Tournament X - First Round Day 37

The first round continues today, beginning with...

Nike Field Events Center, Commerce: Solaris v. Yekaterina. The blue cue leads off with Accuracy. Commerce's Solaris struggled right out of the gate in game 1, and by the time he found his shot, Victoria's Yekaterina was mostly secure. Yekaterina ended up with a 1-4 win for the 1-0 series lead. A fast-moving game 2 saw the Tradewinds' Solaris twice convert double-pots. His latter one allowed the Spurs' Yekaterina to play a little defense, and Solaris' bank attempt on the last ball missed. Yekaterina knocked it to the top left for the 0-1 win that sealed the series in her favor at 2-0. Yekaterina fell off the pace pretty badly in game 3, although she had pulled even near the end before fading to let Solaris win 3-5. Yekaterina took the series 2-1 and will visit the Infinity Torpedoes' Blaze in the second round.

Coca-Cola Field Exhibition Center, Boston: Sweetheart v. Summer. The purple cue steps in for Rotation. Maplewood's Summer popped off with a five-ball run to start game 1, and Boston's Sweetheart only got a three-ball run later. Summer was able to close with an 8-4 win to go ahead 1-0 in the series. The Lumberjacks' Summer had far less fortune in game 2, as it was the Swifts' Sweetheart using a five-ball run to take the quick lead. Sweetheart then filled in the rest to win 8-1, tying the series at 1. Game 3 was as balanced as any in the series, with Sweetheart maintaining the lead throughout. Summer couldn't string a response together near the end, and Sweetheart got the 8-5 win to advance with a 2-1 series win. Sweetheart will visit Swordpoint Blades rookie Esmeralda in the second round.

Cisco Arena, Tysini: Leandra v. Summer. The visitor completes her road doubleheader in 9-ball with the purple cue. Despite a trio of scratches in game 1, Maplewood's Summer still got the win with a pair at the end, as Tysini's Leandra was too inconsistent. Summer leads the series 1-0. The Lumberjacks' Summer had some struggles in game 2, but fewer scratches. Still, her missed bank on the 7 allowed the Hummingbirds' Leandra to kick the 7 into the top side to spark a three-ball run-out. Leandra's win tied the series at 1. Leandra had some moments on offense in game 3, but it was her miss on the 7 that allowed Summer to attack for a three-ball run-out. Summer won the series 2-1, an upset that carries her to a second round series in Pacific versus the Volcanoes' Twinkie I.

Sony Center, Queens: Pauline v. Paps. The host meets the player that replaced her for Accuracy with the green cue. Queens' Pauline struggled at the start of game 1, and the deficit proved just a little too much when she added a miss on the last ball. Capital City's Paps held on for the 3-4 win to go ahead 1-0 in the series. The Flames' Pauline was much improved in game 2, keeping a perfect effort while the Sharpshooters' Paps had just a single miss in the mid-game. The result, a 0-1 win for Pauline, tied the series at 1. Pauline had a cluster-buster that yielded no success in the middle of game 3. That would come back to haunt her in Paps' 1-2 win that went down to the wire. Paps took the series 2-1 and will visit Royal Crowns captain Kayla in the second round.

Home Depot Forum, Web City: Nibbles v. Bright. The red cue comes aboard for 12-ball. Web City's Nibbles gave away a wild-card ball on the game 1 break, but Pearl's Bright returned it to the table late. At that point, Nibbles' momentum led him to the comeback win for a 1-0 series lead. The Spiders' Nibbles had a good start in game 2, and he was far more successful than the Surfers' Bright at executing his shots over the course of the battle. Nibbles easily took the win with a bank to the bottom side, clinching the series at 2-0. Game 3 saw Bright take a stand, attacking a four-ball run early on. Nibbles tried to counter it, but Bright made his final pair for his lone win the series. Nibbles advanced on a 2-1 series win and will visit the Infinity Torpedoes' Fluffina in the second round.

Capital City SuperCenter, Capital City: Chris v. Snowball. Southwestern captains collide in Accuracy with the red cue. Capital City's Chris nearly slipped up late in game 1, but things remained tied. His overtime break sank a ball, and Swordpoint's Snowball would eventually fade. Chris missed once in overtime, but Snowball missed twice straight as Chris took the 3-4 win deep into the extra rack for a 1-0 series lead. Game 2 also got into overtime, as the Sharpshooters' Chris just hung on enough to force the Blades' Snowball into a tie. Chris then converted on the overtime break again, and Snowball missed, giving Chris the series at 2-0 with this 4-5 win. Chris accidentally made the last ball after trying a sporting gesture in game 3. Forcing overtime, Chris then missed his first shot in overtime after Snowball got a ball on the break, which meant Snowball won 2-3. Chris took the series 2-1 and will host Pearl Surfers co-captain Neopolitan in the second round.

Apple Center, Todavía: Bells v. Wild Thing. Club-mates meet in 15-ball with the red cue. Todavía's Bells looked strong in game 1 with a five-ball run, but she didn't offer much support after that. Stonebridge's Wild Thing played a slower style that ended with him getting the win for a 1-0 series lead. The Stills' Bells spread her offense a bit more in game 2, but it also came with an uptick in errors. The Wolves' Wild Thing was hardly better, and he was unable to lock things down late. Bells made the final pair for the win to tie the series at 1. Bells picked up the pace again in game 3, including six balls over her last two turns. Unfortunately, Bells missed on the 15, and Wild Thing buried it to the top right to take the series 2-1. Wild Thing will visit Tysini Hummingbirds sophomore Sarah in the second round.

Nike Field Events Center, Commerce: Tigerette v. Blaze. The blue cue is back in 9-ball. Commerce's Tigerette opened with a three-ball run and added a five-ball run before missing on the 9. Infinity's Blaze gladly took the cheap win for a 1-0 series lead with a tap-in at the bottom left. The Torpedoes' Blaze was much more involved in game 2, and he was rewarded with the win after a four-ball run-out following a foul from the Tradewinds' Tigerette. Blaze sealed the series at 2-0 with this win. Blaze contributed just a bit in game 3, unable to truly dominate the battle. Tigerette struck late, poking the 9 to the bottom left for the win. Blaze won the series 2-1 and will visit Leonette of the Pacific Volcanoes in the second round.

Toyota Arena, Freedom: Stripes v. Valencia. Feisty opponents clash in 8-ball with the silver cue. Golden's Valencia started well with steady offense, only for Freedom's Stripes to raise a threat with a six-ball run. Valencia then made her final pair for the win to go ahead 1-0 in the series. The Cascades' Stripes had a bit more offense in game 2, but the Pilots' Valencia recovered well after a slow start. The finish was tight, and it took Stripes missing on the 8 for Valencia to get the win this time. Valencia secured the series at 2-0. Valencia had hardly any offense in game 3, as Stripes used a four-ball run and a three-ball run-out to earn the win. Valencia did provide one ball of collateral damage to help Stripes in her win. Valencia took the series 2-1 and will visit Archtown Arrows captain Sally in the second round.

Home Depot Forum, Web City: Jack v. Jake. Club-mates tangle with the red cue in 13-ball. Web City's Jack made three balls on the break, but he was lucky Royal's Jake struggled after a four-ball run. Jack eventually got back on track after Jake fouled. Jack won with a three-ball run-out to go up 1-0 in the series. The Spiders' Jack had a five-ball run from the break to start game 2. The Crowns' Jake tried and failed to counter it, ending up with a scratch. Jack made his last ball illegally, giving Jake a chance from ball-in-hand, but Jake again fell short, and Jack took the 8 at the top left to clinch the series at 2-0. Jack was a little slower at first in game 3, but Jake had bad positioning late in the game. Jack worked a four-ball run-out capped by a kick on the 8 to the bottom left to get the win and complete the 3-0 series sweep. Jack will play in the second round.

Gillette Center, Swordpoint: Esmeralda v. Jennifer. Another 13-ball series marks the blue cue's exit today. Swordpoint's Esmeralda made two stripes and a solid on the game 1 break, but elected to play solids. It was the right choice, as Terrace City's Jennifer struggled mightily throughout the game. Esmeralda ended up getting a fairly strong win for a 1-0 series lead. The Blades' Esmeralda played solids in game 2, but it was a close battle. Her three-ball run early on didn't hold up as the Knights' Jennifer found better positioning at the end to get the win. This tied the series at 1. Esmeralda had better positioning in game 3, and she exploited that advantage after Jennifer scratched. Esmeralda set herself up nicely for the final pair of shots, converting both on the next turn to take the series 2-1. Esmeralda will host another Terrace City Knight, the captain Kiwi, in the second round.

Audi Hall, Terrace City: Kiwi v. Vladimir. The red cue cycles in for 9-ball. Terrace City's Kiwi had most of the early offense in game 1, while Maplewood's Vladimir jammed a shot on the 4 that sent the 9 to the bottom right. Vladimir's good fortune gave him the 1-0 series lead. The Lumberjacks' Vladimir had a bit more offense in game 2, including a late three-ball run, but he missed on the 9. The Knights' Kiwi was there to clean it up at the bottom right for the win, tying the series at 1. Kiwi took over with a pair on the break en route to an eight-ball run-out, keeping Vladimir from ever getting to the table in game 3. Kiwi won the series 2-1 with the epic finish, and she's headed to the second round.

Toyota Arena, Freedom: Nikolai v. Brownie. We've got 12-ball with the green cue here. Freedom's Nikolai had a good start, and despite a scratch in the middle, he was in total control. Royal's Brownie did push a three-ball run late, but Nikolai was able to win with a shot to the top right for the 1-0 series lead. The Cascades' Nikolai had another good start in game 2, but a four-ball run from the Crowns' Brownie changed the flow. Nikolai needed to make a positional play and failed to adjust, allowing Brownie to pot the last pair of shots for the win that tied the series at 1. Brownie couldn't get anything on the break in game 3. Nikolai attacked with a four-ball run, but it was still close. Nikolai made his final shot on a kick to the top right on his second attempt, good for a 2-1 series win over Brownie. Nikolai will maintain his top-seeded hosting position in round two.

Cisco Arena, Tysini: Hughbert v. Omari. Another 12-ball series uses the red cue. Tysini's Hughbert started well, but couldn't bring it home in game 1, taking a pair on the break and very little else. Web City's Omari showed creativity in his attacks and had plenty of time to work with in his win, which put him ahead 1-0 in the series. The ending of game 2 could have gone either way, with the Spiders' Omari making a valiant comeback effort, only to fall short with a miss at the top right. The Hummingbirds' Hughbert then made a pair to finish his win, tying the series at 1. Hughbert had a good start in game 3, but it almost wasn't enough as Omari got himself set up for a big counterattack. Omari faltered on his second shot, and Hughbert then made his last shot to the top side to win the game and the 2-1 series. Hughbert will visit club-mate and Archtown Arrows veteran Hoppy in the second round.

