World Bowl XXIX- Everything Thread (IC-Only)

by **United Vietussia** » Sun May 08, 2016 5:56 am

The Vietussian Inquisitor

Vietussia in tight Group D with 2 games left

Group D is starting to heat up in the final weeks of competition. Four teams (Gregoryisgodistan, Abahnfleft, United Vietussia, The Sword Bloke) are all separated by one game or no games for first place, making Group D one of the most contested groups heading into the homestretch of this season. One meltdown or one big boost can make or break a team at this point. Let's take a look at each team's remaining schedule:

Gregoryisgodistan:

@ Leaf Kingdom: Easy victory against the helpless 0-6 team.

vs. United Vietussia: After a close game and a declining #2 team, Vietussia will edge this one out.

Final record: 7-3 (3rd?!)

Abahnfleft:

vs. The Sword Bloke: TSB is on the decline. Abahnfleft should make haste.

@ Downination: Downination on the decline, Abahnfleft on the rise.

Final record: 8-2 (1st)

United Vietussia:

@ Downination: Vietussia beat them before, they can do it again.

@ Gregoryisgodistan: I expect the win. Give it to em.

Final record: 7-3 (2nd, a tiebreaker arises...)

The Sword Bloke:

@ Abanhfleft: The declining team can't right the boat on the road.

vs. Leaf Kingdom: Just a morale boost at this point.

Final record: 6-4 (4th)

We hope this edition brought some insight to you. Until then, this is Jeb Ports. Good night, Vietussia.

by **Frenline Delpha** » Sun May 08, 2016 1:32 pm

Will your play-off chances go Boom?

Your three words today are monk, tin, and freedom.

Group E
The Fair Republic 33–0 Caball
Sarejo 16–20 Drawkland
Vilemyr 17–23 San Llera

Group E                        Pld   W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Drawkland                     9    8   1   141  102  +39
2 San Llera                     9    7   2   196   98  +98
3 The Fair Republic             9    6   3   154   59  +95
4 Sarejo                        9    4   5   121   94  +27
5 Vilemyr                       9    1   8    90  182  −92
6 Caball                        9    1   8    36  203 −167

Group F
Rennidan 13–0 The Republic of Arkan
HUElavia 50–0 Vrai
Schottia 13–6 Kaboomlandia

Group F                        Pld   W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Schottia                      9    8   1   185   69 +116
2 Kaboomlandia                  9    7   2   212   71 +141
3 Rennidan                      9    5   4   102   70  +32
4 HUElavia                      9    5   4   132  135   −3
5 The Republic of Arkan         9    2   7    59  162 −103
6 Vrai                          9    0   9    20  203 −183

Group G
Banija 13–7 Abaja
Nassau-Hessen 30–7 Milaris
The Unified Isles 14–17 Taeshan

Group G                        Pld   W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Banija                        9    8   1   127   36  +91
2 Taeshan                       9    6   3   123   68  +55
3 Abaja                         9    6   3   131   96  +35
4 Nassau-Hessen                 9    5   4   113  105   +8
5 Milaris                       9    2   7    87  153  −66
6 The Unified Isles             9    0   9    48  171 −123

Group H
Halleconia 25–22 Royal Kingdom of Quebec
Zacistania 10–36 Chromatika
Cosumar 27–3 Mccompany

Group H                        Pld   W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Chromatika                    9    9   0   188   86 +102
2 Cosumar                       9    7   2   181   82  +99
3 Royal Kingdom of Quebec       9    5   4   176   89  +87
4 Halleconia                    9    3   6   126  187  −61
5 Zacistania                    9    2   7    98  222 −124
6 Mccompany                     9    1   8    39  142 −103

