We're ready to cross the 1,000 series mark today. That milestone comes later, but we'll start with...
Google Hall, Modernistic: Kodiak v. Chimpy. Urban rivals meet in 10-ball with the green cue to open today's action. Modernistic's Kodiak didn't have a deep run, but when Westside's Chimpy missed on the 9, Kodiak was there to knock in the last pair. Kodiak leads the series 1-0 after game 1. The Rockers' Chimpy was very fast in game 2 with a six-ball run on his first turn and a pair on the next one after the Union's Kodiak came up short on the counterattack. Chimpy took a well-earned win to tie the series at 1. Kodiak pushed late in game 3 with a three-ball run, but it was Chimpy who knocked in the last pair for the win to get the 2-1 series win. Chimpy will be on the road again in the bracket quarterfinals.
Intel Center, Diamond: Leonardo v. Panda. The silver cue draws in for 15-ball in the second series. Diamond's Leonardo couldn't get much going in game 1, and Southern's Panda didn't let him. Panda had a three-ball run-out capped by a clean 6-15 combination to the bottom left for the 1-0 series lead. The Monarchs' Panda was a little slow in game 2 at the start, allowing some comfort for the Gems' Leonardo. Panda then battled errors in the middle of the game, but he recovered for a six-ball run-out to seal the series at 2-0. Leonardo took a risky gamble on the 10-15 combination in game 3 and it didn't connect. Panda cashed in his positive offense from earlier with an 11-15 combination to the top left to complete the 3-0 series sweep. Panda will remain on the road in the bracket quarterfinals as he visits the Lighton Prestige's Spirit.
AT&T Hall, Oceanside: Josie v. Potter. Outcast club-mates clash in 10-ball with the purple cue. Oceanside's Josie did decently in game 1, but Pronger's Potter had the necessary finish with a three-ball run-out. Potter's late push gave him the lead in the series at 1-0. The Tridents' Potter had a more difficult time in game 2, especially when he missed contact on a kick attempt for the 7 at the bottom side. This proved critical, as the Waves' Josie easily submitted a four-ball run-out from ball-in-hand for the win, tying the series at 1. Josie scratched on the break in game 3, and Potter made her pay for it. Potter sent the 1 to the top right, then double-potted the 2 to the top side and the 10 to the top left as called for the win. Potter won the series 2-1 and will have hosting rights in the bracket quarterfinals.
Microsoft Center, Del Sur: Dominic v. Steven. The 1,000th series of the year is 12-ball with the silver cue. Southern's Dominic had to weather a lot of offense form Atlantic's Steven at the start of game 1. Steven was only slowed down at the left corners, unable to corral his last ball before Dominic finished the win at the top side for a 1-0 series lead. The Monarchs' Dominic had a four-ball run from the start of game 2. The Pirates' Steven, under immediate pressure, couldn't get anything going. Dominic needed just a pair of shots later on to get the win, which clinched the series for him at 2-0. Steven turned it around in game 3, a deep run putting him easily ahead of Dominic. Steven finished around Dominic's defense at the top side for his lone win, while Dominic heads to the bracket quarterfinals in a hosting role.
Honda Driftwood Coliseum, Pearl: Boots v. Sally. Back in 10-ball, the green cue returns to play. Pearl's Boots dominated the offense in game 1, especially with a four-ball run in the middle. Archtown's Sally had a pair late but missed on the 10, and Boots tapped it to the bottom left for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Arrows' Sally had most of the early offense in game 2, with a mixed middle leading into a four-ball run-out for the Surfers' Boots at the end. The comeback within the game helped Boots secure the series at 2-0. Sally again challenged with a late run, a three-ball effort that left the 9 up. Boots made the final pair of shots in game 3 to complete a 3-0 series sweep that allows her to host Royal Crowns rookie Sunshine in the bracket quarterfinals.
Cisco Arena, Tysini: Sugar v. Panda. The visitor's second series today is in 9-ball with the purple cue. Tysini's Sugar led off with a three-ball run in game 1, but didn't get a chance to attack again. Southern's Panda rattled off a six-ball run-out for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Monarchs' Panda scratched on the game 2 break and had a tough time on offense. The Hummingbirds' Sugar let him off the hook, missing the 9 multiple times before Panda cut it to the bottom left to get the win and 2-0 lead in the series. Panda couldn't keep his offense under control in game 3, allowing Sugar to escape with a pair at the end for her lone win in the series. Panda advances to the bracket quarterfinals on a 2-1 series win.
Samsung Arena, Whitewater: Katharine v. Midnight. Urban rivals clash in 10-ball with the green cue. Whitewater's Katharine struggled early in game 1, but recovered to make six of the last seven balls. Westside's Midnight had a chance to answer Katharine's four-ball run but fell short, and Katharine won for a 1-0 series lead. The Rockers' Midnight worked a three-ball run in game 2 before an illegally potted ball allowed the Shores' Katharine to take possession. Katharine missed her attempt at a 4-10 combination, but she would later knock in the 8-10 combination to the top left for the win, sealing the series at 2-0. Midnight actually held a majority of the offense in game 3, with a four-ball run and a pair, but Katharine's two pairs came at a better time to help her get the win and the 3-0 series sweep. Katharine will be on the road in the bracket quarterfinals.
Google Hall, Modernistic: Puff I v. Celestia. The red cue gets action in 13-ball. A bizarre game 1 saw both players pot collateral damage shots as defense was found at nearly every pocket. Modernistic's Puff I used a three-ball run to get onto the 8, but Oceanside's Celestia kicked in the 2 at the bottom side and the 8 to the top side for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Waves' Celestia cranked a four-ball run off the break in game 2, which the Union's Puff I provided only a moderate response to. Celestia took a little positioning time, then buried a three-ball run-out for the win, securing the series at 2-0. Game 3 was a close battle, but Celestia's ball on the break provided her a little cushion. At the end, Puff I put herself in a bad position on the 8, and Celestia was able to make a pair for the win and 3-0 series sweep. Celestia will continue on the road in the bracket quarterfinals.
Verizon Field Events Center, Pacific: Leonette v. Blaze. The blue cue's lone appearance today comes in 9-ball. Pacific's Leonette made a ball on the break and stayed strong in game 1. Infinity's Blaze dazzled with a double-pot of the 3 and 8 to the right corners, but Leonette took the win with the 9 at the top side to end a three-ball run-out. Leonette leads the series 1-0. The Volcanoes' Leonette looked very good still in game 2, but it didn't work out this time. Her late miss on the 7 sparked a three-ball run-out for the Torpedoes' Blaze, who tied the series at 1 with the victory. Blaze couldn't get anything off the break, and Leonette wound up with a three-ball run-out, double-potting the 2-3 combination to the top left before sinking the 4-9 combination to the bottom left. Leonette won the series 2-1 to earn hosting rights in the bracket quarterfinals.
Honda Driftwood Coliseum, Pearl: Boots v. Bianca. The host's second outing today comes in Accuracy with the red cue. Pearl's Boots baited Southridge's Bianca into an early miss in game 1, but Bianca held true until the end. Boots faltered, and Bianca was able to hold her lead for a 2-3 win and 1-0 series lead. Game 2 was a little more competitive throughout. The Defenders' Bianca held the lead quite a bit again, but she needed a clean shot on the 14 to the bottom side near the end. Bianca converted, and the Surfers' Boots missed on the last ball. Bianca would win 2-3 again to clinch the series at 2-0. Bianca scratched on the break in game 3, and that would be the only foul or miss on the board. Boots played perfectly and took the 0-1 win to avoid the sweep. Bianca's 2-1 series win sees her continue her road run in the bracket quarterfinals.
Intel Center, Diamond: Autumn v. Cheddar. The green cue cycles in for Rotation. North Modernistic's Cheddar made a couple of lunges on offense, but Diamond's Autumn answered both times, using a three-ball run and a four-ball run-out to help her to the 8-6 win. Autumn owns a 1-0 series lead. The Gems' Autumn used a four-ball run to gain the lead in game 2, and that would provide her a nice cushion. The Nighthawks' Cheddar eventually covered that damage, but Autumn would pull away again for an 8-4 win to seal the series at 2-0. Cheddar seemed best suited to get a win in game 3, building up her early lead, but Autumn tore that down as well and picked up an 8-5 win to sweep the series 3-0. Autumn will host an Eastern Hills rival in Freedom Cascades captain Stinky in the bracket quarterfinals.
Sony Center, Queens: Violetta v. Stinky. Strong players meet in the purple cue's last turn today, playing 12-ball. Queens' Violetta opened game 1 with a three-ball run and looked to have good positioning, but Freedom's Stinky turned in a remarkable five-ball run-out for the win. Stinky pulled ahead 1-0 in the series. The Cascades' Stinky had a couple of errors that put balls back on the table in game 2, but it wouldn't matter. Late in the battle, the Flames' Violetta had to play for a set-up shot, and Stinky used his next turn to win with a four-ball run-out to clinch the series at 2-0. Stinky didn't look very good in game 3 as each player blocked two pockets defensively. Violetta couldn't finish at the bottom side, giving Stinky just enough time for a comeback to finish off his 3-0 series sweep. Stinky is set to play in the bracket quarterfinals.
Volkswagen Stadium Events Center, Viewpoint Sound: Princess v. Ice Cream. The red cue will also play a 12-ball series. Boston's Ice Cream held a large lead in game 1 after a big run, but she couldn't finish the game at the bottom left. Viewpoint Sound's Princess stayed in it very well and finished with three balls on her last two turns to get the win and 1-0 series lead. The Meteors' Princess turned it around in game 2 with a five-ball run off the break. Her last ball took some time to corral, but the Swifts' Ice Cream offered little resistance. Princess took a dominant win to secure the series at 2-0. Princess tried to play well in game 3, but a pair of scratches and a big run from Ice Cream changed that. Ice Cream won with a kick on her last ball to the top right, leaving Princess to advance to the bracket quarterfinals on just a 2-1 series win.
Honda Driftwood Coliseum, Pearl: Bright v. Niki. The silver cue's done for today after this Accuracy set. Pearl's Bright missed once early in game 1, but he was able to get Commerce's Niki to falter late. Niki also missed on the overtime break, and Bright made his shot for a 1-2 win and 1-0 series lead. The Surfers' Bright was almost perfect in game 2, and his only miss came on the last ball. The Tradewinds' Niki simply couldn't keep up, and Bright was able to get a 1-3 win, securing the series at 2-0. Bright made a ball on the break again in game 3, but he fell a little short this time. Niki challenged him as if there was something left to play for and grabbed a 2-3 win for her troubles. Bright won the series 2-1 and will host again in the bracket quarterfinals.
Ford Forum, Pronger: Precious v. Gradley. The red cue takes a spin in 8-ball to end its outings today. Pronger's Precious unleashed a five-ball run early in game 1 and added a pair on her next turn, only to stall out on the 8. Boston's Gradley added enough defense to force Precious into a scratch. Gradley would go on to win with a three-ball run-out, the unlikely comeback putting him ahead 1-0 in the series. The Tridents' Precious apparently learned nothing from before, working a six-ball run in game 2 only to fall short again. The Swifts' Gradley was more cohesive this time, using a seven-ball run and his second chance on the 8 to get the win that clinched the series at 2-0. Gradley didn't have much offense until late in game 3, but he couldn't pull off another miracle. Precious rallied with a four-ball run-out to get her lone win of the series, and Gradley will advance on a 2-1 series win to earn his hosting position in the bracket quarterfinals.
Honda Driftwood Coliseum, Pearl: Wings v. Vincent. The day ends in 9-ball with the green cue. Everton's Vincent had a clear majority of the possession in game 1, but he butchered his cut on the 9 toward the bottom left. Pearl's Wings poached the win on a tap-in to pull ahead 1-0 in the series. The Surfers' Wings made a pair on the break before an early miss in the game 2. The Eagles' Vincent failed to deliver a run this time, and Wings nicked a 2-9 combination to the top left for the win to seal the series at 2-0. Wings did just about everything but win in game 3, scratching as she made the 8 in a failed attempt for positioning. Vincent took the free win and Wings won the series 2-1 to earn the right to host the Tysini Hummingbirds sophomore Sarah in the bracket quarterfinals. This was Wings' 100th unique opponent.
The second week of the Second Round begins tomorrow.
Friday, July 10, 2020
Thursday, July 9, 2020
Tournament X - Second Round Day 6
We're back again as the Second Round crosses the quarter mark today. Leading off...
Toyota Arena, Freedom: Nikolai v. Twinkie III. The green cue opens the day with 12-ball. Freedom's Nikolai had a slightly better performance in game 1, striking early and keeping his play clean. Whitewater's Twinkie III had the positioning to counterattack but missed on the execution, allowing Nikolai to win for a 1-0 series lead. The Cascades' Nikolai had a tougher time in game 2, overfilling the bottom left on the break. The Shores' Twinkie III kept good pressure up and received a wild-card ball which made it easier for her to claim this win. The series is tied at 1. Twinkie III got off to a good start, but it wouldn't be an easy finish. Nikolai played a lot of defensive positioning to slow things down, but Twinkie III navigated it well enough for the win and 2-1 series win. She'll head back home for her bracket quarterfinals series. This was Twinkie III's 100th unique opponent.
Toyota Arena, Freedom: Nikolai v. Vincent. The host's doubleheader concludes with Rotation and the blue cue. Freedom's Nikolai looked crisp in game 1, but he faded after his four-ball run. Everton's Vincent didn't back down, using Nikolai's scratch near the end to pot the last two balls himself. An 8-7 win put Vincent ahead 1-0 in the series. The Cascades' Nikolai had a choppy offense in game 2, but it was more consistent than the Eagles' Vincent, who couldn't seem to stabilize his shots. Nikolai took an 8-4 win to tie the series at 1. Vincent had the upper hand initially in game 3, but his offense was slow. Nikolai charged back at the end on a five-ball run-out for an 8-5 win to give himself the 2-1 series win. Nikolai will host again in the bracket quarterfinals.
Home Depot Forum, Web City: Jack v. Leonardo. Rising veterans meet in the red cue's lone series today, playing 13-ball. Web City's Jack had a good start, but a scratch and some wimpy shooting allowed Diamond's Leonardo to pull ahead and eventually win. Leonardo wasn't his best either, but he holds a 1-0 series lead anyway. The Gems' Leonardo had a three-ball run in the middle of game 2 to overcome his early scratch. The Spiders' Jack pushed back a bit but had no angles for the side pockets, and Leonardo earned the win to clinch the series at 2-0. Leonardo blasted a five-ball run from the break in game 3, allowing him to be patient as Jack flailed around again. Leonardo finished the game victorious, a 3-0 series sweep sending him to his next road match in the bracket quarterfinals.
Chevrolet Center, Everton: Cleo v. Solaris. The green cue is back in action for 15-ball. Commerce's Solaris had the pace with a four-ball run and a three-ball run late in game 1, but he missed on the 15. Everton's Cleo cleaned it up at the bottom left to take the win and 1-0 series lead. The Eagles' Cleo took on a more active role in the attack in game 2, exchanging multiple salvos with the Tradewinds' Solaris. This fast-paced battle went to Cleo at the end, as her three-ball run-out stood for a win and secured the series in her favor at 2-0. Solaris again amplified his offense in game 3, but it wouldn't matter when Cleo counterattacked with a four-ball run-out at the end. Cleo completed a 3-0 series sweep to get into the bracket quarterfinals, where she'll host Solaris' sister, the Oceanside Waves' Celestia.
AT&T Hall, Oceanside: Rocky v. Delila. A rookie meets a captain for 12-ball with the blue cue. Atlantic's Delila had a huge advantage in game 1, until she overfilled at the top right. Oceanside's Rocky kept her pinned out of position until he could make a three-ball run-out for the win. Rocky leads the series 1-0. The Waves' Rocky opened game 2 on a four-ball run, immediately putting the Pirates' Delila under pressure. Rocky was patient later on, and Delila only got half of her solids down before Rocky sent the 9 to the top right for the win. Rocky sealed the series at 2-0. Rocky had a lead for much of game 3, but he wasted the opportunity at the end as Delila pulled off a comeback in her lone win. Rocky won the series 2-1 and will play in the bracket quarterfinals.
Gillette Center, Swordpoint: Dreamy v. Missy. Southwestern mainstays battle in 7-ball with the green cue. Capital City's Missy got the better of Swordpoint's Dreamy in game 1 after the latter scratched on the 4. Missy made the final pair for the win to gain a 1-0 series lead. The Sharpshooters' Missy had a poor start to game 2 with multiple errors, but the Blades' Dreamy failed to gain any momentum from that. At the end, Missy was back on track, taking a pair for the win to secure the series at 2-0. Missy didn't have the same fortune in game 3, as her mistakes in the later parts of the game allowed Dreamy to earn her lone win. Missy's 2-1 series win gets her into another road appearance in the bracket quarterfinals.
Google Hall, Modernistic: Kodiak v. Rudolph. The silver cue comes aboard with Accuracy. Modernistic's Kodiak held on in a rough start, while Harrison's Rudolph quickly lagged behind. Kodiak then kept the pace strong and earned a 1-4 win to go ahead 1-0 in the series. The Union's Kodiak blasted a pair on the break in game 2, and he again played very well. The Specters' Rudolph held on a bit longer this time, but the fall was worse than before. Kodiak collected a 1-5 win to clinch the series at 2-0. Kodiak had a good performance in game 3, but not enough for the win, as he sportingly allowed Rudolph to pick up a 1-2 result in the finale. Kodiak won the series 2-1 and will visit Pronger Tridents captain Precious in the bracket quarterfinals.
Intel Center, Diamond: Debby v. Twilight. The only series today for the purple cue is in 13-ball. Diamond's Debby lacked positioning in game 1, a close battle that saw Central's Twilight pull away on a three-ball run-out after Debby fouled late. Twilight's win put her ahead 1-0 in the series. The Warriors' Twilight made a stripe on the game 2 break, but the Gems' Debby soon made a five-ball run on solids. Twilight scratched on her second turn, and Debby made her last ball before the 8 from an illegal shot. Twilight proceeded to rip a five-ball run, and that pressure made Debby scratch as she sank the 8, gifting Twilight the win and the 2-0 series lead. Twilight couldn't seal off a sweep in game 3, her shooting a little too loose at the end. Debby kept it clean to finish off her lone win of the series, while Twilight's 2-1 series win sends her on the road again in the bracket quarterfinals to face Viewpoint Sound Meteors newcomer Cobalt.
Intel Center, Diamond: Leonardo v. Esmeralda. The host's second appearance today concludes a venue doubleheader with the silver cue in 9-ball. Swordpoint's Esmeralda wasn't great in game 1, but she got a chance at the 9. She was able to pot it, but she also scratched at the bottom side, gifting the win and 1-0 series lead to Diamond's Leonardo. The Blades' Esmeralda worked a three-ball run early in game 2 before taking a scratch. From ball-in-hand, the Gems' Leonardo launched a four-ball run-out, splitting the 5 and 9 to the left corners for a double-pot finish. Leonardo clinched the series at 2-0. Esmeralda got few chances to make an impact in game 3. Leonardo would provide the finish again with a 7-9 combination to the top left, sweeping the series 3-0 to put himself into the bracket quarterfinals.