Microsoft Center, Del Sur: Panda v. Ms. Puppy. A captains' battle in 8-ball sees the silver cue's day end. Modernistic's Ms. Puppy used a five-ball run to overcome her slow start. Southern's Panda struggled at the end, getting multiple chances for a finish that he failed to convert. Ms. Puppy ultimately took the win for a 1-0 series lead. The Union's Ms. Puppy had a three-ball run at one point in game 2, but she couldn't get much else. A couple turns later, the Monarchs' Panda stepped up for a five-ball run-out to get the win, tying the series at 1. Panda couldn't really get much going in game 3 after Ms. Puppy blasted a six-ball run. Ms. Puppy was quick to take the final pair for the win, clinching the series at 2-1. Ms. Puppy will host Freedom Cascades sophomore Andrew in the second round.

Capital City SuperCenter, Capital City: Paps v. Easter. The host's second series today is in 12-ball with the green cue. Capital City's Paps was a little too lax with his shooting in game 1, leaving plenty of openings. Todavía's Easter overcame a scratch near the end, sinking a pair of shots for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Stills' Easter had the edge throughout game 2, but it was narrow at times. The Sharpshooters' Paps applied late pressure and some defense, only for Easter's final shot to sneak in to the top right for the win. Easter sealed the series at 2-0. Easter had a good start in game 3, but it was a close finish yet again. Paps tried to get ahead late, but Easter had enough time to convert at the top side to complete a 3-0 series sweep. Easter is set to host the Everton Eagles' Vincent in the second round.

We'll keep it going with more action tomorrow.

Tournament X - First Round Day 36

We're back after a one-day break for rest. First up...

Nestle's Warriors Hall, Central: Twilight v. Pauline. The purple cue opens the day in 10-ball. Central's Twilight made a ball on the game 1 break, but missed her next shot. Queens' Pauline took her chances on a 1-2-10 combination, getting the win when it fell at the top left. Pauline leads the series 1-0. The Flames' Pauline didn't get anything to line up conveniently for her in game 2. Instead, it was the Warriors' Twilight who put away a 5-10 combination to the top left for the win, tying the series at 1. Twilight took possession when Pauline unexpectedly potted the 4 without calling her shot. Twilight made a five-ball run, but scratched on the 9. Pauline took the 10 from ball-in-hand for the win and 2-1 series win that gets her to the second round. This was Twilight's 100th unique opponent.

Toyota Arena, Freedom: Roxy v. Niki. The purple cue remains active for 7-ball. Freedom's Roxy couldn't quite settle her shots in game 1, while Commerce's Niki struck for a pair at the end to get the win and 1-0 series lead. The Tradewinds' Niki wasn't able to finish off game 2, despite getting a good look at the 7. The Cascades' Roxy converted a tap-in to the bottom right to take this win, tying the series at 1 after another close battle. Game 3 could have gone either way, but it was Niki who found a three-ball run-out at the end after Roxy missed on the 5. Niki won the series 2-1 and will host Infinity Torpedoes newcomer Fuchsia in the second round.

Pepsi Arena, Lighton: Angelica v. Sally. More 7-ball is on the way, this time with the red cue. Lighton's Angelica had a six-ball run from the break, but she just missed a hard shot on the 7. Archtown's Sally mopped it up at the bottom left for a cheap win and 1-0 series lead. The Arrows' Sally didn't impress much off the break in game 2, but the Prestige's Angelica failed to take control. Sally got the win on a four-ball run-out, highlight by a laser bank of the 5 to the bottom right. Sally sealed the series at 2-0. Sally couldn't quite salvage game 3, missing the 7 at the bottom left. Angelica took the winning shot on a tough cut, leaving Sally to advance on a 2-1 series win. Sally is set to visit her club-mate and Central Warriors star Dustin in a Northeastern battle in the second round.

Google Hall, Modernistic: Maggie v. Katharine. The green cue comes aboard for Rotation between Celebrity club-mates. Modernistic's Maggie got on the verge of winning game 1 with a five-ball run, but Whitewater's Katharine struck back for six points over two turns to win 8-7. Katharine holds a 1-0 series lead. The Shores' Katharine battled with the Union's Maggie early in game 2. Katharine then had a four-ball run to pull away with the lead, and Maggie couldn't catch up. Katharine won 8-5 and secured the series at 2-0. Maggie again jumped out to a lead in game 3, only for Katharine to slowly track her down and then pot a four-ball run-out to snag the 8-5 win. Katharine advances to the second round with a 3-0 series sweep.

Amazon Field Exhibition Hall, Golden: Strut v. Twinkie III. The silver cue's only appearance today is in 9-ball. Game 1 wasn't pretty, but Golden's Strut eventually got the job done with a pair at the end to beat Whitewater's Twinkie III in an error-filled outing. Strut leads the series 1-0. The Pilots' Strut tagged the rack hard on the game 2 break, punching the 7 to the bottom left and getting the 9 kicked out to the bottom right for the instant win. He sealed the series at 2-0 over the Shores' Twinkie III with the play. Strut didn't get much of a chance in game 3, as his scratch led to a seven-ball run by Twinkie III. Both players missed on the 9 at first, but Twinkie III converted her second try to avoid the sweep as Strut won the series 2-1. Strut will host Brownie of the Royal Crowns in the second round.

Capital City SuperCenter, Capital City: Sprinkles v. Lily. The purple cue returns to action in Accuracy. A referee decision decided game 1, as it appeared headed for overtime before further review indicated a stick foul by Eastside's Lily on the 4. Capital City's Sprinkles ended up with a 1-2 win and 1-0 series lead. The Sharks' Lily didn't let a rules technicality factor into game 2 at all, playing a clean performance and getting a 1-4 win as the Sharpshooters' Sprinkles struggled with her shots. The series is tied at 1. Lily put in a similar effort in game 3, as Sprinkles struggled early again and didn't have time to recover. Lily won 2-4 and took the series 2-1, earning the right to host the Viewpoint Sound Meteors' Frosty in the second round.

Capital City SuperCenter, Capital City: Lorde v. Smokey. The venue doubleheader ends with 9-ball and the purple cue. Capital City's Lorde wasn't great in game 1, but a little luck sent the 8 to the bottom right and allowed her to make the 9 at the bottom left. Lorde leads Whitewater's Smokey 1-0 in the series. Game 2 was a bit more fast-paced, with the Sharpshooters' Lorde taking a three-ball run and a pair, the latter ending with a scratch. The Shores' Smokey answered both with a pair, his second turn being good enough for the win to tie the series at 1. Lorde had a brilliant double-deflection off the 9 and the cue to sink the 2 at the top right, but her cut attempt on the 3 clipped the 9 to the bottom right on illegal contact. This gifted the win and 2-1 series win to Smokey, who will head to the second round against the Pearl Surfers' Boots.

Verizon Field Events Center, Pacific: Twinkie I v. Peach. Another 9-ball series with the purple cue is next. Pacific's Twinkie I showed control to start game 1 offensively, but both players looked out of sorts at the end. North Modernistic's Peach had the worst miss, leaving the 9 on the edge of the bottom left, which Twinkie I tapped in to go ahead 1-0 in the series. The Volcanoes' Twinkie I maintained a shaky edge to her play in game 2, which the Nighthawks' Peach couldn't breach with counterattacks. Twinkie I ended up with a four-ball run-out for the win, clinching the series at 2-0. Twinkie I made a pair early in game 3, and ended with a deflection off the 7 to sink the 9 at the top left. Peach again offered little challenge as Twinkie I finished a 3-0 series sweep to advance to the second round.

IBM Cathedral, North Modernistic: Gal v. Mams. The green cue is back for 13-ball. North Modernistic's Gal made a pair on the break and a four-ball run soon after that to get onto the 8. Southern's Mams tried and failed to counterattack, as Gal was quick to take game 1 for a 1-0 series lead. The Nighthawks' Gal remained hot into game 2, making a three-ball run from the break and adding another couple of pairs later on for the win. The Monarchs' Mams was only able to pot one ball this time, while Gal's quick strikes sealed the series at 2-0. Gal had to work a little harder in game 3, as an early scratch gave Mams some room to work with. Gal did plenty in the end, keeping things close enough to make a comeback win on a three-ball run-out. Gal's 3-0 series sweep sends her to round two.

Kraft Forum, Royal: Kayla v. Missy. Another green cue series occurs in 7-ball. Royal's Kayla made a ball on the break in game 1, but that would be it for her offense. Capital City's Missy took over with a six-ball run-out for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Sharpshooters' Missy didn't have as much offense in game 2, taking a pair from the break before the Crowns' Kayla answered on a three-ball run. Kayla nearly got the win, but the 7 wouldn't fall at the top left, and Missy's tap-in sealed the series in her favor at 2-0. Kayla tried a 4-7 combination to the bottom right, needing a diagonal bank to hit just right. She left it short, and Missy made the same combination straight on for the win and 3-0 series sweep. Missy will visit the Swordpoint Blades' Dreamy in the second round.

Honda Driftwood Coliseum, Pearl: Wings v. Nightfur. The purple cue exits the day in Accuracy. Game 1 wasn't particularly easy for either player, but Eastside's Nightfur had a much harder time. Pearl's Wings did his part and got a 3-6 win, going ahead 1-0 in the series. The Sharks' Nightfur made great improvements in game 2, but the Surfers' Wings also bettered his play. Wings was able to hold perfection until his last shot, but that was still enough to earn a 1-2 win that sealed the series at 2-0. Wings fell apart late in game 3, taking a scratch and a miss on consecutive turns. Given a lead, Nightfur held on tight, winning 1-2 to avoid the sweep as Wings won the series 2-1. Wings will host Pacific Volcanoes veteran Ms. Kitty in a Coastal Derby in the second round.

Cisco Arena, Tysini: Hughbert v. Katharine. The visitor's second series today is in 10-ball with the green cue. Whitewater's Katharine exploded for a six-ball run in game 1, but she burned out with a pair of misses on the 9. Tysini's Hughbert then made the final pair of shots for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Hummingbirds' Hughbert made a threatening four-ball run in game 2, but his late cut on the 10 didn't hit the top left. The Shores' Katharine cleaned it up, capitalizing on her strong offense so far to get the win that tied the series at 1. Katharine and Hughbert had a long battle in game 3, neither player really finding much in the way of offense. Katharine eventually got a cut on the 10 to the bottom right for the win and 2-1 series win. She'll host an Urban rival in the Westside Rockers' Midnight in the second round.

