More action among Solid Core members is done in 10-ball with the silver cue. Commerce's Rosemary hung with Lighton's Acorn early in game 1, and even pushed play with a late four-ball run of her own, but she missed the 10. Acorn made it on a tap-in, winning for a 1-0 series lead. Game 2 saw both players struggle early on, but the Tradewinds' Rosemary again made a late push, potting five of the last six ball including a pair on her last turn to beat the Prestige's Acorn. Rosemary's late surge tied the series at 1 as she took the win. Acorn didn't break out of his struggles in game 3, but he was able to mitigate Rosemary's attempt at a late run, and Acorn would make the last two balls for the win, taking the series 2-1 as well. Acorn will host another rookie, the Pronger Tridents' Lize, in the second round.
Google Hall, Modernistic: Ms. Puppy v. Rudolph. A captain faces a rookie in this series of 15-ball, using the red cue. Modernistic's Ms. Puppy had a good game 1 performance, culminating in an early finish. Harrison's Rudolph left the 3 visible after missing it, and Ms. Puppy put a glancing kick on it, which bumped into the 15, deflecting the winning ball of the 13 and into the top left. Ms. Puppy owns a 1-0 series lead. The Union's Ms. Puppy played well in game 2, pushing possession numbers higher, but she couldn't quite corral the 15 at the bottom side, leaving a tap-in range shot for the Specters' Rudolph, who obliged to tie the series at 1. Ms. Puppy pulled off another quick win in game 3, poking the 5-15 combination to the top right with a deflection off the 14 after Rudolph couldn't find an early run. Ms. Puppy's two quick finishes give her the series at 2-1 as she heads into the second round.
Chevrolet Center, Everton: Cleo v. Nicole. The red cue remains in action for a British Derby, Rotation style. Lighton's Nicole didn't have any single big run, but a bunch of small runs in game 1 quickly overwhelmed Everton's Cleo. Nicole claimed the win at 8-2, good for a 1-0 series lead. The Eagles' Cleo quickly learned her lesson, and she made her game 2 attack with a large run early on, burying the Prestige's Nicole within two turns. Nicole had a three-ball run in response, but Cleo made a pair at the end, including a lucky bank that put the 10 in the bottom left for the 8-3 win to tie the series at 1. Nicole and Cleo battled evenly at the start of a tough game 3. Cleo eventually pulled away into the lead, and while Nicole did recover some of that damage, Cleo capitalized on a scratch by Nicole to win 8-5 and take the series 2-1. Cleo will host the Oceanside Waves sophomore Dewey in the second round.
Subway Arena, Stonebridge: Hershey v. Whiskers. A strong rookie faces a rising veteran in 8-ball with the silver cue. Maplewood's Whiskers started slowly in comparison to Stonebridge's Hershey, but Whiskers had a six-ball run to turn the tide, and she patiently picked up the win a couple of turns later for a 1-0 series lead. The Lumberjacks' Whiskers again went with a slow start, although the Wolves' Hershey wasn't as good in game 2 either. Whiskers then won on a five-ball run-out, including two banks to the sides at the end of the run to secure the win and the series at 2-0. Whiskers wasted no time in game 3, smashing a seven-ball run on the break with some collateral damage. Hershey fired back on a four-ball run to make it a bit closer, but Whiskers one-timed the 8 to the bottom right for the win and the 3-0 series sweep as she makes the second round.
Starbucks Arena, Archtown: Ruby v. Anton. A legendary veteran in the midst of a slump takes on a surprising rookie in 15-ball with the silver cue. Game 1 looked like it would take awhile, so Archtown's Ruby started attacking on the 15 a bit more. It worked, as she made a 5-15 combination to the top left after Todavía's Anton left it lined up for her, giving Ruby a 1-0 series lead. Ruby had some good possession in game 2, but not enough of it near the end of the game. Her three-ball run came up short, and the Stills' Anton capped a decent effort with a mid-range shot on the 15 to the top right to tie the series at 1. Anton controlled the pace of play in game 3, catching Ruby straggling in the series finale, but Anton's deflection off the 5 to hit the 15 to the top right also caused a scratch, gifting Ruby the win and the 2-1 series win. Ruby is fortunate to advance to the second round.
Apple Center, Todavía: Sierra v. Princess. Stars collide in a big T-line Derby in 7-ball with the blue cue. Game 1 went back and forth between the two players, with Todavía's Sierra eventually prevailing after an error by Tysini's Princess late in the game. Sierra holds a 1-0 series lead for now. The Stills' Sierra opened game 2 in hot form with a five-ball run. The Hummingbirds' Princess had two chances to steal the game away, but she failed to make the 6 both times. Sierra eventually took the last two balls for the win, clinching the series at 2-0. Game 3 went very similarly to game 2, although it went a bit slower at the start. Sierra had another five-ball run, and made a late pair of shots to secure her win, sweeping Princess 3-0 to earn her spot in the second round.
Cisco Arena, Tysini: Brownie v. Ruby. Two players making a second appearance today clash in 10-ball with the blue cue. Game 1 saw both players struggle to find their shot well enough. They chipped away at the rack, until Archtown's Ruby left Tysini's Brownie with a good shot on the 7 that the host would deflect to take the 10 at the top right for the win and a 1-0 series lead. The Hummingbirds' Brownie showed no fear in game 2, even as the Arrows' Ruby made a late push. Brownie's resolve paid off when Ruby scratched after a contact play on the 9, and Brownie potted the last two balls for the win, securing the series at 2-0. Ruby couldn't get anything going in game 3, deferring possession to allow Brownie to extend an early run to four balls. Ruby faltered with a late scratch, and Brownie made the final two balls to sweep the series 3-0 as she looks forward to hosting Atlantic Pirates sophomore Klaus in the second round. This was a historic fifth meeting between the two players.
Nissan Hall, Infinity: Fluffina v. Chicky Phil. Veterans bring the day to a close in 8-ball with the red cue. Infinity's Fluffina had a hot start in game 1, and while Pacific's Chicky Phil offered plenty of challenges to Fluffina's offense, the host did not stall, picking up a competitive win and a 1-0 series lead. The Volcanoes' Chicky Phil played a bit more defense in game 2, and it worked to slow the Torpedoes' Fluffina down, but she kicked in the last stripe at the bottom side before a tap-in on the 8 to pick up another win. Fluffina owns a 2-0 series lead. Chicky Phil salvaged a result from game 3, battling with Fluffina but allowing his defense to carry him to the win this time. Fluffina still advances to the second round on a 2-1 series win.
That's it for today's games. We'll be back with an early start tomorrow for a normal set of games.
Thursday, March 8, 2018
United Cup 2018 - Round 2 Leg 2
The remaining twelve teams will be decided to set the United Cup bracket by the end of this post. The second legs begin with...
Pepsi Prestige Park, Lighton: The Prestige already hold a big lead and sit Katelynn for this appearance after two pool series yesterday, while the Meteors want to rest Hoot in this long-shot game. Mams gave Viewpoint Sound a fairly good start with 383 on her turn to get things going. Acorn answered with a solid 407 for Lighton, keeping things simple this time for the early lead. Nibbles flicked a ball a little too high for the Meteors, ending with a paltry 44 as their comeback effort appears stalled. Spirit only had 192 for the Prestige, again playing a weak effort to conserve energy. Vincent tried to counter that with 138 for Viewpoint Sound, but they remain firmly behind. Nicole enjoyed herself in this two-game set, tacking on 941 for Lighton this time. Dani tapped 324 for the Meteors, leaving them in another loss at 889, for a grand total of 1403. Waluigi exited with 108 for the Prestige, winning this game at 1648 for a full score of 3357. Lighton has made a deep run, advancing to the third round with the sweep.
UPS Ground, Maplewood: Up in the Northeast, the Lumberjacks have a small deficit to overcome, and sit Summer for leg two, while the Monarchs rest their captain Panda. Avril got beat on a deflection at 153 for Southern, weakening their tenuous lead immediately. Whiskers countered with 626 for Maplewood, sending the home crowd into a frenzy as they hold the overall lead. Hoppy couldn't get a touch on her backhand, falling with 337 as the Monarchs have had a bit of bad luck today. Diddley weakened the Lumberjacks lead with 238 at the halfway mark, leaving plenty to play for. Pounce couldn't pull a good turn together for Southern, collapsing with a poor 176. Bryant poked 416 for Maplewood, boosting their lead with a player each to go. Dominic folded at 147 for the Monarchs in the end, leaving them to lose with 813 in the game and 2915 in the series. Gabe solidified the Lumberjacks win with 654 in the game, giving them 1934 for the win, and 3925 for the series win after splitting results required the points tiebreaker.
Kraft Crowns Park, Royal: The Crowns switch jerseys for their home game in the set, sitting Nightfur as they try to make up a deficit against a Cascades team resting Stripes. Jasmine didn't provide much offense early on for Freedom with 202 to lead off the game. Kayla charged forward with 540 for Royal, nearly covering all of the deficit from the previous game at once. Stinky got closer with 295 for the Cascades, but they remain behind in the game. Jake countered that well with 377 for the Crowns, lacking a big push but gaining a little for the lead. Roxy kept Freedom close with 320 on her turn, but they can't seem to catch up in this one yet. Jeremias made a push with 554 for Royal, probably enough to have them ahead in the series as well with a player each to go. Nikolai made a move with 795 for the Cascades at the end, putting their game score at 1612 for a total of 3804 over both legs. Cassie melted at 144 for the Crowns, leaving them at 1615 for a three-point win, but 3331 overall as they drop the series.
Subway Field, Stonebridge: The Wolves put Frosty on the bench, with a realistic chance of advancing, while the Defenders rest Stephanie after a pool appearance. Bianca had a solid start with 441 for Southridge, giving the visitors something to build on. Juno slipped up with 283 for Stonebridge on her turn, leaving the hosts a bit behind initially. Debby shot back with a big 814 for the Defenders, imposing themselves upon the opposition now. Hershey kept it close with 742 for the Wolves on his turn, but they need to make a move soon. Caitlin might have left Southridge exposed when she scored 322, getting beat early on a deflection. Vladimir crumbled with a pathetic 9 points for Stonebridge, unable to capitalize on the opportunity. Hughbert faltered at 112, leaving the Defenders on a total of 1689 in the game and 2984 overall, far from safety still. Cobalt tried to make a push, but his 305 leaves the Wolves short at 1339 for the game, and 2575 in the series. Southridge gets by on less than their best in their first series of action.
Ebay Center, Queens: The attention shifts to Elite teams now, and both of these squads are without their sophomore sensations, as Violetta sits for the hosts and Celestia rests for the visitors. Snuggle popped 677 for Oceanside immediately, just about doubling their lead heading into the game. Crystal managed 264 for Queens, but the hosts are now in a lot of trouble for the series outlook. Josie slapped another 750 for the Waves, sending them far ahead with the impressive second attack. Briana made a solid effort with 469 for the Flames, but they remain pretty far behind at the midway mark. Dewey cracked at 160 for Oceanside, weakening their lead a bit but not to a dangerous extent. Kyle made mild progress with 230 for Queens, leaving them with a steep hill and very little time. Jason V. knocked another 720 at the end for the Waves, almost assuring them of the game win at 2307 and the series win at 4477 in total. Hannah pushed with 501 for the Flames, but they'll be eliminated with the loss at 1464 and the series total of 2996.
Honda Driftwood Coliseum, Pearl: The Surfers have done well so far, and will sit Boots in this meeting, while the Hummingbirds sit Paps in hopes of making a comeback. Princess didn't get that comeback effort off to a good start, falling at 98 for Tysini in an ugly first turn. Watermelon set the tone immediately with 1199 for Pearl, her massive performance setting the fans abuzz. Leandra tried a counterattack but fell with 272 for the Hummingbirds as it appears they won't have a response. Neopolitan kept it simple with 168 for the Surfers, trying to get out of the game quickly. Charli went off with 556 for Tysini this time, closing the gap a little bit but not enough. Bright added a little padding with 231 for Pearl, keeping them in control as the final players come to bat. Brownie fumbled 126 for the Hummingbirds, securing losses in the game at 1052 and the series at 3274 as they get swept. Beth tapped 368 to ice the Surfers win at 1966, their weakest yet still plenty to take the series with a grand total of 4674. Pearl is undefeated and outright dominant heading into the third round.
Nike Field, Commerce: The Tradewinds are on the verge of an upset, and sit the rookie Rosemary in this game, while the Torpedoes bench Shelley after a rough leg one appearance. Smudge had a poor 179 in lead-off for Infinity, hurting their efforts to overcome the initial deficit. Tigerette made a mild gain with 368 for Commerce, strengthening their lead while burning a turn away. Fluffina broke out on a big 840 for the Torpedoes, pulling them back into the series with a great road effort. Taylor stumbled with 208 for the Tradewinds, erasing their lead from the first leg as this series is set to go down to the wire. Solaris pounded another 560 for Infinity, boosting their lead here with a good performance. Lionel couldn't make a sufficient response with 192 for Commerce, leaving the home fans stunned as their team collapses late. Mr. Snowman floated 211 for the Torpedoes, giving them totals of 1790 in the game and 3048 in the series, which will almost certainly see split results. Niki couldn't save the Tradewinds, her 98 leaving them with 866 in the game and 2332 in the series, both of which they lost.
Starbucks Cup, Archtown: The Arrows saw many players in pool yesterday, and they'll choose to rest Ruby, while a fully fresh Sharpshooters squad goes with their plan to give Chris the road game off. Missy did well with 454 for Capital City, a stable start for the heavily favored team that's taking it easy. Sally made a counterattack with 361 for Archtown, but the hosts still trail after the first turn. Sprinkles piled on with 543 for the Sharpshooters on the second attack, nicely padding their lead. Sleepy B. recovered some of the damage with 615 for the Arrows, trying to keep things interesting at the midway mark. Lorde slipped up at 215 for Capital City, weakening their lead at a critical time. Dusky wasted the chance for Archtown, adding only 57 to their score as the best opportunity to catch up won't come about. Pauline struggled with 28 for the Sharpshooters, leaving their score at 1240 for a total of 2441 over the two games. Wild Thing poked 329 for the Arrows at the end of the game, leaving them at 1362 for the game, but only 2364 in the narrow series loss.