FedEx Arena, Eastside: Toki v. Diddley. The blue cue exits the day with 13-ball. Eastside's Toki was just a little too shaky at the end of game 1, whiffing a shot that tipped the game to Maplewood's Diddley, who made three shots over his last two turns for the win. Diddley leads the series 1-0. The Lumberjacks' Diddley potted two solids and a stripe on the game 2 break, and he chose to play solids. The Sharks' Toki couldn't really find his offense, while Diddley quickly got on track. At the end, Diddley worked a three-ball run-out for the win, sealing the series at 2-0. Diddley had a big break in game 3, but the perfection distribution on both suits wouldn't last long. Toki bumbled his first few shots, yet still managed to keep the game close. Diddley didn't care, striking a pair at the end for the win to finish his 3-0 series sweep. Diddley will play in the bracket quarterfinals.
Pepsi Arena, Lighton: Spirit v. Andrew. The green cue is back to play Accuracy. Freedom's Andrew just managed to get into overtime as Lighton's Spirit missed the last ball. Andrew then missed two turns into overtime, giving Spirit the 2-3 win for a 1-0 series lead. The Prestige's Spirit left nothing to chance in game 2, taking two balls on the break and at least one on every other shot. The Cascades' Andrew couldn't keep up as Spirit claimed a 0-3 win to clinch the series at 2-0. Spirit stayed strong for most of game 3, but Andrew held the perfection line this time, and Spirit had to fade off at the end to avoid overtime. Andrew won 0-3, avoiding the sweep as Spirit advances to the bracket quarterfinals on a 2-1 series win.
Nike Field Events Center, Commerce: Niki v. Pedey. Another green cue series comes in 8-ball. Commerce's Niki had an embarrassingly bad break in game 1, but she nearly got away with it. Her offense stalled later on, and Todavía's Pedey picked up the slack for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Stills' Pedey kept his offense up in game 2, quickly getting onto the 8 before suffering a missed contact. The Tradewinds' Niki pushed back on a three-ball run before her late miss, and Pedey put the 8 away at the top left for the win to seal the series at 2-0. Pedey looked to have a little initial trouble in game 3, but he shook it off with a seven-ball run on his second turn. Niki had no response for that, and Pedey won with the 8 at the bottom left for the 3-0 series sweep. Pedey will visit Westside Rockers captain Misty in the bracket quarterfinals.
Chevrolet Center, Everton: Cleo v. Cheddar. Star players meet in 7-ball with the silver cue. Everton's Cleo was a little shakier than expected in game 1, leading to some weakness at the end. North Modernistic's Cheddar got on track at the right time, sending a three-ball run-out down for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Nighthawks' Cheddar wasn't totally sharp in game 2, but she left the 7 close to the top right. The Eagles' Cleo took a couple of ill-fated swipes at that position, but it was a 6-7 combination from Cheddar that won the game and secured the series at 2-0. Cheddar made a four-ball run from the break, but she needed a second turn to beat Cleo. That happened as Cleo missed the 7 to the bottom right, which Cheddar cleaned up to finish a 3-0 series sweep. Cheddar is set to appear in the bracket quarterfinals.
Kraft Forum, Royal: Kayla v. Rosalina. The silver cue's finale today is in 8-ball. Consistent offense paced Victoria's Rosalina very well in game 1, while Royal's Kayla was slow from the start. Rosalina capped off the victory with a three-ball run-out, banking the 8 to the bottom side to grab the 1-0 series lead. The Spurs' Rosalina was a little slower at the start of game 2, allowing the Crowns' Kayla to briefly hold the lead. At the end, Rosalina made a pair after Kayla faltered, and Rosalina's win secured the series in her favor at 2-0. Kayla held a bigger lead in game 3, but a miss on the 8 would prove costly. Rosalina punished it with a four-ball run-out for the win and series sweep, which sends Rosalina on the road again in the bracket quarterfinals.
BMW RockDome, Westside: Slinks v. Wario. The green cue is back in action for 9-ball. Westside's Slinks dominated game 1, winning in two turns that featured a six-ball run and a three-ball run-out. Southridge's Wario was cold on offense as Slinks pulled out to a 1-0 series lead. The Rockers' Slinks was a little less confident in game 2, but still opened the offense with a three-ball run. The Defenders' Wario shot back with a three-ball run of his own, but it was Slinks who buried a three-ball run-out in the end to get the win. Slinks clinched the series at 2-0. Slinks took a step back on offense in game 3, allowing Wario to make four balls over his last two turns for the win. Slinks settled for a 2-1 series win to get into the bracket quarterfinals in Queens against the Flames' Mario.
Pepsi Arena, Lighton: Citrus v. Hughbert. A Southwestern derby in 13-ball using the green cue brings the day to a close.A four-ball run by Tysini's Hughbert completely altered game 1, leaving Lighton's Citrus scrambling. She couldn't catch up in time, as Hughbert put the 8 in the bottom right for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Hummingbirds' Hughbert rocked a three-ball run from the break, but the Prestige's Citrus raised the stakes on a five-ball run in response. A contact play helped Citrus gain possession, as Hughbert missed contact on his next turn. Citrus then made a pair from ball-in-hand for the win, tying the series at 1. Game 3 had plenty of twists and turns, as Citrus jumped out to a lead, nearly lost it before Hughbert scratched, and ultimately pulled off two hard shots for the victory. Citrus won the series 2-1 and will be on the road in the bracket quarterfinals.
Tomorrow, the 1,000th series of the year will be played.
Toyota Arena, Freedom: Nikolai v. Twinkie III. The green cue opens the day with 12-ball. Freedom's Nikolai had a slightly better performance in game 1, striking early and keeping his play clean. Whitewater's Twinkie III had the positioning to counterattack but missed on the execution, allowing Nikolai to win for a 1-0 series lead. The Cascades' Nikolai had a tougher time in game 2, overfilling the bottom left on the break. The Shores' Twinkie III kept good pressure up and received a wild-card ball which made it easier for her to claim this win. The series is tied at 1. Twinkie III got off to a good start, but it wouldn't be an easy finish. Nikolai played a lot of defensive positioning to slow things down, but Twinkie III navigated it well enough for the win and 2-1 series win. She'll head back home for her bracket quarterfinals series. This was Twinkie III's 100th unique opponent.
Toyota Arena, Freedom: Nikolai v. Vincent. The host's doubleheader concludes with Rotation and the blue cue. Freedom's Nikolai looked crisp in game 1, but he faded after his four-ball run. Everton's Vincent didn't back down, using Nikolai's scratch near the end to pot the last two balls himself. An 8-7 win put Vincent ahead 1-0 in the series. The Cascades' Nikolai had a choppy offense in game 2, but it was more consistent than the Eagles' Vincent, who couldn't seem to stabilize his shots. Nikolai took an 8-4 win to tie the series at 1. Vincent had the upper hand initially in game 3, but his offense was slow. Nikolai charged back at the end on a five-ball run-out for an 8-5 win to give himself the 2-1 series win. Nikolai will host again in the bracket quarterfinals.
Home Depot Forum, Web City: Jack v. Leonardo. Rising veterans meet in the red cue's lone series today, playing 13-ball. Web City's Jack had a good start, but a scratch and some wimpy shooting allowed Diamond's Leonardo to pull ahead and eventually win. Leonardo wasn't his best either, but he holds a 1-0 series lead anyway. The Gems' Leonardo had a three-ball run in the middle of game 2 to overcome his early scratch. The Spiders' Jack pushed back a bit but had no angles for the side pockets, and Leonardo earned the win to clinch the series at 2-0. Leonardo blasted a five-ball run from the break in game 3, allowing him to be patient as Jack flailed around again. Leonardo finished the game victorious, a 3-0 series sweep sending him to his next road match in the bracket quarterfinals.
Chevrolet Center, Everton: Cleo v. Solaris. The green cue is back in action for 15-ball. Commerce's Solaris had the pace with a four-ball run and a three-ball run late in game 1, but he missed on the 15. Everton's Cleo cleaned it up at the bottom left to take the win and 1-0 series lead. The Eagles' Cleo took on a more active role in the attack in game 2, exchanging multiple salvos with the Tradewinds' Solaris. This fast-paced battle went to Cleo at the end, as her three-ball run-out stood for a win and secured the series in her favor at 2-0. Solaris again amplified his offense in game 3, but it wouldn't matter when Cleo counterattacked with a four-ball run-out at the end. Cleo completed a 3-0 series sweep to get into the bracket quarterfinals, where she'll host Solaris' sister, the Oceanside Waves' Celestia.
AT&T Hall, Oceanside: Rocky v. Delila. A rookie meets a captain for 12-ball with the blue cue. Atlantic's Delila had a huge advantage in game 1, until she overfilled at the top right. Oceanside's Rocky kept her pinned out of position until he could make a three-ball run-out for the win. Rocky leads the series 1-0. The Waves' Rocky opened game 2 on a four-ball run, immediately putting the Pirates' Delila under pressure. Rocky was patient later on, and Delila only got half of her solids down before Rocky sent the 9 to the top right for the win. Rocky sealed the series at 2-0. Rocky had a lead for much of game 3, but he wasted the opportunity at the end as Delila pulled off a comeback in her lone win. Rocky won the series 2-1 and will play in the bracket quarterfinals.
Gillette Center, Swordpoint: Dreamy v. Missy. Southwestern mainstays battle in 7-ball with the green cue. Capital City's Missy got the better of Swordpoint's Dreamy in game 1 after the latter scratched on the 4. Missy made the final pair for the win to gain a 1-0 series lead. The Sharpshooters' Missy had a poor start to game 2 with multiple errors, but the Blades' Dreamy failed to gain any momentum from that. At the end, Missy was back on track, taking a pair for the win to secure the series at 2-0. Missy didn't have the same fortune in game 3, as her mistakes in the later parts of the game allowed Dreamy to earn her lone win. Missy's 2-1 series win gets her into another road appearance in the bracket quarterfinals.
Google Hall, Modernistic: Kodiak v. Rudolph. The silver cue comes aboard with Accuracy. Modernistic's Kodiak held on in a rough start, while Harrison's Rudolph quickly lagged behind. Kodiak then kept the pace strong and earned a 1-4 win to go ahead 1-0 in the series. The Union's Kodiak blasted a pair on the break in game 2, and he again played very well. The Specters' Rudolph held on a bit longer this time, but the fall was worse than before. Kodiak collected a 1-5 win to clinch the series at 2-0. Kodiak had a good performance in game 3, but not enough for the win, as he sportingly allowed Rudolph to pick up a 1-2 result in the finale. Kodiak won the series 2-1 and will visit Pronger Tridents captain Precious in the bracket quarterfinals.
Intel Center, Diamond: Debby v. Twilight. The only series today for the purple cue is in 13-ball. Diamond's Debby lacked positioning in game 1, a close battle that saw Central's Twilight pull away on a three-ball run-out after Debby fouled late. Twilight's win put her ahead 1-0 in the series. The Warriors' Twilight made a stripe on the game 2 break, but the Gems' Debby soon made a five-ball run on solids. Twilight scratched on her second turn, and Debby made her last ball before the 8 from an illegal shot. Twilight proceeded to rip a five-ball run, and that pressure made Debby scratch as she sank the 8, gifting Twilight the win and the 2-0 series lead. Twilight couldn't seal off a sweep in game 3, her shooting a little too loose at the end. Debby kept it clean to finish off her lone win of the series, while Twilight's 2-1 series win sends her on the road again in the bracket quarterfinals to face Viewpoint Sound Meteors newcomer Cobalt.
Intel Center, Diamond: Leonardo v. Esmeralda. The host's second appearance today concludes a venue doubleheader with the silver cue in 9-ball. Swordpoint's Esmeralda wasn't great in game 1, but she got a chance at the 9. She was able to pot it, but she also scratched at the bottom side, gifting the win and 1-0 series lead to Diamond's Leonardo. The Blades' Esmeralda worked a three-ball run early in game 2 before taking a scratch. From ball-in-hand, the Gems' Leonardo launched a four-ball run-out, splitting the 5 and 9 to the left corners for a double-pot finish. Leonardo clinched the series at 2-0. Esmeralda got few chances to make an impact in game 3. Leonardo would provide the finish again with a 7-9 combination to the top left, sweeping the series 3-0 to put himself into the bracket quarterfinals.
FedEx Arena, Eastside: Toki v. Diddley. The blue cue exits the day with 13-ball. Eastside's Toki was just a little too shaky at the end of game 1, whiffing a shot that tipped the game to Maplewood's Diddley, who made three shots over his last two turns for the win. Diddley leads the series 1-0. The Lumberjacks' Diddley potted two solids and a stripe on the game 2 break, and he chose to play solids. The Sharks' Toki couldn't really find his offense, while Diddley quickly got on track. At the end, Diddley worked a three-ball run-out for the win, sealing the series at 2-0. Diddley had a big break in game 3, but the perfection distribution on both suits wouldn't last long. Toki bumbled his first few shots, yet still managed to keep the game close. Diddley didn't care, striking a pair at the end for the win to finish his 3-0 series sweep. Diddley will play in the bracket quarterfinals.
Pepsi Arena, Lighton: Spirit v. Andrew. The green cue is back to play Accuracy. Freedom's Andrew just managed to get into overtime as Lighton's Spirit missed the last ball. Andrew then missed two turns into overtime, giving Spirit the 2-3 win for a 1-0 series lead. The Prestige's Spirit left nothing to chance in game 2, taking two balls on the break and at least one on every other shot. The Cascades' Andrew couldn't keep up as Spirit claimed a 0-3 win to clinch the series at 2-0. Spirit stayed strong for most of game 3, but Andrew held the perfection line this time, and Spirit had to fade off at the end to avoid overtime. Andrew won 0-3, avoiding the sweep as Spirit advances to the bracket quarterfinals on a 2-1 series win.
Nike Field Events Center, Commerce: Niki v. Pedey. Another green cue series comes in 8-ball. Commerce's Niki had an embarrassingly bad break in game 1, but she nearly got away with it. Her offense stalled later on, and Todavía's Pedey picked up the slack for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Stills' Pedey kept his offense up in game 2, quickly getting onto the 8 before suffering a missed contact. The Tradewinds' Niki pushed back on a three-ball run before her late miss, and Pedey put the 8 away at the top left for the win to seal the series at 2-0. Pedey looked to have a little initial trouble in game 3, but he shook it off with a seven-ball run on his second turn. Niki had no response for that, and Pedey won with the 8 at the bottom left for the 3-0 series sweep. Pedey will visit Westside Rockers captain Misty in the bracket quarterfinals.
Chevrolet Center, Everton: Cleo v. Cheddar. Star players meet in 7-ball with the silver cue. Everton's Cleo was a little shakier than expected in game 1, leading to some weakness at the end. North Modernistic's Cheddar got on track at the right time, sending a three-ball run-out down for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Nighthawks' Cheddar wasn't totally sharp in game 2, but she left the 7 close to the top right. The Eagles' Cleo took a couple of ill-fated swipes at that position, but it was a 6-7 combination from Cheddar that won the game and secured the series at 2-0. Cheddar made a four-ball run from the break, but she needed a second turn to beat Cleo. That happened as Cleo missed the 7 to the bottom right, which Cheddar cleaned up to finish a 3-0 series sweep. Cheddar is set to appear in the bracket quarterfinals.
Kraft Forum, Royal: Kayla v. Rosalina. The silver cue's finale today is in 8-ball. Consistent offense paced Victoria's Rosalina very well in game 1, while Royal's Kayla was slow from the start. Rosalina capped off the victory with a three-ball run-out, banking the 8 to the bottom side to grab the 1-0 series lead. The Spurs' Rosalina was a little slower at the start of game 2, allowing the Crowns' Kayla to briefly hold the lead. At the end, Rosalina made a pair after Kayla faltered, and Rosalina's win secured the series in her favor at 2-0. Kayla held a bigger lead in game 3, but a miss on the 8 would prove costly. Rosalina punished it with a four-ball run-out for the win and series sweep, which sends Rosalina on the road again in the bracket quarterfinals.
BMW RockDome, Westside: Slinks v. Wario. The green cue is back in action for 9-ball. Westside's Slinks dominated game 1, winning in two turns that featured a six-ball run and a three-ball run-out. Southridge's Wario was cold on offense as Slinks pulled out to a 1-0 series lead. The Rockers' Slinks was a little less confident in game 2, but still opened the offense with a three-ball run. The Defenders' Wario shot back with a three-ball run of his own, but it was Slinks who buried a three-ball run-out in the end to get the win. Slinks clinched the series at 2-0. Slinks took a step back on offense in game 3, allowing Wario to make four balls over his last two turns for the win. Slinks settled for a 2-1 series win to get into the bracket quarterfinals in Queens against the Flames' Mario.
Pepsi Arena, Lighton: Citrus v. Hughbert. A Southwestern derby in 13-ball using the green cue brings the day to a close.A four-ball run by Tysini's Hughbert completely altered game 1, leaving Lighton's Citrus scrambling. She couldn't catch up in time, as Hughbert put the 8 in the bottom right for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Hummingbirds' Hughbert rocked a three-ball run from the break, but the Prestige's Citrus raised the stakes on a five-ball run in response. A contact play helped Citrus gain possession, as Hughbert missed contact on his next turn. Citrus then made a pair from ball-in-hand for the win, tying the series at 1. Game 3 had plenty of twists and turns, as Citrus jumped out to a lead, nearly lost it before Hughbert scratched, and ultimately pulled off two hard shots for the victory. Citrus won the series 2-1 and will be on the road in the bracket quarterfinals.
Tomorrow, the 1,000th series of the year will be played.
Wednesday, July 8, 2020
Tournament X - Second Round Day 5
We're ready to go for another full day of pool action. First up...
Starbucks Arena, Archtown: Hoppy v. Greg. The blue cue opens the day in 8-ball. Hoppy had the better start in game 1, but she faded in quality as the game progressed. Greg held a steadier level of quality and made a pair of shots on his last turn for the win and 1-0 series lead. Hoppy had a six-ball run to start game 2, but she was denied on her last ball multiple times and added a late scratch. Greg stayed in the fight with a five-ball run and sank the 8 before Hoppy could. This gave Greg the series at 2-0. Hoppy again jumped out to the lead in game 3, only for Greg to make four balls over his last two turns for the win. Greg swept the series 3-0 and will continue to play a visiting role in the bracket quarterfinals.
Mercedes-Benz Forum, Harrison: Twinkie II v. Ice Cream. The blue cue remains active in 15-ball. Harrison's Twinkie II kept a strong pace throughout game 1, but Boston's Ice Cream was right there with her. A close battle throughout the game ended with Ice Cream cutting the 15 to the bottom left for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Specters' Twinkie II had a stretch of seven balls over two turns, but that would indicate an early peak in game 2. The Swifts' Ice Cream took her time before making a three-ball run-out for the win to clinch the series at 2-0. Ice Cream had some good moments in attack in game 3, but it was Twinkie II who made the final pair of shots for the win. Ice Cream settled for a 2-1 series win to send her to the bracket quarterfinals.
Starbucks Arena, Archtown: Sally v. Valencia. Back in 8-ball, these captains use the silver cue. Archtown's Sally jumped out to a nice lead in game 1 with a big run. Golden's Valencia had a three-ball run in response, but Sally held on for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Pilots' Valencia put up a strong fight in game 2, working a five-ball run on her opening turn. The Arrows' Sally would catch up and cover that damage, but Valencia shot back with a three-ball run-out for the win to tie the series at 1. Valencia continued to surge on offense in game 3, but her shot on the 8 missed at the called top side and took a slight deflection before falling in the bottom side to gift the win to Sally. This decided the series at 2-1 in Sally's favor, setting her up to host the Diamond Gems' Salmo in the bracket quarterfinals.