Mercedes-Benz Forum, Harrison: Sydney S. v. Megan. The green cue goes again in Rotation. Harrison's Sydney S. had a quick attack in game 1, pulling out to a big lead over Oceanside's Megan. Sydney S. slowed near the end, but had plenty of time to finish with an 8-3 win and 1-0 series lead. The Specters' Sydney S. had no offense to speak of in game 2, as the Waves' Megan established herself with a three-ball run and later added a five-ball run-out capped by a double-pot of the 5 and 11 to the bottom corners. Megan won 9-0 to tie the series at 1. Megan kept the energy up into game 3, working a four-ball run-out that saw her twice deflect shots off the 7 to make the 13 at the top side and the 8 at the top left. Megan beat Sydney S. 8-2 this time for the 2-1 series win, and it'll allow Megan to host the Whitewater Shores' Katharine in the second round. That's all for Sydney S. this year, as she is the first player out of the Tournament, and Megan correspondingly picks up her first kill.

Verizon Field Events Center, Pacific: Twinkie I v. Sarah. The host gets a second look today, playing Rotation with the red cue. Pacific's Twinkie I didn't dominate in game 1, but with Tysini's Sarah committing many errors, Twinkie I got a lot of free offense. It ended up as an 8-1 win for Twinkie I, who leads the series 1-0. Game 2 saw offense come in spurts and with a bit more frequency. The Hummingbirds' Sarah continued to have difficulty connecting her plays, while the Volcanoes' Twinkie I had a fairly smooth ride to an 8-4 win. Twinkie I clinched the series at 2-0. Sarah had the lead for part of game 3, but Twinkie I roared back with a run and then finished another 8-4 win to complete the 3-0 series sweep. Twinkie I will visit Archtown Arrows captain Sally in the second round.

Starbucks Arena, Archtown: Greg v. Smudge. The green cue finishes its action today in 15-ball. Game 1 was choppy, as expected, with Infinity's Smudge showing a slight edge in possession. Archtown's Greg made a few tries at the 15, but Smudge finally corralled it at the bottom right for the 1-0 series lead. The Arrows' Greg made a small improvement in game 2, which was just enough as the Torpedoes' Smudge put in a very similar effort. Greg made the last three balls to earn the win, tying the series at 1. Greg deserved better than what he got in game 3, as a five-ball run and a pair of three-ball runs went to waste when Smudge's lucky two-rail bank of the 15 found the top side. Smudge won the series 2-1 and will visit the Queens Flames' Violetta in the second round. This was Smudge's 100th opponent.

Volkswagen Stadium Events Center, Viewpoint Sound: Dani v. Strawberry. Today's finale uses the blue cue in 15-ball. Viewpoint Sound's Dani had a four-ball run and a little more offense late in game 1, but it was Victoria's Strawberry who would pick up the win after a solid effort of her own. Strawberry leads the series 1-0. In game 2, the 8-15 combination aligned itself briefly, but it was before either player could make it. Defense reigned until the Meteors' Dani made a five-ball run, but she missed on the 15. The Spurs' Strawberry converted it to the top right for the win that secured the series in her favor at 2-0. Strawberry showed the heavily-favored host no mercy in game 3, contributing evenly until she found a three-ball run-out to finish off a sweep of Dani. Strawberry will continue her traveling ways in the second round.

The countdown is on; only nine days remain in the First Round this year.

Tournament X - First Round Day 35

We'll be through five whole weeks after today's action in the First Round. Leading off...

T-Mobile Center, Victoria: Sage v. Toki. The blue cue starts the day in 13-ball. Eastside's Toki had a massive lead in game 1 until a scratch set him back. Victoria's Sage remained defensive, then executed a pair of three-ball runs for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Spurs' Sage lost her cool with too many scratches in game 2, while the Sharks' Toki was frustrated by a lack of success on his shots. A sloppy end to the game saw Toki snag the win as Sage's attempt on the 8 failed. This tied the series at 1. Toki had a decent showing in game 3, but he was likely going to lose to Sage until her positional play knocked the 8 down at the top side. Toki took the gift and won the series 2-1, and he'll host Maplewood Lumberjacks captain Diddley in the second round.

Intel Center, Diamond: Shadow v. Goatee. Established veterans battle in 10-ball with the purple cue. Diamond's Shadow had a good break but unfortunately didn't pot a ball. Westside's Goatee had a very easy 1-10 combination to the top left on her lone shot for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Gems' Shadow was better in game 2 with a five-ball run and another pair before he scratched ahead of the 10. The Rockers' Goatee got another cheap victory, taking the 10 to the bottom right from ball-in-hand, which helped her seal the series at 2-0. Shadow had a three-ball run in game 3, but he missed on the 7. Goatee fired back with a three-ball run-out for the win, completing a 3-0 series sweep that sends her to Midland to face the Predators' Americus in round two.

Nissan Hall, Infinity: Fuchsia v. Delila. The purple cue remains in action for Accuracy. Infinity's Fuchsia had a perfect performance in game 1, while Atlantic's Delila missed early and had no chance to recover. Fuchsia picked up the 0-3 win and went ahead 1-0 in the series. Game 2 was a very different battle, with the Torpedoes' Fuchsia scratching on the break. She exchanged the lead with the Pirates' Delila a couple more times, but it was Delila who missed the last ball. Fuchsia got a tap-in for a 5-6 win to clinch the series at 2-0. Game 3 saw a return of quality play, as Fuchsia went deep before her lone miss in a 1-2 win over Delila. Fuchsia swept the series 3-0 and will host Viewpoint Sound Meteors star Princess in the second round.

Mercedes-Benz Forum, Harrison: Blizzard v. Dusky. In 12-ball, the red cue comes aboard. Harrison's Blizzard had a good start to game 1, but she couldn't get a clear look at the side pockets. Atlantic's Dusky played good defense there, and got the comeback win on a three-ball run-out for the 1-0 series lead. The Arrows' Dusky started very well in game 2, but a lack of confidence to attack the top side cost her. The Specters' Blizzard blocked the sides and then made a pair at the end for the win to tie the series at 1. Blizzard made a five-ball run from the break on stripes after potting one of each. Dusky couldn't make a counterattack, and Blizzard banked her last shot to the bottom side for the win to take the series 2-1. Blizzard will visit Victoria Spurs star Yekaterina in the second round.

Capital City SuperCenter, Capital City: Sprinkles v. Bear. Along to 10-ball, where we use the green cue. Capital City's Sprinkles had a little luck on her side in game 1, as her shot on the 9 initially missed the bottom right, only to carom all the way in. She finished a three-ball run-out with the 10 at the top left, taking a 1-0 series lead over Everton's Bear. The Sharpshooters' Sprinkles started a little slow in game 2, but recovered after the Eagles' Bear failed to contribute to the offense. Sprinkles made a massive eight-ball run-out for the win, securing the series at 2-0. Sprinkles made three balls on the break in game 3, which Bear lightly answered over a couple of turns. Sprinkles then converted a three-ball run-out at the end to finish her 3-0 series sweep. Sprinkles will visit Queens Flames superstar Violetta in the second round.

Nike Field Events Center, Commerce: Solaris v. Katelynn. The purple cue's done with today after this 7-ball series. Commerce's Solaris began game 1 with a three-ball run, then exchanged pairs of shots with Royal's Katelynn. Solaris had the latter of those pairs, getting the win for a 1-0 series lead. Tempers flared in game 2, none worse than the Crowns' Katelynn launching the 7 off the table while scratching. The ball was replaced on the dot, and the Tradewinds' Solaris took it from ball-in-hand to seal the series at 2-0. Solaris wasn't able to lock in for game 3, as a calmer effort from Katelynn resulted in her taking a three-ball run-out for her lone win. Solaris won the series 2-1 and will visit Westside Rockers captain Misty in the second round.

Home Depot Forum, Web City: Cubby v. Sleepy B. Northeastern rivals use the silver cue in 15-ball. Web City's Cubby struck quickly in game 1 after Archtown's Sleepy B. missed contact on the 2. From ball-in-hand, Cubby put the 2-15 combination in the top left for the win and 1-0 series lead. A fairly quick and choppy game 2 came down to the wire, where the Arrows' Sleepy B. just missed on the 13. The Spiders' Cubby made it and banked the 15 to the top right for the win, clinching the series at 2-0. Cubby played arguably his best in game 3, finishing it off with a massive nine-ball run-out as Sleepy B. could only watch. Cubby swept the series 3-0 and will host the Pronger Tridents' Potter in the second round.

Verizon Field Events Center, Pacific: Twinkie I v. Kirstin. The silver cue goes again in 12-ball. Pacific's Twinkie I made one of each and scratched on the game 1 break. She kept stripes, but Stonebridge's Kirstin soon had a four-ball run on solids. Kirstin eventually finished at the top left for the win and 1-0 lead in the series. The Wolves' Kirstin had exactly the same break as the Volcanoes' Twinkie I. Differences emerged later in game 2, as Twinkie I gave up a wild-card ball to put them on even terms again. Kirstin later gave it back with her third scratch of the game. Twinkie I finally cut a shot to the top side for the win to tie the series at 1. Game 3 saw Twinkie I get a clean break, but she had plenty of errors and gave away a wild-card ball. Despite all those flaws, Kirstin failed to get late-game positioning, and Twinkie I was able to take a 2-1 series win after cutting her last shot to the bottom side. Twinkie I will host the Atlantic Pirates' Isabella in round two.

Ford Forum, Pronger: Spot v. Cubby. The visitor gets a second series today, using the blue cue in Accuracy. Pronger's Spot had no trouble in game 1, taking just one late miss as he held the lead against Web City's Cubby. Spot finished with a 1-3 win and went ahead 1-0 in the series. The Tridents' Spot briefly found himself behind in game 2, but the Spiders' Cubby immediately missed to fall into a tie. Cubby then had a late scratch that allowed Spot to secure the series at 2-0 with a 2-3 win this time. Spot again fell behind in game 3, and while he pushed to pull even late, he then sportingly played a miss on his last shot to allow Cubby the 3-4 win. Spot won the series 2-1 and will host Pacific Volcanoes captain Starlight in the second round.