Clinched First in Group
Clinched Play-offs

by **Abaja** » Sun May 08, 2016 3:49 pm

World Bowl XXIX

Abaja loses to Banija, Playoff hopes at risk

- By David Osesé

Abaja 7 - 13 Banija

The Lions have finally experienced their first loss in 5 games. In Busukuma, Banija, the Lions lost 7-13. Now that they have lost, their record slumps to 6-3, putting them in 3rd place in their group, behind Taeshan. "Our only hope is to blow out The Unified Isles by 27 or more points and hope Taeshan either loses against Nassau-Hessen or win by just 7 or less points. We can't give up now, We must focus. One screw up, and we're done. Let's get to work! No breaks!" Says head coach Josi Tueyuté. In the first quarter, Abaja had ball. They went on a 48 yard drive, then it was halted. However, there was a penalty on Banija (face-mask) which gave Abaja another first down. They scored on their first drive after Mohammadu Shepada (TE) caught a 16 yard touchdown pass from Desna Osopno (QB). When Banija got the ball, they were unable to score, so they punted back to Abaja. Desna Osopno (QB) got sacked by a Banijan DE, then he scrambled for 7 yards. After that, he threw an incomplete pass. 4th down now. They punt back to Banija. The Banijan QB threw a bullet pass for a quick 13 yards. Then their HB ran for 8 more. Floki Jensa (DE) tipped away a pass from the Banija QB. They couldn't make anything happen after that. 4th down. In the second quarter, Abaja had ball again. Malik Mafausa (RB) ran for 6 yards, then 11. Bobby Odendé (WR) caught a 17 yard pass from Desna Osopno (QB). He later threw an interception. Banija went on a 68 yard drive for a touchdown. It is now tied 7-7. 3 minutes left in the second Banija picked off a pass from Desna Osopno (QB) again. Everyone in Busukuma was hyped up, however the Banijans could not score, after going on a short 19 yard drive. Halftime came, and it was an even game.

At halftime, Abaja tied with Banija 7-7. Banija went on a 44 yard drive. They were on the Abajan 27 yard line, and their kicker made a field goal. 10-7 Banija leads. When Abaja got the ball back, Malik Mafausa (RB) runs for 31. Then Desna Osopno (QB) gets sacked twice in a row. It was now 3rd and 22. Desna Osopno (QB) passes to Bobby Odendé (WR) for 20 yards, but they are unable to get the first. They punt back to Banija. Banija went on a 30 yard drive until Henry Turusi (CB) caught an interception. Desna Osopno (QB) threw a 17 yard pass, scrambled for 15, then threw another interception. The Banijan defense was getting the best of Abaja. In the fourth quarter, Banija was on their own 22 yard line. The Banijan QB threw a 43 yard pass to his WR, then got sacked by Nikola Juvaswo (DE), then threw another 14 yard pass. They were on the Lions' 28 yard line. Their HB ran or 7 yards, then the QB scrambled for 2. A pass was then broken up by Lema Megusu (CB). 4th and 1 on the Lions' 19 yard line for Banija. Banija scored another field goal to make the game 13-7 in their favor. Abaja then punted the ball back to Banija, as they couldn't get any yards. Banija punted it back after a 26 yard drive. 1 minute ad 22 seconds left in the game, Abaja went on a 41 yard drive. They were now on the Banijan 20 yard line, with just 21 seconds left. Desna Osopno (QB) throws a bullet pass to Bobby Odendé (WR) for 10 yards. Abaja calls a timeout with 13 seconds left. Desna Osopno (QB) then throws an incomplete pass. 7 seconds left. On the Banijan 10 yard line, Desna Osopno (QB) gets sacked. No more timeouts for Abaja, they end up losing a crucial game 7-13. Their next opponent is The Unified Isles. Last time these two teams played, Abaja blew them out 42-7. The Lions hope to get another blow out victory and a Taeshan loss for one last shot at the playoffs.