Nestle's Warriors Park, Central: Switching gears to Premier, the Warriors look to protect a big lead at home in leg two. The Warriors rest Dustin in this meeting, while Prism sits for the Stills. Easter led off with 368 for Todavía, digging into the initial deficit early on. Twilight covered that with 381 for Central, keeping the game close and the series firmly in hand initially. Sierra chipped back with 408 for the Stills, making mild progress on the solid second attack. Mario slipped with 108 for the Warriors, weakening their series lead while they fall behind in the game. Bells picked up an alright 279 for Todavía, bringing them quite close to their target. Wings erased all hope in the visitors, smashing 989 for Central to likely assure them of victories across the board. Anton produced 520 for the Stills at the end, setting their final scores at 1575 in the game and 2885 in the series. Noelle poked 177 more as the Warriors marched to the win at 1655 in the game, and a series total of 3583. Central's pair of wins secured their advancement.
Audi Knights Pitch, Terrace City: The Knights have a large deficit to overcome, and they sit Oreo in hopes of doing so, while the visiting Predators bench their captain Shawn in leg two. Rainmane immediately set the tone with 742 for Midland, just about doubling the deficit facing the hosts. Kiwi actually made progress for Terrace City, belting 930 on a fantastic counterattack. Leonardo stumbled with 262 for the Predators, weakening their series lead a bit more. Jennifer cut into the deficit a bit more with 475 for the Knights, bringing much delight to the home fans at the halfway mark. Americus tried to patch the damage with 341 for Midland, but they will need a big finish to hold off a confident opponent. Melissa chipped a bit more away with 465 for Terrace City, setting up an epic finish to the series. Fuchsia delivered 348 for the Predators, hoping their totals of 1693 in the game and 3259 in the series will be enough to advance. Quincy bested his mark, but only mildly with 376, and the Knights closed the game at 2246. This won the game, but 3093 in the series was not enough overall, and the Predators will head to the third round.
Verizon Field, Pacific: The Volcanoes have to pull out all the stops, sitting Chicky Phil, while the Rockers still have a strong team despite benching Slinks for this game. Misty had a mild 242 for Westside on the opening turn, but they are not concerned yet. Starlight made good progress with 674 for Pacific, giving them a fighting chance at overcoming the deficit. Goatee shot back with 668 for the Rockers, keeping their lead steady for now. Ms. Kitty folded at 399 for the Volcanoes, draining their momentum halfway through the game despite holding a lead in leg two. Midnight buckled at 17 for Westside, destroying their advantage and inciting panic in the visitors. Twinkie I didn't get much out of the opportunity, taking 256 for Pacific heading into the final players' turns. Cowzart took 288 for the Rockers, bringing their game total to 1215, which will likely be a loss, but their series score is at 2922. Leonette couldn't muster enough of a response with 176 for the Volcanoes, and while they won the game at 1505, the 2412 they had overall costs them the series on the points tiebreaker.
Henry Ford Memorial Stadium, Pronger: The Tridents remain shorthanded as they try to overcome a 45-point deficit against the Eagles, who will sit Blizzard in this critical round two finale. Goldy set the tone with 539 for Everton, a great start for a team looking to be better in the second leg. Precious chunked a swing for Pronger, ending with only 39 as the deficit grows for the hosts. Puff III answered with 592 for the Eagles, extending their lead on the potent second attack. Zach crumbled with 168 for the Tridents, unable to lock in at a good pace as the game is getting away from the hosts. Cleo kept Everton balanced and unapproachable, tacking on 568 to their offense this time. Spot had only 340 for Pronger, their best look yet but far from a helpful performance. Kirstin kept it simple with 357 for the Eagles, icing their game total at 2056, while they finish the series with 3664 overall. Potter fell with 311, and the Tridents lost both the game at 858 and the series at 2421.
That's all for United Cup action. Tournament 2018 play continues this afternoon, while regular season cricket resumes on Monday beginning with Select Week 15. United Cup play is expected to return on April 30.
Pepsi Prestige Park, Lighton: The Prestige already hold a big lead and sit Katelynn for this appearance after two pool series yesterday, while the Meteors want to rest Hoot in this long-shot game. Mams gave Viewpoint Sound a fairly good start with 383 on her turn to get things going. Acorn answered with a solid 407 for Lighton, keeping things simple this time for the early lead. Nibbles flicked a ball a little too high for the Meteors, ending with a paltry 44 as their comeback effort appears stalled. Spirit only had 192 for the Prestige, again playing a weak effort to conserve energy. Vincent tried to counter that with 138 for Viewpoint Sound, but they remain firmly behind. Nicole enjoyed herself in this two-game set, tacking on 941 for Lighton this time. Dani tapped 324 for the Meteors, leaving them in another loss at 889, for a grand total of 1403. Waluigi exited with 108 for the Prestige, winning this game at 1648 for a full score of 3357. Lighton has made a deep run, advancing to the third round with the sweep.
UPS Ground, Maplewood: Up in the Northeast, the Lumberjacks have a small deficit to overcome, and sit Summer for leg two, while the Monarchs rest their captain Panda. Avril got beat on a deflection at 153 for Southern, weakening their tenuous lead immediately. Whiskers countered with 626 for Maplewood, sending the home crowd into a frenzy as they hold the overall lead. Hoppy couldn't get a touch on her backhand, falling with 337 as the Monarchs have had a bit of bad luck today. Diddley weakened the Lumberjacks lead with 238 at the halfway mark, leaving plenty to play for. Pounce couldn't pull a good turn together for Southern, collapsing with a poor 176. Bryant poked 416 for Maplewood, boosting their lead with a player each to go. Dominic folded at 147 for the Monarchs in the end, leaving them to lose with 813 in the game and 2915 in the series. Gabe solidified the Lumberjacks win with 654 in the game, giving them 1934 for the win, and 3925 for the series win after splitting results required the points tiebreaker.
Kraft Crowns Park, Royal: The Crowns switch jerseys for their home game in the set, sitting Nightfur as they try to make up a deficit against a Cascades team resting Stripes. Jasmine didn't provide much offense early on for Freedom with 202 to lead off the game. Kayla charged forward with 540 for Royal, nearly covering all of the deficit from the previous game at once. Stinky got closer with 295 for the Cascades, but they remain behind in the game. Jake countered that well with 377 for the Crowns, lacking a big push but gaining a little for the lead. Roxy kept Freedom close with 320 on her turn, but they can't seem to catch up in this one yet. Jeremias made a push with 554 for Royal, probably enough to have them ahead in the series as well with a player each to go. Nikolai made a move with 795 for the Cascades at the end, putting their game score at 1612 for a total of 3804 over both legs. Cassie melted at 144 for the Crowns, leaving them at 1615 for a three-point win, but 3331 overall as they drop the series.
Subway Field, Stonebridge: The Wolves put Frosty on the bench, with a realistic chance of advancing, while the Defenders rest Stephanie after a pool appearance. Bianca had a solid start with 441 for Southridge, giving the visitors something to build on. Juno slipped up with 283 for Stonebridge on her turn, leaving the hosts a bit behind initially. Debby shot back with a big 814 for the Defenders, imposing themselves upon the opposition now. Hershey kept it close with 742 for the Wolves on his turn, but they need to make a move soon. Caitlin might have left Southridge exposed when she scored 322, getting beat early on a deflection. Vladimir crumbled with a pathetic 9 points for Stonebridge, unable to capitalize on the opportunity. Hughbert faltered at 112, leaving the Defenders on a total of 1689 in the game and 2984 overall, far from safety still. Cobalt tried to make a push, but his 305 leaves the Wolves short at 1339 for the game, and 2575 in the series. Southridge gets by on less than their best in their first series of action.
Ebay Center, Queens: The attention shifts to Elite teams now, and both of these squads are without their sophomore sensations, as Violetta sits for the hosts and Celestia rests for the visitors. Snuggle popped 677 for Oceanside immediately, just about doubling their lead heading into the game. Crystal managed 264 for Queens, but the hosts are now in a lot of trouble for the series outlook. Josie slapped another 750 for the Waves, sending them far ahead with the impressive second attack. Briana made a solid effort with 469 for the Flames, but they remain pretty far behind at the midway mark. Dewey cracked at 160 for Oceanside, weakening their lead a bit but not to a dangerous extent. Kyle made mild progress with 230 for Queens, leaving them with a steep hill and very little time. Jason V. knocked another 720 at the end for the Waves, almost assuring them of the game win at 2307 and the series win at 4477 in total. Hannah pushed with 501 for the Flames, but they'll be eliminated with the loss at 1464 and the series total of 2996.
Honda Driftwood Coliseum, Pearl: The Surfers have done well so far, and will sit Boots in this meeting, while the Hummingbirds sit Paps in hopes of making a comeback. Princess didn't get that comeback effort off to a good start, falling at 98 for Tysini in an ugly first turn. Watermelon set the tone immediately with 1199 for Pearl, her massive performance setting the fans abuzz. Leandra tried a counterattack but fell with 272 for the Hummingbirds as it appears they won't have a response. Neopolitan kept it simple with 168 for the Surfers, trying to get out of the game quickly. Charli went off with 556 for Tysini this time, closing the gap a little bit but not enough. Bright added a little padding with 231 for Pearl, keeping them in control as the final players come to bat. Brownie fumbled 126 for the Hummingbirds, securing losses in the game at 1052 and the series at 3274 as they get swept. Beth tapped 368 to ice the Surfers win at 1966, their weakest yet still plenty to take the series with a grand total of 4674. Pearl is undefeated and outright dominant heading into the third round.
Nike Field, Commerce: The Tradewinds are on the verge of an upset, and sit the rookie Rosemary in this game, while the Torpedoes bench Shelley after a rough leg one appearance. Smudge had a poor 179 in lead-off for Infinity, hurting their efforts to overcome the initial deficit. Tigerette made a mild gain with 368 for Commerce, strengthening their lead while burning a turn away. Fluffina broke out on a big 840 for the Torpedoes, pulling them back into the series with a great road effort. Taylor stumbled with 208 for the Tradewinds, erasing their lead from the first leg as this series is set to go down to the wire. Solaris pounded another 560 for Infinity, boosting their lead here with a good performance. Lionel couldn't make a sufficient response with 192 for Commerce, leaving the home fans stunned as their team collapses late. Mr. Snowman floated 211 for the Torpedoes, giving them totals of 1790 in the game and 3048 in the series, which will almost certainly see split results. Niki couldn't save the Tradewinds, her 98 leaving them with 866 in the game and 2332 in the series, both of which they lost.
Starbucks Cup, Archtown: The Arrows saw many players in pool yesterday, and they'll choose to rest Ruby, while a fully fresh Sharpshooters squad goes with their plan to give Chris the road game off. Missy did well with 454 for Capital City, a stable start for the heavily favored team that's taking it easy. Sally made a counterattack with 361 for Archtown, but the hosts still trail after the first turn. Sprinkles piled on with 543 for the Sharpshooters on the second attack, nicely padding their lead. Sleepy B. recovered some of the damage with 615 for the Arrows, trying to keep things interesting at the midway mark. Lorde slipped up at 215 for Capital City, weakening their lead at a critical time. Dusky wasted the chance for Archtown, adding only 57 to their score as the best opportunity to catch up won't come about. Pauline struggled with 28 for the Sharpshooters, leaving their score at 1240 for a total of 2441 over the two games. Wild Thing poked 329 for the Arrows at the end of the game, leaving them at 1362 for the game, but only 2364 in the narrow series loss.
Nestle's Warriors Park, Central: Switching gears to Premier, the Warriors look to protect a big lead at home in leg two. The Warriors rest Dustin in this meeting, while Prism sits for the Stills. Easter led off with 368 for Todavía, digging into the initial deficit early on. Twilight covered that with 381 for Central, keeping the game close and the series firmly in hand initially. Sierra chipped back with 408 for the Stills, making mild progress on the solid second attack. Mario slipped with 108 for the Warriors, weakening their series lead while they fall behind in the game. Bells picked up an alright 279 for Todavía, bringing them quite close to their target. Wings erased all hope in the visitors, smashing 989 for Central to likely assure them of victories across the board. Anton produced 520 for the Stills at the end, setting their final scores at 1575 in the game and 2885 in the series. Noelle poked 177 more as the Warriors marched to the win at 1655 in the game, and a series total of 3583. Central's pair of wins secured their advancement.
Audi Knights Pitch, Terrace City: The Knights have a large deficit to overcome, and they sit Oreo in hopes of doing so, while the visiting Predators bench their captain Shawn in leg two. Rainmane immediately set the tone with 742 for Midland, just about doubling the deficit facing the hosts. Kiwi actually made progress for Terrace City, belting 930 on a fantastic counterattack. Leonardo stumbled with 262 for the Predators, weakening their series lead a bit more. Jennifer cut into the deficit a bit more with 475 for the Knights, bringing much delight to the home fans at the halfway mark. Americus tried to patch the damage with 341 for Midland, but they will need a big finish to hold off a confident opponent. Melissa chipped a bit more away with 465 for Terrace City, setting up an epic finish to the series. Fuchsia delivered 348 for the Predators, hoping their totals of 1693 in the game and 3259 in the series will be enough to advance. Quincy bested his mark, but only mildly with 376, and the Knights closed the game at 2246. This won the game, but 3093 in the series was not enough overall, and the Predators will head to the third round.