Coca-Cola Field Exhibition Center, Boston: Puff II v. Misty. Another Accuracy series with the blue cue is next. Boston's Puff II kept a high standard longer in game 1 than Westside's Misty could. After a tough battle on the last ball, Puff II had a 2-5 win to stake out a 1-0 series lead. With the series on the line, the Rockers' Misty had a disastrous effort. Game 2 was decided with four balls on the table, and the Swifts' Puff II clinched the series with a 1-7 win for the 2-0 series lead. Misty held a perfect effort deep into game 3, then dropped into a tie with a pair of misses. She made the last ball to force overtime, where Puff II's break failed. Misty won this game 2-3, but Puff II won the series 2-1 and will host the Southern Monarchs' Pounce in the second round.

Amazon Field Exhibition Hall, Golden: Dusty v. Spirit. Two original stars meet in 9-ball with the green cue. Lighton's Spirit got comfortable in the middle of game 1 with a three-ball run, then narrowly missed the 9 at the end after Golden's Dusty missed her first try at the win. Dusty tapped the last shot to the top left for a 1-0 lead in the series. The Pilots' Dusty made three balls on the break and just kept going, running the table in game 2 to clinch the series at 2-0 without the Prestige's Spirit getting a chance to answer. Dusty didn't have one big attack in game 3, but a pair of three-ball runs and a pair of shots at the end was enough for her to complete her 3-0 series sweep over Spirit. Dusty is set to host the Maplewood Lumberjacks' Whiskers in the second round.

Coca-Cola Field Exhibition Center, Boston: Puff II v. Ms. Kitty. The green cue's last series today is in 12-ball. Boston's Puff II went empty on the break, but recovered as choppy offense ruled the day. Pacific's Ms. Kitty had a three-ball run lined up but she couldn't convert before Puff II finished at the bottom side for the 1-0 series lead. The Swifts' Puff II overfilled the top left at the start, and her offense continued to come in short bursts in game 2. After Puff II made illegal contact, the Volcanoes' Ms. Kitty used the ball-in-hand to spark a six-ball run-out for the win, tying the series at 1. Ms. Kitty gave away a wild-card ball in game 3, but she did just enough defensively to stall Puff II. In the end, Ms. Kitty made the final pair for the win and 2-1 series win that puts her in the second round.

Home Depot Forum, Web City: Nibbles v. Pedey. The silver cue cycles in with Rotation. Todavía's Pedey knocked in a four-ball run early on, but a three-ball run by Web City's Nibbles would later tie up game 1. Pedey held on with a pair of shots at the end for the win by an 8-6 score, going up 1-0 in the series. The Stills' Pedey escaped a congested start to game 2 with a three-ball run. More battles occurred, and the Spiders' Nibbles fired back on a four-ball run-out for the 8-7 win to tie the series at 1. Nibbles slowly built a lead late in game 3, which Pedey erased with a four-ball run. It came down to the last ball, which Pedey missed and Nibbles converted for an 8-7 win and 2-1 series win. Nibbles' thin margins got him into the second round.

Starbucks Arena, Archtown: Klaus v. Dani. The host begins a doubleheader with the blue cue in 10-ball. On her second turn, Viewpoint Sound's Dani put the 1 in the bottom right and then converted a 2-10 combination to the bottom left for the win and 1-0 series lead over Archtown's Klaus. The Meteors' Dani had the edge on offense in game 2, but she left the 10 at the edge of the bottom right this time. The Arrows' Klaus picked it up, taking the win to tie the series at 1 game apiece. Klaus had an overwhelmingly strong amount of offense in game 3, making a couple of pairs early on and adding a four-ball run-out at the end to take the 2-1 series win over Dani. Klaus heads to the second round.

Starbucks Arena, Archtown: Klaus v. Bianca. The host's doubleheader ends with 7-ball and the silver cue. Archtown's Klaus made an early pair in game 1 before he scratched. Southridge's Bianca took over with a five-ball run-out from ball-in-hand for the win. Bianca leads the series 1-0. The Defenders' Bianca didn't dominate in game 2, and it was her late scratch that allowed the Arrows' Klaus to make the final pair of shots from ball-in-hand. Klaus' win tied the series at 1. Bianca began game 3 with a four-ball run, but she wouldn't make her chance at the 7. Klaus buried it on his second try for the win, taking the series 2-1. Klaus will host Todavía Stills star Sierra in the second round.

Apple Center, Todavía: Ruby v. Hughbert. Today's last series is in 8-ball with the red cue. Tysini's Hughbert had the lead in game 1 up to his scratch. From there, Todavía's Ruby worked a four-ball run-out starting from the kitchen and ending with the win. Ruby owns a 1-0 series lead. The Hummingbirds' Hughbert couldn't claim an advantage of any kind in game 2, as his offense was lackluster throughout. The Stills' Ruby played patiently and eventually won on a three-ball run-out to seal the series at 2-0. Ruby didn't bring her best for game 3, and Hughbert showed a little strength as he picked up his lone win in the series with a three-ball run-out. Ruby took the series 2-1 and will play in the second round.

A programming note: there will only be one post this weekend. Whether Day 36 of the First Round is played as a split day or all on Sunday is yet to be determined, but there will be some rest going on to prepare for the final push toward the end of the round.

Tournament X - First Round Day 34

We'll reach three-quarter through the First Round today. Leading off...

Kraft Forum, Royal: Jake v. Briana. The red cue opens the day in 7-ball between Southeastern rivals. Neither player looked that good in game 1, with Queens' Briana suffering a particularly bad miss on the 7 that allowed Royal's Jake to tap it in at the top left for the win. Jake leads the series 1-0. The Flames' Briana recovered a bit in game 2, winning on a four-ball run-out despite another slow start. The Crowns' Jake still hasn't truly found a groove, while Briana has tied the series at 1. Jake came alive with a four-ball run in game 3. Briana had a chance for the win but rattled the 7 out of the bottom right, and Jake converted to take the series 2-1. Jake will play in the second round.

Intel Center, Diamond: Shadow v. Graham. The second series today uses the blue cue in Rotation. A close battle at the start of game 1 saw Central's Graham hold a slight lead. Diamond's Shadow couldn't spark a run, but Graham went deep on a six-ball run-out, ending with a decoy on the 8 to bump the 10 to the bottom side for the 8-2 win and 1-0 series lead. The Gems' Shadow had time to build a lead after the Warriors' Graham made a couple of early errors. Shadow stalled out in the middle, and Graham took the lead with a pair of three-ball runs. Graham went on to take an 8-4 win to clinch the series at 2-0. Graham had a little more work to do in a frustrating game 3 for both players. Shadow put in a good resistance but fell 8-6 in the end as Graham swept the series 3-0 to get into the second round.

McDonald's Hall, Atlantic: Steven v. Angelica. The green cue comes aboard for Accuracy. Lighton's Angelica missed on her first shot in game 1, and that would be it for the mistakes. Atlantic's Steven held on to a perfect effort for the 0-1 win and 1-0 series lead. The Prestige's Angelica kept a steady standard of play in game 2, again taking the first miss but this time recovering as the Pirates' Steven unraveled late. Angelica won 1-3 this time, tying the series at 1 game apiece. Steven returned to a perfect performance in game 3, burying Angelica under her own mistakes. Steven's 0-3 win gave him the series at 2-1, and he'll visit Westside Rockers veteran Slinks in the second round.

Starbucks Arena, Archtown: Sleepy B. v. Tigerette. The green cue remains active for 8-ball. Archtown's Sleepy B. had a nice start to game 1, but a scratch and poor play later on made it a nervy finish. Commerce's Tigerette slowed down at the wrong time, and Sleepy B. took the win for a 1-0 series lead. The Tradewinds' Tigerette had no trouble in game 2, smashing a three-ball run and a five-ball run-out on consecutive turns to shut out the Arrows' Sleepy B. Tigerette's dominant attack tied the series at 1. Tigerette sustained the offense into game 3, applying lots of pressure to Sleepy B. early on. Tigerette didn't let up at the end, earning the win to take the series 2-1. Tigerette will visit an Urban rival in the Whitewater Shores' Marsell in the second round.

Mercedes-Benz Forum, Harrison: Rudolph v. Frosty. More 8-ball sees the purple cue activate. Harrison's Rudolph made a four-ball run from the break in game 1. It was enough to scare Viewpoint Sound's Frosty into a bad shot, as she tried and failed to sneak the 2 past the 8 at the top left. The 8 fell instead, and Rudolph had an easy win for a 1-0 series lead. The Meteors' Frosty had a scratch on her second turn with no balls potted, giving the Specters' Rudolph a full ball-in-hand. Rudolph converted a seven-ball run-out her, clinching the series at 2-0. Rudolph eased up a bit in game 3, while Frosty was on her game and finished with a win this time. Rudolph still won the series 2-1, and he'll host Southridge Defenders captain Stephanie in the second round.

Verizon Field Events Center, Pacific: Starlight v. Waluigi. The silver cue is back in action with 10-ball. Pacific's Starlight ended up with the game 1 win after Web City's Waluigi illegally hit the 10 on a kick attempt toward the 7. Starlight potted the final pair of shots to go ahead 1-0 in the series. A close battle in game 2 opened up as the Spiders' Waluigi made a three-ball run, only to suffer a scratch. The Volcanoes' Starlight buried a three-ball run-out after that, securing the series at 2-0. Starlight didn't have the best start in game 3, but she finished well with a hard-hitting four-ball run-out to finish a sweep of Waluigi. Starlight will host a fellow Coastal captain in the second round when the Pearl Surfers' Neopolitan comes to town.

Cisco Arena, Tysini: Sarah v. Goatee. The silver cue goes again in 12-ball. Tysini's Sarah started game 1 with a three-ball run. She stayed composed even as Westside's Goatee situated herself for a run that never came. Sarah then finished the effort cleanly for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Hummingbirds' Sarah made one of each on the game 2 break and elected to play on solids. This proved to be a mistake, as the Rockers' Goatee used the advantage of a wild-card ball and the skill of her five-ball run-out to earn the win in one turn. Goatee tied the series at 1. Goatee played solids after making a pair on the break, but she was unable to line herself up later. Sarah did just enough for the win, smartly gaining the lead and keeping momentum until she was able to close out a 2-1 series win. Sarah is set to host Pacific Volcanoes veteran Leonette in the second round.

Amazon Field Exhibition Hall, Golden: Max v. Sage. Another 12-ball series features the green cue. Victoria's Sage very quickly got down to her last ball in game 1, but she sank it illegally and twice missed contact after that. Golden's Max had plenty of time to rally to the win with a three-ball run-out, putting him ahead 1-0 in the series. The Pilots' Max had to play a bit more strategy in game 2, as the Spurs' Sage made a few defensive moves to slow things down. Max eventually got a look at the top side and jammed the 4 in through Sage's defense to earn the win. Max sealed the series at 2-0. Max received a wild-card ball in game 3, but he didn't get the proper alignment of shots to take advantage of it. Sage had already made a four-ball run and needed little time to pot her final pair to the right corners for her lone win of the series. Max won the series 2-1 and will host Melissa of the Terrace City Knights in the second round.