Cisco Arena, Tysini: Sarah v. Maison. A sophomore hosts a rookie in 9-ball with the green cue. Eastside's Maison had the edge in play quality in game 1, most notably with a late three-ball run, but he couldn't corral the 9. Tysini's Sarah tapped the winning shot into the bottom right for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Sharks' Maison used a pair of three-ball runs to prove his quality in game 2, but he again missed a critical shot on the 9. The Hummingbirds' Sarah struck it to the bottom left to win again, securing the series in her favor at 2-0 despite having little offense. Sarah began game 3 on a three-ball run, but Maison shot back with a six-ball run-out, including a pinch on the 6 to send it to the top left while deflecting the 9-8 combination to the bottom right in the middle. Sarah still won the series 2-1 and will play in the bracket quarterfinals.
Volkswagen Stadium Events Center, Viewpoint Sound: Hoot v. Andrew. High-flying players clash in 13-ball with the purple cue. Viewpoint Sound's Hoot scratched on the game 1 break, immediately giving Freedom's Andrew an upper hand. Andrew kept a steady performance and easily got the win as Hoot never got in position. Andrew leads the series 1-0. The Meteors' Hoot had a tough time with positioning in game 2, leaving him a step behind the Cascades' Andrew throughout the battle. Andrew wasn't crisp, but he was good enough for the win to seal the series at 2-0. Hoot wasn't able to snag game 3 away from Andrew, as neither player started well but Hoot remained out of position late. Andrew swept the series 3-0 and will continue to the bracket quarterfinals. This was Hoot's 100th unique opponent.
Home Depot Forum, Web City: Waluigi v. Blizzard. The silver cue cycles back in for 9-ball between Northeastern rivals. Harrison's Blizzard did well in the middle of game 1, but it was Web City's Waluigi who made a three-ball run-out capped by a 7-9 combination to the top left. Waluigi's win gave him a 1-0 series lead. Neither player looked to have much control in game 2. The Specters' Blizzard had a short stretch of good play, but it ended too soon. The Spiders' Waluigi made the 9 to the bottom side eventually, clinching the series at 2-0 in the process. Waluigi had some offense in a slightly faster game 3, but the finishing run belonged to Blizzard as she dodged the sweep. Waluigi's 2-1 series win has him in line to host again in the bracket quarterfinals.
Subway Arena, Stonebridge: Kirstin v. Nibbles. The blue cue draws in for 7-ball. Both players struggled on offense early in game 1. Stonebridge's Kirstin eventually got on track to make the last five balls over two turns for the 1-0 series lead over Web City's Nibbles. The Wolves' Kirstin made a pair from the break in game 2 before a missed contact on the 2. The Spiders' Nibbles took over from there with a five-ball run-out, the stunning surge of offense enough for him to tie the series at 1 game apiece. Nibbles looked to put together another run in game 3, but he fell short after just four straight shots. Kirstin was able to tap the 7 into the bottom left for the win and 2-1 series win. Kirstin is through to the bracket quarterfinals.
AT&T Hall, Oceanside: Celestia v. Dustin. A rising star meets an established one in 15-ball with the green cue. Oceanside's Celestia had a lot of confidence in game 1, including a four-ball run that nearly saw her double-pot the 4 and 15. That didn't slow her down, and Central's Dustin faltered with a miss on the 15 that Celestia punished for the win. Celestia leads the series 1-0. The Waves' Celestia started and ended game 2 in the same fashion, with a three-ball run. In the middle, the Warriors' Dustin showed quality, but Celestia's finishing attack clinched the series in her favor at 2-0. Celestia produced a surprising finish in game 3, kicking the 6-15 combination to the top side from a tough angle to stun and sweep Dustin. The 3-0 series win has Celestia in the bracket quarterfinals with confidence.
Ford Forum, Pronger: Potter v. Shadow. Eastern Hills rivals meet in 12-ball with the blue cue. Pronger's Potter gave away a wild-card ball as part of a three-ball run from the break, but he'd be let off the hook when Diamond's Shadow yielded a wild-card ball on a three-ball run of his own. Potter then made his final pair of shots on his second turn for the win and 1-0 series lead after game 1. The Tridents' Potter claimed stripes quickly in game 2, while the Gems' Shadow tried to play the long game in set-up work. Potter punished that strategy with a four-ball run-out to seal the series at 2-0 with a quick win. Shadow didn't have much energy to play out game 3, making just a single ball before Potter was able to finish another dominant win. Potter swept the series 3-0 to earn his place in the bracket quarterfinals.
Sony Center, Queens: Violetta v. Leonette. The red cue finally makes an appearance in 7-ball. Queens' Violetta had a slight edge in possession in game 1, but Pacific's Leonette did her part to make a pair at the end for the win. Leonette holds a 1-0 series lead. The Volcanoes' Leonette made the 6 to the top left and the 7 to the bottom right on the game 2 break, but the cue fell in the bottom side for a scratch. This automatically gave the win to the Flames' Violetta, tying the series at 1. Violetta had a five-ball run to open game 3, although the 6 gave her some trouble. Leonette wasn't able to capitalize before Violetta made the last pair for the win and 2-1 series win. Violetta will host the Tysini Hummingbirds' Sarah in the bracket quarterfinals.
Starbucks Arena, Archtown: Greg v. Pauline. The green cue exits the day in 13-ball, the host's second appearance of the day. Archtown's Greg already had a slight edge in game 1 when Queens' Pauline helped him out more. Greg returned the favor later, but only to help himself en route to a three-ball run-out for the win. Greg leads the series 1-0. The Arrows' Greg had to fight for every bit of positioning in game 2, but he held the advantage over the Flames' Pauline throughout the game. Pauline challenged late, only for Greg to make the final pair of shots for the win to seal the series at 2-0. Pauline used a four-ball run to gain the edge in game 3, and only a scratch slowed her down. The 8 blocked Greg's path forward, so he gave the game away and settled to advance on a 2-1 series win. Greg will play in the bracket quarterfinals.
Coca-Cola Field Exhibition Center, Boston: Patches v. Crystal. Southeastern captains meet in 9-ball with the red cue. Boston's Patches established a pace she couldn't keep herself on early in game 1. Queens' Crystal did most of the late offense, creating drama before finally burying the 9 to the bottom right to take a 1-0 series lead. The Flames' Crystal left the 9 very near the bottom left on the game 2 break. The Swifts' Patches never got a clear look at it, and Crystal would strike it down in a 5-9 combination to cap her three-ball run-out. Crystal secured the series at 2-0 with this win. A choppy game 3 saw runs become rare. Patches had a few good shots, but it was Crystal who cut the 9 to the top left to finish off a 3-0 series sweep. Crystal will host her appearance in the bracket quarterfinals.
Gillette Center, Swordpoint: Dreamy v. Shawn. The blue cue finishes its day in 10-ball. Swordpoint's Dreamy had a clear majority of the possession in game 1, but she missed a medium-range cut on the 10 to the top left. Midland's Shawn cleaned it up for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Predators' Shawn got a bit more involved in the offense in game 2, but that only led him to a scratch near the end. The Blades' Dreamy took the last pair of shots for the win, tying the series at 1. Dreamy made a mental error in game 3, a brilliant kick on the 4 to the bottom side with its only flaw being the 3 still on the table. With ball-in-hand, Shawn converted a 3-10 combination to the top right to take the series 2-1. Shawn will advance to the bracket quarterfinals. This was Shawn's 100th unique opponent.
Nike Field Events Center, Commerce: Niki v. Sweetheart. The purple cue takes a turn in 13-ball. Commerce's Niki kept her pace pretty strong in game 1, although Boston's Sweetheart threatened with a mid-game run. Both players were even heading into their last ball, but Niki had the first shot and made a pair to get the win for a 1-0 series lead. The Tradewinds' Niki made one of each on the game 2 break and chose stripes. The Swifts' Sweetheart struck back with a quick four-ball run on solids, and it was just a matter of time before she got the right positioning. Sweetheart ended with a pair of shots for the win to tie the series at 1. Sweetheart seemed to have the edge in game 3, although Niki always kept it close. At the end, Sweetheart missed her chance at the 8, and Niki made the last pair for the win to take a 2-1 series win. Niki will host again in the bracket quarterfinals.
IBM Cathedral, North Modernistic: Lionel v. Mario. The red cue's done after this 8-ball set. North Modernistic's Lionel was a little cleaner in game 1, but neither player had a smooth performance. Queens' Mario just came up short on offense as Lionel worked his way to a win and 1-0 series lead early on. The Flames' Mario worked a five-ball run early in game 2, but his offense stalled out after that. The Nighthawks' Lionel applied a little pressure but couldn't catch up. Mario then illegally potted the 8 on an unlucky deflection, gifting the win to Lionel as the host sealed the series at 2-0. Mario again took a nice lead in game 3, only to watch it slowly fade before Lionel wiped the rest away on a three-ball run-out. Lionel swept the series 3-0 and will play in the bracket quarterfinals.
Verizon Field Events Center, Pacific: Cowzart v. Cheddar. The finale today features the silver cue in 10-ball. A close battle in game 1 saw neither player develop any runs. North Modernistic's Cheddar got the win with a pair at the end, beating Pacific's Cowzart narrowly for the 1-0 series lead. The Volcanoes' Cowzart fired back hard in game 2 with an eight-ball run on his opening turn. The Nighthawks' Cheddar had a chance at the 9 and missed, allowing Cowzart to bury the last two balls for the win to tie the series at 1. Game 3 was a chaotic battle between the two players, one that saw Cowzart hold most of the offense. Both Cowzart and Cheddar illegally potted the 10 once, but it was a four-ball run-out that lifted Cowzart in the end to a win and 2-1 series win. Cowzart heads on to the bracket quarterfinals.
We'll likely have another slight delay to start tomorrow's action, which sees the Second Round cross the quarter pole.
Starbucks Arena, Archtown: Hoppy v. Greg. The blue cue opens the day in 8-ball. Hoppy had the better start in game 1, but she faded in quality as the game progressed. Greg held a steadier level of quality and made a pair of shots on his last turn for the win and 1-0 series lead. Hoppy had a six-ball run to start game 2, but she was denied on her last ball multiple times and added a late scratch. Greg stayed in the fight with a five-ball run and sank the 8 before Hoppy could. This gave Greg the series at 2-0. Hoppy again jumped out to the lead in game 3, only for Greg to make four balls over his last two turns for the win. Greg swept the series 3-0 and will continue to play a visiting role in the bracket quarterfinals.
Mercedes-Benz Forum, Harrison: Twinkie II v. Ice Cream. The blue cue remains active in 15-ball. Harrison's Twinkie II kept a strong pace throughout game 1, but Boston's Ice Cream was right there with her. A close battle throughout the game ended with Ice Cream cutting the 15 to the bottom left for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Specters' Twinkie II had a stretch of seven balls over two turns, but that would indicate an early peak in game 2. The Swifts' Ice Cream took her time before making a three-ball run-out for the win to clinch the series at 2-0. Ice Cream had some good moments in attack in game 3, but it was Twinkie II who made the final pair of shots for the win. Ice Cream settled for a 2-1 series win to send her to the bracket quarterfinals.
Starbucks Arena, Archtown: Sally v. Valencia. Back in 8-ball, these captains use the silver cue. Archtown's Sally jumped out to a nice lead in game 1 with a big run. Golden's Valencia had a three-ball run in response, but Sally held on for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Pilots' Valencia put up a strong fight in game 2, working a five-ball run on her opening turn. The Arrows' Sally would catch up and cover that damage, but Valencia shot back with a three-ball run-out for the win to tie the series at 1. Valencia continued to surge on offense in game 3, but her shot on the 8 missed at the called top side and took a slight deflection before falling in the bottom side to gift the win to Sally. This decided the series at 2-1 in Sally's favor, setting her up to host the Diamond Gems' Salmo in the bracket quarterfinals.
Cisco Arena, Tysini: Sarah v. Maison. A sophomore hosts a rookie in 9-ball with the green cue. Eastside's Maison had the edge in play quality in game 1, most notably with a late three-ball run, but he couldn't corral the 9. Tysini's Sarah tapped the winning shot into the bottom right for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Sharks' Maison used a pair of three-ball runs to prove his quality in game 2, but he again missed a critical shot on the 9. The Hummingbirds' Sarah struck it to the bottom left to win again, securing the series in her favor at 2-0 despite having little offense. Sarah began game 3 on a three-ball run, but Maison shot back with a six-ball run-out, including a pinch on the 6 to send it to the top left while deflecting the 9-8 combination to the bottom right in the middle. Sarah still won the series 2-1 and will play in the bracket quarterfinals.
Volkswagen Stadium Events Center, Viewpoint Sound: Hoot v. Andrew. High-flying players clash in 13-ball with the purple cue. Viewpoint Sound's Hoot scratched on the game 1 break, immediately giving Freedom's Andrew an upper hand. Andrew kept a steady performance and easily got the win as Hoot never got in position. Andrew leads the series 1-0. The Meteors' Hoot had a tough time with positioning in game 2, leaving him a step behind the Cascades' Andrew throughout the battle. Andrew wasn't crisp, but he was good enough for the win to seal the series at 2-0. Hoot wasn't able to snag game 3 away from Andrew, as neither player started well but Hoot remained out of position late. Andrew swept the series 3-0 and will continue to the bracket quarterfinals. This was Hoot's 100th unique opponent.
Home Depot Forum, Web City: Waluigi v. Blizzard. The silver cue cycles back in for 9-ball between Northeastern rivals. Harrison's Blizzard did well in the middle of game 1, but it was Web City's Waluigi who made a three-ball run-out capped by a 7-9 combination to the top left. Waluigi's win gave him a 1-0 series lead. Neither player looked to have much control in game 2. The Specters' Blizzard had a short stretch of good play, but it ended too soon. The Spiders' Waluigi made the 9 to the bottom side eventually, clinching the series at 2-0 in the process. Waluigi had some offense in a slightly faster game 3, but the finishing run belonged to Blizzard as she dodged the sweep. Waluigi's 2-1 series win has him in line to host again in the bracket quarterfinals.
Subway Arena, Stonebridge: Kirstin v. Nibbles. The blue cue draws in for 7-ball. Both players struggled on offense early in game 1. Stonebridge's Kirstin eventually got on track to make the last five balls over two turns for the 1-0 series lead over Web City's Nibbles. The Wolves' Kirstin made a pair from the break in game 2 before a missed contact on the 2. The Spiders' Nibbles took over from there with a five-ball run-out, the stunning surge of offense enough for him to tie the series at 1 game apiece. Nibbles looked to put together another run in game 3, but he fell short after just four straight shots. Kirstin was able to tap the 7 into the bottom left for the win and 2-1 series win. Kirstin is through to the bracket quarterfinals.
AT&T Hall, Oceanside: Celestia v. Dustin. A rising star meets an established one in 15-ball with the green cue. Oceanside's Celestia had a lot of confidence in game 1, including a four-ball run that nearly saw her double-pot the 4 and 15. That didn't slow her down, and Central's Dustin faltered with a miss on the 15 that Celestia punished for the win. Celestia leads the series 1-0. The Waves' Celestia started and ended game 2 in the same fashion, with a three-ball run. In the middle, the Warriors' Dustin showed quality, but Celestia's finishing attack clinched the series in her favor at 2-0. Celestia produced a surprising finish in game 3, kicking the 6-15 combination to the top side from a tough angle to stun and sweep Dustin. The 3-0 series win has Celestia in the bracket quarterfinals with confidence.
Ford Forum, Pronger: Potter v. Shadow. Eastern Hills rivals meet in 12-ball with the blue cue. Pronger's Potter gave away a wild-card ball as part of a three-ball run from the break, but he'd be let off the hook when Diamond's Shadow yielded a wild-card ball on a three-ball run of his own. Potter then made his final pair of shots on his second turn for the win and 1-0 series lead after game 1. The Tridents' Potter claimed stripes quickly in game 2, while the Gems' Shadow tried to play the long game in set-up work. Potter punished that strategy with a four-ball run-out to seal the series at 2-0 with a quick win. Shadow didn't have much energy to play out game 3, making just a single ball before Potter was able to finish another dominant win. Potter swept the series 3-0 to earn his place in the bracket quarterfinals.
Sony Center, Queens: Violetta v. Leonette. The red cue finally makes an appearance in 7-ball. Queens' Violetta had a slight edge in possession in game 1, but Pacific's Leonette did her part to make a pair at the end for the win. Leonette holds a 1-0 series lead. The Volcanoes' Leonette made the 6 to the top left and the 7 to the bottom right on the game 2 break, but the cue fell in the bottom side for a scratch. This automatically gave the win to the Flames' Violetta, tying the series at 1. Violetta had a five-ball run to open game 3, although the 6 gave her some trouble. Leonette wasn't able to capitalize before Violetta made the last pair for the win and 2-1 series win. Violetta will host the Tysini Hummingbirds' Sarah in the bracket quarterfinals.
Starbucks Arena, Archtown: Greg v. Pauline. The green cue exits the day in 13-ball, the host's second appearance of the day. Archtown's Greg already had a slight edge in game 1 when Queens' Pauline helped him out more. Greg returned the favor later, but only to help himself en route to a three-ball run-out for the win. Greg leads the series 1-0. The Arrows' Greg had to fight for every bit of positioning in game 2, but he held the advantage over the Flames' Pauline throughout the game. Pauline challenged late, only for Greg to make the final pair of shots for the win to seal the series at 2-0. Pauline used a four-ball run to gain the edge in game 3, and only a scratch slowed her down. The 8 blocked Greg's path forward, so he gave the game away and settled to advance on a 2-1 series win. Greg will play in the bracket quarterfinals.
Coca-Cola Field Exhibition Center, Boston: Patches v. Crystal. Southeastern captains meet in 9-ball with the red cue. Boston's Patches established a pace she couldn't keep herself on early in game 1. Queens' Crystal did most of the late offense, creating drama before finally burying the 9 to the bottom right to take a 1-0 series lead. The Flames' Crystal left the 9 very near the bottom left on the game 2 break. The Swifts' Patches never got a clear look at it, and Crystal would strike it down in a 5-9 combination to cap her three-ball run-out. Crystal secured the series at 2-0 with this win. A choppy game 3 saw runs become rare. Patches had a few good shots, but it was Crystal who cut the 9 to the top left to finish off a 3-0 series sweep. Crystal will host her appearance in the bracket quarterfinals.
Gillette Center, Swordpoint: Dreamy v. Shawn. The blue cue finishes its day in 10-ball. Swordpoint's Dreamy had a clear majority of the possession in game 1, but she missed a medium-range cut on the 10 to the top left. Midland's Shawn cleaned it up for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Predators' Shawn got a bit more involved in the offense in game 2, but that only led him to a scratch near the end. The Blades' Dreamy took the last pair of shots for the win, tying the series at 1. Dreamy made a mental error in game 3, a brilliant kick on the 4 to the bottom side with its only flaw being the 3 still on the table. With ball-in-hand, Shawn converted a 3-10 combination to the top right to take the series 2-1. Shawn will advance to the bracket quarterfinals. This was Shawn's 100th unique opponent.