Verizon Field, Pacific: The Volcanoes have to pull out all the stops, sitting Chicky Phil, while the Rockers still have a strong team despite benching Slinks for this game. Misty had a mild 242 for Westside on the opening turn, but they are not concerned yet. Starlight made good progress with 674 for Pacific, giving them a fighting chance at overcoming the deficit. Goatee shot back with 668 for the Rockers, keeping their lead steady for now. Ms. Kitty folded at 399 for the Volcanoes, draining their momentum halfway through the game despite holding a lead in leg two. Midnight buckled at 17 for Westside, destroying their advantage and inciting panic in the visitors. Twinkie I didn't get much out of the opportunity, taking 256 for Pacific heading into the final players' turns. Cowzart took 288 for the Rockers, bringing their game total to 1215, which will likely be a loss, but their series score is at 2922. Leonette couldn't muster enough of a response with 176 for the Volcanoes, and while they won the game at 1505, the 2412 they had overall costs them the series on the points tiebreaker.
Henry Ford Memorial Stadium, Pronger: The Tridents remain shorthanded as they try to overcome a 45-point deficit against the Eagles, who will sit Blizzard in this critical round two finale. Goldy set the tone with 539 for Everton, a great start for a team looking to be better in the second leg. Precious chunked a swing for Pronger, ending with only 39 as the deficit grows for the hosts. Puff III answered with 592 for the Eagles, extending their lead on the potent second attack. Zach crumbled with 168 for the Tridents, unable to lock in at a good pace as the game is getting away from the hosts. Cleo kept Everton balanced and unapproachable, tacking on 568 to their offense this time. Spot had only 340 for Pronger, their best look yet but far from a helpful performance. Kirstin kept it simple with 357 for the Eagles, icing their game total at 2056, while they finish the series with 3664 overall. Potter fell with 311, and the Tridents lost both the game at 858 and the series at 2421.
That's all for United Cup action. Tournament 2018 play continues this afternoon, while regular season cricket resumes on Monday beginning with Select Week 15. United Cup play is expected to return on April 30.
Tuesday, March 6, 2018
Tournament 2018 - Round 1 Day 33
We've got a standard day today after three days off. Tournament play will see another day off tomorrow before resuming in full on Thursday. Today's action begins with...
Apple Center, Todavía: Sierra v. Rudolph. The blue cue gets the first series today, playing 8-ball between a star and a rookie. Harrison's Rudolph struck early in game 1, getting a productive first two turns while Todavía's Sierra floundered. When Rudolph found a three-ball run-out late, Sierra was too far behind to try to counter it, and Rudolph grabbed a 1-0 series lead. The Stills' Sierra made an immediate impact with a seven-ball run on her first turn of game 2. She missed the 8 four times, allowing the Specters' Rudolph to chip his way back into the game, but Sierra had no trouble picking up the win to tie the series at 1. Game 3 featured close play between the two opponents, but Rudolph broke free with a five-ball run-out at the end, earning the win and the 2-1 series win. Rudolph is off to visit the Boston Swifts' Sweetheart in the second round.
HP Field Events Center, Midland: Americus v. Crystal. Veterans clash as the blue cue takes another 8-ball series. Midland's Americus made a strong attack with a five-ball run, but she was stalled by a scratch. Queens' Crystal tried to counter, but her attacks were less efficient, and Americus went unchallenged on the 8 to pick up the win for a 1-0 series lead. The Predators' Americus went off for a six-ball run early in game 2, but when she got onto the 8, she couldn't get a clear look. The Flames' Crystal hung back and played defense until a four-ball run-out opportunity emerged, which she converted for the win to tie the series at 1. Crystal kept the pressure high in game 3, the close game eventually falling her way when Americus couldn't make contact with a heavily defended 12 at the top right. Crystal made a pair of shots for the win and took the series 2-1, earning the right to visit the Stonebridge Wolves' Vladimir in the the second round.
Chevrolet Center, Everton: Cleo v. Oreo. The rhyming veterans meet in a series of 7-ball as the red cue debuts for the day. Everton's Cleo couldn't sustain her earlier runs in game 1, wasting a three-ball run as she scratched. Terrace City's Oreo took the win with two shots from ball-in-hand, good for a 1-0 series lead. The Knights' Oreo was lucky to see the 2 fall late on the game 2 break, as it set her up for a deflected shot off the 1 to pot the 7 at the top right. The stunning trick shot caught the Eagles' Cleo looking, as Oreo clinched the series at 2-0 to deny Cleo a chance to even the series. Cleo went off after a couple of quiet turns in game 3, making a six-ball run but scratching as the 6 fell in the top left. Oreo took the 7 from ball-in-hand, an admittedly stolen win to complete her 3-0 series sweep that takes her to the second round.
Pepsi Arena, Lighton: Katelynn v. Boots. The red cue remains in action as the event shifts to 12-ball between these veterans. Lighton's Katelynn had a ball on the break and received a favorable distribution in game 1, working a three-ball run to pressure Pearl's Boots. The visitor Boots abandoned her defense far too early, allowing Katelynn an easy path to the win and 1-0 series lead. The Surfers' Boots had the advantage in game 2, finding it much easier to get in position this time. The Prestige's Katelynn tried to maintain a defensive presence, but Boots got around her and made her last shot at the bottom left for the win, tying the series at 1. Boots and Katelynn tangled again closely in game 3, with Katelynn holding on defensively but suffering a late scratch that opened things up for Boots to take the win and 2-1 series win. Boots will visit the Central Warriors star Dustin in the second round.
GE Stadium Events Center, Southridge: Stephanie Livilotti v. Violetta. Popular sophomores clash in 9-ball with the red cue. Southridge's Stephanie made a late push with a three-ball run, including a deflected bank shot on the 8, but Queens' Violetta took the 9 after Stephanie left it short at the top right. Violetta leads the series 1-0. The Defenders' Stephanie answered with a confident appearance in game 2, getting a couple of good runs in, including a three-ball run-out to best the Flames' Violetta at the end. Stephanie's late push tied the series at 1. Stephanie had an early three-ball run in game 3, but Violetta countered that with a pair of three-ball runs to sandwich a scratch by Stephanie. Violetta's fast push gave her the 2-1 series win, and she'll visit the Archtown Arrows' Wild Thing in the second round.
Sprint Hall, Victoria: Sage v. Celestia. More 9-ball is on the way with the red cue, as a unique rookie meets a strong sophomore. Victoria's Sage tried and failed to cut the 2-9 combination to the bottom right in game 1, but Oceanside's Celestia made the 9 and scratched on a deflection play, leaving the win and 1-0 series lead in Sage's control anyway. The Spurs' Sage had a good late run in game 2, but it still took her a chase on the 9 to get the win. The Waves' Celestia left things mostly to bank shots, and Sage had a couple of close calls before eventually potting it to secure the series at 2-0. Sage failed to take control of game 3, allowing Celestia to develop a bit of offense, and she took the 9 as well to avoid the sweep. Sage won the series 2-1, and will host the Pronger Tridents' Spot in the second round.
Pepsi Arena, Lighton: Spirit v. Josie. A longtime star hosts a quick-learning rookie in Rotation with the silver cue. Lighton's Spirit gradually built up a lead early in game 1, only to see Oceanside's Josie pull level with a six-ball run. In the sprint for the finish, Spirit made the last pair of balls to win 8-6 for a 1-0 series lead. The Prestige's Spirit had the first two leads in the game 2, and she looked in good shape to win after a tough middle part of the game, but the Waves' Josie pulled back to win 8-6 on a five-ball run-out at the end, tying the series at 1 with the fierce rally. Josie did her best in game 3, dominating possession as Spirit had more errors than potted balls in this one. Josie took the win easily at 8-1, and she won the series 2-1, setting up a road series against the Westside Rockers' Midnight in the second round.
Apple Center, Todavía: Bells v. Ruby. Two experienced veterans meet in Accuracy with the silver cue. Todavía's Bells had some shaky moments in game 1, but she held on pretty well at the end, picking up the 3-6 win as Archtown's Ruby floundered late in the game. Bells leads the series 1-0 thanks to her stronger finish. Game 2 went in a number of directions, as the Arrows' Ruby and Stills' Bells exchanged leads before ending up tied at the end of regulation. Ruby blasted a ball in on the overtime break, and there were only four balls on the table when Bells finally missed, giving Ruby the 3-4 win to tie the series at 1. Game 3 was a jumbled mess in the middle of things, but Bells emerged with the same lead she went in with, and held on to win 4-5 at the end, defeating Ruby 2-1 in the series. Bells heads to the second round.
Volkswagen Stadium Events Center, Viewpoint Sound: Mams v. Stripes. Back in Rotation, the blue cue administers a series between veterans. Game 1 was all Viewpoint Sound's Mams early on, as she put herself on the verge of a win, but a multi-turn rally from Freedom's Stripes and a late scratch by Mams turned the 8-7 result in favor of Stripes, who now leads the series 1-0. The start of game 2 was a bit more muddied, but a five-ball run by the Meteors' Mams gave her a lead even with a scratch at the end. The Cascades' Stripes scrapped her way back into the lead, and pulled off a three-ball run-out in the end for an 8-6 win, banking the 14 to the bottom side to clinch the series at 2-0. Stripes saved the drama for later, taking a quick six-ball run in game 3 after a scratch by Mams, and she would later kick in the 9 and pot the 12 on a cut for the 8-4 win. Stripes swept Mams 3-0 to make it to the second round.
Pepsi Arena, Lighton: Katelynn v. Max. The blue cue comes full circle to play 8-ball again between two fairly average players. Lighton's Katelynn had a poor break in game 1, but it ended up hurting Atlantic's Max later in the game. Katelynn eventually worked a five-ball run to pull ahead, and then made two shots on her last turn for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Prestige's Katelynn spared the comeback story in game 2, instead attacking with a six-ball run to establish her lead before winning two turns later by bumping the 8 off of a defending ball left by the Pirates' Max and into the bottom side. Katelynn's heady play gave her a 2-0 series lead. Katelynn couldn't get her offense going in game 3, succumbing to a pair of nice four-ball runs by Max. Included on the first was a double-pot that saw the 10-9 combination to the top right and the deflected cue drop the 13 at the bottom right. Katelynn still won the series 2-1, and will host the Boston Swifts' Gradley for a Cola Wars Derby in the second round.
FedEx Arena, Eastside: Salmo v. Dusky. A rookie takes on a veteran in 10-ball with the red cue. Game 1 went back and forth between the two players. Eastside's Salmo had a good shot at the end, but he illegally potted the 10, and Archtown's Dusky took over possession, making the last two shots for the win and a 1-0 series lead. The Arrows' Dusky had a decent break in game 2, but she couldn't develop much possession until a three-ball run in the middle of the game. The Sharks' Salmo quickly answered this with a three-ball run-out for the win, tying the series at 1. Salmo had a majority of the possession in game 3, but despite the four-ball run and three-ball run, Dusky got the 10 at the end and took the win. Dusky will travel to face the Oceanside Waves' Josie in the second round after taking this series 2-1.
McDonald's Hall, Atlantic: Delila v. Wild Thing. Today's final series is an A-line Derby in 7-ball with the silver cue. Atlantic's Delila was about a quarter of a ball away from making a ball on the break, and this was critical, as Archtown's Wild Thing hit the 1 to bump the cue into the 7, sending it to the top right for his win. Wild Thing holds a 1-0 series lead. The Arrows' Wild Thing had to do a bit more work in game 2, but he made a ball on the break and closed with a three-ball run-out to take the series 2-0 over the Pirates' Delila, who just didn't have her best this time. Wild Thing still paced play in game 3, but he couldn't get by Delila this time, as she picked up a couple of late shots for the win, including the deflected clincher on the 7. Wild Thing still won the series 2-1, and he will visit the Modernistic Union captain Ms. Puppy in the second round.
That's all for today's games. We'll wrap up the second round of the United Cup tomorrow if all goes well, and then Tournament play will resume for a minimum of five straight days beginning Thursday.
Apple Center, Todavía: Sierra v. Rudolph. The blue cue gets the first series today, playing 8-ball between a star and a rookie. Harrison's Rudolph struck early in game 1, getting a productive first two turns while Todavía's Sierra floundered. When Rudolph found a three-ball run-out late, Sierra was too far behind to try to counter it, and Rudolph grabbed a 1-0 series lead. The Stills' Sierra made an immediate impact with a seven-ball run on her first turn of game 2. She missed the 8 four times, allowing the Specters' Rudolph to chip his way back into the game, but Sierra had no trouble picking up the win to tie the series at 1. Game 3 featured close play between the two opponents, but Rudolph broke free with a five-ball run-out at the end, earning the win and the 2-1 series win. Rudolph is off to visit the Boston Swifts' Sweetheart in the second round.
HP Field Events Center, Midland: Americus v. Crystal. Veterans clash as the blue cue takes another 8-ball series. Midland's Americus made a strong attack with a five-ball run, but she was stalled by a scratch. Queens' Crystal tried to counter, but her attacks were less efficient, and Americus went unchallenged on the 8 to pick up the win for a 1-0 series lead. The Predators' Americus went off for a six-ball run early in game 2, but when she got onto the 8, she couldn't get a clear look. The Flames' Crystal hung back and played defense until a four-ball run-out opportunity emerged, which she converted for the win to tie the series at 1. Crystal kept the pressure high in game 3, the close game eventually falling her way when Americus couldn't make contact with a heavily defended 12 at the top right. Crystal made a pair of shots for the win and took the series 2-1, earning the right to visit the Stonebridge Wolves' Vladimir in the the second round.
Chevrolet Center, Everton: Cleo v. Oreo. The rhyming veterans meet in a series of 7-ball as the red cue debuts for the day. Everton's Cleo couldn't sustain her earlier runs in game 1, wasting a three-ball run as she scratched. Terrace City's Oreo took the win with two shots from ball-in-hand, good for a 1-0 series lead. The Knights' Oreo was lucky to see the 2 fall late on the game 2 break, as it set her up for a deflected shot off the 1 to pot the 7 at the top right. The stunning trick shot caught the Eagles' Cleo looking, as Oreo clinched the series at 2-0 to deny Cleo a chance to even the series. Cleo went off after a couple of quiet turns in game 3, making a six-ball run but scratching as the 6 fell in the top left. Oreo took the 7 from ball-in-hand, an admittedly stolen win to complete her 3-0 series sweep that takes her to the second round.