Microsoft Center, Del Sur: Pounce v. Steven. The visitor's second series today uses the silver cue in 13-ball. A race from left to right in game 1 saw Southern's Pounce block Atlantic's Steven just long enough. Pounce then made a pair of shots at the end for the win and 1-0 lead in the series. The Pirates' Steven had a three-ball run in game 2, but that was all the offense he mustered against the Monarchs' Pounce. In three turns, Pounce sank the seven balls he needed for the win to secure the series at 2-0. Game 3 had a similar start, but Pounce was unable to sustain much offense this time. Steven filled the void rather well with confident attacks to earn the win, leaving Pounce to advance on a 2-1 series win. Pounce will host Whitewater Shores newcomer Smokey in the second round.

Nissan Hall, Infinity: Smudge v. Potter. The red cue cycles in for 9-ball between these veterans. Infinity's Smudge made a ball on the break, but never got a second turn in game 1, as Pronger's Potter cut the 1 to the top left and then deflected off the 2 to put the 9 in the same pocket. Potter's tricky play earned him a 1-0 series lead. The Tridents' Potter used the same deflection play to make the 3 early in game 2. The Torpedoes' Smudge had a little offense in the middle, but Potter pulled away on a four-ball run-out for the win to clinch the series at 2-0. Potter couldn't dominate the offense in game 3, and Smudge stepped in with a four-ball run-out at the end to avoid the sweep. Potter won the series 2-1 and will visit Commerce Tradewinds rising star Rosemary in the second round.

FedEx Arena, Eastside: Taylor M. v. Sprinkles. The red cue's last series today is in 12-ball. Eastside's Taylor M. made a four-ball run in the middle of game 1, then banked her last shot to the bottom right after Capital City's Sprinkles failed on the counterattack. Taylor M. surprisingly took a strong 1-0 series lead. The Sharks' Taylor M. had a decent start to game 2, but she scratched near the end. The Sharpshooters' Sprinkles kept it close enough to strike a three-ball run-out for the win, tying the series at 1. Sprinkles couldn't get anything going after making a pair on the break in game 3. A scratch stalled her out and set up Taylor M. for a five-ball run. Taylor M. would easily win the game and the 2-1 series, and she'll head to Midland to face the Predators' Americus in the second round.

Gillette Center, Swordpoint: Snowball v. Wario. The official three-quarters mark of the round comes after this 10-ball series with the green cue. Southridge's Wario didn't stun anyone, but his make on the 2 in game 1 led to a 3-10 combination to the top left. He converted and gained a 1-0 series lead over Swordpoint's Snowball. The Defenders' Wario didn't have any tricky plays in game 2, which went the distance and ended with a pair of shots by the Blades' Snowball. This tied the series at 1. Wario and Snowball engaged in a back-and-forth battle at the start of game 3, but it was Snowball who found the four-ball run-out in the end for the win. Snowball won the series 2-1 and maintains home advantage into the second round.

UPS Hall, Maplewood: Diddley v. Wario. The visitor completes a road doubleheader with the green cue in 8-ball. Southridge's Wario tried a slow build in game 1, only for Maplewood's Diddley to wreck it with a massive six-ball run-out at the end. Diddley took a confident 1-0 series lead. The Lumberjacks' Diddley had a similar strategy in game 2, using a four-ball run to pull ahead. The Defenders' Wario tried to bank his 12 to the bottom left, but it clipped the 8 and sank the latter ball illegally to gift the win to Diddley. This made it a 2-0 series in Diddley's favor. Wario almost certainly had game 3 in his hands, especially after a scratch stalled Diddley's four-ball run. Wario then flubbed his shot on the 8 to the bottom left, and Diddley rattled off another four-ball run to get the win and 3-0 series sweep. Diddley will host Westside Rockers captain Misty in the second round.

Cisco Arena, Tysini: Sugar v. Pedey. The purple cue gets a look in 12-ball for its last series of the day. Tysini's Sugar had a decent start and not much else in game 1, as Todavía's Pedey outpaced his host quite well and went relatively unchallenged for the win. Pedey leads the series 1-0. The Hummingbirds' Sugar had a stronger lead in game 2, but her foul for an overfill at the top side gave the Stills' Pedey plenty of room to work. Pedey quickly buried a four-ball run-out for the win, sealing the series at 2-0. Pedey didn't seem to be in a rush in game 3, but as Sugar took her time to play, Pedey picked up the pace and won on a three-ball run-out. Pedey swept the series 3-0 and will host the Commerce Tradewinds' Rosemary in round two.

Verizon Field Events Center, Pacific: Cowzart v. Princess. Coastal rivals battle in 10-ball with the silver cue. Viewpoint Sound's Princess showed some venom with a late four-ball run, but she couldn't corral the 10. Pacific's Cowzart got the tap-in to take game 1 for a 1-0 series lead. The Volcanoes' Cowzart played a more balanced role in game 2, while the Meteors' Princess couldn't find a similar run as the one from before. Cowzart would get the win with a three-ball run-out, securing the series at 2-0 in the process. Cowzart failed to complete the sweep in game 3 despite a four-ball run. His miss on the 10 left it at tap-in range for Princess at the bottom left. Cowzart won the series 2-1 and is set to host North Modernistic Nighthawks enforcer Cheddar in the second round.

Samsung Arena, Whitewater: Marsell v. Ms. Puppy. The blue cue ends the day in 7-ball between Urban rivals. Whitewater's Marsell had a couple of lucky moments in game 1, but none came on the 7. Modernistic's Ms. Puppy would put the winning shot in the bottom side to go ahead 1-0 in the series. The Shores' Marsell found a little redemption in game 2, making a three-ball run-out with a bank on the 6 to the top left followed by a cut on the 7 to the same pocket. This erased the Union's Ms. Puppy's lead, with the series now tied at 1. Marsell picked up a five-ball run in game 3, but he scratched at the end of it. Ms. Puppy then got the win with a pair of shots, advancing on a 2-1 series win. Ms. Puppy will be back in Whitewater to face the Shores' Twinkie III in the second round.

The final quarter of the first round is upon us, with the anticipated closing date being June 30.

Tournament X - First Round Day 33

The silver cue takes its first day off this year. Today's action gets going with...

Toyota Arena, Freedom: Stripes v. Rosemary. The red cue gets the start with a Rotation series. Commerce's Rosemary had the early lead in game 1, but Freedom's Stripes got close with a three-ball run, and then Rosemary scratched. Stripes used that ball-in-hand for a three-ball run-out to win the game 8-6 for the 1-0 series lead. The Tradewinds' Rosemary held the lead deep into game 2 as well, but missed contact on her attempt at the 15 allowed the Cascades' Stripes to complete a comeback from ball-in-hand. Stripes won 8-7 this time, clinching the series at 2-0. Rosemary held the lead deep into game 3, but she collapsed once more as Stripes pieced together a six-ball run-out for the 8-6 win. Stripes swept the series 3-0 and will host Americus of the Midland Predators in the second round.

Amazon Field Exhibition Hall, Golden: Valencia v. Sweetheart. In 13-ball, the purple cue comes between Southeastern rivals. Golden's Valencia stuck herself in a bad position, but the defense it provided slowed Boston's Sweetheart. It wasn't enough, as Sweetheart converted a shot after the defense broke, and she made the 8 on the next turn for the 1-0 series lead over Valencia. The Swifts' Sweetheart started with a three-ball run in game 2, which the Pilots' Valencia answered on a five-ball run. Valencia couldn't make her last ball before Sweetheart rattled off a four-ball run-out to seal the series at 2-0. Sweetheart looked to be in danger early in game 3, as Valencia had very good positioning. Sweetheart had just enough defense to last until she made a three-ball run-out for the win, finishing a 3-0 series sweep. Sweetheart will visit Commerce Tradewinds veteran Niki in the second round.

Subway Arena, Stonebridge: Wild Thing v. Dominic. The blue cue draws in here for 9-ball. Stonebridge's Wild Thing made a play that left the 9 very near the top left in game 1. He didn't get to cash it in, as Southern's Dominic attacked with a three-ball run-out capped by a 7-9 combination for the win. Dominic leads the series 1-0. The Monarchs' Dominic had a much stronger appearance in game 2, collecting most of the offense as the Wolves' Wild Thing struggled to calibrate his shot. Dominic picked up the win with a late pair, sealing the series at 2-0. Dominic opened with a three-ball run in game 3, but Wild Thing converted the 2-9 combination to the top left to steal a win. Dominic took the series 2-1, and he's set to visit Victoria Spurs newcomer Rosalina in the second round.

Capital City SuperCenter, Capital City: Paps v. Pedey. The purple cue returns for 10-ball. Capital City's Paps unleashed a seven-ball run in game 1, but he narrowly missed on the 10. Todavía's Pedey cut the 10 to the top left to poach a win, going ahead 1-0 in the series despite having little offense. A more balanced game 2 saw the Sharpshooters' Paps pull a three-ball run from ball-in-hand, but he missed on the 9. The Stills' Pedey knocked in the final pair for the win, securing the series at 2-0. Pedey scratched as he double-potted the 6 and 10 to the left corners, but Paps scratched on his play from ball-in-hand. Pedey then made a three-ball run-out for the win, completing the 3-0 series sweep. Pedey will host the Pearl Surfers' Bright in the second round.

IBM Cathedral, North Modernistic: Gal v. Wild Thing. The visitor's second series today uses the green cue for 12-ball. North Modernistic's Gal started with a three-ball run in game 1, but Stonebridge's Wild Thing responded on a four-ball run. Gal then gave Wild Thing a wild-card ball, and that made it easier for the visitor to close out the win for a 1-0 series lead. The Wolves' Wild Thing gave away a wild-card ball on the game 2 break, but he followed up with a four-ball run. The Nighthawks' Gal had her shots aligned but couldn't execute a big run, and Wild Thing pulled away for the win to clinch the series at 2-0. Gal made sure to put her best effort forward in game 3, and it worked out for an easy win as Wild Thing stalled after the break. Wild Thing took the series 2-1 to advance to the second round.