GROUP G STANDINGS

Code: Select all: Group G Pld W L PF PA PD 1 Banija 9 8 1 127 36 +91 2 Taeshan 9 6 3 123 68 +55 3 Abaja 9 6 3 131 96 +35 4 Nassau-Hessen 9 5 4 113 105 +8 5 Milaris 9 2 7 87 153 −66 6 The Unified Isles 9 0 9 48 171 −123

COMMENTS

1,802 Comments

YoItsChris -Joined Jan 7, 2009

41 mins ago- Trash ass OL. Smh

Yachi56 -Joined Jun 19, 2013

1 hour ago- great... now we are on the edge of elimination. great CHOKE abaja

abajarulez002 -Joined Aug 20, 2010

24 mins ago- this waz a key game! this lost may cost us the playoffs!

brendon osu -Joined Mar 18, 2011

59 mins ago- that was the most lousy play ive ever seen in my life

Mali Owena-Massu -Joined Nov 12, 2014

17 mins ago- If i were Abaja i would show NO MERRCY next game. blow them out by 30+ points if you want!

by **Drawkland** » Sun May 08, 2016 6:10 pm

Cutoff! Some of you may know the Drawk Corps, here's a song for them. (Totally not the USMC, what?)

Your Words: Extremist, Fake, Beaver. Props to Ko-oren to doing it last time.

Group A
United States of Devonta 7–17 The united states of Saints
Shytysle 3–9 Frenline Delpha
Mareut 0–17 Allamunic States

# Group A                      Pld    W   L    GF   GA   GD 
1 Allamunic States               9    8   1   161   41 +120
2 The united states of Saints    9    7   2   134  128   +6
3 Frenline Delpha                9    6   3   154   93  +61
4 United States of Devonta       9    3   6   104  133  −29
5 Shytysle                       9    3   6   129  165  −36
6 Mareut                         9    0   9    40  162 −122

Group B
The Orion Islands 3–27 Anglatia
Falatulu 0–7 Ethane
Holy Philippine Empire 3–34 Ko-oren

# Group B                      Pld    W   L    GF   GA   GD
1 Anglatia                       9    9   0   153   48 +105
2 Ethane                         9    6   3    91   57  +34
3 Falatulu                       9    5   4    97   62  +35
4 Ko-oren                        9    5   4   161   73  +88
5 The Orion Islands              9    1   8    63  180 −117
6 Holy Philippine Empire         9    1   8    40  185 −145

Group C
San Jose Guayabal 3–0 Texasa
Equestrian States 9–3 Cuatro
Barunia 16–0 West Phoencia

# Group C                      Pld    W   L    GF   GA   GD
1 Equestrian States              9    9   0   132   18 +114
2 San Jose Guayabal              9    6   3    93  124  −31
3 Barunia                        9    5   4   138   70  +68
4 West Phoencia                  9    3   6    60  111  −51
5 Texasa                         9    3   6    60   81  −21
6 Cuatro                         9    1   8    42  121  −79

Group D
United Vietussia 25–10 The Nation of Downination
Leaf Kingdom 7–3 Gregoryisgodistan
Abanhfleft 31–0 The Sword Bloke

# Group D                      Pld    W   L    GF   GA   GD
1 Abanhfleft                     9    7   2   168   88  +80
2 Gregoryisgodistan              9    6   3   109   44  +65
3 United Vietussia               9    6   3   128  105  +23
4 The Sword Bloke                9    5   4   118  115   +3
5 The Nation of Downination      9    2   7    97  148  −51
6 Leaf Kingdom                   9    1   8    51  171 −120

Clinched #1 Seeding
Clinched Playoff Showing
Impossible to reach Playoffs

by **The united states of Saints** » Sun May 08, 2016 8:58 pm

Playoffs within reach! Paladins within striking distance with win against Devonta!

Aprilian Times -- The Paladins may have had a dissapointing loss against The Regulars last matchday, but they made up for it with a key win against United States of Devonta. The Paladins won this game with a score of 7-17. This win allows the Paladins to advance to the playoffs if they win their last game or a Frenline Delpha Anacondas loss. Thankfully their next opponent is against winless and unranked opponent, Mareut. However, the first meeting between these two teams was close as both could hardly score on each other with the end result having the Paladins coming out on too 6-3. Hopefully things will be different this time around as the Paladins offense is slowly awakening.