Pepsi Arena, Lighton: Katelynn v. Boots. The red cue remains in action as the event shifts to 12-ball between these veterans. Lighton's Katelynn had a ball on the break and received a favorable distribution in game 1, working a three-ball run to pressure Pearl's Boots. The visitor Boots abandoned her defense far too early, allowing Katelynn an easy path to the win and 1-0 series lead. The Surfers' Boots had the advantage in game 2, finding it much easier to get in position this time. The Prestige's Katelynn tried to maintain a defensive presence, but Boots got around her and made her last shot at the bottom left for the win, tying the series at 1. Boots and Katelynn tangled again closely in game 3, with Katelynn holding on defensively but suffering a late scratch that opened things up for Boots to take the win and 2-1 series win. Boots will visit the Central Warriors star Dustin in the second round.
GE Stadium Events Center, Southridge: Stephanie Livilotti v. Violetta. Popular sophomores clash in 9-ball with the red cue. Southridge's Stephanie made a late push with a three-ball run, including a deflected bank shot on the 8, but Queens' Violetta took the 9 after Stephanie left it short at the top right. Violetta leads the series 1-0. The Defenders' Stephanie answered with a confident appearance in game 2, getting a couple of good runs in, including a three-ball run-out to best the Flames' Violetta at the end. Stephanie's late push tied the series at 1. Stephanie had an early three-ball run in game 3, but Violetta countered that with a pair of three-ball runs to sandwich a scratch by Stephanie. Violetta's fast push gave her the 2-1 series win, and she'll visit the Archtown Arrows' Wild Thing in the second round.
Sprint Hall, Victoria: Sage v. Celestia. More 9-ball is on the way with the red cue, as a unique rookie meets a strong sophomore. Victoria's Sage tried and failed to cut the 2-9 combination to the bottom right in game 1, but Oceanside's Celestia made the 9 and scratched on a deflection play, leaving the win and 1-0 series lead in Sage's control anyway. The Spurs' Sage had a good late run in game 2, but it still took her a chase on the 9 to get the win. The Waves' Celestia left things mostly to bank shots, and Sage had a couple of close calls before eventually potting it to secure the series at 2-0. Sage failed to take control of game 3, allowing Celestia to develop a bit of offense, and she took the 9 as well to avoid the sweep. Sage won the series 2-1, and will host the Pronger Tridents' Spot in the second round.
Pepsi Arena, Lighton: Spirit v. Josie. A longtime star hosts a quick-learning rookie in Rotation with the silver cue. Lighton's Spirit gradually built up a lead early in game 1, only to see Oceanside's Josie pull level with a six-ball run. In the sprint for the finish, Spirit made the last pair of balls to win 8-6 for a 1-0 series lead. The Prestige's Spirit had the first two leads in the game 2, and she looked in good shape to win after a tough middle part of the game, but the Waves' Josie pulled back to win 8-6 on a five-ball run-out at the end, tying the series at 1 with the fierce rally. Josie did her best in game 3, dominating possession as Spirit had more errors than potted balls in this one. Josie took the win easily at 8-1, and she won the series 2-1, setting up a road series against the Westside Rockers' Midnight in the second round.
Apple Center, Todavía: Bells v. Ruby. Two experienced veterans meet in Accuracy with the silver cue. Todavía's Bells had some shaky moments in game 1, but she held on pretty well at the end, picking up the 3-6 win as Archtown's Ruby floundered late in the game. Bells leads the series 1-0 thanks to her stronger finish. Game 2 went in a number of directions, as the Arrows' Ruby and Stills' Bells exchanged leads before ending up tied at the end of regulation. Ruby blasted a ball in on the overtime break, and there were only four balls on the table when Bells finally missed, giving Ruby the 3-4 win to tie the series at 1. Game 3 was a jumbled mess in the middle of things, but Bells emerged with the same lead she went in with, and held on to win 4-5 at the end, defeating Ruby 2-1 in the series. Bells heads to the second round.
Volkswagen Stadium Events Center, Viewpoint Sound: Mams v. Stripes. Back in Rotation, the blue cue administers a series between veterans. Game 1 was all Viewpoint Sound's Mams early on, as she put herself on the verge of a win, but a multi-turn rally from Freedom's Stripes and a late scratch by Mams turned the 8-7 result in favor of Stripes, who now leads the series 1-0. The start of game 2 was a bit more muddied, but a five-ball run by the Meteors' Mams gave her a lead even with a scratch at the end. The Cascades' Stripes scrapped her way back into the lead, and pulled off a three-ball run-out in the end for an 8-6 win, banking the 14 to the bottom side to clinch the series at 2-0. Stripes saved the drama for later, taking a quick six-ball run in game 3 after a scratch by Mams, and she would later kick in the 9 and pot the 12 on a cut for the 8-4 win. Stripes swept Mams 3-0 to make it to the second round.
Pepsi Arena, Lighton: Katelynn v. Max. The blue cue comes full circle to play 8-ball again between two fairly average players. Lighton's Katelynn had a poor break in game 1, but it ended up hurting Atlantic's Max later in the game. Katelynn eventually worked a five-ball run to pull ahead, and then made two shots on her last turn for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Prestige's Katelynn spared the comeback story in game 2, instead attacking with a six-ball run to establish her lead before winning two turns later by bumping the 8 off of a defending ball left by the Pirates' Max and into the bottom side. Katelynn's heady play gave her a 2-0 series lead. Katelynn couldn't get her offense going in game 3, succumbing to a pair of nice four-ball runs by Max. Included on the first was a double-pot that saw the 10-9 combination to the top right and the deflected cue drop the 13 at the bottom right. Katelynn still won the series 2-1, and will host the Boston Swifts' Gradley for a Cola Wars Derby in the second round.
FedEx Arena, Eastside: Salmo v. Dusky. A rookie takes on a veteran in 10-ball with the red cue. Game 1 went back and forth between the two players. Eastside's Salmo had a good shot at the end, but he illegally potted the 10, and Archtown's Dusky took over possession, making the last two shots for the win and a 1-0 series lead. The Arrows' Dusky had a decent break in game 2, but she couldn't develop much possession until a three-ball run in the middle of the game. The Sharks' Salmo quickly answered this with a three-ball run-out for the win, tying the series at 1. Salmo had a majority of the possession in game 3, but despite the four-ball run and three-ball run, Dusky got the 10 at the end and took the win. Dusky will travel to face the Oceanside Waves' Josie in the second round after taking this series 2-1.
McDonald's Hall, Atlantic: Delila v. Wild Thing. Today's final series is an A-line Derby in 7-ball with the silver cue. Atlantic's Delila was about a quarter of a ball away from making a ball on the break, and this was critical, as Archtown's Wild Thing hit the 1 to bump the cue into the 7, sending it to the top right for his win. Wild Thing holds a 1-0 series lead. The Arrows' Wild Thing had to do a bit more work in game 2, but he made a ball on the break and closed with a three-ball run-out to take the series 2-0 over the Pirates' Delila, who just didn't have her best this time. Wild Thing still paced play in game 3, but he couldn't get by Delila this time, as she picked up a couple of late shots for the win, including the deflected clincher on the 7. Wild Thing still won the series 2-1, and he will visit the Modernistic Union captain Ms. Puppy in the second round.
That's all for today's games. We'll wrap up the second round of the United Cup tomorrow if all goes well, and then Tournament play will resume for a minimum of five straight days beginning Thursday.
United Cup 2018 - Round 2 Leg 1
UPCL Cricket leagues are now done with 14 weeks of the season, leading to the second round of the United Cup. Twelve two-leg fixtures are scheduled, with the first legs coming on Monday and Tuesday, followed by the second legs to be completed by Friday. We begin in the Select division with....
Volkswagen Stadium, Viewpoint Sound: The Meteors take this opportunity to rest their captain Mams, while the Prestige have Spirit taking rest in this game. Acorn struggled after the long layoff, taking only 60 points for Lighton in a poor start. Hoot couldn't deal with a cluttered pitch, ending at 217 for Viewpoint Sound as they take a narrow early lead. Katelynn shot back with 455 for the Prestige, pulling them ahead on a better second attack. Nibbles couldn't counter very well for the Meteors, falling with a poor 191 as they now slip behind. Nicole churned her way to 1104 for Lighton, the highly productive outing strengthening their lead greatly. Vincent melted at a measly 69 for Viewpoint Sound, unable to even dent the deficit late in the game. Waluigi tapped 90 for the Prestige at the end, icing their game one effort at 1709. Dani managed only 37 for the Meteors, with their loss at 514 overall. Lighton takes a hefty lead back home for the second leg.
Microsoft Pitch, Del Sur: The Monarchs enter the fray against a struggling Lumberjacks side. The visiting Lumberjacks rest their captain Diddley, while the Monarchs sit Hoppy this time. Whiskers brought a bit of heat for Maplewood with a nice 633 on the opening turn. Avril countered with 926 for Southern, putting the hosts ahead in a fiery start to this series. Bryant responded with 583 for the Lumberjacks, pulling them ahead on the second attack as the scoring remains high. Panda plucked 367 for the Monarchs, weakening their lead halfway through the close game. Gabe had 312 for Maplewood, a less-than-convincing effort from the veteran when they needed a bit more. Pounce shot back with 543 for Southern on the counterattack, giving them an edge with a player each to go. Summer made it interesting with 463 for the Lumberjacks at the end, putting their final at 1991. Dominic gained 266 for the Monarchs, placing them at 2102 in a tough win. Southern will travel with a 111-point lead that leaves plenty to play for in the return match.
Toyota Pitch, Freedom: Two red-clad opponents, currently second and third in Select, meet in this marquee series. The Crowns sit Cassie, showing intent to compete, while Jasmine rests for the Cascades. Kayla didn't have a great outing for Royal, taking a meager 94 to start them off. Stinky answered with 507 for Freedom, putting them ahead right from the start of the game. Jake shot back with 759 for the Crowns, continuing his United Cup run of form to put them ahead for now. Roxy countered that effectively with 719 for the Cascades, keeping the hosts in charge at the midway mark. Jeremias found good pace with 537 for Royal, but they will still need to make a late move. Nikolai covered that damage with 543 for Freedom, maintaining their lead late in the game. Nightfur had to go to her backhand for the Crowns, but she missed the next offering and fell at 326, leaving them to lose with 1716. Stripes capped the Cascades win with her 423, bringing their total up to 2192 in a confident win. Freedom will enjoy a cushion of nearly 500 points in the second leg.
GE Stadium, Southridge: The Defenders jump in with a fairly calm series, facing a Wolves team struggling in league play. Vladimir sits for the visitors, while Hughbert gets the game off for the hosts. Juno had a good pace going, but she failed to corral a fast ball and ended with 224 for Stonebridge. Bianca calmly tapped 400 for Southridge, putting them ahead on the initial turn. Frosty's bad form in United Cup play continued with a pathetic 28 for the Wolves in this outing. Debby answered with 440 for the Defenders this time, keeping their lead strong but not overbearing. Hershey made a rally with 690 for Stonebridge, pulling them back into the conversation. Stephanie provided 407 for Southridge, keeping their offense balanced and strong as the final players come to bat. Cobalt couldn't force a response with 294 for the Wolves, giving them a losing total of 1236. Caitlin had only 48, bringing the game to a quick end as the Defenders win with 1295. Southridge only enjoys a 59-point lead when they travel in leg two.
AT&T Oceanside Stadium, Oceanside: The Waves enter United Cup play against the Flames, and the hosts will rest their captain Snuggle while the visitors sit their captain Crystal. Violetta got unlucky as a deflection downed her at 99 for Queens, damaging her team's start to the game. Celestia hammered 840 for Oceanside on the opening turn, giving the hosts a significant lead at the start. Briana answered with 399 for the Flames, recovering about half of the deficit. Josie faltered at 144 for the Waves on her turn, weakening their lead at the halfway mark. Kyle made a bigger push with 431 for Queens, trying to bring them onto level terms with the hosts. Dewey fought off the danger with 539 for Oceanside, keeping them ahead as the final players step up to bat. Hannah kept the Flames alive with 603, bringing their total to 1532. Jason V. provided an even better 647 to secure the Waves' win at 2170, giving them a 638-point advantage in leg two.
Cisco Tysini Field, Tysini: The Hummingbirds still occupy third place, and host the seventh place Surfers. The visitors made a tough choice to sit Beth this time, while Brownie rests for the hosts. Boots plowed through 642 for Pearl at the start, challenging the hosts immediately. Princess got 434 back for Tysini on their opening turn, but they've got more ground to cover. Watermelon smashed 965 for the Surfers on the second attack, boosting their lead significantly. Leandra answered with 424, but the Hummingbirds find themselves chasing their visitors at the midway point. Neopolitan also stayed in form for Pearl on her turn with 517, extending their lead again. Charli countered with 904 for Tysini, unwilling to let the visitors go unchecked. Bright poked 584 for the Surfers just for some more added safety to their lead, giving them a total of 2708 in their best United Cup game so far. Paps gathered 460 for the Hummingbirds, mitigating the damage as they close with 2222. Pearl leads by just under 500 points, and they will be at home in leg two.
Nissan Infinity Stadium, Infinity: The Torpedoes have Smudge resting for the first leg in their United Cup appearance, while the Tradewinds give Niki much-needed rest. Tigerette had a decent 264 for Commerce to start out, but that may make them vulnerable early on. Fluffina couldn't capitalize for Infinity, a deflection downing her at 176 to limit her offense. Taylor answered with 400 for the Tradewinds, giving them a better second attack and a stronger lead. Solaris challenged that quite well for the Torpedoes, gathering 742 to put the hosts ahead halfway through the game. Lionel reasserted Commerce in the game, clubbing 631 to regain the lead. Shelley buckled at a weak 12 for Infinity, giving them a steep deficit with a player each to go. Rosemary fell with 171 for the Tradewinds, leaving them exposed at 1466 overall in a more challenging second round fixture. Mr. Snowman closed the gap a bit with 328 for the Torpedoes, but they took the loss at 1258. Commerce heads home with a 208-point lead to protect.