Chevrolet Center, Everton: Bear v. Delila. Veterans meet in 7-ball with the red cue after the lunch break. Everton's Bear made a three-ball run from the break in game 1, but faltered a bit after that. Atlantic's Delila couldn't corral the 7, and Bear tapped it to the top left for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Eagles' Bear attacked well again in game 2, making a pair at the start and the end in an overwhelming effort versus the Pirates' Delila. Bear's win secured the series for him at 2-0. Bear again took a pair on the break in game 3, but he couldn't get much more. Delila won this time, using a four-ball run-out to avoid the sweep. Bear's 2-1 series win sends him to the second round.

Honda Driftwood Coliseum, Pearl: Neopolitan v. Rocky. Coastal rivals clash in 12-ball with the blue cue. Pearl's Neopolitan began with a four-ball run in game 1, but Oceanside's Rocky made a five-ball run-out on his second turn for a quick win and 1-0 series lead. The Waves' Rocky struck the sides quickly in game 2, a smart play as he quickly found himself on his last ball. The Surfers' Neopolitan tried to play defense, but it wasn't enough. Rocky won with a shot to the top right after careful positioning, and he sealed the series at 2-0 in the process. Rocky had a decent break in game 3, but Neopolitan played faster on offense this time. Neopolitan got the win with a three-ball run-out, while Rocky settled for a 2-1 series win to go into the second round, where he'll host Atlantic Pirates captain Delila. 

Home Depot Forum, Web City: Nibbles v. Marsell. The 700th series of the year is in 8-ball with the green cue. Whitewater's Marsell made the first move in game 1, but he was unable to support it much. Web City's Nibbles held even for a bit before making a four-ball run-out for the win to go ahead 1-0 in the series. The Shores' Marsell unleashed a seven-ball run on his first turn in game 2, leaving the Spiders' Nibbles quite desperate. Nibbles didn't make anything, and Marsell went on to sink the 8 at the bottom left to tie the series at 1. Marsell didn't have much of a break in game 3, but Nibbles wasn't able to keep his offense going either. Marsell found a groove in the middle and added a pair at the end for the win and 2-1 series win. Marsell will play in the second round.

Nike Field Events Center, Commerce: Tigerette v. Gal. Urban rivals meet in 15-ball with the red cue. Game 1 came to a quick close, as Commerce's Tigerette missed a 2-15 combination and North Modernistic's Gal made a harder version of the same shot to the top left for the win. Gal leads the series 1-0. The Tradewinds' Tigerette lasted longer in game 2, but she suffered a big miss when the 10-13-15 combination didn't fall to the bottom right. The Nighthawks' Gal had already made a five-ball run, and capped the effort with a 10-15 combination for the win, sealing the series at 2-0. Gal didn't play quite as well in game 3, but it didn't matter. Tigerette's late three-ball run ended with her missing the 15 wide of the top left. Gal cleaned up another shot for the win, finishing off a 3-0 series sweep that allows her to host Viewpoint Sound Meteors captain Hoot in the second round.

Intel Center, Diamond: Autumn v. Luigi. The green cue returns for a Rotation series. Diamond's Autumn had a good start in game 1, but not enough pace later on. Southridge's Luigi solved his offense issues with a five-ball run-out for the 8-5 win and 1-0 series lead. The Defenders' Luigi had his moments in game 2, but it turned into a back-and-forth battle between him and the Gems' Autumn. In the end, Autumn narrowly prevailed for an 8-6 win, tying the series at 1. A close battle emerged in game 3, with Luigi keeping pace quite well. His illegal contact on the 8 would be his downfall, as Autumn took a four-ball run-out from there to win 8-4. Autumn won the series 2-1 and will host North Modernistic Nighthawks enforcer Cheddar in round two.

Chevrolet Center, Everton: Vincent v. Gizmo. In 15-ball, the blue cue is used. Everton's Vincent had a clear majority of the possession in game 1, and he was rewarded with an easy finish on the 15 after North Modernistic's Gizmo couldn't bank it to the bottom right. Vincent holds a 1-0 series lead. The Eagles' Vincent wasn't as clearly in control in game 2, but he was good enough for a four-ball run-out that ended with a 4-12-14-15 combination to the top left. This gave him the win and clinched the series at 2-0 over a hapless Nighthawks' Gizmo. Vincent kept it going in game 3, taking only a small step back on offense. Gizmo had some chances this time, but he couldn't make it click. Vincent made the final pair and swept the series 3-0, setting him up to host the Victoria Spurs' Sage in the second round.

Apple Center, Todavía: Ruby v. Stinky. The blue cue stays in action for 10-ball. Todavía's Ruby was incredibly creative on a five-ball run to open game 1, but she ended it with a scratch. Freedom's Stinky had a much more straightforward five-ball run-out for the win to take a 1-0 series lead. The Cascades' Stinky didn't have as much poise in game 2, while the Stills' Ruby flitted around with more creative plays. The result was a close and tense finish, which saw Ruby make the 10 on her third try to get the win that tied the series at 1. Ruby fell apart at the end of game 3, unable to connect on a 7-10 combination. Stinky ended up making a pair of three-ball runs on his last two turns to get the win, which in turn gave him the series at 2-1. Stinky will visit Lighton Prestige veteran Shiny in the second round.

Google Hall, Modernistic: Maggie v. Wild Thing. The visitor gets a third series today, using the green cue in Accuracy. Modernistic's Maggie twice failed to hold a lead in regulation in game 1, but she was strong enough to force overtime. There, Stonebridge's Wild Thing missed his second shot and Maggie won 2-3 to go ahead 1-0 in the series. The Union's Maggie remained strong in game 2 despite taking the first miss. The Wolves' Wild Thing dropped in evenly with a scratch and then couldn't pot the last ball, which Maggie converted for a 1-2 win to clinch the series at 2-0. Maggie scratched on the break in game 3, disrupting her rhythm overall. Wild Thing cruised to an easy 1-4 win this time, but Maggie will earn the trip to Midland to take on the Predators' Chicky Phil in the second round.

Chevrolet Center, Everton: Cleo v. Vladimir. The blue cue exits the day in a Northeastern derby edition of 8-ball. Maplewood's Vladimir couldn't capitalize on mid-game hesitation from Everton's Cleo in game 1. Cleo got back on track and found a way to the win, going up 1-0 in the series. The Eagles' Cleo had a steady stream of mild offense in game 2, while the Lumberjacks' Vladimir did one big attack and couldn't follow it up. Cleo's strategy paid off in the form of a win to clinch the series at 2-0. Vladimir seemed to have the edge at first in game 3, but Cleo stormed back with a six-ball run-out to finish the 3-0 series sweep. Cleo's dominant showing sends her to the second round.

Gillette Center, Swordpoint: Snowball v. Katelynn. The red cue checks in for Rotation. Swordpoint's Snowball established quite the lead for herself in game 1. Royal's Katelynn chipped back slightly, but Snowball made a 10-11 combination to the bottom side with the 10 caroming to the bottom right for the 8-3 win, which also gave her a 1-0 series lead. The Crowns' Katelynn again failed to launch her offense in game 2. The Blades' Snowball chaotically built a lead and finished with a double-pot of the 9 to the bottom left and the 14 to the top left on a cluster buster initiated by the 6. Snowball won the game 8-0 and secured the series at 2-0. Katelynn had all the early offense this time, although Snowball put up quite a fight before succumbing by an 8-7 score. Snowball won the series 2-1 and will host Infinity Torpedoes veteran Fluffina in a battle of old-school stars.

FedEx Arena, Eastside: Lily v. Taylor S. The day ends with the red cue in hand for 9-ball. Neither player had a strong grip on the offense in game 1, but Eastside's Lily locked down a win with a three-ball run-out. Lily leads Commerce's Taylor S. 1-0 in the series. The Tradewinds' Taylor S. wouldn't get a chance to even the series in game 2, as the Sharks' Lily won in two shots. Lily sent the 5 to the bottom left on the break and jammed a 1-9 combination to the top side to clinch the series at 2-0. Lily wasn't able to sweep, as Taylor S. uncorked a 7-9 bank combination to the bottom side on a tough finish in game 3. Lily took the series 2-1 to advance to the second round.

We'll cross the three-quarters mark of the First Round tomorrow.

Tournament X - First Round Day 32

We're ready to go with only a slight delay today. First up...

Sony Center, Queens: Pauline v. Bandit. The purple cue gets the opener in Rotation. Swordpoint's Bandit was fairly thorough with a three-ball run and a four-ball run in game 1. He then made the 8 on his second try, winning 8-1 over Queens' Pauline for the 1-0 series lead. While she didn't have the same menace with runs in game 2, the Flames' Pauline controlled the effort and got an 8-1 win over the Blades' Bandit, who was often left with no clear angle. Pauline's win tied the series at 1. Pauline stormed ahead on a seven-ball run in game 2, narrowly missing a shutout as she illegally hit the 10 to end the run. Bandit got a ball, but Pauline answered for an 8-1 win to take the series 2-1 as she advances to the second round. Pauline will visit the Central Warriors' Dustin in the second round.

T-Mobile Center, Victoria: Rosalina v. Steven. On to 9-ball, where the blue cue enters the action. A choppy game 1 saw few turns last more than three shots. Victoria's Rosalina made a late pair but left the 9 standing for Atlantic's Steven to bury at the bottom left. Steven leads the series 1-0. Game 2 was slightly smoother for both players, as pairs of successful shots were more common. Each player had one late, but it was the Spurs' Rosalina banking the 9 to the bottom left that earned the win, pulling even with the Pirates' Steven at 1 game apiece. Rosalina broke away from Steven in game 3 with a three-ball run-out, earning the 2-1 series win to take her place in the second round.

Honda Driftwood Coliseum, Pearl: Neopolitan v. Avril. Back in Rotation, the silver cue makes an appearance. Pearl's Neopolitan disappointed early in game 1 and only woke up on offense after Pronger's Avril had a massive lead. Avril went on to win 8-3, taking a confident 1-0 series lead. The Tridents' Avril had the lead early in game 2, but she couldn't make it stand. A close finish saw the Surfers' Neopolitan win 8-7 with a pair of shots. Neopolitan's win tied the series at 1. Game 3 saw Avril again pull ahead early on, only for Neopolitan to battle back into the series. Neopolitan ended up with an 8-5 win this time, taking the series 2-1 to earn a spot in the second round. This was Neopolitan's 100th unique opponent.

Mercedes-Benz Forum, Harrison: Dewey v. Andrew. The 500th series of the round is in Accuracy with the green cue. Harrison's Dewey played very well early on, but squandered a three-shot lead as Freedom's Andrew took over in the end. Dewey completely unraveled under pressure, and Andrew went ahead 1-0 in the series with a 3-5 win. The Cascades' Andrew stayed perfect deep into game 2, but when he started failing, he couldn't hold onto an even score line. The Specters' Dewey was true at the end, earning the 2-3 win to tie the series at 1. Andrew kept things close in game 3, taking a late lead and holding on as Dewey fell out of contention. Andrew won 2-3, taking the series 2-1 to set himself up for a trip to Lighton to face the Prestige's Spirit in the second round.