The Paladins were able to put more points on the board this time against Devonta, scoring 17 instead of 7 in the last game. The defense even held Devonta to about the same score as last time. Matt Whelan scored a touchdown on a short screen pass to Miguel Black for 9 yards. Louis Nakamura then made a field goal attempt from 36 yards out to give the Paladins a 10-0 lead at halftime. Devonta would receive the ball in the second and on their opening drive they scored a touchdown on a 48 yard touchdown pass. Early in the Fourth, Miguel Black ran for 13 yard touchdown run to make the score 17-7. There was no further scoring from that point on.

The Paladins offensive line once again stepped up today protecting Matt Whelan really well allowing him to be hit only 3 times and not get sacked once. They even opened up the holes to allow Miguel black to get the yards he needed to continue to run the balk downfield. However, even with all the time Matt was given the United States of Devonta secondary were all over the field. The score would've been a lot better for The Paladins if the Devonta secondary were not as talented. Whelan finished 23-37 passing for 167 yards, 2 interceptions, and a touchdown. He was not sacked at all. Miguel Black had 96 yards rushing on 21 carries, 1 rushing touchdown, and 1 receiving touchdown from Matt Whelan. He did not fumble the ball.

The Paladins defense made up for their bad performance against The Regulars by stopping most of the plays that Devonta threw at them. The reason Devonta scored was by taking advantage of the secondary which is the weakness of The Paladins defense. Overall, The front seven only allowed 39 yards rushing, caused a fumble that was recovered by Devonta but ultimately forced them to punt, and sacked the quarterback twice. The secondary did allow Devonta to score on them, but they didn't do that bad. They nabbed an interception while also deflecting 6 pass attempts.

Coach Agresta's words on his opponents perfromance were encouraging saying, "This Devonta team definitely has talent on Defense especially in that secondary and they were a great challenge for us." He also said that he wishes to face them again in the future.

In other matches Frenline Delpha wins a close one against Shytysle 3-9, while The Regulars shutout Mareut to clinch a playoff berth and Win Group A. With this matchday over here is how Group A looks:

Group A
United States of Devonta 7–17 The united states of Saints
Shytysle 3–9 Frenline Delpha
Mareut 0–17 Allamunic States

# Group A                      Pld    W   L    GF   GA   GD 
1 Allamunic States               9    8   1   161   41 +120
2 The united states of Saints    9    7   2   134  128   +6
3 Frenline Delpha                9    6   3   154   93  +61
4 United States of Devonta       9    3   6   104  133  −29
5 Shytysle                       9    3   6   129  165  −36
6 Mareut                         9    0   9    40  162 −122

It is certainly close for second place to see who else advances to the playoffs. As of now The Paladins hold the second spot with a 7-2 record. If they win or if Frenline Delpha loses in the last game if the group stage, The Paladins advance. If Frenline Delpha wins and The Paladins lose then The Anacondas will advance based on Head to Head Point Differential. This last game against Mareut is very important and will decide the fate of this Paladins team. All other teams below Frenline Delpha have officially been eliminated from playoff contention.

In the locker room Coach Agresta tells his players the situation:

"Alright, listen up! That was a good win today, in fact it was a key win for us. Now this next game I want you to play your hearts out like I always tell you. However I'm going to add a little emphasis on this because if we win we advance to the playoffs-"

Immediately the players started cheering and yelling just for the idea of making it to the playoffs. Agresta calmed them down with the rest of the coaching staff, "Ok, ok calm down let me finish! Now of course if The Anacondas lose then we still advance to the playoffs, but if we lose and theh win their last game, then we are out of the playoffs because they beat us on Head to Head Point Differential."

Each of the players then put on a serious face showing they were determined to not let that happen. Agresta saw this, smiled and said, "If you want to advance, then give me your best effort with courage and discipline! Now get a break and dismiss yourselves this time!"

by **Banija** » Mon May 09, 2016 6:15 am

The All-Banija Sports Magazine
The only nationwide publication that is all sports, all the time!