Capital City SuperCenter, Capital City: The last of the Elite leg one matches sees the top and bottom teams meet. Sprinkles rests for the hosts, while the visitors sit Sleepy B. in this one. Sally failed with 58 for Archtown, as her team's task gets even tougher. Chris countered on a soft 215 for Capital City, giving them a mild lead after the first turn. Ruby popped a strong 471 for the Arrows on her turn, pulling them more confidently ahead on the second attack. Missy gathered 537 for the Sharpshooters, reclaiming their lead halfway through the game. Dusky sliced 321 for Archtown, helping keep the visitors involved in the offense. Lorde slipped up at 112 for Capital City, weakening their postion late in the game. Wild Thing tapped 152 for the Arrows, leaving them at a final of 1002 for the game. Pauline did her part with 337 for the Sharpshooters, giving them the win at 1201. The Sharpshooters took it easy and still travel ahead by 199 points.
Apple Park, Todavía: Premier teams enter the battle starting now, with the visiting Warriors resting their captain Twilight while the hosts sit their star Sierra. Dustin had a rough start with 182 for Central this time, setting a low bar for the hosts at the start. Easter had plenty of pace for Todavía, but she sent a ball out of play and ended at 264 to give the hosts a narrow lead. Mario carved out a strong 639 for the Warriors on the second attack, giving them a stronger lead. Bells countered with 735 for the Stills, adding a little more to their lead at the halfway mark with a productive turn. Wings couldn't quite get a touch on his backhand for Central, falling at 455 as his wicket fell. Prism faltered with a weak 81 for Todavía, allowing them to slip behind with a player each to go. Noelle slammed 652 for the Warriors to pad their lead at the end, for a final score of 1928. Anton fell at 230 for the Stills, leaving them in a loss at 1310. Central carries a significant lead of 618 points into the second leg, which they host.
BMW RockDome, Westside: The Rockers start this series with Cowzart on the bench, while the Volcanoes sit Leonette as both teams would like a deep run in this competition. Starlight couldn't clear the pitch for herself, ending at just 15 points after a deflection took her wicket for Pacific. Misty didn't have much trouble giving Westside the lead, but she still ended at a modest 288 on the first turn. Ms. Kitty cleaned up the performance for the Volcanoes with 465 on her turn, but they are far from safe. Goatee played risky and paid for it rather early, ending at 227 despite a fantastic pace for the Rockers. Twinkie I did well with 391 for Pacific, restoring their lead at least temporarily. Slinks overcame a slow start for Westside, slashing 552 to put them more firmly ahead late in the game. Chicky Phil couldn't make a response with 36 for the Volcanoes, and they lost with 907 total. Midnight hung 640 on the visitors, boosting the Rockers to their final score of 1707. Westside holds an 800-point lead as they travel for the second leg.
HP Field, Midland: The Predators will give Rainmane rest in this appearance, while the Knights hope benching Quincy will ignite their offense for the stretch run. Kiwi had only 314 for Terrace City on a fairly long turn, as she struggled to keep her pace up. Shawn had only 256 for Midland, wasting a better pace by not being able to control his swings well enough. Jennifer couldn't corral a deflected ball on her backhand, keeping the low-scoring motif going with 304 on her turn. Leonardo failed to capitalize on another chance, ending at 285 as the Predators continue to struggle. Oreo mishit a ball and ended up with 69 for Terrace City, leaving them more vulnerable than ever. Americus broke out with 650 for Midland, finally putting them ahead with a player each to go. Melissa couldn't recover with 160 for the Knights, leaving them to lose at 847. Fuchsia tacked on 375 as the Predators won with 1566. Midland will hold a significant lead as they travel for the second leg.
Chevrolet Field, Everton: The Tridents remain shorthanded due to Lize's injury recovery, which will keep her out of both games in this competition. The Eagles rest Cleo in the first leg. Precious tallied a mediocre 240 for Pronger on the opening turn, unable to make a big rally. Goldy made a great play on her backhand, but in the frenzy, she sliced a later offering too high to end at 84 for Everton. Zach tallied another 283 for the Tridents, not game-breaking but enough to extend their current lead. Puff III answered with a massive 807 for the Eagles, setting them ahead at the midway mark. Spot chose to take an optional replay, and he made gains with 409 for Pronger to cover the previous deficit. Kirstin clobbered 523 in response to that, giving Everton a sturdy lead late in the game. Potter shot back with 631 for the Tridents, trying to give them a chance as they finish with 1563. Blizzard had an ungraceful 194 for the Eagles at the end, sealing their score at 1608 for a narrow win of 45 points.
That's all for the first legs of each series. Tomorrow, a large chunk of the second legs will be completed in lieu of Tournament play, which will go this afternoon and then resume in earnest on Thursday.
Volkswagen Stadium, Viewpoint Sound: The Meteors take this opportunity to rest their captain Mams, while the Prestige have Spirit taking rest in this game. Acorn struggled after the long layoff, taking only 60 points for Lighton in a poor start. Hoot couldn't deal with a cluttered pitch, ending at 217 for Viewpoint Sound as they take a narrow early lead. Katelynn shot back with 455 for the Prestige, pulling them ahead on a better second attack. Nibbles couldn't counter very well for the Meteors, falling with a poor 191 as they now slip behind. Nicole churned her way to 1104 for Lighton, the highly productive outing strengthening their lead greatly. Vincent melted at a measly 69 for Viewpoint Sound, unable to even dent the deficit late in the game. Waluigi tapped 90 for the Prestige at the end, icing their game one effort at 1709. Dani managed only 37 for the Meteors, with their loss at 514 overall. Lighton takes a hefty lead back home for the second leg.
Microsoft Pitch, Del Sur: The Monarchs enter the fray against a struggling Lumberjacks side. The visiting Lumberjacks rest their captain Diddley, while the Monarchs sit Hoppy this time. Whiskers brought a bit of heat for Maplewood with a nice 633 on the opening turn. Avril countered with 926 for Southern, putting the hosts ahead in a fiery start to this series. Bryant responded with 583 for the Lumberjacks, pulling them ahead on the second attack as the scoring remains high. Panda plucked 367 for the Monarchs, weakening their lead halfway through the close game. Gabe had 312 for Maplewood, a less-than-convincing effort from the veteran when they needed a bit more. Pounce shot back with 543 for Southern on the counterattack, giving them an edge with a player each to go. Summer made it interesting with 463 for the Lumberjacks at the end, putting their final at 1991. Dominic gained 266 for the Monarchs, placing them at 2102 in a tough win. Southern will travel with a 111-point lead that leaves plenty to play for in the return match.
Toyota Pitch, Freedom: Two red-clad opponents, currently second and third in Select, meet in this marquee series. The Crowns sit Cassie, showing intent to compete, while Jasmine rests for the Cascades. Kayla didn't have a great outing for Royal, taking a meager 94 to start them off. Stinky answered with 507 for Freedom, putting them ahead right from the start of the game. Jake shot back with 759 for the Crowns, continuing his United Cup run of form to put them ahead for now. Roxy countered that effectively with 719 for the Cascades, keeping the hosts in charge at the midway mark. Jeremias found good pace with 537 for Royal, but they will still need to make a late move. Nikolai covered that damage with 543 for Freedom, maintaining their lead late in the game. Nightfur had to go to her backhand for the Crowns, but she missed the next offering and fell at 326, leaving them to lose with 1716. Stripes capped the Cascades win with her 423, bringing their total up to 2192 in a confident win. Freedom will enjoy a cushion of nearly 500 points in the second leg.
GE Stadium, Southridge: The Defenders jump in with a fairly calm series, facing a Wolves team struggling in league play. Vladimir sits for the visitors, while Hughbert gets the game off for the hosts. Juno had a good pace going, but she failed to corral a fast ball and ended with 224 for Stonebridge. Bianca calmly tapped 400 for Southridge, putting them ahead on the initial turn. Frosty's bad form in United Cup play continued with a pathetic 28 for the Wolves in this outing. Debby answered with 440 for the Defenders this time, keeping their lead strong but not overbearing. Hershey made a rally with 690 for Stonebridge, pulling them back into the conversation. Stephanie provided 407 for Southridge, keeping their offense balanced and strong as the final players come to bat. Cobalt couldn't force a response with 294 for the Wolves, giving them a losing total of 1236. Caitlin had only 48, bringing the game to a quick end as the Defenders win with 1295. Southridge only enjoys a 59-point lead when they travel in leg two.
AT&T Oceanside Stadium, Oceanside: The Waves enter United Cup play against the Flames, and the hosts will rest their captain Snuggle while the visitors sit their captain Crystal. Violetta got unlucky as a deflection downed her at 99 for Queens, damaging her team's start to the game. Celestia hammered 840 for Oceanside on the opening turn, giving the hosts a significant lead at the start. Briana answered with 399 for the Flames, recovering about half of the deficit. Josie faltered at 144 for the Waves on her turn, weakening their lead at the halfway mark. Kyle made a bigger push with 431 for Queens, trying to bring them onto level terms with the hosts. Dewey fought off the danger with 539 for Oceanside, keeping them ahead as the final players step up to bat. Hannah kept the Flames alive with 603, bringing their total to 1532. Jason V. provided an even better 647 to secure the Waves' win at 2170, giving them a 638-point advantage in leg two.
Cisco Tysini Field, Tysini: The Hummingbirds still occupy third place, and host the seventh place Surfers. The visitors made a tough choice to sit Beth this time, while Brownie rests for the hosts. Boots plowed through 642 for Pearl at the start, challenging the hosts immediately. Princess got 434 back for Tysini on their opening turn, but they've got more ground to cover. Watermelon smashed 965 for the Surfers on the second attack, boosting their lead significantly. Leandra answered with 424, but the Hummingbirds find themselves chasing their visitors at the midway point. Neopolitan also stayed in form for Pearl on her turn with 517, extending their lead again. Charli countered with 904 for Tysini, unwilling to let the visitors go unchecked. Bright poked 584 for the Surfers just for some more added safety to their lead, giving them a total of 2708 in their best United Cup game so far. Paps gathered 460 for the Hummingbirds, mitigating the damage as they close with 2222. Pearl leads by just under 500 points, and they will be at home in leg two.
Nissan Infinity Stadium, Infinity: The Torpedoes have Smudge resting for the first leg in their United Cup appearance, while the Tradewinds give Niki much-needed rest. Tigerette had a decent 264 for Commerce to start out, but that may make them vulnerable early on. Fluffina couldn't capitalize for Infinity, a deflection downing her at 176 to limit her offense. Taylor answered with 400 for the Tradewinds, giving them a better second attack and a stronger lead. Solaris challenged that quite well for the Torpedoes, gathering 742 to put the hosts ahead halfway through the game. Lionel reasserted Commerce in the game, clubbing 631 to regain the lead. Shelley buckled at a weak 12 for Infinity, giving them a steep deficit with a player each to go. Rosemary fell with 171 for the Tradewinds, leaving them exposed at 1466 overall in a more challenging second round fixture. Mr. Snowman closed the gap a bit with 328 for the Torpedoes, but they took the loss at 1258. Commerce heads home with a 208-point lead to protect.
Capital City SuperCenter, Capital City: The last of the Elite leg one matches sees the top and bottom teams meet. Sprinkles rests for the hosts, while the visitors sit Sleepy B. in this one. Sally failed with 58 for Archtown, as her team's task gets even tougher. Chris countered on a soft 215 for Capital City, giving them a mild lead after the first turn. Ruby popped a strong 471 for the Arrows on her turn, pulling them more confidently ahead on the second attack. Missy gathered 537 for the Sharpshooters, reclaiming their lead halfway through the game. Dusky sliced 321 for Archtown, helping keep the visitors involved in the offense. Lorde slipped up at 112 for Capital City, weakening their postion late in the game. Wild Thing tapped 152 for the Arrows, leaving them at a final of 1002 for the game. Pauline did her part with 337 for the Sharpshooters, giving them the win at 1201. The Sharpshooters took it easy and still travel ahead by 199 points.
Apple Park, Todavía: Premier teams enter the battle starting now, with the visiting Warriors resting their captain Twilight while the hosts sit their star Sierra. Dustin had a rough start with 182 for Central this time, setting a low bar for the hosts at the start. Easter had plenty of pace for Todavía, but she sent a ball out of play and ended at 264 to give the hosts a narrow lead. Mario carved out a strong 639 for the Warriors on the second attack, giving them a stronger lead. Bells countered with 735 for the Stills, adding a little more to their lead at the halfway mark with a productive turn. Wings couldn't quite get a touch on his backhand for Central, falling at 455 as his wicket fell. Prism faltered with a weak 81 for Todavía, allowing them to slip behind with a player each to go. Noelle slammed 652 for the Warriors to pad their lead at the end, for a final score of 1928. Anton fell at 230 for the Stills, leaving them in a loss at 1310. Central carries a significant lead of 618 points into the second leg, which they host.
BMW RockDome, Westside: The Rockers start this series with Cowzart on the bench, while the Volcanoes sit Leonette as both teams would like a deep run in this competition. Starlight couldn't clear the pitch for herself, ending at just 15 points after a deflection took her wicket for Pacific. Misty didn't have much trouble giving Westside the lead, but she still ended at a modest 288 on the first turn. Ms. Kitty cleaned up the performance for the Volcanoes with 465 on her turn, but they are far from safe. Goatee played risky and paid for it rather early, ending at 227 despite a fantastic pace for the Rockers. Twinkie I did well with 391 for Pacific, restoring their lead at least temporarily. Slinks overcame a slow start for Westside, slashing 552 to put them more firmly ahead late in the game. Chicky Phil couldn't make a response with 36 for the Volcanoes, and they lost with 907 total. Midnight hung 640 on the visitors, boosting the Rockers to their final score of 1707. Westside holds an 800-point lead as they travel for the second leg.