Nike Field Events Center, Commerce: Niki v. Sweetheart. The purple cue takes a turn in 13-ball. Commerce's Niki kept her pace pretty strong in game 1, although Boston's Sweetheart threatened with a mid-game run. Both players were even heading into their last ball, but Niki had the first shot and made a pair to get the win for a 1-0 series lead. The Tradewinds' Niki made one of each on the game 2 break and chose stripes. The Swifts' Sweetheart struck back with a quick four-ball run on solids, and it was just a matter of time before she got the right positioning. Sweetheart ended with a pair of shots for the win to tie the series at 1. Sweetheart seemed to have the edge in game 3, although Niki always kept it close. At the end, Sweetheart missed her chance at the 8, and Niki made the last pair for the win to take a 2-1 series win. Niki will host again in the bracket quarterfinals.
IBM Cathedral, North Modernistic: Lionel v. Mario. The red cue's done after this 8-ball set. North Modernistic's Lionel was a little cleaner in game 1, but neither player had a smooth performance. Queens' Mario just came up short on offense as Lionel worked his way to a win and 1-0 series lead early on. The Flames' Mario worked a five-ball run early in game 2, but his offense stalled out after that. The Nighthawks' Lionel applied a little pressure but couldn't catch up. Mario then illegally potted the 8 on an unlucky deflection, gifting the win to Lionel as the host sealed the series at 2-0. Mario again took a nice lead in game 3, only to watch it slowly fade before Lionel wiped the rest away on a three-ball run-out. Lionel swept the series 3-0 and will play in the bracket quarterfinals.
Verizon Field Events Center, Pacific: Cowzart v. Cheddar. The finale today features the silver cue in 10-ball. A close battle in game 1 saw neither player develop any runs. North Modernistic's Cheddar got the win with a pair at the end, beating Pacific's Cowzart narrowly for the 1-0 series lead. The Volcanoes' Cowzart fired back hard in game 2 with an eight-ball run on his opening turn. The Nighthawks' Cheddar had a chance at the 9 and missed, allowing Cowzart to bury the last two balls for the win to tie the series at 1. Game 3 was a chaotic battle between the two players, one that saw Cowzart hold most of the offense. Both Cowzart and Cheddar illegally potted the 10 once, but it was a four-ball run-out that lifted Cowzart in the end to a win and 2-1 series win. Cowzart heads on to the bracket quarterfinals.
We'll likely have another slight delay to start tomorrow's action, which sees the Second Round cross the quarter pole.
Tuesday, July 7, 2020
Tournament X - Second Round Day 4
Life in the Second Round is getting established as we continue play today. First up...
UPS Hall, Maplewood: Diddley v. Misty. A captains' battle in 8-ball uses the green cue. Maplewood's Diddley wasted no time in game 1, running the table from the break with excellent shot selection. Diddley leads Westside's Misty 1-0 in the series without the latter getting a shot yet. The Lumberjacks' Diddley was much more vulnerable in game 2, and that allowed the Rockers' Misty to hold a slight lead throughout. In the end, Misty made the 8 to the bottom right on her second try to get the win, tying the series at 1. Diddley nearly had the edge in game 3, but Misty struck a five-ball run and Diddley scratched on his next turn. A close battle at the end went to Misty, who won the series 2-1 to get into the bracket quarterfinals.
Google Hall, Modernistic: Daisy v. Leonardo. The silver cue steps in for 12-ball in today's second series. Diamond's Leonardo made a three-ball run early in game 1, but couldn't cash in good positioning. Modernistic's Daisy even gave away a wild-card ball during her stretch of five balls over the last two turns. Daisy just got the win for a 1-0 series lead. The Union's Daisy spotted a wild-card ball to the Gems' Leonardo on the game 2 break. Leonardo benefited from there, attacking the sides first and finishing on a three-ball run-out despite Daisy's resistance. Leonardo's win tied the series at 1. Leonardo made a stripe on the break, but it was all Daisy after that, including an impressive four-ball run. Daisy won the series 2-1 and will host the Atlantic Pirates' Isabella in the bracket quarterfinals.
Pepsi Arena, Lighton: Spirit v. Jake. The blue cue takes a turn in 10-ball here. Lighton's Spirit had a pair of three-ball runs in game 1, but her miss on the 10 proved costly. Royal's Jake banked it perfectly to the top left for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Crowns' Jake didn't post as smooth an offense in game 2. The Prestige's Spirit needed some time to get back in form, but a three-ball run-out served her well enough in the win, tying the series at 1. Spirit weathered a five-ball run from Jake early in game 3, then turned it around with a sharp three-ball run-out at the end. Spirit's strong finish gave her a 2-1 series win, and she'll play on into the bracket quarterfinals.
Chevrolet Center, Everton: Vincent v. Rosemary. The blue cue makes an early exit today after 7-ball. Commerce's Rosemary was good but not consistent in game 1, allowing Everton's Vincent to get the upper hand late in a choppy battle. Vincent put the 7 in the bottom left for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Tradewinds' Rosemary made a pair to get onto the 7, but she missed it three times. The Eagles' Vincent certainly wasn't clean, but he potted the 7 at the top right for the win to secure the series at 2-0. Rosemary had a little more offense in game 3, but she wasn't able to make the 7 this time either. Once again, Vincent needed three attempts to win, but that gave him a 3-0 series sweep. Vincent will host his appearance in the bracket quarterfinals.
Ford Forum, Pronger: Spot v. Max. The purple cue's lone appearance of the day is in 10-ball. Pronger's Spot struggled from the start in game 1, while Golden's Max found a five-ball run and nearly potted the 9 as well. Spot curled a shot to get the 9, but missed contact on the 10. Max then made the 10 from ball-in-hand for a 1-0 series lead. The Pilots' Max didn't have as much success in game 2 despite leaving the 10 at the top left. The Tridents' Spot protected the 10 well until he collected it on a deflection from sinking the 5 at the bottom left. Spot's double-pot was good for a win, which tied the series at 1. Spot reverted to his early-series form, scratching late and allowing Max to pick up the win on a three-ball run-out. Max won the series 2-1 and will play a visiting role again the bracket quarterfinals.
Nestle's Warriors Hall, Central: Noelle v. Stinky. The green cue is back for Rotation. Central's Noelle had a decent start in game 1, but that went to waste as she struggled in the end. Freedom's Stinky found more strength later and got an 8-4 win, going ahead 1-0 in the series. The Warriors' Noelle again jumped out to the lead in game 2, but it didn't matter at the end. The Cascades' Stinky surged with a three-ball run and then added a four-ball run-out to win 8-5, clinching the series at 2-0 with his strong offense. Stinky had a slight lead in a challenging game 3, the first time he's found early success. Noelle looked overwhelmed, and Stinky put her out of her misery with a four-ball run-out for an 8-2 win and 3-0 series sweep. Stinky advanced to the bracket quarterfinals.
Audi Hall, Terrace City: Quincy v. Ms. Puppy. The silver cue cycles in for 13-ball between Urban rivals. Terrace City's Quincy had one of each at the start and chose stripes. Modernistic's Ms. Puppy did well on solids, but a slow finish made it anyone's game. Ms. Puppy would win with a kick on the 8 to the bottom side that just barely dropped for the 1-0 series lead. The Union's Ms. Puppy didn't have the strongest performance in game 2, but it was better than the Knights' Quincy, who missed contact a couple of times and gave away a ball. Ms. Puppy made a pair at the end for the win to seal the series at 2-0. Quincy came really close to the game 3 win with a five-ball run, but he left the 8 at the top left. Ms. Puppy charged back with a four-ball run-out for the win to complete the 3-0 series sweep to get herself in the bracket quarterfinals.
Google Hall, Modernistic: Ms. Puppy v. Kodiak. The host finishes her doubleheader against a Union teammate in 12-ball with the red cue. Kodiak received a wild-card ball on the break in game 1, and that helped him later on. Ms. Puppy struggled a bit with positioning, and Kodiak got the win with five balls over his last two turns for a 1-0 series lead. Kodiak had a near-perfect break in game 2, sending balls to both left corners and side pockets for a four-ball shot. He took his time at the bottom right, but Ms. Puppy was too far back to catch up. Kodiak secured the series at 2-0 with a quick win. Kodiak made one of each on the break in game 3, and that little extra flexibility would be all Ms. Puppy needed to avoid the sweep. Kodiak settled for a 2-1 series win that sees him travel for real to Archtown to face club-mate and Arrows veteran Hoppy in the bracket quarterfinals.
Home Depot Forum, Web City: Cubby v. Goatee. The green cue comes up again for 9-ball. Web City's Cubby established himself quickly in game 1 with the 7 and 9 finding the left corners on the break. Cubby took a 1-0 series lead before Westside's Goatee had a shot. Game 2 had a much slower start before the Rockers' Goatee made a four-ball run. The Spiders' Cubby then made a ball and scratched, setting up Goatee for a four-ball run-out. This surge from Goatee gave her the win to tie the series at 1. Cubby had a three-ball run before a scratch early in game 3. Goatee shot back with one shot and a scratch, and Cubby then made the 5-9 combination from ball-in-hand for the win and 2-1 series win. Cubby advanced to a road position in the bracket quarterfinals with the trick play.
AT&T Hall, Oceanside: Megan v. Katharine. The green cue stays active for Rotation. Whitewater's Katharine had her moments in game 1, but a four-ball run near the end put her ahead. Oceanside's Megan needed a big counterattack and failed to deliver, allowing Katharine to win 8-6 for the 1-0 series lead. The Shores' Katharine ripped a seven-ball run from the break in game 2, putting immediate pressure on the Waves' Megan. Katharine would make the 7 at the bottom side on her second turn for an 8-1 win to clinch the series at 2-0. Game 3 started out with a back-and-forth cadence between the players. Katharine tried to stretch her lead a bit, but Megan fired back on a four-ball run-out to win 8-6. Katharine settled for a 2-1 series win and will play in the bracket quarterfinals.
Nissan Hall, Infinity: Fluffina v. Twinkie II. Feisty players clash in 7-ball with the silver cue. Infinity's Fluffina scratched at the end of a four-ball run late in game 1, gifting a free shot at the 7 that Harrison's Twinkie II easily converted. Twinkie II holds a 1-0 series lead. The Specters' Twinkie II had a pair of three-ball runs in game 2, a bold attack that ended up counting for nothing when she missed on the 7. The Torpedoes' Fluffina sent the 7 down to the bottom right for the win, tying the series at 1. Fluffina made the 5 on the break in game 3, and her cut on the 1 was hit to drive the 7 to the top left for the win. Fluffina beat Twinkie II 2-1 in the series to get to the bracket quarterfinals, where she'll host Archtown Arrows veteran Hoppy.
Cisco Arena, Tysini: Charli v. Stephanie. The red cue will end its day in 9-ball. Both players started slow in game 1, until Tysini's Charli snapped out of the struggle with a five-ball run-out capped by an 8-9 combination to the bottom left. Charli leads Southridge's Stephanie 1-0 in the series. The Defenders' Stephanie tried to play bold in game 2, but she missed her attempt at a 3-9 combination to the top left. The Hummingbirds' Charli deflected her shot off the 3 to tap the 9 in for the win, sealing the series at 2-0. Charli left no room for Stephanie to operate in game 3, smashing a four-ball run and a five-ball run-out over two turns to get the win. Charli swept the series 3-0 and will host again in the bracket quarterfinals.
Ford Forum, Pronger: Precious v. Dani. The silver cue is back in action for Accuracy. A sloppy start didn't help Viewpoint Sound's Dani, and she slipped up again later, allowing Pronger's Precious to lock in with a 3-4 win at the end. Precious leads the series 1-0. The Tridents' Precious regretted a scratch on the game 2 break, as she ended up trailing by one shot with nothing to do to fix it at the end. The Meteors' Dani was unforgiving as she held a 2-3 lead to the finish for the win that tied the series at 1. Dani slipped behind very quickly in game 3, and while Precious faded at the end, it was after the game was decided. A 5-7 win gave Precious the series at 2-1, and she'll host again in the bracket quarterfinals.
Volkswagen Stadium Events Center, Viewpoint Sound: Dani v. Panda. The host completes a long trip for a doubleheader, facing a Coastal rival in 13-ball with the green cue. Wasted opportunities slowed down game 1, but Southern's Panda had an extra dose of misfortune with bad positioning. Viewpoint Sound's Dani eventually scraped together enough offense for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Monarchs' Panda played good defense late in game 2 when he and the Meteors' Dani needed the same pockets. Panda eventually let the defense go, but his run came up short. Dani made a four-ball run-out for the win, sealing the series at 2-0. Dani came pretty close to the win in game 3, but this time was Panda's turn to strike late for a pair that gave him his lone win. Dani won the series 2-1 and will continue her run in the bracket quarterfinals.
Cisco Arena, Tysini: Charli v. Kodiak. Both players get a second series today, playing 7-ball with the silver cue. Tysini's Charli ripped a five-ball run from the break prior to her scratch. Modernistic's Kodiak then made the final pair from ball-in-hand for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Union's Kodiak made three balls on the break, most notably the 7 at the top side, but a late bump from the 4 sent the cue into the bottom side. This created an instant loss for Kodiak, and the Hummingbirds' Charli was able to tie the series at 1 without taking a shot. Charli had some shots work in game 3, but it was a slow battle until Kodiak's three-ball run-out gave him the win. Kodiak took the series 2-1 and will play on the road again in the bracket quarterfinals.
Samsung Arena, Whitewater: Marsell v. Gal. Ending the day, the green cue plays 13-ball. North Modernistic's Gal defied the odds on an early four-ball run, but she almost suffered late as Whitewater's Marsell stayed in pursuit. Marsell was a little short on the 8, and Gal put it away to the bottom left for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Nighthawks' Gal had a tougher time with offense in game 2, especially late in the game as she tried to corral the 6 at the top side. The Shores' Marsell had already struck to the sides and had an easier finish to get the win. Marsell tied the series at 1 with this victory. Gal had the lead for most of game 3, but she couldn't quite keep Marsell from making another comeback for the 2-1 series win. Marsell heads to a bracket quarterfinals series where he'll host the Viewpoint Sound Meteors' Dani.
Tomorrow's action may start at a slightly later time, but a full day will be played.
UPS Hall, Maplewood: Diddley v. Misty. A captains' battle in 8-ball uses the green cue. Maplewood's Diddley wasted no time in game 1, running the table from the break with excellent shot selection. Diddley leads Westside's Misty 1-0 in the series without the latter getting a shot yet. The Lumberjacks' Diddley was much more vulnerable in game 2, and that allowed the Rockers' Misty to hold a slight lead throughout. In the end, Misty made the 8 to the bottom right on her second try to get the win, tying the series at 1. Diddley nearly had the edge in game 3, but Misty struck a five-ball run and Diddley scratched on his next turn. A close battle at the end went to Misty, who won the series 2-1 to get into the bracket quarterfinals.
Google Hall, Modernistic: Daisy v. Leonardo. The silver cue steps in for 12-ball in today's second series. Diamond's Leonardo made a three-ball run early in game 1, but couldn't cash in good positioning. Modernistic's Daisy even gave away a wild-card ball during her stretch of five balls over the last two turns. Daisy just got the win for a 1-0 series lead. The Union's Daisy spotted a wild-card ball to the Gems' Leonardo on the game 2 break. Leonardo benefited from there, attacking the sides first and finishing on a three-ball run-out despite Daisy's resistance. Leonardo's win tied the series at 1. Leonardo made a stripe on the break, but it was all Daisy after that, including an impressive four-ball run. Daisy won the series 2-1 and will host the Atlantic Pirates' Isabella in the bracket quarterfinals.
Pepsi Arena, Lighton: Spirit v. Jake. The blue cue takes a turn in 10-ball here. Lighton's Spirit had a pair of three-ball runs in game 1, but her miss on the 10 proved costly. Royal's Jake banked it perfectly to the top left for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Crowns' Jake didn't post as smooth an offense in game 2. The Prestige's Spirit needed some time to get back in form, but a three-ball run-out served her well enough in the win, tying the series at 1. Spirit weathered a five-ball run from Jake early in game 3, then turned it around with a sharp three-ball run-out at the end. Spirit's strong finish gave her a 2-1 series win, and she'll play on into the bracket quarterfinals.
Chevrolet Center, Everton: Vincent v. Rosemary. The blue cue makes an early exit today after 7-ball. Commerce's Rosemary was good but not consistent in game 1, allowing Everton's Vincent to get the upper hand late in a choppy battle. Vincent put the 7 in the bottom left for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Tradewinds' Rosemary made a pair to get onto the 7, but she missed it three times. The Eagles' Vincent certainly wasn't clean, but he potted the 7 at the top right for the win to secure the series at 2-0. Rosemary had a little more offense in game 3, but she wasn't able to make the 7 this time either. Once again, Vincent needed three attempts to win, but that gave him a 3-0 series sweep. Vincent will host his appearance in the bracket quarterfinals.
Ford Forum, Pronger: Spot v. Max. The purple cue's lone appearance of the day is in 10-ball. Pronger's Spot struggled from the start in game 1, while Golden's Max found a five-ball run and nearly potted the 9 as well. Spot curled a shot to get the 9, but missed contact on the 10. Max then made the 10 from ball-in-hand for a 1-0 series lead. The Pilots' Max didn't have as much success in game 2 despite leaving the 10 at the top left. The Tridents' Spot protected the 10 well until he collected it on a deflection from sinking the 5 at the bottom left. Spot's double-pot was good for a win, which tied the series at 1. Spot reverted to his early-series form, scratching late and allowing Max to pick up the win on a three-ball run-out. Max won the series 2-1 and will play a visiting role again the bracket quarterfinals.
Nestle's Warriors Hall, Central: Noelle v. Stinky. The green cue is back for Rotation. Central's Noelle had a decent start in game 1, but that went to waste as she struggled in the end. Freedom's Stinky found more strength later and got an 8-4 win, going ahead 1-0 in the series. The Warriors' Noelle again jumped out to the lead in game 2, but it didn't matter at the end. The Cascades' Stinky surged with a three-ball run and then added a four-ball run-out to win 8-5, clinching the series at 2-0 with his strong offense. Stinky had a slight lead in a challenging game 3, the first time he's found early success. Noelle looked overwhelmed, and Stinky put her out of her misery with a four-ball run-out for an 8-2 win and 3-0 series sweep. Stinky advanced to the bracket quarterfinals.
Audi Hall, Terrace City: Quincy v. Ms. Puppy. The silver cue cycles in for 13-ball between Urban rivals. Terrace City's Quincy had one of each at the start and chose stripes. Modernistic's Ms. Puppy did well on solids, but a slow finish made it anyone's game. Ms. Puppy would win with a kick on the 8 to the bottom side that just barely dropped for the 1-0 series lead. The Union's Ms. Puppy didn't have the strongest performance in game 2, but it was better than the Knights' Quincy, who missed contact a couple of times and gave away a ball. Ms. Puppy made a pair at the end for the win to seal the series at 2-0. Quincy came really close to the game 3 win with a five-ball run, but he left the 8 at the top left. Ms. Puppy charged back with a four-ball run-out for the win to complete the 3-0 series sweep to get herself in the bracket quarterfinals.
Google Hall, Modernistic: Ms. Puppy v. Kodiak. The host finishes her doubleheader against a Union teammate in 12-ball with the red cue. Kodiak received a wild-card ball on the break in game 1, and that helped him later on. Ms. Puppy struggled a bit with positioning, and Kodiak got the win with five balls over his last two turns for a 1-0 series lead. Kodiak had a near-perfect break in game 2, sending balls to both left corners and side pockets for a four-ball shot. He took his time at the bottom right, but Ms. Puppy was too far back to catch up. Kodiak secured the series at 2-0 with a quick win. Kodiak made one of each on the break in game 3, and that little extra flexibility would be all Ms. Puppy needed to avoid the sweep. Kodiak settled for a 2-1 series win that sees him travel for real to Archtown to face club-mate and Arrows veteran Hoppy in the bracket quarterfinals.