UPS Hall, Maplewood: Diddley v. Hershey. The green cue remains in action for 15-ball. Maplewood's Diddley had a three-ball run early in game 1 and a four-ball run later, but he missed the 15 at the top side. Stonebridge's Hershey tapped it to the top left for the win and a 1-0 series lead that might have gone against the run of play. Game 2 took on a more choppy style of play on both sides. The Wolves' Hershey didn't really see any runs develop, but the Lumberjacks' Diddley was no better. Hershey was able to seal the series at 2-0 with a pair of shots at the end. Hershey had a good break in game 3, but it served Diddley even better, as the host got on the board with a 4-15 combination to the top left for his lone win. Hershey won the series 2-1 and will visit Pronger Tridents star Spot in an Eastern Hills Derby in round two.

Microsoft Center, Del Sur: Dominic v. Jane. The green cue continues in 10-ball. Southern's Dominic had the bulk of the offense in game 1, featuring a four-ball run and a three-ball run-out in his win over Stonebridge's Jane. Dominic holds a 1-0 series lead. The Monarchs' Dominic made quick work of game 2, striking for a ball on the break and later adding the 2-3-10 combination to the top left after the Wolves' Jane couldn't piece together a counterattack. Dominic's tricky finish clinched the series for him at 2-0. Dominic dominated in game 3, barely letting Jane pot a ball. Dominic's best attack was a four-ball run, and he won on a pair at the end to complete a 3-0 series sweep. Dominic will visit the North Modernistic Nighthawks' Gizmo in the second round.

Microsoft Center, Del Sur: Dominic v. Violetta. The host's doubleheader ends with Accuracy and the blue cue. Southern's Dominic scratched on the game 1 break, and Queens' Violetta showed him no mercy. Violetta held a perfect line for the 0-2 win, going ahead 1-0 in the series. The Flames' Violetta slipped behind with a miss in game 2, followed by a triple-pot, and then another miss to damage her comeback hopes. The Monarchs' Dominic held at perfection this time, winning 0-2 to tie the series at 1. Game 3 saw both players stay perfect for a long time, but Violetta would hold on even as Dominic faded. Violetta won 0-3 and took the series 2-1, meaning she'll head to Tysini for a meeting with the Hummingbirds' Sugar in the second round.

IBM Cathedral, North Modernistic: Lionel v. Smudge. The silver cue is back for a series of 12-ball. North Modernistic's Lionel had a great start in game 1, but he gave Infinity's Smudge a wild-card ball. Smudge made good use of it in the end, sneaking by Lionel for the win and 1-0 lead in the series. The Torpedoes' Smudge didn't have any single huge run in game 2, but steady offense with good positioning kept her ahead of the Nighthawks' Lionel. Smudge went on to win with a shot on the 6 at the bottom right, securing the series in her favor at 2-0. Smudge stayed strong in game 3, showing no mercy to Lionel as he struggled for positioning. Smudge got the win with a kick to the bottom side, sweeping the series 3-0. She'll visit her nephew and former teammate Solaris, now of the Commerce Tradewinds, in the second round.

Pepsi Arena, Lighton: Shiny v. Leandra. Southwestern rivals clash in 10-ball with the blue cue. Lighton's Shiny made a ball on the break, and then stepped up with a six-ball run-out when Tysini's Leandra failed to make an impact. Shiny's massive finish was good for a 1-0 series lead. The Hummingbirds' Leandra was a little too free with her shooting, resulting in poor mistakes. The Prestige's Shiny didn't have an elegant finish, but it was enough to get the win that sealed the series at 2-0. Shiny played well to start game 3, but her late three-ball run ended with a narrow miss on the 9. Leandra potted the last two shots for the win, leaving Shiny to advance to the second round on a 2-1 series win.

Honda Driftwood Coliseum, Pearl: Neopolitan v. Fluffina. Enterprise club-mates meet in 10-ball with the silver cue. Infinity's Fluffina nearly had game 1, but she left the 10 at the bottom right. Pearl's Neopolitan gladly tapped it in after a strong early performance. Neopolitan leads the series 1-0. The Torpedoes' Fluffina continued to struggle with the 10 in a close game 2 battle. She left it short at the top right, allowing the Surfers' Neopolitan to cash in for the win and 2-0 series lead after her previous three-ball run wasn't enough. Neopolitan had a decent break in game 3, but it was Fluffina who struck for a three-ball run-out capped by a 4-10 combination to the bottom right very early on. Neopolitan won the series 2-1 and will play on in the second round.

Amazon Field Exhibition Hall, Golden: Max v. Graham. The silver cue stays active with 15-ball. Golden's Max was alright at the start, but Central's Graham put on a seven-ball run to establish himself in the middle of game 1. Max had a chance to finish it, but he missed. Graham made the 15 to the bottom left for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Pilots' Max pushed the 15 close to the top left on a combination attempt. He tried to deflect a shot off the 5 to pot the 15, but he scratched on the same play, gifting game 2 and the series to the Warriors' Graham, who now leads 2-0 overall. Graham lost his pace in game 3, causing a bit of an awkward finish. Max eventually put the 15 in the top side to get the win. Graham won the series 2-1 and will visit Katelynn of the Royal Crowns in the second round.

Verizon Field Events Center, Pacific: Starlight v. Sprinkles. Another 15-ball series uses the silver cue. Pacific's Starlight had some moments on offense in game 1, but Capital City's Sprinkles was a bit stronger with a noticeable four-ball run. Sprinkles also made the 15 to the top left after Starlight's bank left it short. Sprinkles leads the series 1-0. The Sharpshooters' Sprinkles ran out of energy in game 2, but the Volcanoes' Starlight wasn't really any stronger. Starlight took a chance at a 10-15 combination to the bottom right, which connected but also ended in a scratch. This gifted the win and 2-0 series lead to Sprinkles. With nothing to play for, Sprinkles took it easy in game 3. Starlight proved her skill at the end after a stalemate battle early on, getting a four-ball run-out for the win. Sprinkles took the series 2-1 and advances to the second round.

Mercedes-Benz Forum, Harrison: Twinkie II v. Stephanie. We've got another 15-ball set, this one with the blue cue. Harrison's Twinkie II found her groove on offense with a six-ball run, not that Southridge's Stephanie put up much of a challenge in game 1. Twinkie II added a pair at the end, banking the 15 to the bottom left for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Specters' Twinkie II didn't have the same venom on her runs in game 2, but the Defenders' Stephanie remained very detached offensively. Twinkie II would get a little tricky, deflecting off the 13 to send the 15 to the bottom left for the win that secured the series at 2-0. Twinkie II had a four-ball run and plenty more offense in game 3, and she also cleaned up the 15 to sweep Stephanie 3-0 in the series. Twinkie II is set to host the Boston Swifts' Ice Cream in the second round.

IBM Cathedral, North Modernistic: Gizmo v. Roxy. The red cue's only appearance today is in 12-ball. North Modernistic's Gizmo played patiently in game 1, allowing Freedom's Roxy to damage early on. Roxy gave Gizmo a wild-card ball that he quickly gave back. Roxy then removed her defense at the top right, and Gizmo struck for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Nighthawks' Gizmo played some defense after sinking two solids on the break in game 2. The Cascades' Roxy got down to her last ball but couldn't solve her positioning problems. Gizmo then made his final pair to the top corners for the win, sealing the series at 2-0. Gizmo had virtually no positioning after scratching on the game 3 break. Roxy made good use of the extra offense, easily getting the win this time. Gizmo's 2-1 series win pushes him into the second round.

AT&T Hall, Oceanside: Snuggle v. Esmeralda. The silver cue exits the day in 9-ball. Swordpoint's Esmeralda composed herself well in game 1, finding a six-ball run-out to stun Oceanside's Snuggle. It was a good win that put Esmeralda ahead 1-0 in the series. The Blades' Esmeralda still had a good attack in game 2, but it turned into a back-and-forth battle quickly. The Waves' Snuggle struck for a pair at the end, giving him the win to tie the series at 1. Snuggle nearly made the 9 at the top left on the break. It lingered there for a couple turns before Esmeralda shoved the 2 behind the 4 to bump the 9 down for the win. Esmeralda won the series 2-1 and is set to appear in the second round.

Pepsi Arena, Lighton: Citrus v. Sweetheart. Today's finale comes in 8-ball with the green cue. Boston's Sweetheart had a large advantage in game 1 when Lighton's Citrus made a bold positioning play. Citrus failed, deflecting the 8 prematurely to the top side to gift a 1-0 series lead to Sweetheart. The Prestige's Citrus found a five-ball run in game 2, but her last solid just wouldn't fall. The Swifts' Sweetheart countered at the end, needing just a couple turns to get the win after Citrus' run. Sweetheart clinched the series at 2-0. Citrus stepped up in game 3, staying consistent and ending with a three-ball run-out for the win over Sweetheart. The series still went to Sweetheart 2-1, and she'll visit Southeastern rival Chicky Phil of the Midland Predators in the second round.

We'll be back on the usual schedule tomorrow if all goes to plan.

Tournament X - First Round Day 31

We're onto the final third of the First Round, beginning with...

HP Field Events Center, Midland: Chicky Phil v. Delila. The green cue starts the day in 9-ball. Midland's Chicky Phil had a three-ball run in game 1, but a deflected 4-9 combination landed in the top right to give Atlantic's Delila a win and a 1-0 series lead. The Predators' Chicky Phil was a little more stable on offense in game 2, but he scratched as he tried a shot on the 6. The Pirates' Delila was there to pot the final pair of shots for the win, sealing the series at 2-0. Chicky Phil didn't have any better luck in game 3, while Delila was able to bring home another win on a three-ball run-out for the 3-0 series sweep. Delila advances to the second round.

Samsung Arena, Whitewater: Shaggy v. Kiwi. Urban rivals clash in 15-ball with the purple cue. Whitewater's Shaggy got very lucky to take game 1 at the end, as Terrace City's Kiwi had a five-ball run early and most of the rest of the offense too. Kiwi missed the 15 at the top left, and a tap-in gave Shaggy the 1-0 series lead. The offense evened out a bit more in game 2, perhaps even tipping to the Shores' Shaggy. The Knights' Kiwi got into trouble when she missed on the 5, and Shaggy buried it to the bottom left before turning a 6-15 combination to the top left for the win. Shaggy's victory clinched the series at 2-0. Kiwi again used a five-ball run in game 3, but her missed contact led to Shaggy potting the 9-15 combination to the bottom side from ball-in-hand. Shaggy swept the series 3-0 and will host Victoria Spurs captain Spice in the second round.