Banijans clinch first place in Group G with one game left after 13-7 victory over Abaja

Star Defensive End Momir Litvinov celebrates his sack on the last play of the game to clinch 13-7 victory over Abaja

BUSUKUMA- The game between Abaja and Banija was always going to be the unlikeliest of heavyweight battles. While Banija had a decent World Bowl tournament last time out, nobody really gave them a real chance to escape this group. With the two highest ranked teams being 11th & 8th in the overall standings respectively, and then Banija being 26th with the other three teams being unranked, it was figured that both Taeshan and Nassau-Hessen would cakewalk through the group. While there were a few out there who thought Banija could pull off an upset or two, nobody was ready for unranked Abaja to be doing what they've done in this tournament. Even Banijan Head Coach Ezekiel Daniachew gave great credit to Abaja's squad, saying that for first time entrants, their performance has been 'nothing short of amazing', no matter what happens next weekend in the final match of the group stage.

Gameday, however, it was Banija's day. It was all about Banija, how they went from 0-10 and the absolute worst team in World Bowl 27, to 4-2 and just barely missing out on the knockout stages in World Bowl 29 due to a head to head matchup, and then now, when Banija could go 8-1 in 9 games, and clinch first place in the group with one game remaining. The story was about the Banijan defense. They allowed a touchdown on the opening drive, and from that point forward, they simply shut down Abaja. They forced a few turnovers during the course of the ball game, and Abaja never really threatened to score from that point forward until the game's last drive, when they ended up knocking on Banija's door.

Banija's defense play excellently throughout the course of the game, because of the ability of their defensive line to dominate the line of scrimmage. Led by defensive tackle Slawoj Shuksin out of Northern Moravica, and star defensive end Momir Litvinov, the Abaja offense could not do anything. They were plugging all kinds of running lanes, and opening up gaps for linebackers to run in. No matter what Abaja tried to do, after that first drive, they simply could not run the football. With consistent 2nd & longs and 3rd & longs, the Banijan defense could simply pin their ears back in this passing situations, and players like Litvinov could just rush the quarterback. Litvinov finished with 2 sacks, including a huge sack on the last play of the game, but he seemed to be in the backfield every single play, constantly harassing Abajan quarterback Desna Osopno, where he had some turnovers, but was forced into plenty of throwaways.

Banija's first score, to tie the game, came in the 2nd quarter on a 68 yard drive, which was the result of an interception by free safety and defensive captain Chirkos Gazaee. The drive was helped by the big play. On the first two plays, they had short runs from their running back, which gave them a 3rd & 7 at their own 35. They flipped the field with a 30 yard pass to Christos Cosse to get to the opposing 35, and then followed that play up with a 24 yard strike to Robel Kassa to give them a 1st & 10 at the 11 yard line. The very next play, Myles Debaba had a play action bootleg and hit Christos Cosse on a corner post to tie the game at 7 and get the crowd back into the game.

In the 3rd quarter, Banija was able to put points on the board once again, as Beyne Yemane converted from 44 yards, to give his team a 10-7 lead going into the 4th quarter. In the 4th quarter, he converted again, but this time from 36 yards out, as he doubled his team's lead to 13-7 over the visitors. Then, when Abaja got the ball back with 1 minute and 22 seconds left with some pretty good field position at their own 39, they finally were able to get some offense going. A few good passes, a few good plays, and they were able to reach the red zone, get all the way to the Banijan 10 yard line with 7 seconds left. Momir Litvinov, the star Banijan Defensive End however, had other ideas to how the game should end. He blasted off the edge and blew by the left tackle on his way to opposing quarterback Desna Osopno. He came from the blind side and brought him down, and without any timeouts left, there was no way Abaja was getting another play off. Banija's defense won them the game, and the fireworks went off at the Stadium of the Restoration.