Home Depot Forum, Web City: Cubby v. Goatee. The green cue comes up again for 9-ball. Web City's Cubby established himself quickly in game 1 with the 7 and 9 finding the left corners on the break. Cubby took a 1-0 series lead before Westside's Goatee had a shot. Game 2 had a much slower start before the Rockers' Goatee made a four-ball run. The Spiders' Cubby then made a ball and scratched, setting up Goatee for a four-ball run-out. This surge from Goatee gave her the win to tie the series at 1. Cubby had a three-ball run before a scratch early in game 3. Goatee shot back with one shot and a scratch, and Cubby then made the 5-9 combination from ball-in-hand for the win and 2-1 series win. Cubby advanced to a road position in the bracket quarterfinals with the trick play.
AT&T Hall, Oceanside: Megan v. Katharine. The green cue stays active for Rotation. Whitewater's Katharine had her moments in game 1, but a four-ball run near the end put her ahead. Oceanside's Megan needed a big counterattack and failed to deliver, allowing Katharine to win 8-6 for the 1-0 series lead. The Shores' Katharine ripped a seven-ball run from the break in game 2, putting immediate pressure on the Waves' Megan. Katharine would make the 7 at the bottom side on her second turn for an 8-1 win to clinch the series at 2-0. Game 3 started out with a back-and-forth cadence between the players. Katharine tried to stretch her lead a bit, but Megan fired back on a four-ball run-out to win 8-6. Katharine settled for a 2-1 series win and will play in the bracket quarterfinals.
Nissan Hall, Infinity: Fluffina v. Twinkie II. Feisty players clash in 7-ball with the silver cue. Infinity's Fluffina scratched at the end of a four-ball run late in game 1, gifting a free shot at the 7 that Harrison's Twinkie II easily converted. Twinkie II holds a 1-0 series lead. The Specters' Twinkie II had a pair of three-ball runs in game 2, a bold attack that ended up counting for nothing when she missed on the 7. The Torpedoes' Fluffina sent the 7 down to the bottom right for the win, tying the series at 1. Fluffina made the 5 on the break in game 3, and her cut on the 1 was hit to drive the 7 to the top left for the win. Fluffina beat Twinkie II 2-1 in the series to get to the bracket quarterfinals, where she'll host Archtown Arrows veteran Hoppy.
Cisco Arena, Tysini: Charli v. Stephanie. The red cue will end its day in 9-ball. Both players started slow in game 1, until Tysini's Charli snapped out of the struggle with a five-ball run-out capped by an 8-9 combination to the bottom left. Charli leads Southridge's Stephanie 1-0 in the series. The Defenders' Stephanie tried to play bold in game 2, but she missed her attempt at a 3-9 combination to the top left. The Hummingbirds' Charli deflected her shot off the 3 to tap the 9 in for the win, sealing the series at 2-0. Charli left no room for Stephanie to operate in game 3, smashing a four-ball run and a five-ball run-out over two turns to get the win. Charli swept the series 3-0 and will host again in the bracket quarterfinals.
Ford Forum, Pronger: Precious v. Dani. The silver cue is back in action for Accuracy. A sloppy start didn't help Viewpoint Sound's Dani, and she slipped up again later, allowing Pronger's Precious to lock in with a 3-4 win at the end. Precious leads the series 1-0. The Tridents' Precious regretted a scratch on the game 2 break, as she ended up trailing by one shot with nothing to do to fix it at the end. The Meteors' Dani was unforgiving as she held a 2-3 lead to the finish for the win that tied the series at 1. Dani slipped behind very quickly in game 3, and while Precious faded at the end, it was after the game was decided. A 5-7 win gave Precious the series at 2-1, and she'll host again in the bracket quarterfinals.
Volkswagen Stadium Events Center, Viewpoint Sound: Dani v. Panda. The host completes a long trip for a doubleheader, facing a Coastal rival in 13-ball with the green cue. Wasted opportunities slowed down game 1, but Southern's Panda had an extra dose of misfortune with bad positioning. Viewpoint Sound's Dani eventually scraped together enough offense for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Monarchs' Panda played good defense late in game 2 when he and the Meteors' Dani needed the same pockets. Panda eventually let the defense go, but his run came up short. Dani made a four-ball run-out for the win, sealing the series at 2-0. Dani came pretty close to the win in game 3, but this time was Panda's turn to strike late for a pair that gave him his lone win. Dani won the series 2-1 and will continue her run in the bracket quarterfinals.
Cisco Arena, Tysini: Charli v. Kodiak. Both players get a second series today, playing 7-ball with the silver cue. Tysini's Charli ripped a five-ball run from the break prior to her scratch. Modernistic's Kodiak then made the final pair from ball-in-hand for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Union's Kodiak made three balls on the break, most notably the 7 at the top side, but a late bump from the 4 sent the cue into the bottom side. This created an instant loss for Kodiak, and the Hummingbirds' Charli was able to tie the series at 1 without taking a shot. Charli had some shots work in game 3, but it was a slow battle until Kodiak's three-ball run-out gave him the win. Kodiak took the series 2-1 and will play on the road again in the bracket quarterfinals.
Samsung Arena, Whitewater: Marsell v. Gal. Ending the day, the green cue plays 13-ball. North Modernistic's Gal defied the odds on an early four-ball run, but she almost suffered late as Whitewater's Marsell stayed in pursuit. Marsell was a little short on the 8, and Gal put it away to the bottom left for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Nighthawks' Gal had a tougher time with offense in game 2, especially late in the game as she tried to corral the 6 at the top side. The Shores' Marsell had already struck to the sides and had an easier finish to get the win. Marsell tied the series at 1 with this victory. Gal had the lead for most of game 3, but she couldn't quite keep Marsell from making another comeback for the 2-1 series win. Marsell heads to a bracket quarterfinals series where he'll host the Viewpoint Sound Meteors' Dani.
Tomorrow's action may start at a slightly later time, but a full day will be played.
Monday, July 6, 2020
Tournament X - Second Round Day 3
We're back in action today with a full slate. Leading off...
Amazon Field Exhibition Hall, Golden: Strut v. Gizmo. The blue cue is on hand for 7-ball to start the day. Golden's Strut made a pair at the start and the end of game 1 to offset and overpower a three-ball run from North Modernistic's Gizmo. Strut's solid play earned him the win and 1-0 series lead. The Pilots' Strut made sure to double down, smashing a great break in game 2 that sent the 7 to the top right. Strut sealed the series at 2-0 over the Nighthawks' Gizmo. Strut had an early win in game 3 as well, capitalizing on Gizmo's failed 2-7 combination attempt. Strut used a deflected shot at the bottom right to get the win, the 3-0 series sweep, and a trip to the bracket quarterfinals.
Amazon Field Exhibition Hall, Golden: Dusty v. Steven. The venue doubleheader ends in 8-ball with the silver cue. Despite a scratch on the break, Golden's Dusty looked threatening to start game 1, but a later scratch doomed her. After that point, Atlantic's Steven had a pair of three-ball runs to earn the win for a 1-0 series lead. Game 2 was a little less smooth, especially for the Pirates' Steven, who had a couple of chances to get the win. The Pilots' Dusty stayed in it and got a pair at the end for the win, tying the series at 1 with a bank of the 8 to the bottom side. Steven kept the pressure high in game 3, getting down to his last ball before Dusty wiped his hope away. Dusty rallied on a six-ball run-out for the win and 2-1 series win, earning her place as a host in the bracket quarterfinals.
Verizon Field Events Center, Pacific: Ms. Kitty v. Sarah. Back in 7-ball, the red cue gets a turn. Pacific's Ms. Kitty had a good start in game 1, then took a couple of misses and a late scratch. Tysini's Sarah was able to strike the 7 to the bottom right from ball-in-hand for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Volcanoes' Ms. Kitty wasn't able to control much of anything in game 2, especially after another late scratch. This bailed out the Hummingbirds' Sarah, who got away with a poor effort to clinch the series at 2-0 with the win. Sarah made sure to bring game 3 to a quick end, sending the 7 indirectly to the top left on the break to complete her 3-0 series sweep over Ms. Kitty. Sarah is set to continue on the road in the bracket quarterfinals.
Mercedes-Benz Forum, Harrison: Dewey v. Twilight. Northeastern rivals tangle in 8-ball with the purple cue. Harrison's Dewey had the lead for virtually all of game 1, but he couldn't put away the 8. Central's Twilight made a pair at the end just in time to get the win, going ahead 1-0 in the series. The Warriors' Twilight opened game 2 with a four-ball run and a little collateral damage. She didn't get back to the table after that, as the Specters' Dewey delivered a seven-ball run-out for the win that tied the series at 1. Game 3 saw Twilight make six balls over two turns to get onto the 8. She faltered a bit, and Dewey got onto the 8 as well, but he missed his one chance. Twilight buried it at the bottom right for the win and 2-1 series win to put her into the bracket quarterfinals.
T-Mobile Center, Victoria: Strawberry v. Nightfur. The purple cue remains active in Rotation. Eastside's Nightfur exploded with a five-ball run early in game 1. Victoria's Strawberry immediately answered on a four-ball run and added a three-ball run to get the lead. Under pressure, Nightfur folded, and Strawberry won 8-5 for the 1-0 series lead. Game 2 went at a much slower pace, which surprisingly favored the usually high-energy Sharks' Nightfur. The Spurs' Strawberry struggled to do anything, and Nightfur won 8-2 on a three-ball run-out to tie the series at 1. Nightfur trailed at first in game 3, but a six-ball run got her on the edge of a win. Strawberry fought back with a three-ball run, but Nightfur took the 8-6 win. Nightfur won the series 2-1 and will play in the bracket quarterfinals.
Apple Center, Todavía: Easter v. Ruby. The green cue draws in for another Rotation series between Stills teammates. In game 1, Ruby had no trouble jumping out to a lead early on. Easter struggled to keep her shots legal, and Ruby's lead grew with free possession. At the end, Ruby banked the 10 to the bottom side for an 8-3 win to take the 1-0 series lead. Things were a little closer in game 2, as Ruby had only a marginal lead with a pair in the middle of the game. Easter surged on a four-ball run and made a shot on her next turn for the 8-6 win to tie the series at 1. Easter had her struggles early in game 3, allowing Ruby to make an impact. A tied game turned into an 8-5 win as Easter made a three-ball run-out capped by a 13-15 combination to the top right. Easter won the series 2-1 and will host Commerce Tradewinds veteran Niki in the bracket quarterfinals.
Sony Center, Queens: Mario v. Delila. The green cue stays active for 9-ball. Queens' Mario had a productive game 1, weathering a little offense from Atlantic's Delila before turning in five of the last six balls himself. That late push gave Mario a 1-0 series lead. The Flames' Mario held a majority of the offense in game 2, but he faltered at the end with a miss on the 9. The Pirates' Delila fought back with a bank on the 9 to the top side, giving her the win to tie the series at 1. Game 3 went back and forth between the players, a choppy battle for offense. Mario stepped up with a pair at the end to get the win, defeating Delila 2-1 in the series. Mario is set to host his appearance in the bracket quarterfinals.
Intel Center, Diamond: Leonardo v. Cobalt. The green cue goes again, this time in Accuracy. Diamond's Leonardo was perfect in game 1, making all the shots he needed to for a 0-3 win over Viewpoint Sound's Cobalt. Leonardo holds a 1-0 series lead. The Gems' Leonardo made a pair on the break and seemed to have fortune on his side in another flawless outing in game 2. The Meteors' Cobalt grew frustrated as the game progressed, but Leonardo didn't budge, as the host won 0-3 again to secure the series at 2-0. With the series in the bag, Leonardo eased up and took some misses in game 3. Cobalt wanted to keep a perfect effort but fell short, settling for a 1-3 win. Leonardo won the series 2-1 and will host Royal Crowns captain Kayla in the bracket quarterfinals.
Mercedes-Benz Forum, Harrison: Blizzard v. Sunshine. One more time for the green cue, playing 10-ball here. Harrison's Blizzard seemed to have the better of play in game 1, but she faded toward the end, and Royal's Sunshine was able to strike for the 10 at the bottom left. Sunshine's finisher gave him a 1-0 series lead. The Crowns' Sunshine got a ball on the break and missed on his next turn in game 2. The Specters' Blizzard used a five-ball run to get herself on track, but she took a scratch. Sunshine then answered with a fast four-ball run-out for the win, clinching the series at 2-0 in the process. Sunshine made an early three-ball run in game 3, then added a 4-10 combination to the bottom left after Blizzard couldn't convert the same play. Sunshine swept the series 3-0 and advanced to the bracket quarterfinals.
Apple Center, Todavía: Pedey v. Bright. Coastal rivals battle in 10-ball with the purple cue. Todavía's Pedey had a fairly standard performance in a tight game 1. That wouldn't be enough, as Pearl's Bright picked up a three-ball run-out at the end for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Surfers' Bright brought more energy with a five-ball run to open game 2, and he added another pair later. The Stills' Pedey did just enough to stay alive in the series, banking the 9 to the top side and sending the 10 to the bottom left for the win to tie the series at 1. Game 3 was very slow on both sides, as neither player was able to control the offense. Bright had his best chance with a late four-ball run, but he missed the 10. Pedey knocked it to the bottom left for the win and 2-1 series win that gets him into the bracket quarterfinals.
Volkswagen Stadium Events Center, Viewpoint Sound: Frosty v. Salmo. The red cue cycles in for 15-ball. Game 1 was rather unremarkable until the 8 came up in order. Diamond's Salmo tried to use it to pot the 15 at the bottom right and failed, but so did Viewpoint Sound's Frosty. On his second attempt, Salmo made the combination and pulled ahead 1-0 in the series. A much higher pace of play was established in game 2, as the Gems' Salmo attacked relentlessly. Things slowed down again near the end as the Meteors' Frosty tried to play some defense, but Salmo would make a pair at the end for the win to seal the series at 2-0. Frosty had her best performance in game 3 with a five-ball run as the biggest highlight. Things went wrong again for Frosty at the end, as Salmo struck a three-ball run-out with a bank on the 15 to the bottom side to finish the sweep. Salmo's low-ranked bid takes him to visit the Central Warriors' Noelle in the bracket quarterfinals.
Pepsi Arena, Lighton: Spirit v. Delila. The visitor's second series today is in 15-ball with the silver cue. Atlantic's Delila had some good plays in game 1, but a missed kick on the 8 proved costly. Lighton's Spirit used the ball-in-hand to ignite a three-ball run-out for the win, ending with a 10-15 combination at the top left for the 1-0 series lead. The Pirates' Delila silenced the crowd temporarily in game 2 with a nine-ball run. The Prestige's Spirit answered on a four-ball run. Delila had a chance at the win but missed the 15 at the top left, and Spirit's tap in was good enough for the win to clinch the series at 2-0. Delila again had a lot of offense, although much more fractured this time, but her game 3 would end in defeat as well. Spirit pinched the 8-15 combination off the 9 to sink it at the top left for the 3-0 series sweep. Spirit is ready to host again in the bracket quarterfinals.
Mercedes-Benz Forum, Harrison: Twinkie II v. Dusky. The green cue exits the day in 9-ball. Harrison's Twinkie II unleashed a good break in game 1, getting the 9 to drop cleanly in the top left for an instant win and 1-0 series lead over Atlantic's Dusky. The Specters' Twinkie II didn't have the same good fortune in game 2, settling for a close battle with the Pirates' Dusky. At the end, each player had a pair, but it was Dusky who earned the win to tie the series at 1. Dusky had a near-win in game 3 as she potted the 1 and sent the 9 to the edge of the top right. Dusky kept possession and made it an eight-ball run-out to take the 2-1 series win in well-earned fashion. Dusky will play in the bracket quarterfinals.
Nissan Hall, Infinity: Fluffina v. Nibbles. The red cue is back for this 12-ball series. Infinity's Fluffina made an early pair, but she had a foul that led to a four-ball run for Web City's Nibbles from ball-in-hand. Down the stretch, Nibbles showed more strength and earned the win for a 1-0 series lead. The Spiders' Nibbles worked a four-ball run off the break in game 2, while also ceding a wild-card ball. The Torpedoes' Fluffina had the advantage briefly, but a scratch forced her to give back the wild-card ball, and Nibbles made a pair after that for the win. Nibbles clinched the series at 2-0. The pace was high in game 3, as Nibbles made a three-ball run from the break that Fluffina answered with a four-ball run. Nibbles shot back on a three-ball run-out and took the win to sweep the series 3-0 en route to the bracket quarterfinals.
BMW RockDome, Westside: Midnight v. Rosemary. The red cue is done for the day after 8-ball between Urban rivals. Westside's Midnight came quite close to success in game 1, a four-ball run-out converted with a scratch as the 8 went down. This gifted the win away to Commerce's Rosemary, who played well in her own right as she holds a 1-0 series lead. The Rockers' Midnight had the loss lingering over her in game 2 as well, affecting her ability to play well. The Tradewinds' Rosemary was much more consistent and found a four-ball run-out for the win to seal the series at 2-0. Midnight showed precision and control in game 3, a newfound surge of offense quickly following in her lone win versus Rosemary. The series favored Rosemary 2-1 to earn her a place in the bracket quarterfinals.
Amazon Field Exhibition Hall, Golden: Valencia v. Rainmane. Stars of the Southeast end the day in Rotation with the blue cue. Golden's Valencia had a good start in game 1, but Midland's Rainmane made six balls over two turns, including a four-ball run-out, to take an 8-5 win. Rainmane's late surge gave her a 1-0 series lead. Neither player seemed keen to rush headlong into victory in game 2, as both surged before stepping back. At the end, the Predators' Rainmane missed the 15 at the bottom right, and the Pilots' Valencia converted for an 8-7 win to tie the series at 1. A close battle to start game 3 tipped in favor of Valencia as Rainmane panicked in the middle. Valencia took an 8-3 win, adding the 2-1 series win and a trip to the bracket quarterfinals.
The games keep rolling in the Second Round. Check back for more tomorrow at the regular time.
Amazon Field Exhibition Hall, Golden: Strut v. Gizmo. The blue cue is on hand for 7-ball to start the day. Golden's Strut made a pair at the start and the end of game 1 to offset and overpower a three-ball run from North Modernistic's Gizmo. Strut's solid play earned him the win and 1-0 series lead. The Pilots' Strut made sure to double down, smashing a great break in game 2 that sent the 7 to the top right. Strut sealed the series at 2-0 over the Nighthawks' Gizmo. Strut had an early win in game 3 as well, capitalizing on Gizmo's failed 2-7 combination attempt. Strut used a deflected shot at the bottom right to get the win, the 3-0 series sweep, and a trip to the bracket quarterfinals.
Amazon Field Exhibition Hall, Golden: Dusty v. Steven. The venue doubleheader ends in 8-ball with the silver cue. Despite a scratch on the break, Golden's Dusty looked threatening to start game 1, but a later scratch doomed her. After that point, Atlantic's Steven had a pair of three-ball runs to earn the win for a 1-0 series lead. Game 2 was a little less smooth, especially for the Pirates' Steven, who had a couple of chances to get the win. The Pilots' Dusty stayed in it and got a pair at the end for the win, tying the series at 1 with a bank of the 8 to the bottom side. Steven kept the pressure high in game 3, getting down to his last ball before Dusty wiped his hope away. Dusty rallied on a six-ball run-out for the win and 2-1 series win, earning her place as a host in the bracket quarterfinals.