UPS Hall, Maplewood: Whiskers v. Boots. The green cue comes back into action with 10-ball. A shaky battle in game 1 eventually tipped to Maplewood's Whiskers when she made the 7-10 combination to the top left. Whiskers leads Pearl's Boots 1-0 in the series. The Lumberjacks' Whiskers did alright early in game 2, but the end was all for the Surfers' Boots, who made five balls over the last two turns to get the win. Boots' victory tied the series at 1. Boots took her time to get things right in game 3, as Whiskers applied pressure early on. Boots fought back with a five-ball run-out for the win, sparked by a brilliant kick on the 6 to the bottom left. Boots won the series 2-1 and will host Archtown Arrows captain Sally in the second round.

GE Stadium Events Center, Southridge: Lize v. Sleepy B. The red cue draws in for this Accuracy series. Archtown's Sleepy B. missed early and again in the middle of game 1, giving Southridge's Lize all the cushion she'd need. Lize took a 1-2 win for the 1-0 series lead. The Defenders' Lize wasn't bad in game 2, but she couldn't keep up with the Arrows' Sleepy B. this time. That was because of a perfect 0-2 win for Sleepy B., who tied the series at 1 with the admirable effort. Sleepy B. had a chance to keep game 3 close, but a miss put her out of range as Lize locked in for a 2-3 win. Lize took the series 2-1 and will advance to the second round.

Gillette Center, Swordpoint: Esmeralda v. Ms. Puppy. A rookie meets a captain in Rotation with the purple cue. Swordpoint's Esmeralda got off to a good start in game 1 with a three-ball run, and then Modernistic's Ms. Puppy pulled back a bit. Esmeralda would recover for the 8-3 win in the end, going up 1-0 in the series. The Union's Ms. Puppy had a look at the lead in game 2, but it didn't last long. The Blades' Esmeralda played slow and steady this time, earning the 8-5 win to seal the series at 2-0. Ms. Puppy and Esmeralda tangled early in game 3, battling a little for positioning. Ms. Puppy would miss contact on the 7 later on, and Esmeralda made a four-ball run-out for the 8-2 win from ball-in-hand. Esmeralda swept the series 3-0 and will host again in the second round.

Samsung Arena, Whitewater: Smokey v. Kayla. The silver cue makes an appearance in 8-ball. Royal's Kayla almost wasted her hot start to game 1 with a pair of scratches. Whitewater's Smokey got onto the 8 with a three-ball run, but missed it twice. Kayla had five balls over her last two turns for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Crowns' Kayla scratched on the break in game 2, but the Shores' Smokey couldn't do anything with a shot from the kitchen. Kayla then unleashed an eight-ball run-out for a dominant shutout win to seal the series at 2-0. Kayla couldn't solve her scratching issue in game 3, and this time she paid for it. Smokey had a four-ball run early and steady offense to finish with a win. Kayla won the series 2-1 and will host Victoria Spurs newcomer Rosalina in the second round.

Apple Center, Todavía: Ruby v. Potter. The silver cue stays in action for some 15-ball. Todavía's Ruby looked pretty good to start game 1, but she was unable to bring it home. Pronger's Potter made four of the last five balls for the win, going ahead 1-0 in the series. The Stills' Ruby brought game 2 to a faster close, bouncing the 4-15 combination off the 10 to deflect it into the top left, while the 4 fell in the bottom left for a double-pot. The Tridents' Potter could only watch as Ruby tied the series at 1. Ruby had a cluster-buster play in game 3 that left the 15 very close to the top left. Both players lost control going for it until Potter converted a 4-15 combination for the win and 2-1 series win. Potter heads off to the second round.

Capital City SuperCenter, Capital City: Paps v. Lionel. The purple cue returns for 7-ball to reach today's midpoint. Capital City's Paps had a ball on the break but should have made three, a fact that weighed him down later. North Modernistic's Lionel posted a three-ball run-out in the end for the 1-0 series lead. The Sharpshooters' Paps had a real chance at game 2, but his positioning play from the 6 ended in a scratch. The Nighthawks' Lionel took the 7 to the bottom right from ball-in-hand for the win, securing the series at 2-0. Lionel couldn't quite make the 5-7 combination to the top left in game 3, while Paps deflected off the 5 to knock the 7 in for his lone win of the series. A 2-1 series win sees Lionel head to Victoria in the second round to face Spurs captain Spice.

Google Hall, Modernistic: Maggie v. Daisy. Union teammates battle in 15-ball with the blue cue. Game 1 didn't go all that well for either player, but it was Maggie who made the final pair for the win and 1-0 series lead over Daisy despite a lack of offense. After another slow start in game 2, Maggie had an error that gave Daisy ball-in-hand. Daisy used it for a four-ball run-out capped by a 3-15 combination to the top left for the win that tied the series at 1. Daisy had a look at a three-ball run late in game 3 after she left the 15 near the bottom side. Daisy missed on the 10, and Maggie took over to make a three-ball run-out for the win and 2-1 series win. Maggie advances to the second round.

Audi Hall, Terrace City: Quincy v. Taylor S. The silver cue cycles in for 13-ball between Urban rivals. Terrace City's Quincy had quite a battle initially against Commerce's Taylor S., but the visitor overfilled at the top left. Quincy would find the time to make a three-ball run-out for the win, going up 1-0 in the series. The Tradewinds' Taylor S. had plenty of time to finish off game 2 after being first onto the 8, but she missed it three times. The Knights' Quincy slowly and surely pulled back and got the win, clinching the series at 2-0. Taylor S. again got into the late game quickly, but her execution was again too slow. Quincy had the time to recover, making the final pair of shots for the win to complete the 3-0 series sweep. Quincy will host Modernistic Union captain Ms. Puppy in the second round.

Nissan Hall, Infinity: Fluffina v. Rocky. Back to 15-ball, where the green cue is active. Infinity's Fluffina had a good pace in game 1, although Oceanside's Rocky kept things close. Fluffina prevailed at the end with an 11-15 combination to the top left for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Torpedoes' Fluffina pulled off a three-ball run to put game 2 in its end stages. The Waves' Rocky fired back with a four-ball run, but Fluffina would ultimately take the last two balls for the win. Fluffina secured the series in her favor at 2-0. Fluffina performed at her best in game 3, controlling the pace and pushing shots around. She made six of the last seven balls over two turns to complete a 3-0 series sweep over Rocky. Fluffina is set to visit the Pronger Tridents' Avril in the second round.

Amazon Field Exhibition Hall, Golden: Sparkles v. Tigerette. Veterans meet in 12-ball with the silver cue. Golden's Sparkles had a good start to game 1 with a four-ball run, but she gave away a wild-card ball to Commerce's Tigerette. A three-ball run got Tigerette on the cusp of victory, only for Sparkles to make her last ball for the win and 1-0 series lead instead. The Pilots' Sparkles didn't give up a wild-card ball in game 2, but it was again a close battle. The Tradewinds' Tigerette scratched on what could have been her winning shot, and Sparkles made a good contact play. On the next turn, Sparkles potted her last shot to the top right for the win to seal the series at 2-0. Sparkles made one of each on the game 3 break and decided to play stripes for a three-ball run. Tigerette made a pair, but Sparkles shot back with a three-ball run-out for the win to finish a 3-0 series sweep. With confidence, Sparkles is set to host Stonebridge Wolves captain Juno in the second round.

Chevrolet Center, Everton: Vincent v. Twinkie III. The silver cue exits the day with 13-ball. Whitewater's Twinkie III made a mistake in her shot selection while already far behind in game 1. This bailed out Everton's Vincent for positioning, and the host went on to take a pair of shots later for the win. Vincent leads the series 1-0. The Shores' Twinkie III recovered well after the Eagles' Vincent made two solids and a stripe on the break. Twinkie III had a look at the 8 but couldn't make it, and Vincent shot back with a pair of shots for the win to clinch the series at 2-0. Vincent had another solid effort in game 3, but he came up just a little short this time. Twinkie III rattled off a three-ball run-out to get the win, while Vincent advances on a 2-1 series win. Vincent will host Lorde of the Capital City Sharpshooters in the second round.

IBM Cathedral, North Modernistic: Lionel v. Sierra. The host plays his second series of the day in 8-ball with the red cue. North Modernistic's Lionel had a great start in game 1, but he had to weather a two-turn run from Todavía's Sierra that ended with her missing the 8 short at the top right. Lionel made the tap-in for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Stills' Sierra did better to keep game 2 close throughout as opposed to just in the end. The Nighthawks' Lionel cared not for his opponent's offense, striking a three-ball run-out to close the win and seal the series at 2-0. Lionel eased up in game 3, while Sierra struck back even harder as she obtained a couple of short runs. Sierra tapped the 8 into the bottom left for the win, while Lionel's 2-1 series win puts him in the second round.

AT&T Hall, Oceanside: Megan v. Rosalina. The green cue wraps up with Accuracy. Oceanside's Megan made good contact, but was just a touch worse than Victoria's Rosalina, who only missed once late in a 1-2 win. Rosalina holds a 1-0 series lead. A hot start in game 2 saw the Waves' Megan briefly fall behind, and she looked doomed after a late scratch. The Spurs' Rosalina then missed her last two shots in regulation and the overtime break, allowing Megan to hold on for a 4-5 win that tied the series at 1. Megan scratched on the break in game 3, and another miss later on would prove costly. Rosalina wasn't perfect, but she held the line for a 1-3 win to take the series 2-1 this time. Rosalina is set to travel to Viewpoint Sound for a meeting with Meteors captain Hoot in the second round.

Amazon Field Exhibition Hall, Golden: Dusty v. Hoot: The finale today is 15-ball with the red cue. Golden's Dusty started with a chaotic five-ball run from the break in game 1. Viewpoint Sound's Hoot showed some danger in the middle, but Dusty roared back with a six-ball run-out for the win and 1-0 series lead. The Pilots' Dusty couldn't recreate the previous effort, struggling on offense throughout game 2. The Meteors' Hoot eventually struck a five-ball run and added the final pair on his next turn for the win, good enough to tie the series at 1. Dusty again fell short, as her offense in game 3 ran out a little too soon. Hoot finished off the performance with a four-ball run-out to get the win and 2-1 series win. Hoot is set to appear in the second round.

We'll go again tomorrow, likely with a delayed start time.