HP Field, Midland: The Predators will give Rainmane rest in this appearance, while the Knights hope benching Quincy will ignite their offense for the stretch run. Kiwi had only 314 for Terrace City on a fairly long turn, as she struggled to keep her pace up. Shawn had only 256 for Midland, wasting a better pace by not being able to control his swings well enough. Jennifer couldn't corral a deflected ball on her backhand, keeping the low-scoring motif going with 304 on her turn. Leonardo failed to capitalize on another chance, ending at 285 as the Predators continue to struggle. Oreo mishit a ball and ended up with 69 for Terrace City, leaving them more vulnerable than ever. Americus broke out with 650 for Midland, finally putting them ahead with a player each to go. Melissa couldn't recover with 160 for the Knights, leaving them to lose at 847. Fuchsia tacked on 375 as the Predators won with 1566. Midland will hold a significant lead as they travel for the second leg.
Chevrolet Field, Everton: The Tridents remain shorthanded due to Lize's injury recovery, which will keep her out of both games in this competition. The Eagles rest Cleo in the first leg. Precious tallied a mediocre 240 for Pronger on the opening turn, unable to make a big rally. Goldy made a great play on her backhand, but in the frenzy, she sliced a later offering too high to end at 84 for Everton. Zach tallied another 283 for the Tridents, not game-breaking but enough to extend their current lead. Puff III answered with a massive 807 for the Eagles, setting them ahead at the midway mark. Spot chose to take an optional replay, and he made gains with 409 for Pronger to cover the previous deficit. Kirstin clobbered 523 in response to that, giving Everton a sturdy lead late in the game. Potter shot back with 631 for the Tridents, trying to give them a chance as they finish with 1563. Blizzard had an ungraceful 194 for the Eagles at the end, sealing their score at 1608 for a narrow win of 45 points.
That's all for the first legs of each series. Tomorrow, a large chunk of the second legs will be completed in lieu of Tournament play, which will go this afternoon and then resume in earnest on Thursday.
Friday, March 2, 2018
Tournament 2018 - Round 1 Day 32
We're back for our last action before the weekend break, with a standard set of games on tap. We begin with...
Sprint Hall, Victoria: Yekaterina Vasilyeva v. Max. The silver cue gets the first series today, playing in 12-ball. Victoria's Yekaterina started off alright, but Atlantic's Max was better early in game 1. Yekaterina countered with a three-ball run, and then beat Max to the bottom side for her last shot, winning to take a 1-0 series lead. The Spurs' Yekaterina gave away a wild-card ball on the break of a gritty game 2, and while she got down to her last ball, she was too slow to line it up, allowing the Pirates' Max to use his shot flexibility for the win. The series is now tied at 1. Yekaterina played cleaner in game 3, but she wasn't fast enough, her early three-ball run easily matched by Max. Yekaterina then had an illegal contact, leading to Max setting up his finish, which he converted two turns later to win the series 2-1, punching his ticket to the second round.
Samsung Arena, Whitewater: Katharine McPhee v. Smudge. The blue cue is up now, also playing 12-ball. Whitewater's Katharine had a good start on a three-ball run from the break, but she also gave Infinity's Smudge a wild-card ball. Smudge make quick work of the corners in game 1, and managed to cut her last ball to the bottom side before Katharine could do the same. Smudge leads the series 1-0. The Torpedoes' Smudge had a decent performance at the start of game 2, but she had difficulty getting her last two shots aligned, and the Shores' Katharine was quick enough to pluck her last shot to the bottom side for the win, tying the series at 1. Smudge had game 3 in her hands, but she intentionally and illegally sank her last ball, sparking a three-ball run-out from Katharine, who overcame a wild-card ball disadvantage to get the win and the 2-1 series win. The surprise ending puts Katharine into the second round, where she hosts Smudge's Torpedoes teammate Fluffina.
Capital City SuperCenter, Capital City: Sprinkles v. Frosty. The blue cue remains in action for a series of 10-ball between veterans. Stonebridge's Frosty provided an intimidating three-ball run early in game 1, but things settled down until Capital City's Sprinkles buried a three-ball run-out for the win and a 1-0 series lead. The Sharpshooters' Sprinkles made a pair of shots early in game 2, and then left the Wolves' Frosty with bad positioning. Frosty used a masse shot for contact, but she set up Sprinkles for a 3-4-10 combination to the bottom right, which Sprinkles converted for the win. Sprinkles clinched the series at 2-0 with the fortunate play. Game 3 was a mess for both players, neither able to keep their shots clean. Sprinkles came close to winning on a bank of the 10 that hung on the edge of the bottom left, where Frosty tapped it in for her only win. Sprinkles took the series 2-1, advancing to host Harrison Specters captain Twinkie II in the second round.
McDonald's Hall, Atlantic: Steven v. Jennifer Livilotti. The red cue comes on for its daily debut in Accuracy after the lunch break. Atlantic's Steven started well in game 1, but he fell behind a couple of times, including once late. Terrace City's Jennifer couldn't initially hold onto her late lead, but another late miss form Steven helped Jennifer win 2-3 for a 1-0 series lead. The Knights' Jennifer couldn't get a grip in game 2, falling behind early and spiraling out of control by the end, while the Pirates' Steven calmly collected a 1-6 win to tie the series at 1 with a confident game. Jennifer played a nearly perfect game up to the end, when she absolutely fell apart. Steven helped with that, and the game went into overtime, where both players missed their first shots. Steven pressed from here on, winning 4-5 when Jennifer finally missed a long shot on the 8. Steven takes the series 2-1 as he advances to the second round.
GE Stadium Events Center, Southridge: Hughbert v. Starlight. The blue cue returns to action with 15-ball in this series. Game 1 was filled with two- and three-ball runs for the most part, and many turns ended in an error. Southridge's Hughbert nearly gave the game away, but Pacific's Starlight couldn't make the 11-15 combination. Starlight still won, taking the last two balls on her next turn for a 1-0 series lead. The Volcanoes' Starlight had a more shattered break in game 2, but the errors and short runs persisted partially. The play was otherwise choppier, as the Defenders' Hughbert rattled many shots out, but he did get the win when Starlight missed on the 15 and he tapped it in. Hughbert's win tied the series at 1. Game 3 looked to be headed in the same direction as the previous two, but Starlight changed the course, ripping an eleven-ball run-out to give herself a commanding win and the series at 2-1. Starlight's epic run propels her into a road meeting with Atlantic Pirates captain Delila in the second round.
GE Stadium Events Center, Southridge: Bianca v. Mitchell. A venue doubleheader concludes in 9-ball with the silver cue. Southridge's Bianca had a good performance in game 1, successfully rebuffing a challenge from Harrison's Mitchell near the end of the game to pick up the win and a 1-0 series lead. The Defenders' Bianca provided a bit more offense in game 2, working a pair of balls on a fantastic break, and then winning with a five-ball run-out, as the Specters' Mitchell didn't offer as much of a challenge this time. Bianca secured the series at 2-0 with this win. Bianca looked ready to keep going in game 3, but Mitchell popped up at the end to salvage something from the series. Bianca's four-ball run was met by Mitchell's three-ball run-out, giving Bianca a 2-1 series win she'll take into her series against the Lighton Prestige's Waluigi in round two.
Audi Hall, Terrace City: Kiwi v. Josie. A captain and a rookie meet in this series of 10-ball with the red cue. Game 1 lacked a definitive run for either player, as most shots were made individually. Terrace City's Kiwi had some late momentum, but Oceanside's Josie was the one to take the 10 for the win and a 1-0 series lead. The Knights' Kiwi had a better game 2, making a five-ball run on her first turn, but her light touch on the 5 ignited a four-ball run-out by the Waves' Josie, a brilliant counterattack that secured the series at 2-0 for the rookie. Game 3 looked a lot like game 1, except with much more frustration from Kiwi, who had trouble getting clear looks on her shots. Josie didn't play her best, but she did make the last two shots for the win and a 3-0 series sweep as she earns a spot in the second round.
Capital City SuperCenter, Capital City: Sprinkles v. Rosalina. The red cue remains in action for Accuracy. Diamond's Rosalina managed to induce a bunch of misses on Capital City's Sprinkles in the middle of game 1, and while Rosalina faded late, her last shot gave her a 3-4 win as Sprinkles made the last ball afterwards. Rosalina leads the series 1-0. The Sharpshooters' Sprinkles played much better in game 2, hardly missing at all except for one shot early on. The Gems' Rosalina immediately followed that with a pair of misses, leading to Sprinkles winning 1-3 to tie the series at 1. Game 3 saw Rosalina fall behind twice early on, but she held on and forced overtime, which Sprinkles also had to break. Sprinkles used a soft break strategy, and then hammered the rack apart on her second turn of overtime as both players missed. Rosalina had a simple enough shot, but she missed, and Sprinkles won 4-5 to take the series 2-1 and move along to the second round.
Capital City SuperCenter, Capital City: Missy v. Luigi. Another venue doubleheader comes to a close in 10-ball with the blue cue. Capital City's Missy started game 1 with an air of nonchalance, but after a little offense by North Modernistic's Luigi, Missy woke up and picked a three-ball run-out at the end for the win. Missy leads the series 1-0. The Sharpshooters' Missy played even better in game 2, dominating possession early and late to stifle any offense from the Nighthawks' Luigi. Missy got the win on a five-ball run-out, following an earlier three-ball run as she clinched the series at 2-0. Luigi had some good looks in game 3 after Missy put the 10 near the bottom right on the break, but Missy would get the win as she drew the cue off the 5 to tap the winner in. Missy swept the series 3-0, earning the right to host the Oceanside Waves' Celestia in the second round.
Google Hall, Modernistic: Ms. Puppy v. Smudge. Captains clash in this 7-ball series, using the silver cue. Modernistic's Ms. Puppy wasted no time in establishing herself in the series, burying the 7 decisively at the top left on the break to take a 1-0 series lead over Infinity's Smudge. The Union's Ms. Puppy did cede possession after a scratch on the break in game 2. The Torpedoes' Smudge made a three-ball run, but with a little luck, Ms. Puppy finished a three-ball run-out as the 7 fell in the top side as a second choice location. Ms. Puppy's bold finish earned her the series at 2-0. Ms. Puppy still had the majority of possession in game 3 with two separate pairs of balls potted, but she left the 7 up for Smudge to bury at the bottom right for her only win. Ms. Puppy advances to the second round on a 2-1 series win.
FedEx Arena, Eastside: Chelsea v. Debby Ryan. Two talented veterans keep the silver cue in play for a 12-ball series. Eastside's Chelsea had a good first two turns in game 1, with a three-ball run from the break and another pair putting her close to victory. Southridge's Debby countered that with a later four-ball run, and she was first to get positioning on her last shot, taking the win and a 1-0 series lead in a thrilling game. The Sharks' Chelsea made up for last game with a quick attack in game 2, easily picking the corners with stripes early on. The Defenders' Debby never really got going this time, and Chelsea eventually took the sides for the win, tying the series at 1. Debby tried to make a quick attack in game 3, but she was foiled by a patient attack from Chelsea, who set herself up and then converted a five-ball run-out for the win. Chelsea heads to the second round with the bold finish, one of six of her bids proceeding.
Google Hall, Modernistic: Puff I v. Citrus. The red cue closes up the week with Accuracy in today's final series. Modernistic's Puff I fell behind early but stayed close until about midway through the rack. At this point, Puff I was unable to gain any traction, as Diamond's Citrus coasted to a 0-6 win for a 1-0 series lead. Game 2 saw really good exchanges of shots despite the Union's Puff I going down by a shot early on. She briefly tied it when the Gems' Citrus missed, but Puff I soon fell behind again on a scratch. Citrus made sure to end her 1-3 win in style with a triple-pot, making the 2-7 combination to the bottom right, while the 2 banked back to the top side and the cue deflected to take the 13 at the bottom side. Citrus holds a 2-0 series lead. Citrus didn't have her best in game 3, but she still almost forced Puff I into overtime late. Puff I managed to hold onto what was left of her lead for a 4-5 win, while Citrus heads to the second round with a 2-1 series win.
That's all for today's games. UPCL action of all types resumes on Monday.
Sprint Hall, Victoria: Yekaterina Vasilyeva v. Max. The silver cue gets the first series today, playing in 12-ball. Victoria's Yekaterina started off alright, but Atlantic's Max was better early in game 1. Yekaterina countered with a three-ball run, and then beat Max to the bottom side for her last shot, winning to take a 1-0 series lead. The Spurs' Yekaterina gave away a wild-card ball on the break of a gritty game 2, and while she got down to her last ball, she was too slow to line it up, allowing the Pirates' Max to use his shot flexibility for the win. The series is now tied at 1. Yekaterina played cleaner in game 3, but she wasn't fast enough, her early three-ball run easily matched by Max. Yekaterina then had an illegal contact, leading to Max setting up his finish, which he converted two turns later to win the series 2-1, punching his ticket to the second round.
Samsung Arena, Whitewater: Katharine McPhee v. Smudge. The blue cue is up now, also playing 12-ball. Whitewater's Katharine had a good start on a three-ball run from the break, but she also gave Infinity's Smudge a wild-card ball. Smudge make quick work of the corners in game 1, and managed to cut her last ball to the bottom side before Katharine could do the same. Smudge leads the series 1-0. The Torpedoes' Smudge had a decent performance at the start of game 2, but she had difficulty getting her last two shots aligned, and the Shores' Katharine was quick enough to pluck her last shot to the bottom side for the win, tying the series at 1. Smudge had game 3 in her hands, but she intentionally and illegally sank her last ball, sparking a three-ball run-out from Katharine, who overcame a wild-card ball disadvantage to get the win and the 2-1 series win. The surprise ending puts Katharine into the second round, where she hosts Smudge's Torpedoes teammate Fluffina.