Verizon Field Events Center, Pacific: Ms. Kitty v. Sarah. Back in 7-ball, the red cue gets a turn. Pacific's Ms. Kitty had a good start in game 1, then took a couple of misses and a late scratch. Tysini's Sarah was able to strike the 7 to the bottom right from ball-in-hand for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Volcanoes' Ms. Kitty wasn't able to control much of anything in game 2, especially after another late scratch. This bailed out the Hummingbirds' Sarah, who got away with a poor effort to clinch the series at 2-0 with the win. Sarah made sure to bring game 3 to a quick end, sending the 7 indirectly to the top left on the break to complete her 3-0 series sweep over Ms. Kitty. Sarah is set to continue on the road in the bracket quarterfinals.
Mercedes-Benz Forum, Harrison: Dewey v. Twilight. Northeastern rivals tangle in 8-ball with the purple cue. Harrison's Dewey had the lead for virtually all of game 1, but he couldn't put away the 8. Central's Twilight made a pair at the end just in time to get the win, going ahead 1-0 in the series. The Warriors' Twilight opened game 2 with a four-ball run and a little collateral damage. She didn't get back to the table after that, as the Specters' Dewey delivered a seven-ball run-out for the win that tied the series at 1. Game 3 saw Twilight make six balls over two turns to get onto the 8. She faltered a bit, and Dewey got onto the 8 as well, but he missed his one chance. Twilight buried it at the bottom right for the win and 2-1 series win to put her into the bracket quarterfinals.
T-Mobile Center, Victoria: Strawberry v. Nightfur. The purple cue remains active in Rotation. Eastside's Nightfur exploded with a five-ball run early in game 1. Victoria's Strawberry immediately answered on a four-ball run and added a three-ball run to get the lead. Under pressure, Nightfur folded, and Strawberry won 8-5 for the 1-0 series lead. Game 2 went at a much slower pace, which surprisingly favored the usually high-energy Sharks' Nightfur. The Spurs' Strawberry struggled to do anything, and Nightfur won 8-2 on a three-ball run-out to tie the series at 1. Nightfur trailed at first in game 3, but a six-ball run got her on the edge of a win. Strawberry fought back with a three-ball run, but Nightfur took the 8-6 win. Nightfur won the series 2-1 and will play in the bracket quarterfinals.
Apple Center, Todavía: Easter v. Ruby. The green cue draws in for another Rotation series between Stills teammates. In game 1, Ruby had no trouble jumping out to a lead early on. Easter struggled to keep her shots legal, and Ruby's lead grew with free possession. At the end, Ruby banked the 10 to the bottom side for an 8-3 win to take the 1-0 series lead. Things were a little closer in game 2, as Ruby had only a marginal lead with a pair in the middle of the game. Easter surged on a four-ball run and made a shot on her next turn for the 8-6 win to tie the series at 1. Easter had her struggles early in game 3, allowing Ruby to make an impact. A tied game turned into an 8-5 win as Easter made a three-ball run-out capped by a 13-15 combination to the top right. Easter won the series 2-1 and will host Commerce Tradewinds veteran Niki in the bracket quarterfinals.
Sony Center, Queens: Mario v. Delila. The green cue stays active for 9-ball. Queens' Mario had a productive game 1, weathering a little offense from Atlantic's Delila before turning in five of the last six balls himself. That late push gave Mario a 1-0 series lead. The Flames' Mario held a majority of the offense in game 2, but he faltered at the end with a miss on the 9. The Pirates' Delila fought back with a bank on the 9 to the top side, giving her the win to tie the series at 1. Game 3 went back and forth between the players, a choppy battle for offense. Mario stepped up with a pair at the end to get the win, defeating Delila 2-1 in the series. Mario is set to host his appearance in the bracket quarterfinals.
Intel Center, Diamond: Leonardo v. Cobalt. The green cue goes again, this time in Accuracy. Diamond's Leonardo was perfect in game 1, making all the shots he needed to for a 0-3 win over Viewpoint Sound's Cobalt. Leonardo holds a 1-0 series lead. The Gems' Leonardo made a pair on the break and seemed to have fortune on his side in another flawless outing in game 2. The Meteors' Cobalt grew frustrated as the game progressed, but Leonardo didn't budge, as the host won 0-3 again to secure the series at 2-0. With the series in the bag, Leonardo eased up and took some misses in game 3. Cobalt wanted to keep a perfect effort but fell short, settling for a 1-3 win. Leonardo won the series 2-1 and will host Royal Crowns captain Kayla in the bracket quarterfinals.
Mercedes-Benz Forum, Harrison: Blizzard v. Sunshine. One more time for the green cue, playing 10-ball here. Harrison's Blizzard seemed to have the better of play in game 1, but she faded toward the end, and Royal's Sunshine was able to strike for the 10 at the bottom left. Sunshine's finisher gave him a 1-0 series lead. The Crowns' Sunshine got a ball on the break and missed on his next turn in game 2. The Specters' Blizzard used a five-ball run to get herself on track, but she took a scratch. Sunshine then answered with a fast four-ball run-out for the win, clinching the series at 2-0 in the process. Sunshine made an early three-ball run in game 3, then added a 4-10 combination to the bottom left after Blizzard couldn't convert the same play. Sunshine swept the series 3-0 and advanced to the bracket quarterfinals.
Apple Center, Todavía: Pedey v. Bright. Coastal rivals battle in 10-ball with the purple cue. Todavía's Pedey had a fairly standard performance in a tight game 1. That wouldn't be enough, as Pearl's Bright picked up a three-ball run-out at the end for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Surfers' Bright brought more energy with a five-ball run to open game 2, and he added another pair later. The Stills' Pedey did just enough to stay alive in the series, banking the 9 to the top side and sending the 10 to the bottom left for the win to tie the series at 1. Game 3 was very slow on both sides, as neither player was able to control the offense. Bright had his best chance with a late four-ball run, but he missed the 10. Pedey knocked it to the bottom left for the win and 2-1 series win that gets him into the bracket quarterfinals.
Volkswagen Stadium Events Center, Viewpoint Sound: Frosty v. Salmo. The red cue cycles in for 15-ball. Game 1 was rather unremarkable until the 8 came up in order. Diamond's Salmo tried to use it to pot the 15 at the bottom right and failed, but so did Viewpoint Sound's Frosty. On his second attempt, Salmo made the combination and pulled ahead 1-0 in the series. A much higher pace of play was established in game 2, as the Gems' Salmo attacked relentlessly. Things slowed down again near the end as the Meteors' Frosty tried to play some defense, but Salmo would make a pair at the end for the win to seal the series at 2-0. Frosty had her best performance in game 3 with a five-ball run as the biggest highlight. Things went wrong again for Frosty at the end, as Salmo struck a three-ball run-out with a bank on the 15 to the bottom side to finish the sweep. Salmo's low-ranked bid takes him to visit the Central Warriors' Noelle in the bracket quarterfinals.
Pepsi Arena, Lighton: Spirit v. Delila. The visitor's second series today is in 15-ball with the silver cue. Atlantic's Delila had some good plays in game 1, but a missed kick on the 8 proved costly. Lighton's Spirit used the ball-in-hand to ignite a three-ball run-out for the win, ending with a 10-15 combination at the top left for the 1-0 series lead. The Pirates' Delila silenced the crowd temporarily in game 2 with a nine-ball run. The Prestige's Spirit answered on a four-ball run. Delila had a chance at the win but missed the 15 at the top left, and Spirit's tap in was good enough for the win to clinch the series at 2-0. Delila again had a lot of offense, although much more fractured this time, but her game 3 would end in defeat as well. Spirit pinched the 8-15 combination off the 9 to sink it at the top left for the 3-0 series sweep. Spirit is ready to host again in the bracket quarterfinals.
Mercedes-Benz Forum, Harrison: Twinkie II v. Dusky. The green cue exits the day in 9-ball. Harrison's Twinkie II unleashed a good break in game 1, getting the 9 to drop cleanly in the top left for an instant win and 1-0 series lead over Atlantic's Dusky. The Specters' Twinkie II didn't have the same good fortune in game 2, settling for a close battle with the Pirates' Dusky. At the end, each player had a pair, but it was Dusky who earned the win to tie the series at 1. Dusky had a near-win in game 3 as she potted the 1 and sent the 9 to the edge of the top right. Dusky kept possession and made it an eight-ball run-out to take the 2-1 series win in well-earned fashion. Dusky will play in the bracket quarterfinals.
Nissan Hall, Infinity: Fluffina v. Nibbles. The red cue is back for this 12-ball series. Infinity's Fluffina made an early pair, but she had a foul that led to a four-ball run for Web City's Nibbles from ball-in-hand. Down the stretch, Nibbles showed more strength and earned the win for a 1-0 series lead. The Spiders' Nibbles worked a four-ball run off the break in game 2, while also ceding a wild-card ball. The Torpedoes' Fluffina had the advantage briefly, but a scratch forced her to give back the wild-card ball, and Nibbles made a pair after that for the win. Nibbles clinched the series at 2-0. The pace was high in game 3, as Nibbles made a three-ball run from the break that Fluffina answered with a four-ball run. Nibbles shot back on a three-ball run-out and took the win to sweep the series 3-0 en route to the bracket quarterfinals.
BMW RockDome, Westside: Midnight v. Rosemary. The red cue is done for the day after 8-ball between Urban rivals. Westside's Midnight came quite close to success in game 1, a four-ball run-out converted with a scratch as the 8 went down. This gifted the win away to Commerce's Rosemary, who played well in her own right as she holds a 1-0 series lead. The Rockers' Midnight had the loss lingering over her in game 2 as well, affecting her ability to play well. The Tradewinds' Rosemary was much more consistent and found a four-ball run-out for the win to seal the series at 2-0. Midnight showed precision and control in game 3, a newfound surge of offense quickly following in her lone win versus Rosemary. The series favored Rosemary 2-1 to earn her a place in the bracket quarterfinals.
Amazon Field Exhibition Hall, Golden: Valencia v. Rainmane. Stars of the Southeast end the day in Rotation with the blue cue. Golden's Valencia had a good start in game 1, but Midland's Rainmane made six balls over two turns, including a four-ball run-out, to take an 8-5 win. Rainmane's late surge gave her a 1-0 series lead. Neither player seemed keen to rush headlong into victory in game 2, as both surged before stepping back. At the end, the Predators' Rainmane missed the 15 at the bottom right, and the Pilots' Valencia converted for an 8-7 win to tie the series at 1. A close battle to start game 3 tipped in favor of Valencia as Rainmane panicked in the middle. Valencia took an 8-3 win, adding the 2-1 series win and a trip to the bracket quarterfinals.
The games keep rolling in the Second Round. Check back for more tomorrow at the regular time.
Sunday, July 5, 2020
Tournament X - Second Round Day 2
The second day of the second round is here, beginning with...
Home Depot Forum, Web City: Cubby v. Potter. The silver cue gets the start today in 15-ball. Pronger's Potter had a four-ball run early in game 1, and despite improvements later on from Web City's Cubby, Potter took the win with a pair at the end. Potter leads the series 1-0. The Spiders' Cubby had a little more success in game 2, especially near the end. The Tridents' Potter didn't seem to notice, as he struck for another finishing pair to get the win, clinching the series at 2-0. Cubby thought he had a chance in game 3 with a late three-ball run, but he butchered his chance on the 15. Potter didn't pull back, burying the winner to the bottom right to complete a 3-0 series sweep. Potter is through to the bracket quarterfinals.
Chevrolet Center, Everton: Cleo v. Niki. The green cue goes second today, playing Rotation. Everton's Cleo made quick work of game 1 with a five-ball run in the middle. Commerce's Niki had no response to that, and Cleo ended up with an 8-1 win to go ahead 1-0 in the series. The Tradewinds' Niki stepped up in game 2, chipping offense in over multiple turns to quickly build a lead. The Eagles' Cleo failed to keep up this time, and Niki walked away with an 8-2 win to tie the series at 1. Game 3 saw Niki get the upper hand after a couple of errors from Cleo. Niki was relentless in attack, winning 8-1 and taking the series 2-1 in a comeback. Niki will continue her road binge in the bracket quarterfinals.
T-Mobile Center, Victoria: Yekaterina v. Princess. Back in 15-ball, explosive talents meet with the purple cue. Victoria's Yekaterina brought energy on offense, but struggled with the 7. Viewpoint Sound's Princess managed to sink the 7, but also scratched. Yekaterina then made the 10-15 combination to the top right from ball-in-hand for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Spurs' Yekaterina took a step back on offense in game 2, as some shots just didn't work out for her. The Meteors' Princess stepped in with a three-ball run-out at the end, getting a smooth win to tie the series at 1. Princess had a couple of nice runs in game 3, but she showed far too much respect to Yekaterina. At the end, Yekaterina smashed a four-ball run-out for the win and 2-1 series win. Yekaterina will be a visitor in her bracket quarterfinals appearance. This was Princess' 100th unique opponent.
Subway Arena, Stonebridge: Hershey v. Spot. Eastern Hills rivals clash in 9-ball with the red cue. Stonebridge's Hershey drained three balls on the break in game 1, but stalled out after that. Pronger's Spot wasn't precise, but he was good enough for the win, putting him ahead 1-0 in the series. Game 2 was another back-and-forth battle, this time tipping in favor of the Wolves' Hershey as he picked up momentum at the end. The Tridents' Spot wasn't sharp enough, and Hershey tied the series at 1. Spot did better at the end of game 3, making five balls over his last two turns for the win to beat Hershey 2-1 in the series. Spot will play host to club-mate and teammate Potter in the bracket quarterfinals.
Home Depot Forum, Web City: Nibbles v. Ms. Kitty. Another 15-ball series uses the purple cue. Web City's Nibbles had a bit of fortune on his side in game 1, as his shot on the 9 rattled around and pushed an 11-15 combination to the bottom left for the win and 1-0 series lead over Pacific's Ms. Kitty. In game 2, the pace was a bit higher. The Spiders' Nibbles held up well, but the Volcanoes' Ms. Kitty kept things close. Nibbles would win on a three-ball run-out capped by an 11-15 combination to the bottom left, a much more intentional victory helping the host seal the series at 2-0. Game 3 saw Nibbles take an awful break, but it led to an error by Ms. Kitty. Shooting into a cluster on his second turn, Nibbles got the 8 and 15 to both fall at the bottom left to complete his series sweep at 3-0. Nibbles will host the Victoria Spurs' Yekaterina in the bracket quarterfinals.
Starbucks Arena, Archtown: Hoppy v. Hughbert. Outcast members meet in 12-ball with the red cue. Archtown's Hoppy had one of each on the game 1 break, but Tysini's Hughbert proved unable to capitalize on his wild-card ball. Hughbert had a late foul, and Hoppy made a three-ball run-out for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Arrows' Hoppy had an early three-ball run, which the Hummingbirds' Hughbert answered on a four-ball run. With defense, Hoppy was able to hang in there long enough to work her way to the win. Hoppy secured the series at 2-0. Hoppy gave away two wild-card balls in game 3, but Hughbert quickly gave one back with a scratch. Hoppy then attacked her last shot at the bottom side to get the win, finishing her 3-0 series sweep. Hoppy remains in line for a home series in the bracket quarterfinals.
Capital City SuperCenter, Capital City: Sprinkles v. Oreo. Veterans collide in 8-ball with the purple cue. Capital City's Sprinkles rode a wave of luck to a six-ball run on her first turn in game 1, but she couldn't corral the 13. Terrace City's Oreo patiently waited to attack, then found a four-ball run-out for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Knights' Oreo thought solids would be her best bet in game 2, but it didn't pan out. The Sharpshooters' Sprinkles delivered another dangerous six-ball run, and she got the 8 on her second try for the win to tie the series at 1. Sprinkles almost had a big run at the end of game 3, but it stalled out again on her last stripe. Oreo recovered in time to make a few late shots for the win and 2-1 series win. Oreo will visit Todavía Stills captain Easter for an all-Prime bracket quarterfinals series.
Apple Center, Todavía: Sierra v. Wings. The silver cue draws in again for Rotation between Coastal rivals. Todavía's Sierra played a little too loose at the end of game 1, especially after Pearl's Wings committed an error. Wings responded with a three-ball run-out for an 8-6 win to take the 1-0 series lead. The Surfers' Wings scratched on the break in game 2 and didn't improve after that. A steady stream of offense from the Stills' Sierra led her to an 8-1 win to tie the series at 1. Sierra had her moments early in game 3, but a four-ball run turned the lead over to Wings. Sierra scrapped back but not fast enough, as Wings won 8-5 and took the series 2-1. Wings will head to the bracket quarterfinals.
Chevrolet Center, Everton: Vincent v. Sage. The blue cue makes its daily debut in 15-ball. Everton's Vincent made the first impact with a four-ball run. Victoria's Sage mounted a challenge with a late three-ball run in game 1, but she missed the 15 and Vincent cleaned it up for the win and 1-0 series lead. Most of game 2 went pretty slowly as neither player had a great grip on their shots. The Eagles' Vincent opened up with a five-ball run, which Sage soon answered with a three-ball run. Sage missed the 15 at the top side, and Vincent knocked it down for the win to clinch the series at 2-0. Vincent took care of business initially in game 3, but he got frustrated with the slow pace at the end. Sage stayed calm and snagged a win, while Vincent advanced to the bracket quarterfinals on a 2-1 series win.
Sony Center, Queens: Crystal v. Bianca A Southeastern derby is on in 10-ball with the red cue. Queens' Crystal had the better of play in a somewhat slow game 1 battle. Southridge's Bianca couldn't get much to go right, and Crystal made the final pair of shots for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Flames' Crystal had to weather a lot of offense from the Defenders' Bianca, as it was the visitor dictating the pace of game 2. Bianca had a bad miss on the 9 near the end, setting up a 9-10 kick combination to the top left that gave Crystal the win to seal the series at 2-0. Crystal couldn't get any positioning in game 3, and Bianca took advantage of that for a quick strike of the 3-10 combination to the bottom left. Crystal still won the series 2-1 and she'll play in the bracket quarterfinals.
Samsung Arena, Whitewater: Twinkie III v. Ms. Puppy. The blue cue exits the day with 7-ball between Urban rivals. Whitewater's Twinkie III made a pair on the break, but her offense soon went cold. Modernistic's Ms. Puppy took game 1 with a four-ball run-out on her second turn, giving the visitor a 1-0 series lead. The Shores' Twinkie III was better on offense in game 2, but she missed the 7 three times. The Union's Ms. Puppy certainly risked a bit of time in this battle before getting the win, which secured the series in her favor at 2-0. Ms. Puppy made things look easy in game 3 with a six-ball run-out, finishing a sweep of the top-ranked Twinkie III. Ms. Puppy is set to play again in the bracket quarterfinals.