Ezekiel Daniachew spoke about his team's performance in that last game. "We played well today, and that was a synopsis of how the group stage has gone for us. We battled, played some excellent defense, kept the game under control, and ultimately, for the 8th time in the last 9 matches, Banija pulled off a victory. Now, we get to make a trip to Frenline Delpha. Of course, as they are our regional neighbors, this is the place we want to be, as it will be very easy for many Banijans to come, and with our country's love for this sport, I'm sure Banijans will come pouring into Frenline Delpha for our knockout stage game. We'll play a familiar opponent in the Round of 16, who is Kaboomlandia. But, of course, our next game is a trip to Milaris. While we want to win that game, as well as every game we play, our priority has to be getting healthy for Kaboomlandia. Our matchup is already set, and they are a familiar opponent, as we played them in the last World Bowl. At this stage of the tournament however, everything is bigger and everything is amplified. Kaboomlandia were quarterfinalists two tournaments ago, which shows the talent level that they have in this sport. That will be a great game, and our primary focus will be getting healthy for that game." While Daniachew didn't say anything about who would be playing against Milaris and for how long, he did say that he wanted to give the first team offense at least a drive or two against Milaris before he sat them, just to make sure there was no type of rust whatsoever when they played Kaboomlandia.

While the group was officially clinched today with the team's big victory over Abaja, this is as good of a time as ever to look back over Banija's play in the group stage. The Banijans came in knowing that they would be riding their defense, but nobody knew exactly how good it was. Did anybody expect them to allow double digit points only once over the course of 9 games, or have the tournament's #2 scoring defense by allowing a mere 4 points per game? (Equestrian States are #1 allowing 2 points per game). They have a high caliber championship defense, which bodes well entering the vicious, single elimination nature of the knockout stages. Of course, they went through with struggles at quarterback, but they've finally found their man, as Myles Debaba replaced Kovach at halftime of the 7th game and this team has never looked back since then. This team has done a lot of soul searching throughout this tournament, but they have truly found themselves. We'll see of course what they can accomplish in the knockout stages, but at this stage of the tournament, no fan of this team can complain at this performance. They've done what they set out to do, which is qualifying for the knockout stages, and from here on out, time will tell what the future holds for this team, who will be hoping to win some games in Frenline Delpha and possibly make a serious run for a trophy.

works? · by **Abanhfleft** » Mon May 09, 2016 7:39 am

Part One Part Two Part Three Part Four Part Five Part Six Part Seven Part Eight Part Nine Part Ten Part Eleven Part Twelve Part Thirteen Part Fourteen Part Fifteen Part Sixteen Part Seventeen Part Eighteen Part Nineteen Part Twenty

No Place For Heroes, Part Twenty-one

Al Jawal, Gharbambiyah

There was an abandoned gas station on the road just outside Al Jawal. The pumps were long gone, having been stripped by the locals for its salvage value, along with the fuel stored in the tanks below ground. Even the fluorescent lamps had been stolen for whatever little value they could, and the remaining structure lay weak and rusting to the elements. Ellie and Lizzie hauled the bed of the pickup to which they had been chained by members of Edward Eskalumbuye's militia into what had once been a car service station, and then they found a pair of bolt cutters that allowed them to finally break free from the bed. They also took the time to do their business in the station's restrooms. There was a sign above the cracked mirrors advising users of the restroom to "ALWAYS WASH YOUR HANDS" and "REMEMBER TO WASH YOUR BEAVER". The second sign seemed a little too crude and suggestive, but then again, no one else was going to be using this particular restroom anytime soon.

Ellie and Lizzie then made their way to the side of a mud hut on what was literally the edge of Al Jawal. Anything else beyond it was either the city or the desert. "So, where to next?" Lizzie asked.

"I don't know, to be honest," Ellie said. "I don't really know if there are any safe sites here in Al Jawal where we can wait out the battle between Eskalumbuye and the JTF."

"Well, that sucks," Lizzie muttered.

"You're damned right it sucks," Ellie agreed. "If we get caught up in the battle, there's no telling if they'll take the time to see if we're friend or foe."

"What's the safest bet?"

"I'd say the mosque is probably safest," Ellie said. "I mean, come on, it's a mosque, and we're in a majority Muslim country. It's basically the only sacred thing in this country! And of course that means that the JTF won't touch it as well."

"You better be sure of that, Ellie!"

"Since when have I been wrong about my hunches, Liz?"

"Oh, since about that night we got captured by the militia!"

"Oh, sod off. That was just a one-off thing!"