Capital City SuperCenter, Capital City: Sprinkles v. Frosty. The blue cue remains in action for a series of 10-ball between veterans. Stonebridge's Frosty provided an intimidating three-ball run early in game 1, but things settled down until Capital City's Sprinkles buried a three-ball run-out for the win and a 1-0 series lead. The Sharpshooters' Sprinkles made a pair of shots early in game 2, and then left the Wolves' Frosty with bad positioning. Frosty used a masse shot for contact, but she set up Sprinkles for a 3-4-10 combination to the bottom right, which Sprinkles converted for the win. Sprinkles clinched the series at 2-0 with the fortunate play. Game 3 was a mess for both players, neither able to keep their shots clean. Sprinkles came close to winning on a bank of the 10 that hung on the edge of the bottom left, where Frosty tapped it in for her only win. Sprinkles took the series 2-1, advancing to host Harrison Specters captain Twinkie II in the second round.
McDonald's Hall, Atlantic: Steven v. Jennifer Livilotti. The red cue comes on for its daily debut in Accuracy after the lunch break. Atlantic's Steven started well in game 1, but he fell behind a couple of times, including once late. Terrace City's Jennifer couldn't initially hold onto her late lead, but another late miss form Steven helped Jennifer win 2-3 for a 1-0 series lead. The Knights' Jennifer couldn't get a grip in game 2, falling behind early and spiraling out of control by the end, while the Pirates' Steven calmly collected a 1-6 win to tie the series at 1 with a confident game. Jennifer played a nearly perfect game up to the end, when she absolutely fell apart. Steven helped with that, and the game went into overtime, where both players missed their first shots. Steven pressed from here on, winning 4-5 when Jennifer finally missed a long shot on the 8. Steven takes the series 2-1 as he advances to the second round.
GE Stadium Events Center, Southridge: Hughbert v. Starlight. The blue cue returns to action with 15-ball in this series. Game 1 was filled with two- and three-ball runs for the most part, and many turns ended in an error. Southridge's Hughbert nearly gave the game away, but Pacific's Starlight couldn't make the 11-15 combination. Starlight still won, taking the last two balls on her next turn for a 1-0 series lead. The Volcanoes' Starlight had a more shattered break in game 2, but the errors and short runs persisted partially. The play was otherwise choppier, as the Defenders' Hughbert rattled many shots out, but he did get the win when Starlight missed on the 15 and he tapped it in. Hughbert's win tied the series at 1. Game 3 looked to be headed in the same direction as the previous two, but Starlight changed the course, ripping an eleven-ball run-out to give herself a commanding win and the series at 2-1. Starlight's epic run propels her into a road meeting with Atlantic Pirates captain Delila in the second round.
GE Stadium Events Center, Southridge: Bianca v. Mitchell. A venue doubleheader concludes in 9-ball with the silver cue. Southridge's Bianca had a good performance in game 1, successfully rebuffing a challenge from Harrison's Mitchell near the end of the game to pick up the win and a 1-0 series lead. The Defenders' Bianca provided a bit more offense in game 2, working a pair of balls on a fantastic break, and then winning with a five-ball run-out, as the Specters' Mitchell didn't offer as much of a challenge this time. Bianca secured the series at 2-0 with this win. Bianca looked ready to keep going in game 3, but Mitchell popped up at the end to salvage something from the series. Bianca's four-ball run was met by Mitchell's three-ball run-out, giving Bianca a 2-1 series win she'll take into her series against the Lighton Prestige's Waluigi in round two.
Audi Hall, Terrace City: Kiwi v. Josie. A captain and a rookie meet in this series of 10-ball with the red cue. Game 1 lacked a definitive run for either player, as most shots were made individually. Terrace City's Kiwi had some late momentum, but Oceanside's Josie was the one to take the 10 for the win and a 1-0 series lead. The Knights' Kiwi had a better game 2, making a five-ball run on her first turn, but her light touch on the 5 ignited a four-ball run-out by the Waves' Josie, a brilliant counterattack that secured the series at 2-0 for the rookie. Game 3 looked a lot like game 1, except with much more frustration from Kiwi, who had trouble getting clear looks on her shots. Josie didn't play her best, but she did make the last two shots for the win and a 3-0 series sweep as she earns a spot in the second round.
Capital City SuperCenter, Capital City: Sprinkles v. Rosalina. The red cue remains in action for Accuracy. Diamond's Rosalina managed to induce a bunch of misses on Capital City's Sprinkles in the middle of game 1, and while Rosalina faded late, her last shot gave her a 3-4 win as Sprinkles made the last ball afterwards. Rosalina leads the series 1-0. The Sharpshooters' Sprinkles played much better in game 2, hardly missing at all except for one shot early on. The Gems' Rosalina immediately followed that with a pair of misses, leading to Sprinkles winning 1-3 to tie the series at 1. Game 3 saw Rosalina fall behind twice early on, but she held on and forced overtime, which Sprinkles also had to break. Sprinkles used a soft break strategy, and then hammered the rack apart on her second turn of overtime as both players missed. Rosalina had a simple enough shot, but she missed, and Sprinkles won 4-5 to take the series 2-1 and move along to the second round.
Capital City SuperCenter, Capital City: Missy v. Luigi. Another venue doubleheader comes to a close in 10-ball with the blue cue. Capital City's Missy started game 1 with an air of nonchalance, but after a little offense by North Modernistic's Luigi, Missy woke up and picked a three-ball run-out at the end for the win. Missy leads the series 1-0. The Sharpshooters' Missy played even better in game 2, dominating possession early and late to stifle any offense from the Nighthawks' Luigi. Missy got the win on a five-ball run-out, following an earlier three-ball run as she clinched the series at 2-0. Luigi had some good looks in game 3 after Missy put the 10 near the bottom right on the break, but Missy would get the win as she drew the cue off the 5 to tap the winner in. Missy swept the series 3-0, earning the right to host the Oceanside Waves' Celestia in the second round.
Google Hall, Modernistic: Ms. Puppy v. Smudge. Captains clash in this 7-ball series, using the silver cue. Modernistic's Ms. Puppy wasted no time in establishing herself in the series, burying the 7 decisively at the top left on the break to take a 1-0 series lead over Infinity's Smudge. The Union's Ms. Puppy did cede possession after a scratch on the break in game 2. The Torpedoes' Smudge made a three-ball run, but with a little luck, Ms. Puppy finished a three-ball run-out as the 7 fell in the top side as a second choice location. Ms. Puppy's bold finish earned her the series at 2-0. Ms. Puppy still had the majority of possession in game 3 with two separate pairs of balls potted, but she left the 7 up for Smudge to bury at the bottom right for her only win. Ms. Puppy advances to the second round on a 2-1 series win.
FedEx Arena, Eastside: Chelsea v. Debby Ryan. Two talented veterans keep the silver cue in play for a 12-ball series. Eastside's Chelsea had a good first two turns in game 1, with a three-ball run from the break and another pair putting her close to victory. Southridge's Debby countered that with a later four-ball run, and she was first to get positioning on her last shot, taking the win and a 1-0 series lead in a thrilling game. The Sharks' Chelsea made up for last game with a quick attack in game 2, easily picking the corners with stripes early on. The Defenders' Debby never really got going this time, and Chelsea eventually took the sides for the win, tying the series at 1. Debby tried to make a quick attack in game 3, but she was foiled by a patient attack from Chelsea, who set herself up and then converted a five-ball run-out for the win. Chelsea heads to the second round with the bold finish, one of six of her bids proceeding.
Google Hall, Modernistic: Puff I v. Citrus. The red cue closes up the week with Accuracy in today's final series. Modernistic's Puff I fell behind early but stayed close until about midway through the rack. At this point, Puff I was unable to gain any traction, as Diamond's Citrus coasted to a 0-6 win for a 1-0 series lead. Game 2 saw really good exchanges of shots despite the Union's Puff I going down by a shot early on. She briefly tied it when the Gems' Citrus missed, but Puff I soon fell behind again on a scratch. Citrus made sure to end her 1-3 win in style with a triple-pot, making the 2-7 combination to the bottom right, while the 2 banked back to the top side and the cue deflected to take the 13 at the bottom side. Citrus holds a 2-0 series lead. Citrus didn't have her best in game 3, but she still almost forced Puff I into overtime late. Puff I managed to hold onto what was left of her lead for a 4-5 win, while Citrus heads to the second round with a 2-1 series win.
That's all for today's games. UPCL action of all types resumes on Monday.
Thursday, March 1, 2018
Tournament 2018 - Round 1 Day 31
We're back for a standard day at slightly different times today. We begin with...
Apple Center, Todavía: Sierra v. Bandit. A superstar hosts a sophomore in 9-ball with the blue cue for the first series. Todavía's Sierra looked great in game 1, working well with some tight shots on a six-ball run from the break. Her bank on the 6 failed, and Swordpoint's Bandit took over with a three-ball run-out for a quick win and a 1-0 series lead. The Stills' Sierra played well in game 2, although the game took much more time. The Blades' Bandit was on his back foot as Sierra made four balls over her last two turns, but Bandit cut the 9 in when Sierra rattled it out of the top right. Bandit clinched the series at 2-0 with this win. Bandit completed an impressive series with a four-ball run-out, showing growth and strength as he swept Sierra 3-0. Bandit heads to the second round with the strong outing.
Ebay Center, Queens: Kyle v. Leonardo. In the second series today, the red cue is up for 10-ball between a returnee and a veteran. Queens' Kyle got off to a hot start with a four-ball run, but after a slow middle of game 1, Midland's Leonardo ended it on a four-ball run-out to give himself the 1-0 series lead. Game 2 lacked the types of runs game 1 had, and it came down to a decision by the Predators' Leonardo. The visitor let the Flames' Kyle keep possession after making the 8 illegally, and Kyle successfully met the challenge, drawing the cue off the 6 to take the 10 at the top right. This tied the series at 1. Kyle's break in game 3 came up empty, but it left a simple enough 1-10 combination to the top right that Leonardo easily converted for the win and the 2-1 series. Leonardo makes it to the second round.
Google Hall, Modernistic: Chimpy v. Ice Cream. A returnee meets a veteran on a new team in Accuracy with the blue cue before the lunch break. Modernistic's Chimpy missed twice early in game 1, and Boston's Ice Cream barely budged from her position, retaining the lead for the whole game and winning 1-2 to take a 1-0 series lead. The Union's Chimpy missed his first and second-to-last shot in game 2, but once again the Swifts' Ice Cream maintained perfection until the very end, taking another 1-2 win to clinch the series at 2-0 in some close games so far. Game 3 saw Chimpy absolutely fall apart, while Ice Cream held her ground pretty well until a late miss. Ice Cream walked away with a 1-6 win for a 3-0 series sweep, and she'll face the Central Warriors' Wings in round two. Chimpy advances four bids to the second round.
Coca-Cola Field Exhibition Center, Boston: Puff II v. Americus. A Southeastern derby in Accuracy with the red cue brings around the final season debut. The long wait to debut didn't bother Boston's Puff II, as she played perfectly in an 0-4 win over a hapless Americus of Midland in game 1. Puff II holds a 1-0 series lead. The Swifts' Puff II didn't maintain the perfect play in game 2, falling apart with three straight misses in the middle of the game. The Predators' Americus had fallen behind early but kept her game clean enough to win 2-4 in the end, tying the series at 1. Puff II fell behind quickly in game 3, but she managed to even the game later on. This was brief, as Americus induced four straight misses from Puff II, although a few misses of her own inflated the final score to 4-6. Americus won the series 2-1 to earn her spot in the second round.
Amazon Field Exhibition Hall, Golden: Valencia v. Citrus. The red cue stays in action for a major series in 9-ball between soon-to-be former club-mates. Golden's Valencia worked a three-ball run from the start in game 1, but Diamond's Citrus matched it late, and then took the 9 when Valencia couldn't cut it to the bottom right. Citrus owns a 1-0 series lead. The Gems' Citrus remained a strong presence in game 2, making three pairs of shots, but the latest of the three pairs ended in a scratch, and Valencia took the final pair of shots for the win, tying the series at 1 after keeping her cool. Valencia left no doubt as to her chops, winning game 3 on a break that saw the 2 and 9 fall in the bottom right and the 7 and 8 land in the top right. Valencia's stunner gave her a 2-1 series win over Citrus, and the right to host the Terrace City Knights' Melissa in the second round.
HP Field Events Center, Midland: Americus v. Stephanie Livilotti. The red cue is ready to go for some 15-ball. Midland's Americus put the 15 near the top right on the break, but Southridge's Stephanie controlled the offense in game 1 early on. Stephanie had a couple of half-chances toward the 15 that didn't go before Americus built a six-ball run-out for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Predators' Americus used a similar strategy in game 2, getting a four-ball run and looking dangerous later on, but she missed on the 14 and the Defenders' Stephanie cleaned up the last two shots for the win. The series is currently tied at 1. Americus had a strong outing in game 3, although both she and Stephanie could have had cleaner performances. Stephanie had a chance to win, but rattled the 15 out, and Americus converted for the win and 2-1 series win that puts her in the second round again.
UPS Hall, Maplewood: Whiskers v. Charli XCX. Two underrated veterans collide as the silver cue makes its daily debut in 9-ball. Maplewood's Whiskers had a pair on the break and a pair at the end, successfully sandwiching a five-ball run from Tysini's Charli. Whiskers' good finish on her second turn earned her a 1-0 series lead. Game 2 seemed to fall into the lap of the Hummingbirds' Charli, but she missed the 9 from ball-in-hand after a scratch from the Lumberjacks' Whiskers. Charli would miss the 9 three more times, the final time sending it and the cue off the table, and Whiskers tapped it in on her fourth try for the win to secure the series at 2-0. Charli has been suspended for the Hummingbirds' United Cup second round games against the Pearl Surfers. Charli did salvage something out of the series, holding nearly complete control of game 3 and making the 8-9 combination to the top right for the win. Whiskers advances on a 2-1 series win to host Northeastern rival Noelle of the Central Warriors in the second round.