Gillette Center, Swordpoint: Stealth v. Max. The green cue cycles in for 13-ball. Swordpoint's Stealth made two solids and a stripe on the break, but elected to play stripes to a four-ball run. Golden's Max struggled with positioning at first, but he collapsed defense at the top right to stall Stealth. The strategy worked, buying Max enough time to set up and convert a three-ball run-out for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Pilots' Max tried to play stripes in game 2, but he had a very rough time. The Blades' Stealth accelerated that misery, surging on a six-ball run-out to get the win and tie the series at 1 game apiece. Stealth again made one of each in game 3, but he was able to play better this time around. Max was too slow to react as Stealth wiped left to right across the table before sinking the 8 to the bottom left. Stealth won the series 2-1 and will play in the bracket quarterfinals.
Amazon Field Exhibition Hall, Golden: Max v. Melissa. The host finishes his doubleheader at home, using the green cue in 12-ball. Golden's Max had a good start, but he had to be patient near the end. Terrace City's Melissa yielded a wild-card ball, helping Max adjust his positioning before finally converting a three-ball run-out for the win. Max leads the series 1-0. The Pilots' Max surrendered a wild-card ball on the game 2 break, but the Knights' Melissa wasn't able to use it to her advantage. Melissa's organization was lackluster, and Max picked up the win after Melissa fouled. Max has a 2-0 series lead. Melissa had a better performance while Max dipped in quality in game 3. Max nearly had enough time for the win before Melissa surged late to avoid the sweep. In the end, Max gets in the bracket quarterfinals with a 2-1 series win.
T-Mobile Center, Victoria: Spice v. Lionel. The purple cue is done with today after a 7-ball series. Victoria's Spice got a quick win in game 1, deflecting a shot off the 3 to drive the 7 to the top left. This put her ahead of North Modernistic's Lionel 1-0 in the series. The Spurs' Spice had to play a full effort in game 2, but she got a break when the Nighthawks' Lionel left the 6 short of the top left. Spice made the final pair of shots for the win, clinching the series at 2-0. There would be no sweep, as Spice had a three-ball run in the middle of game 3, only for Lionel to provide an answer with a three-ball run-out. Spice won the series 2-1 and will head to the bracket quarterfinals.
Starbucks Arena, Archtown: Hoppy v. Spot. Both players make a second appearance today, using the silver cue for 7-ball. Pronger's Spot didn't excel immediately in game 1, but Archtowns' Hoppy left him plenty of room. Spot eventually worked a four-ball run-out, his shot on the 6 setting him up for the 7 at the top side to go ahead 1-0 in the series. The Tridents' Spot still looked good in game 2, until a sudden scratch ended his three-ball run. The Arrows' Hoppy made no mistake, burying the final pair from ball-in-hand for the win to tie the series at 1. Spot pushed a four-ball run after a slow start to game 3. It would backfire on him with his miss on the 7, which Hoppy cleaned up to take the win and 2-1 series win. Hoppy punched her ticket to the bracket quarterfinals.
BMW RockDome, Westside: Slinks v. Midnight. Brute Force club-mates and Rockers teammates end the day with the green cue in 7-ball. Midnight came so close in game 1, a three-ball run ending with a missed cut on the 7 at the top left. Slinks put away the tap-in for the win and 1-0 series lead. A slow start in game 2 saw Midnight make a slight impact, but her offense wasn't enough. Slinks took care of the rest, clinching the series with a late pair for the 2-0 advantage. Slinks put an exclamation point on the series and the day by sinking the 7 on the game 3 break to finish a 3-0 sweep of Midnight. Slinks will ride some momentum going into the bracket quarterfinals.
That's all for today's action, with another full day ahead tomorrow.
Home Depot Forum, Web City: Cubby v. Potter. The silver cue gets the start today in 15-ball. Pronger's Potter had a four-ball run early in game 1, and despite improvements later on from Web City's Cubby, Potter took the win with a pair at the end. Potter leads the series 1-0. The Spiders' Cubby had a little more success in game 2, especially near the end. The Tridents' Potter didn't seem to notice, as he struck for another finishing pair to get the win, clinching the series at 2-0. Cubby thought he had a chance in game 3 with a late three-ball run, but he butchered his chance on the 15. Potter didn't pull back, burying the winner to the bottom right to complete a 3-0 series sweep. Potter is through to the bracket quarterfinals.
Chevrolet Center, Everton: Cleo v. Niki. The green cue goes second today, playing Rotation. Everton's Cleo made quick work of game 1 with a five-ball run in the middle. Commerce's Niki had no response to that, and Cleo ended up with an 8-1 win to go ahead 1-0 in the series. The Tradewinds' Niki stepped up in game 2, chipping offense in over multiple turns to quickly build a lead. The Eagles' Cleo failed to keep up this time, and Niki walked away with an 8-2 win to tie the series at 1. Game 3 saw Niki get the upper hand after a couple of errors from Cleo. Niki was relentless in attack, winning 8-1 and taking the series 2-1 in a comeback. Niki will continue her road binge in the bracket quarterfinals.
T-Mobile Center, Victoria: Yekaterina v. Princess. Back in 15-ball, explosive talents meet with the purple cue. Victoria's Yekaterina brought energy on offense, but struggled with the 7. Viewpoint Sound's Princess managed to sink the 7, but also scratched. Yekaterina then made the 10-15 combination to the top right from ball-in-hand for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Spurs' Yekaterina took a step back on offense in game 2, as some shots just didn't work out for her. The Meteors' Princess stepped in with a three-ball run-out at the end, getting a smooth win to tie the series at 1. Princess had a couple of nice runs in game 3, but she showed far too much respect to Yekaterina. At the end, Yekaterina smashed a four-ball run-out for the win and 2-1 series win. Yekaterina will be a visitor in her bracket quarterfinals appearance. This was Princess' 100th unique opponent.
Subway Arena, Stonebridge: Hershey v. Spot. Eastern Hills rivals clash in 9-ball with the red cue. Stonebridge's Hershey drained three balls on the break in game 1, but stalled out after that. Pronger's Spot wasn't precise, but he was good enough for the win, putting him ahead 1-0 in the series. Game 2 was another back-and-forth battle, this time tipping in favor of the Wolves' Hershey as he picked up momentum at the end. The Tridents' Spot wasn't sharp enough, and Hershey tied the series at 1. Spot did better at the end of game 3, making five balls over his last two turns for the win to beat Hershey 2-1 in the series. Spot will play host to club-mate and teammate Potter in the bracket quarterfinals.
Home Depot Forum, Web City: Nibbles v. Ms. Kitty. Another 15-ball series uses the purple cue. Web City's Nibbles had a bit of fortune on his side in game 1, as his shot on the 9 rattled around and pushed an 11-15 combination to the bottom left for the win and 1-0 series lead over Pacific's Ms. Kitty. In game 2, the pace was a bit higher. The Spiders' Nibbles held up well, but the Volcanoes' Ms. Kitty kept things close. Nibbles would win on a three-ball run-out capped by an 11-15 combination to the bottom left, a much more intentional victory helping the host seal the series at 2-0. Game 3 saw Nibbles take an awful break, but it led to an error by Ms. Kitty. Shooting into a cluster on his second turn, Nibbles got the 8 and 15 to both fall at the bottom left to complete his series sweep at 3-0. Nibbles will host the Victoria Spurs' Yekaterina in the bracket quarterfinals.
Starbucks Arena, Archtown: Hoppy v. Hughbert. Outcast members meet in 12-ball with the red cue. Archtown's Hoppy had one of each on the game 1 break, but Tysini's Hughbert proved unable to capitalize on his wild-card ball. Hughbert had a late foul, and Hoppy made a three-ball run-out for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Arrows' Hoppy had an early three-ball run, which the Hummingbirds' Hughbert answered on a four-ball run. With defense, Hoppy was able to hang in there long enough to work her way to the win. Hoppy secured the series at 2-0. Hoppy gave away two wild-card balls in game 3, but Hughbert quickly gave one back with a scratch. Hoppy then attacked her last shot at the bottom side to get the win, finishing her 3-0 series sweep. Hoppy remains in line for a home series in the bracket quarterfinals.
Capital City SuperCenter, Capital City: Sprinkles v. Oreo. Veterans collide in 8-ball with the purple cue. Capital City's Sprinkles rode a wave of luck to a six-ball run on her first turn in game 1, but she couldn't corral the 13. Terrace City's Oreo patiently waited to attack, then found a four-ball run-out for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Knights' Oreo thought solids would be her best bet in game 2, but it didn't pan out. The Sharpshooters' Sprinkles delivered another dangerous six-ball run, and she got the 8 on her second try for the win to tie the series at 1. Sprinkles almost had a big run at the end of game 3, but it stalled out again on her last stripe. Oreo recovered in time to make a few late shots for the win and 2-1 series win. Oreo will visit Todavía Stills captain Easter for an all-Prime bracket quarterfinals series.
Apple Center, Todavía: Sierra v. Wings. The silver cue draws in again for Rotation between Coastal rivals. Todavía's Sierra played a little too loose at the end of game 1, especially after Pearl's Wings committed an error. Wings responded with a three-ball run-out for an 8-6 win to take the 1-0 series lead. The Surfers' Wings scratched on the break in game 2 and didn't improve after that. A steady stream of offense from the Stills' Sierra led her to an 8-1 win to tie the series at 1. Sierra had her moments early in game 3, but a four-ball run turned the lead over to Wings. Sierra scrapped back but not fast enough, as Wings won 8-5 and took the series 2-1. Wings will head to the bracket quarterfinals.
Chevrolet Center, Everton: Vincent v. Sage. The blue cue makes its daily debut in 15-ball. Everton's Vincent made the first impact with a four-ball run. Victoria's Sage mounted a challenge with a late three-ball run in game 1, but she missed the 15 and Vincent cleaned it up for the win and 1-0 series lead. Most of game 2 went pretty slowly as neither player had a great grip on their shots. The Eagles' Vincent opened up with a five-ball run, which Sage soon answered with a three-ball run. Sage missed the 15 at the top side, and Vincent knocked it down for the win to clinch the series at 2-0. Vincent took care of business initially in game 3, but he got frustrated with the slow pace at the end. Sage stayed calm and snagged a win, while Vincent advanced to the bracket quarterfinals on a 2-1 series win.
Sony Center, Queens: Crystal v. Bianca A Southeastern derby is on in 10-ball with the red cue. Queens' Crystal had the better of play in a somewhat slow game 1 battle. Southridge's Bianca couldn't get much to go right, and Crystal made the final pair of shots for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Flames' Crystal had to weather a lot of offense from the Defenders' Bianca, as it was the visitor dictating the pace of game 2. Bianca had a bad miss on the 9 near the end, setting up a 9-10 kick combination to the top left that gave Crystal the win to seal the series at 2-0. Crystal couldn't get any positioning in game 3, and Bianca took advantage of that for a quick strike of the 3-10 combination to the bottom left. Crystal still won the series 2-1 and she'll play in the bracket quarterfinals.
Samsung Arena, Whitewater: Twinkie III v. Ms. Puppy. The blue cue exits the day with 7-ball between Urban rivals. Whitewater's Twinkie III made a pair on the break, but her offense soon went cold. Modernistic's Ms. Puppy took game 1 with a four-ball run-out on her second turn, giving the visitor a 1-0 series lead. The Shores' Twinkie III was better on offense in game 2, but she missed the 7 three times. The Union's Ms. Puppy certainly risked a bit of time in this battle before getting the win, which secured the series in her favor at 2-0. Ms. Puppy made things look easy in game 3 with a six-ball run-out, finishing a sweep of the top-ranked Twinkie III. Ms. Puppy is set to play again in the bracket quarterfinals.
Gillette Center, Swordpoint: Stealth v. Max. The green cue cycles in for 13-ball. Swordpoint's Stealth made two solids and a stripe on the break, but elected to play stripes to a four-ball run. Golden's Max struggled with positioning at first, but he collapsed defense at the top right to stall Stealth. The strategy worked, buying Max enough time to set up and convert a three-ball run-out for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Pilots' Max tried to play stripes in game 2, but he had a very rough time. The Blades' Stealth accelerated that misery, surging on a six-ball run-out to get the win and tie the series at 1 game apiece. Stealth again made one of each in game 3, but he was able to play better this time around. Max was too slow to react as Stealth wiped left to right across the table before sinking the 8 to the bottom left. Stealth won the series 2-1 and will play in the bracket quarterfinals.
Amazon Field Exhibition Hall, Golden: Max v. Melissa. The host finishes his doubleheader at home, using the green cue in 12-ball. Golden's Max had a good start, but he had to be patient near the end. Terrace City's Melissa yielded a wild-card ball, helping Max adjust his positioning before finally converting a three-ball run-out for the win. Max leads the series 1-0. The Pilots' Max surrendered a wild-card ball on the game 2 break, but the Knights' Melissa wasn't able to use it to her advantage. Melissa's organization was lackluster, and Max picked up the win after Melissa fouled. Max has a 2-0 series lead. Melissa had a better performance while Max dipped in quality in game 3. Max nearly had enough time for the win before Melissa surged late to avoid the sweep. In the end, Max gets in the bracket quarterfinals with a 2-1 series win.
T-Mobile Center, Victoria: Spice v. Lionel. The purple cue is done with today after a 7-ball series. Victoria's Spice got a quick win in game 1, deflecting a shot off the 3 to drive the 7 to the top left. This put her ahead of North Modernistic's Lionel 1-0 in the series. The Spurs' Spice had to play a full effort in game 2, but she got a break when the Nighthawks' Lionel left the 6 short of the top left. Spice made the final pair of shots for the win, clinching the series at 2-0. There would be no sweep, as Spice had a three-ball run in the middle of game 3, only for Lionel to provide an answer with a three-ball run-out. Spice won the series 2-1 and will head to the bracket quarterfinals.
Starbucks Arena, Archtown: Hoppy v. Spot. Both players make a second appearance today, using the silver cue for 7-ball. Pronger's Spot didn't excel immediately in game 1, but Archtowns' Hoppy left him plenty of room. Spot eventually worked a four-ball run-out, his shot on the 6 setting him up for the 7 at the top side to go ahead 1-0 in the series. The Tridents' Spot still looked good in game 2, until a sudden scratch ended his three-ball run. The Arrows' Hoppy made no mistake, burying the final pair from ball-in-hand for the win to tie the series at 1. Spot pushed a four-ball run after a slow start to game 3. It would backfire on him with his miss on the 7, which Hoppy cleaned up to take the win and 2-1 series win. Hoppy punched her ticket to the bracket quarterfinals.
BMW RockDome, Westside: Slinks v. Midnight. Brute Force club-mates and Rockers teammates end the day with the green cue in 7-ball. Midnight came so close in game 1, a three-ball run ending with a missed cut on the 7 at the top left. Slinks put away the tap-in for the win and 1-0 series lead. A slow start in game 2 saw Midnight make a slight impact, but her offense wasn't enough. Slinks took care of the rest, clinching the series with a late pair for the 2-0 advantage. Slinks put an exclamation point on the series and the day by sinking the 7 on the game 3 break to finish a 3-0 sweep of Midnight. Slinks will ride some momentum going into the bracket quarterfinals.
That's all for today's action, with another full day ahead tomorrow.
Saturday, July 4, 2020
Tournament X - Second Round Day 1
Today, we return from the administrative break to begin a 23-day Second Round. There is currently a scheduled day off for July 18. We will continue to play three-game series in this round, beginning with...
FedEx Arena, Eastside: Lily v. Frosty. The purple cue opens the round in Accuracy. Eastside's Lily had a positive start to game 1 despite an early miss. Viewpoint Sound's Frosty struggled for most of the first half, and it was too late for her to recover at the end as Lily won 1-4 for the 1-0 series lead. The Sharks' Lily didn't have as good of a performance in game 2, falling behind with a late miss. The last ball was tough to corral, causing a score inflation that left the Meteors' Frosty with a 4-5 win to tie the series at 1. A back-and-forth battle in game 3 saw Lily nearly strike gold with a good cut on the 15 to the top right, only to see the shot end in a scratch. Frosty made the 10 to the bottom right from ball-in-hand to seal a 3-4 win and 2-1 series win. Frosty will continue her travels in the bracket quarterfinals.
Audi Hall, Terrace City: Jennifer v. Noelle. The red cue draws in for a 15-ball series. Terrace City's Jennifer began game 1 on a three-ball run, but she was less consistent later on. Central's Noelle would chip in regularly and finished with a win after making the last pair. Noelle leads the series 1-0. The Knights' Jennifer struggled a bit more in game 2, especially towards the end. The Warriors' Noelle had an opposite trajectory, with a bad start and a five-ball run-out finish for the win to clinch the series at 2-0. Noelle was pretty good in game 3, but her late three-ball run was answered by Jennifer with a six-ball run-out. Noelle settled for the 2-1 series win and will play on into the bracket quarterfinals.
Apple Center, Todavía: Easter v. Charli. The purple cue is back for 8-ball between leading stars. Tysini's Charli had a six-ball run to get onto the 8, but she didn't really expect Todavía's Easter to match that. Lucky for Charli, Easter missed the 8 too, and Charli was able to cut it to the bottom left for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Stills' Easter had to make a rally with a five-ball run after a slow start to game 2. The Hummingbirds' Charli couldn't make her last ball before Easter struck for the final pair to get the win that tied the series at 1. Easter established herself with a seven-ball run in game 3, and Charli could only manage a four-ball run in response. Easter's remarkable game ended with the 8 in the bottom side, giving her the series win at 2-1. Easter will host again in the bracket quarterfinals.
Pepsi Arena, Lighton: Angelica v. Sparkles. Another 15-ball series uses the red cue. Golden's Sparkles had a small edge in game 1, but her gamble to go for a 7-15 combination at the top left didn't pay off. She made the shot but also scratched, gifting the win and 1-0 series lead to Lighton's Angelica, who had a reasonably good effort as well. The 15 again lingered at the top left for awhile in game 2. Both players took swipes at it, but the best looks and the winning shot both went to the Prestige's Angelica. She converted the 6-15 combination as a double-pot, securing the series at 2-0 over the Pilots' Sparkles. In game 3, the 15 came close to the top right, and Angelica went into hunting mode. Sparkles was not particularly dangerous, allowing Angelica to deflect her shot off the 3 to sink the 15 for the win and 3-0 series sweep. Angelica will return to the road in the bracket quarterfinals.
BMW RockDome, Westside: Goatee v. Boots. The blue cue gets a turn in 8-ball. Westside's Goatee didn't have the smoothest performance, but once she got ahead of Pearl's Boots, Goatee held that lead. Goatee finished with the 8 in the top left for a 1-0 lead in the series. The Rockers' Goatee started well in game 2, but her finish lacked decisiveness this time. The Surfers' Boots kept it close until she potted the final pair, pulling away to the win to tie the series at 1 game apiece. Boots had a strong appearance in game 3, as Goatee pushed late with a four-ball run, only for Boots' five-ball run-out to earn the win with a bank of the 8 to the bottom side. Boots advances to the bracket quarterfinals with a 2-1 series win.
Verizon Field Events Center, Pacific: Twinkie I v. Isabella. The silver cue is up for 12-ball. Pacific's Twinkie I made one of each on the game 1 break and chose solids, promptly giving away a second wild-card ball. With plenty of flexibility, Atlantic's Isabella won unchallenged to take a 1-0 series lead. The Pirates' Isabella didn't have much positioning in game 2, but she put in a good effort anyway. It wasn't enough, as the Volcanoes' Twinkie I finished off the win at the bottom right to tie the series at 1. Twinkie I had an early four-ball run in game 3, but she again gave away two wild-card balls. Isabella was able to bait Twinkie I into missed contact before finishing from ball-in-hand. Isabella took the series win at 2-1 to earn a road position in the bracket quarterfinals.