Nevertheless, Ellie and Lizzie agreed that the mosque was the safest place in Al Jawal. Sneaking around the town was both easy and hard. It was easy in the sense that no one was actively looking for them anymore, and it was hard in the sense that they had to dodge numerous militia patrols who were setting up as good a defense as they could against the coming attack from the JTF. Surely, the drone attack was a sign that they were about to be attacked by the WA and the Gharbambiyans, but something about the whole thing didn't sit right with Ellie. What if there was someone working for Eskalumbuye inside the JTF? What if it was Eskalumbuye's general brother in the Gharbambiyan Army, Stephane Eskalumbuye? Shit was absolutely messed up, to put it mildly.

"Ellie!" Lizzie whispered. "Ellie!"

"What is it?" Ellie whispered back.

"Up ahead," Lizzie said, pointing at the road leading up to the mosque. A substantial number of rebels and militiamen were standing in front of the doors of the mosque, and they were stacking sacks of sand in front of the doors.

"Now what?" Lizzie asked Ellie. Their whole plan of sitting out the inevitable battle of Al Jawal had centered on being able to hide in the mosque. But with the rebels stacking sandbags against the doors for whatever purpose, that plan had come flying out of the window.

"Hang on, let me think," Ellie said. She reached inside her shirt and took out her phone, which she had tucked into her bra just before they had set off for the Army base last night. God, was it just last night that all that happened? Ellie asked herself. It had honestly felt like a decade to her.

Ellie opened the maps application on her phone and zoomed in on Al Jawal. There was little if any detail on the app's depiction of Al Jawal, just a grey patch marking the city's urban zone along with a few major roads and trails marked in yellow and white respectively. There was little information about the places inside Al Jawal, just some vague place names such as Mosque, Industrial, Northern, and the Foreign Quarter. Wait a minute, Ellie thought. The Foreign Quarter? What the hell is the Foreign Quarter? She then asked the question aloud to Lizzie.

"How should I know?" Lizzie hissed. "I'm not a native of this place!"

"But if it says Foreign Quarter, then surely that must mean that there is a chance that we could find a safe place there?" Ellie asked. "What have we got to lose, eh, Elizabeth?"

"Oh, I don't know," Lizzie said. "How about our lives?"

"God, I can't believe I'm saying this, but you only live once, Liz."

"And you also only die once. That's the truth, Ellen, since we're on full-name basis now."

"Let's just go to the Foreign Quarter, okay?" Ellie said in exasperation.

"Why can't you have just started with that?" Lizzie retorted. "At least we wouldn't have wasted time arguing about this."

They picked themselves up and began making their way towards the Foreign Quarter, which was to the east of the mosque. There were a number of rebel patrols roving around which they had to evade and not get noticed by. But there was a feeling that they were now just riding their luck, and said luck eventually ran out when they tried to cross a street.

The shouts of a small number of rebels made the hairs on the back of Ellie and Lizzie's heads stand up. Both of them couldn't understand a word that th e Gharbambiyans were saying, but both of them could get the gist: turn around with arms in the air, and no funny moves.

"YODO," Lizzie said. "You only die once."

"It was still worth the risk," Ellie shot back.

Ellie and Lizzie raised their hands and slowly turned around to face their captors. They were a ragtag bunch of Ghamrbambiyans, mostly malnourished types who looked like a single burst of their Kalashnikov rifles would blow them over to the ground. Some of the rebels were approaching them with rifles pointed at the two women, but a few of the other rebels were averting their eyes from the two. They exchanged a few words with the rebels watching over Ellie and Lizzie, and those rebels averting their eyes handed over long cloth veils to the guards, and the guards handed the veils to the two women.

"Great," Ellie muttered to Lizzie as they wrapped the veils around their heads, "We've got a bunch of religious extremists in our hands now."

"Not good," Lizzie muttered back. "Definitely not good!"

The rebels hauled roughly the two women towards some kind of fallen lamp post. Lizzie noticed a suspicious and worrying stain of red and brown. "Yeah, now this is really not good!" she shouted.