Gillette Center, Swordpoint: Bandit v. Noelle. The silver cue remains in action for a series of Rotation next. Swordpoint's Bandit did well in game 1, attacking with force right at the start. Central's Noelle offered little resistance, and Bandit cruised to a patient 8-1 win for the 1-0 series lead. The Warriors' Noelle jumped out to the big lead in game 2, and did so rather quickly, but it nearly failed her anyway. The Blades' Bandit attack with a three-ball run and then a four-ball run to tie the game, but he missed on the 15, and Noelle made it to win 8-7, tying the series at 1 in the surprising finish. Bandit struck first in game 3, but three-ball runs were exchanged to put Noelle ahead, and she added a pair on her final turn for the 8-4 win to advance to the second round on a 2-1 series win. Noelle will visit the Pacific Volcanoes' Starlight in her next series. Bandit advances four bids as his first round comes to a close.
Samsung Arena, Whitewater: Bear v. Noelle. The silver cue travels with the visitor, who completes a doubleheader in this 15-ball series. Whitewater's Bear and Central's Noelle had an active battle in game 1, with Noelle holding a bit more possession early on but struggling with the 12. Bear corralled it as part of his three-ball run-out for the win and a 1-0 series lead. Game 2 featured far more errors, with frustrations high after a difficult start. The Shores' Bear did play a cleaner version of the game, but he missed on the 15, bailing out the Warriors' Noelle as she banked it to the bottom right for the win, tying the series at 1. Noelle tried to keep up with Bear in game 3, but it wasn't happening. Bear showed a bit of weakness after a scratch, and Noelle had a good run, but she failed to bank the 12-15 combination in, and Bear made it straight on at the top right to take the series 2-1. Bear advances to the second round.
Subway Arena, Stonebridge: Juno v. Charli XCX. Attitude-prone veterans tangle in Rotation with the red cue. Tysini's Charli kept close with Stonebridge's Juno for most of the game, then fell behind late. Charli felt robbed when the league ruled illegal contact on her tying shot, so she made the final pair on her next turn for an 8-7 win over Juno, and a 1-0 series lead. The Hummingbirds' Charli maintained a lead early in game 2, although the Wolves' Juno did eventually pull even. Charli retook the lead, and it stuck this time, as she eventually won 8-4 to clinch the series at 2-0. Charli couldn't hold a lead in another tough game 3, and Juno kept even for the first half before finishing on a four-ball run-out for the 8-4 win. Charli did take the series 2-1, and she'll return to this venue to face Juno's Wolves teammate Cobalt in the second round.
Microsoft Center, Del Sur: Panda v. Ice Cream. The blue cue takes its turn in Rotation now between experienced veterans. Boston's Ice Cream jumped out to a nice lead in game 1, and then watched as Southern's Panda attacked back, nearly tying the game. Ice Cream then took a late pair of shots, winning 8-5 for a 1-0 series lead. The Swifts' Ice Cream couldn't get the same start in game 2, allowing the Monarchs' Panda to hold the lead for quite awhile. Ice Cream recovered at the end, sinking four balls over her last two turns to take another 6-5 win, this one clinching the series at 2-0 in her favor. Panda lacked the ability to care about the result of game 3, and while he did make a couple of pushes later on, Ice Cream earned the win at 8-4 to sweep the series 3-0 as she makes it to the second round.
FedEx Arena, Eastside: Chelsea v. Lorde. The final series today is also Rotation with the blue cue between talented opponents. Eastside's Chelsea had a four-ball run early in game 1, helping her pace a big attack, but Capital City's Lorde would not go quietly. Lorde nearly tied the game, but Chelsea finally closed the door at 8-5, going ahead 1-0 in the series. The Sharks' Chelsea played similarly in game 2, but she didn't build her lead as well. She still was on the brink of victory when the Sharpshooters' Lorde began her rally, and a couple of moments of defense helped Lorde pull all the way back for an 8-7 win to tie the series at 1. Lorde couldn't manufacture another rally in game 3, as Chelsea doubled down on her strategy and watched it work out. Chelsea walked away with an 8-3 win and a 2-1 series win to get herself into the second round.
That's all for today. We'll have one standard day tomorrow, and plans have changed to take both Saturday and Sunday off for rest. After tomorrow, both sports will resume on Monday.
Apple Center, Todavía: Sierra v. Bandit. A superstar hosts a sophomore in 9-ball with the blue cue for the first series. Todavía's Sierra looked great in game 1, working well with some tight shots on a six-ball run from the break. Her bank on the 6 failed, and Swordpoint's Bandit took over with a three-ball run-out for a quick win and a 1-0 series lead. The Stills' Sierra played well in game 2, although the game took much more time. The Blades' Bandit was on his back foot as Sierra made four balls over her last two turns, but Bandit cut the 9 in when Sierra rattled it out of the top right. Bandit clinched the series at 2-0 with this win. Bandit completed an impressive series with a four-ball run-out, showing growth and strength as he swept Sierra 3-0. Bandit heads to the second round with the strong outing.
Ebay Center, Queens: Kyle v. Leonardo. In the second series today, the red cue is up for 10-ball between a returnee and a veteran. Queens' Kyle got off to a hot start with a four-ball run, but after a slow middle of game 1, Midland's Leonardo ended it on a four-ball run-out to give himself the 1-0 series lead. Game 2 lacked the types of runs game 1 had, and it came down to a decision by the Predators' Leonardo. The visitor let the Flames' Kyle keep possession after making the 8 illegally, and Kyle successfully met the challenge, drawing the cue off the 6 to take the 10 at the top right. This tied the series at 1. Kyle's break in game 3 came up empty, but it left a simple enough 1-10 combination to the top right that Leonardo easily converted for the win and the 2-1 series. Leonardo makes it to the second round.
Google Hall, Modernistic: Chimpy v. Ice Cream. A returnee meets a veteran on a new team in Accuracy with the blue cue before the lunch break. Modernistic's Chimpy missed twice early in game 1, and Boston's Ice Cream barely budged from her position, retaining the lead for the whole game and winning 1-2 to take a 1-0 series lead. The Union's Chimpy missed his first and second-to-last shot in game 2, but once again the Swifts' Ice Cream maintained perfection until the very end, taking another 1-2 win to clinch the series at 2-0 in some close games so far. Game 3 saw Chimpy absolutely fall apart, while Ice Cream held her ground pretty well until a late miss. Ice Cream walked away with a 1-6 win for a 3-0 series sweep, and she'll face the Central Warriors' Wings in round two. Chimpy advances four bids to the second round.
Coca-Cola Field Exhibition Center, Boston: Puff II v. Americus. A Southeastern derby in Accuracy with the red cue brings around the final season debut. The long wait to debut didn't bother Boston's Puff II, as she played perfectly in an 0-4 win over a hapless Americus of Midland in game 1. Puff II holds a 1-0 series lead. The Swifts' Puff II didn't maintain the perfect play in game 2, falling apart with three straight misses in the middle of the game. The Predators' Americus had fallen behind early but kept her game clean enough to win 2-4 in the end, tying the series at 1. Puff II fell behind quickly in game 3, but she managed to even the game later on. This was brief, as Americus induced four straight misses from Puff II, although a few misses of her own inflated the final score to 4-6. Americus won the series 2-1 to earn her spot in the second round.
Amazon Field Exhibition Hall, Golden: Valencia v. Citrus. The red cue stays in action for a major series in 9-ball between soon-to-be former club-mates. Golden's Valencia worked a three-ball run from the start in game 1, but Diamond's Citrus matched it late, and then took the 9 when Valencia couldn't cut it to the bottom right. Citrus owns a 1-0 series lead. The Gems' Citrus remained a strong presence in game 2, making three pairs of shots, but the latest of the three pairs ended in a scratch, and Valencia took the final pair of shots for the win, tying the series at 1 after keeping her cool. Valencia left no doubt as to her chops, winning game 3 on a break that saw the 2 and 9 fall in the bottom right and the 7 and 8 land in the top right. Valencia's stunner gave her a 2-1 series win over Citrus, and the right to host the Terrace City Knights' Melissa in the second round.
HP Field Events Center, Midland: Americus v. Stephanie Livilotti. The red cue is ready to go for some 15-ball. Midland's Americus put the 15 near the top right on the break, but Southridge's Stephanie controlled the offense in game 1 early on. Stephanie had a couple of half-chances toward the 15 that didn't go before Americus built a six-ball run-out for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Predators' Americus used a similar strategy in game 2, getting a four-ball run and looking dangerous later on, but she missed on the 14 and the Defenders' Stephanie cleaned up the last two shots for the win. The series is currently tied at 1. Americus had a strong outing in game 3, although both she and Stephanie could have had cleaner performances. Stephanie had a chance to win, but rattled the 15 out, and Americus converted for the win and 2-1 series win that puts her in the second round again.
UPS Hall, Maplewood: Whiskers v. Charli XCX. Two underrated veterans collide as the silver cue makes its daily debut in 9-ball. Maplewood's Whiskers had a pair on the break and a pair at the end, successfully sandwiching a five-ball run from Tysini's Charli. Whiskers' good finish on her second turn earned her a 1-0 series lead. Game 2 seemed to fall into the lap of the Hummingbirds' Charli, but she missed the 9 from ball-in-hand after a scratch from the Lumberjacks' Whiskers. Charli would miss the 9 three more times, the final time sending it and the cue off the table, and Whiskers tapped it in on her fourth try for the win to secure the series at 2-0. Charli has been suspended for the Hummingbirds' United Cup second round games against the Pearl Surfers. Charli did salvage something out of the series, holding nearly complete control of game 3 and making the 8-9 combination to the top right for the win. Whiskers advances on a 2-1 series win to host Northeastern rival Noelle of the Central Warriors in the second round.
Gillette Center, Swordpoint: Bandit v. Noelle. The silver cue remains in action for a series of Rotation next. Swordpoint's Bandit did well in game 1, attacking with force right at the start. Central's Noelle offered little resistance, and Bandit cruised to a patient 8-1 win for the 1-0 series lead. The Warriors' Noelle jumped out to the big lead in game 2, and did so rather quickly, but it nearly failed her anyway. The Blades' Bandit attack with a three-ball run and then a four-ball run to tie the game, but he missed on the 15, and Noelle made it to win 8-7, tying the series at 1 in the surprising finish. Bandit struck first in game 3, but three-ball runs were exchanged to put Noelle ahead, and she added a pair on her final turn for the 8-4 win to advance to the second round on a 2-1 series win. Noelle will visit the Pacific Volcanoes' Starlight in her next series. Bandit advances four bids as his first round comes to a close.
Samsung Arena, Whitewater: Bear v. Noelle. The silver cue travels with the visitor, who completes a doubleheader in this 15-ball series. Whitewater's Bear and Central's Noelle had an active battle in game 1, with Noelle holding a bit more possession early on but struggling with the 12. Bear corralled it as part of his three-ball run-out for the win and a 1-0 series lead. Game 2 featured far more errors, with frustrations high after a difficult start. The Shores' Bear did play a cleaner version of the game, but he missed on the 15, bailing out the Warriors' Noelle as she banked it to the bottom right for the win, tying the series at 1. Noelle tried to keep up with Bear in game 3, but it wasn't happening. Bear showed a bit of weakness after a scratch, and Noelle had a good run, but she failed to bank the 12-15 combination in, and Bear made it straight on at the top right to take the series 2-1. Bear advances to the second round.
Subway Arena, Stonebridge: Juno v. Charli XCX. Attitude-prone veterans tangle in Rotation with the red cue. Tysini's Charli kept close with Stonebridge's Juno for most of the game, then fell behind late. Charli felt robbed when the league ruled illegal contact on her tying shot, so she made the final pair on her next turn for an 8-7 win over Juno, and a 1-0 series lead. The Hummingbirds' Charli maintained a lead early in game 2, although the Wolves' Juno did eventually pull even. Charli retook the lead, and it stuck this time, as she eventually won 8-4 to clinch the series at 2-0. Charli couldn't hold a lead in another tough game 3, and Juno kept even for the first half before finishing on a four-ball run-out for the 8-4 win. Charli did take the series 2-1, and she'll return to this venue to face Juno's Wolves teammate Cobalt in the second round.
Microsoft Center, Del Sur: Panda v. Ice Cream. The blue cue takes its turn in Rotation now between experienced veterans. Boston's Ice Cream jumped out to a nice lead in game 1, and then watched as Southern's Panda attacked back, nearly tying the game. Ice Cream then took a late pair of shots, winning 8-5 for a 1-0 series lead. The Swifts' Ice Cream couldn't get the same start in game 2, allowing the Monarchs' Panda to hold the lead for quite awhile. Ice Cream recovered at the end, sinking four balls over her last two turns to take another 6-5 win, this one clinching the series at 2-0 in her favor. Panda lacked the ability to care about the result of game 3, and while he did make a couple of pushes later on, Ice Cream earned the win at 8-4 to sweep the series 3-0 as she makes it to the second round.
FedEx Arena, Eastside: Chelsea v. Lorde. The final series today is also Rotation with the blue cue between talented opponents. Eastside's Chelsea had a four-ball run early in game 1, helping her pace a big attack, but Capital City's Lorde would not go quietly. Lorde nearly tied the game, but Chelsea finally closed the door at 8-5, going ahead 1-0 in the series. The Sharks' Chelsea played similarly in game 2, but she didn't build her lead as well. She still was on the brink of victory when the Sharpshooters' Lorde began her rally, and a couple of moments of defense helped Lorde pull all the way back for an 8-7 win to tie the series at 1. Lorde couldn't manufacture another rally in game 3, as Chelsea doubled down on her strategy and watched it work out. Chelsea walked away with an 8-3 win and a 2-1 series win to get herself into the second round.
That's all for today. We'll have one standard day tomorrow, and plans have changed to take both Saturday and Sunday off for rest. After tomorrow, both sports will resume on Monday.
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