Apple Center, Todavía: Easter v. Maison. More 15-ball with the red cue sees the host play a second series today. Todavía's Easter was confident from the start of game 1, but Eastside's Maison didn't back down at first. The visitor Maison had no choice when Easter ripped a seven-ball run-out for the win, going ahead 1-0 in the series. The Stills' Easter had a good performance at first in game 2, but her miscue opened the door for the Sharks' Maison. He walked right through, as a ten-ball run-out lifted Maison to the win that tied the series at 1. Maison continued with a five-ball run from the break in game 3, but it ended with a foul. Maison would strike a four-ball run later, only for Easter to sink the last two balls for the win and 2-1 series win. A fast-paced series favored Easter, who will host again in the bracket quarterfinals.
Nike Field Events Center, Commerce: Taylor S. v. Kirstin. Another 15-ball series uses the red cue. Commerce's Taylor S. made four balls on her first turn, but the last was an illegal play on the 15. This gifted the win to Stonebridge's Kirstin, who holds a 1-0 series lead prior to her first shot of the series. Game 2 went the distance, with the Tradewinds' Taylor S. showing some promise in attack. That all fell apart with a pair of misses on the 15, the latter of which was punished by the Wolves' Kirstin, who sealed the series at 2-0 with her win. Both players found three-ball runs late in game 3, and both of those runs ended in errors. Kirstin benefited, as Taylor S. left just the 15 on the table, and Kirstin converted for the 3-0 series sweep. Kirstin will host the Lighton Prestige's Angelica in the bracket quarterfinals.
Nike Field Events Center, Commerce: Rosemary v. Potter. The venue doubleheader ends with the red cue in 9-ball. Commerce's Rosemary had almost all of the offense in game 1, but a scratch after she sank the 8 would allowed Pronger's Potter to strike the 9 to the bottom side for a free win. Potter leads the series 1-0. The Tridents' Potter had slightly better offense in game 2, but the Tradewinds' Rosemary got this win, spinning a shot off the 3 to bump the 9 into the top left. The series is now tied at 1. Rosemary had another error in game 3, this time sinking the 9 illegally to give away the win and 2-1 series win to Potter after a sloppy start. Potter will play on the road again in the bracket quarterfinals.
FedEx Arena, Eastside: Taylor M. v. Jake. The purple cue cycles in for Accuracy. After a shaky start on both sides, Eastside's Taylor M. settled in and found her way to a win by a 2-4 score. Royal's Jake was just too loose, and Taylor M. earned the 1-0 series lead. The Sharks' Taylor M. missed a chance to win in regulation in game 2, dropping back into a close tie with the Crowns' Jake. Overtime went to the end, where Taylor M. scratched while potting the last ball to give Jake the 2-3 win that tied the series at 1. Taylor M. looked pretty good in game 3, but Jake ruined that by taking positional control late after Taylor M. missed the 8. Jake baited her into many more misses, flipping the lead in his favor for the 4-5 win and 2-1 series win. Jake will advance to the bracket quarterfinals in a visiting role.
Intel Center, Diamond: Salmo v. Puff I. Up north, the silver cue exits the day in 8-ball. Diamond's Salmo began with a five-ball run in game 1, but Modernistic's Puff I quickly matched that despite collateral damage. Salmo's second turn was empty, and Puff I struck for a three-ball run-out to get the win and 1-0 series lead. The Gems' Salmo took things slower in game 2, a strategy that worked well despite pressure in the form of a four-ball run from the Union's Puff I. Salmo was able to control the late game and win with a three-ball run-out, tying the series at 1. Puff I made a good start in game 3, but it wouldn't hold up. Salmo mixed the styles of the first two games to combine poise and speed into a four-ball run-out for the win. Salmo took the series 2-1 and will earn a trip to the bracket quarterfinals.
Gillette Center, Swordpoint: Bandit v. Bells. The purple cue comes right back for Accuracy. Todavía's Bells played well at the start, burying Swordpoint's Bandit in his own misfortune early on. A clean finish left Bells with a 1-3 win to give her a 1-0 series lead. Both players were perfect deep into game 2, but the Blades' Bandit missed on the second-to-last ball. The Stills' Bells didn't miss her chance, earning the win 0-1 to clinch the series at 2-0. Bells wasn't as good in game 3, although she could have forced overtime if she wanted to. However, with the series under control, she allowed Bandit to win the finale 3-4. Bells' 2-1 series win puts her in another road position in the bracket quarterfinals.
Intel Center, Diamond: Leonardo v. Steven. Eastern Hills rivals use the purple cue in their Rotation battle. Diamond's Leonardo had too many errors in game 1, and while Atlantic's Steven wasn't clean, he was able to get some successful shots in as well. Steven wound up winning 8-3 with a pair at the end to take the 1-0 series lead. The Pirates' Steven picked his way to the lead after a slow start, using a four-ball run to get onto the edge of victory. The Gems' Leonardo struck back with a three-ball run-out, winning 8-7 in a close call to tie the series at 1. Game 3 was another tough battle early on, until a three-ball run-out lifted Leonardo to an 8-4 win over Steven. This gave Leonardo a 2-1 series win to send him through to the bracket quarterfinals.
Volkswagen Stadium Events Center, Viewpoint Sound: Cobalt v. Molly. The purple cue is done after a Coastal derby in 13-ball. Viewpoint Sound's Cobalt struck a pair on the break and found great success on solids. Southern's Molly put up a challenge but couldn't line up her late shots, and Cobalt got the win with a finishing pair for the 1-0 series lead. The Meteors' Cobalt again played well in game 2, but he wasn't able to finish this effort. The Monarchs' Molly had a slight edge in positioning that held up at the end for the win, tying the series at 1. Molly made a good effort in game 3, playing at a high pace, but her final turn ended short as a three-ball run. Cobalt punished her miss on the 8, rallying with his own four-ball run-out for the win and 2-1 series win. Cobalt will retain hosting privileges in the bracket quarterfinals.
Amazon Field Exhibition Hall, Golden: Strut v. Angelica. The visitor's second series today is in 12-ball with the blue cue. Golden's Strut gave away a wild-card ball as part of a four-ball run to start game 1. Lighton's Angelica had to play catch-up, and scratch made that even harder. Strut would eventually win at the bottom right on his last shot, going ahead 1-0 in the series. The Pilots' Strut had a great performance at the start of game 2. He looked ready to carry the momentum to the end, until he scratched on his last ball. The Prestige's Angelica had kept it close to that point, and she was able to make her final pair quickly enough to get the win while Strut was out of position. Angelica tied the series at 1. Strut had a wild-card ball to work with in game 3, but he couldn't get any late positioning. Angelica also struggled for a bit, but she recovered and put the winning shot in the bottom side to take the series 2-1. Angelica is set to appear in the bracket quarterfinals. This was Strut's 100th unique opponent.
Kraft Forum, Royal: Kayla v. Paps. The green cue's first and last series today is in Accuracy. Royal's Kayla had a scratch on the game 1 break and didn't improve much after that. Capital City's Paps didn't miss until near the end, giving him a confident 1-4 win for the 1-0 series lead. The Sharpshooters' Paps fell behind early in game 2, although that lead didn't hold up for the Crowns' Kayla. What did work for Kayla was Paps' second collapse later on, including a decisive scratch. Kayla won 3-4 and tied the series at 1 heading into the finale. Kayla nearly kept it perfect in game 3, but a miss on the final ball wouldn't change the result. Paps also missed, making it a 1-3 win for Kayla, who took the series 2-1 to get into the bracket quarterfinals.
That's it for today. Second Round action continues at the regular time tomorrow.
FedEx Arena, Eastside: Lily v. Frosty. The purple cue opens the round in Accuracy. Eastside's Lily had a positive start to game 1 despite an early miss. Viewpoint Sound's Frosty struggled for most of the first half, and it was too late for her to recover at the end as Lily won 1-4 for the 1-0 series lead. The Sharks' Lily didn't have as good of a performance in game 2, falling behind with a late miss. The last ball was tough to corral, causing a score inflation that left the Meteors' Frosty with a 4-5 win to tie the series at 1. A back-and-forth battle in game 3 saw Lily nearly strike gold with a good cut on the 15 to the top right, only to see the shot end in a scratch. Frosty made the 10 to the bottom right from ball-in-hand to seal a 3-4 win and 2-1 series win. Frosty will continue her travels in the bracket quarterfinals.
Audi Hall, Terrace City: Jennifer v. Noelle. The red cue draws in for a 15-ball series. Terrace City's Jennifer began game 1 on a three-ball run, but she was less consistent later on. Central's Noelle would chip in regularly and finished with a win after making the last pair. Noelle leads the series 1-0. The Knights' Jennifer struggled a bit more in game 2, especially towards the end. The Warriors' Noelle had an opposite trajectory, with a bad start and a five-ball run-out finish for the win to clinch the series at 2-0. Noelle was pretty good in game 3, but her late three-ball run was answered by Jennifer with a six-ball run-out. Noelle settled for the 2-1 series win and will play on into the bracket quarterfinals.
Apple Center, Todavía: Easter v. Charli. The purple cue is back for 8-ball between leading stars. Tysini's Charli had a six-ball run to get onto the 8, but she didn't really expect Todavía's Easter to match that. Lucky for Charli, Easter missed the 8 too, and Charli was able to cut it to the bottom left for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Stills' Easter had to make a rally with a five-ball run after a slow start to game 2. The Hummingbirds' Charli couldn't make her last ball before Easter struck for the final pair to get the win that tied the series at 1. Easter established herself with a seven-ball run in game 3, and Charli could only manage a four-ball run in response. Easter's remarkable game ended with the 8 in the bottom side, giving her the series win at 2-1. Easter will host again in the bracket quarterfinals.
Pepsi Arena, Lighton: Angelica v. Sparkles. Another 15-ball series uses the red cue. Golden's Sparkles had a small edge in game 1, but her gamble to go for a 7-15 combination at the top left didn't pay off. She made the shot but also scratched, gifting the win and 1-0 series lead to Lighton's Angelica, who had a reasonably good effort as well. The 15 again lingered at the top left for awhile in game 2. Both players took swipes at it, but the best looks and the winning shot both went to the Prestige's Angelica. She converted the 6-15 combination as a double-pot, securing the series at 2-0 over the Pilots' Sparkles. In game 3, the 15 came close to the top right, and Angelica went into hunting mode. Sparkles was not particularly dangerous, allowing Angelica to deflect her shot off the 3 to sink the 15 for the win and 3-0 series sweep. Angelica will return to the road in the bracket quarterfinals.
BMW RockDome, Westside: Goatee v. Boots. The blue cue gets a turn in 8-ball. Westside's Goatee didn't have the smoothest performance, but once she got ahead of Pearl's Boots, Goatee held that lead. Goatee finished with the 8 in the top left for a 1-0 lead in the series. The Rockers' Goatee started well in game 2, but her finish lacked decisiveness this time. The Surfers' Boots kept it close until she potted the final pair, pulling away to the win to tie the series at 1 game apiece. Boots had a strong appearance in game 3, as Goatee pushed late with a four-ball run, only for Boots' five-ball run-out to earn the win with a bank of the 8 to the bottom side. Boots advances to the bracket quarterfinals with a 2-1 series win.
Verizon Field Events Center, Pacific: Twinkie I v. Isabella. The silver cue is up for 12-ball. Pacific's Twinkie I made one of each on the game 1 break and chose solids, promptly giving away a second wild-card ball. With plenty of flexibility, Atlantic's Isabella won unchallenged to take a 1-0 series lead. The Pirates' Isabella didn't have much positioning in game 2, but she put in a good effort anyway. It wasn't enough, as the Volcanoes' Twinkie I finished off the win at the bottom right to tie the series at 1. Twinkie I had an early four-ball run in game 3, but she again gave away two wild-card balls. Isabella was able to bait Twinkie I into missed contact before finishing from ball-in-hand. Isabella took the series win at 2-1 to earn a road position in the bracket quarterfinals.
Apple Center, Todavía: Easter v. Maison. More 15-ball with the red cue sees the host play a second series today. Todavía's Easter was confident from the start of game 1, but Eastside's Maison didn't back down at first. The visitor Maison had no choice when Easter ripped a seven-ball run-out for the win, going ahead 1-0 in the series. The Stills' Easter had a good performance at first in game 2, but her miscue opened the door for the Sharks' Maison. He walked right through, as a ten-ball run-out lifted Maison to the win that tied the series at 1. Maison continued with a five-ball run from the break in game 3, but it ended with a foul. Maison would strike a four-ball run later, only for Easter to sink the last two balls for the win and 2-1 series win. A fast-paced series favored Easter, who will host again in the bracket quarterfinals.
Nike Field Events Center, Commerce: Taylor S. v. Kirstin. Another 15-ball series uses the red cue. Commerce's Taylor S. made four balls on her first turn, but the last was an illegal play on the 15. This gifted the win to Stonebridge's Kirstin, who holds a 1-0 series lead prior to her first shot of the series. Game 2 went the distance, with the Tradewinds' Taylor S. showing some promise in attack. That all fell apart with a pair of misses on the 15, the latter of which was punished by the Wolves' Kirstin, who sealed the series at 2-0 with her win. Both players found three-ball runs late in game 3, and both of those runs ended in errors. Kirstin benefited, as Taylor S. left just the 15 on the table, and Kirstin converted for the 3-0 series sweep. Kirstin will host the Lighton Prestige's Angelica in the bracket quarterfinals.
Nike Field Events Center, Commerce: Rosemary v. Potter. The venue doubleheader ends with the red cue in 9-ball. Commerce's Rosemary had almost all of the offense in game 1, but a scratch after she sank the 8 would allowed Pronger's Potter to strike the 9 to the bottom side for a free win. Potter leads the series 1-0. The Tridents' Potter had slightly better offense in game 2, but the Tradewinds' Rosemary got this win, spinning a shot off the 3 to bump the 9 into the top left. The series is now tied at 1. Rosemary had another error in game 3, this time sinking the 9 illegally to give away the win and 2-1 series win to Potter after a sloppy start. Potter will play on the road again in the bracket quarterfinals.
FedEx Arena, Eastside: Taylor M. v. Jake. The purple cue cycles in for Accuracy. After a shaky start on both sides, Eastside's Taylor M. settled in and found her way to a win by a 2-4 score. Royal's Jake was just too loose, and Taylor M. earned the 1-0 series lead. The Sharks' Taylor M. missed a chance to win in regulation in game 2, dropping back into a close tie with the Crowns' Jake. Overtime went to the end, where Taylor M. scratched while potting the last ball to give Jake the 2-3 win that tied the series at 1. Taylor M. looked pretty good in game 3, but Jake ruined that by taking positional control late after Taylor M. missed the 8. Jake baited her into many more misses, flipping the lead in his favor for the 4-5 win and 2-1 series win. Jake will advance to the bracket quarterfinals in a visiting role.
Intel Center, Diamond: Salmo v. Puff I. Up north, the silver cue exits the day in 8-ball. Diamond's Salmo began with a five-ball run in game 1, but Modernistic's Puff I quickly matched that despite collateral damage. Salmo's second turn was empty, and Puff I struck for a three-ball run-out to get the win and 1-0 series lead. The Gems' Salmo took things slower in game 2, a strategy that worked well despite pressure in the form of a four-ball run from the Union's Puff I. Salmo was able to control the late game and win with a three-ball run-out, tying the series at 1. Puff I made a good start in game 3, but it wouldn't hold up. Salmo mixed the styles of the first two games to combine poise and speed into a four-ball run-out for the win. Salmo took the series 2-1 and will earn a trip to the bracket quarterfinals.
Gillette Center, Swordpoint: Bandit v. Bells. The purple cue comes right back for Accuracy. Todavía's Bells played well at the start, burying Swordpoint's Bandit in his own misfortune early on. A clean finish left Bells with a 1-3 win to give her a 1-0 series lead. Both players were perfect deep into game 2, but the Blades' Bandit missed on the second-to-last ball. The Stills' Bells didn't miss her chance, earning the win 0-1 to clinch the series at 2-0. Bells wasn't as good in game 3, although she could have forced overtime if she wanted to. However, with the series under control, she allowed Bandit to win the finale 3-4. Bells' 2-1 series win puts her in another road position in the bracket quarterfinals.
Intel Center, Diamond: Leonardo v. Steven. Eastern Hills rivals use the purple cue in their Rotation battle. Diamond's Leonardo had too many errors in game 1, and while Atlantic's Steven wasn't clean, he was able to get some successful shots in as well. Steven wound up winning 8-3 with a pair at the end to take the 1-0 series lead. The Pirates' Steven picked his way to the lead after a slow start, using a four-ball run to get onto the edge of victory. The Gems' Leonardo struck back with a three-ball run-out, winning 8-7 in a close call to tie the series at 1. Game 3 was another tough battle early on, until a three-ball run-out lifted Leonardo to an 8-4 win over Steven. This gave Leonardo a 2-1 series win to send him through to the bracket quarterfinals.
Volkswagen Stadium Events Center, Viewpoint Sound: Cobalt v. Molly. The purple cue is done after a Coastal derby in 13-ball. Viewpoint Sound's Cobalt struck a pair on the break and found great success on solids. Southern's Molly put up a challenge but couldn't line up her late shots, and Cobalt got the win with a finishing pair for the 1-0 series lead. The Meteors' Cobalt again played well in game 2, but he wasn't able to finish this effort. The Monarchs' Molly had a slight edge in positioning that held up at the end for the win, tying the series at 1. Molly made a good effort in game 3, playing at a high pace, but her final turn ended short as a three-ball run. Cobalt punished her miss on the 8, rallying with his own four-ball run-out for the win and 2-1 series win. Cobalt will retain hosting privileges in the bracket quarterfinals.
Amazon Field Exhibition Hall, Golden: Strut v. Angelica. The visitor's second series today is in 12-ball with the blue cue. Golden's Strut gave away a wild-card ball as part of a four-ball run to start game 1. Lighton's Angelica had to play catch-up, and scratch made that even harder. Strut would eventually win at the bottom right on his last shot, going ahead 1-0 in the series. The Pilots' Strut had a great performance at the start of game 2. He looked ready to carry the momentum to the end, until he scratched on his last ball. The Prestige's Angelica had kept it close to that point, and she was able to make her final pair quickly enough to get the win while Strut was out of position. Angelica tied the series at 1. Strut had a wild-card ball to work with in game 3, but he couldn't get any late positioning. Angelica also struggled for a bit, but she recovered and put the winning shot in the bottom side to take the series 2-1. Angelica is set to appear in the bracket quarterfinals. This was Strut's 100th unique opponent.
Kraft Forum, Royal: Kayla v. Paps. The green cue's first and last series today is in Accuracy. Royal's Kayla had a scratch on the game 1 break and didn't improve much after that. Capital City's Paps didn't miss until near the end, giving him a confident 1-4 win for the 1-0 series lead. The Sharpshooters' Paps fell behind early in game 2, although that lead didn't hold up for the Crowns' Kayla. What did work for Kayla was Paps' second collapse later on, including a decisive scratch. Kayla won 3-4 and tied the series at 1 heading into the finale. Kayla nearly kept it perfect in game 3, but a miss on the final ball wouldn't change the result. Paps also missed, making it a 1-3 win for Kayla, who took the series 2-1 to get into the bracket quarterfinals.
That's it for today. Second Round action continues at the regular time tomorrow.
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