"Will you shut up, Liz!?" Ellie shouted back, "You and your shouting are not helping at all!"

The rebels laid Ellie and Lizzie's necks on the fallen lamp post. The metal seared white-hot on the flesh of Ellie's neck. She gritted her teeth against the pain, but beside her, Lizzie screamed. "Go ahead, you camel fuckers!" she shouted. "Go ahead and kill us! You're nothing to us, you motherfuckers! When the JTF comes to town, they will blow all of your brains out, and we will be avenged!"

"Lizzie, you really could be a little bit more dignified in facing certain death!" Ellie shouted back.

"Ah, what's the point!? We're gonna die anyway! Might as well go down fighting!"

The rebels began chanting in their near-incomprehensible Gharbambiyan language, and Ellie assumed that they were being given their last rites. She also heard the dull keen of a machete being sharpened.

"Argh!" Lizzie shouted. "This girl bleeds blue! United til I die!"

The chanting reached a peak, and then the rebel who appeared to be like a cleric shouted, "Allahu akbar!", and Ellie prepared herself for the moment that the hot steel blade would meet her neck.

There was suddenly a short burst of rifle fire. Ellie heard the rebels cocking their rifles, and she chanced a look from her would-be chopping block. There were two women standing in the shadow of a shelled-out building. The women looked vaguely Hispanic, kind of like Liz Glenn on a good day. One woman held a Colt M1911 semiautomatic pistol, while the other woman held an M16A4 assault rifle with a smoking barrel.

The woman with the M16 started speaking in another foreign language. Guessing by her intonation, she sounded like she was telling the rebels to back off or else she and her partner were going to shoot them all the way to hell. The woman with the pistol was silent, but it was obvious that she was ready to back up her partner in whatever she did.

The rebels shouted back in Gharbambiyan, and guessing by their tone, the mysterious women wouldn't like what they were saying. The woman with the M16 raised the rifle to her shoulder and fired another burst into the air, probably to prove that her gun wasn't fake. Ellie winced. At the rate they were going, they were going to end up in the middle of a gun battle.

The women moved closer to Ellie and Lizzie. With their rifles still pointed at the rebels, they took the two Fleftics and began to haul them away from their would-be execution site. The mysterious women kept their guns aimed at the rebels until they were finally behind a big building that looked like a government institution. "Thank you," Ellie said to the women. "Who are you?"

"We are friends of Señor Tarrasco," the woman with the rifle replied,

by **Ko-oren** » Mon May 09, 2016 11:57 am

Team Profiles

The first team we take a look at is Pereselenets Sparta. Known as the Blues for the first two decades of their existance, Sparta has been the most successful team in the TFL and U-BOWL. They were founded in 1923 as the Pereselenets Blues, and were part of the TFL since its inception in 1935. They made their mark on the league by immediately winning the first three championships in 1935, 36 and 37 and then getting another championship in 1940. All in all, they have won 15 championships, one in each decade of their existance, but without a prize so far in the 10s. The longest stretch with no title was from 1974 to 1984.

Sparta plays in all-blue, sometimes with some white trimming depending on the jersey designer. This shouldn't come as a surprise, though.

Their games against Pereselenets 65, Marinwood Victory and the Lena Tsars are always a blast. They share a city with '65, first of all, Marinwood Victory is the other very big team in the league, also from Thaulandi, and the Lena Tsars have a history of beating Sparta in finals.

Their current game is all about getting points where you can, and having a great set of special teamers. Their kicking game is flawless and their punting is great, with dynasties of punters who can balance hang time, length and placement perfectly. Apart from that, kick and punt returns are vicious, and this team has always had a good grasp of the rules (and a majority of rule changes come from this team anyway).

They sure aren't the most followed team in the league, or even Thaulandi. The fans sound like they are most numerous, though. The history of the team is tangible in every part of this team and sometimes even interferes with decision making at the highest level.

Secondly, the Aminey Caspians. They were part of the league since the KFL, the Ko-orenite Football League, kicked off in 1974. The team was founded 9 years earlier, in 1965, making them the second oldest Ko-orenite team. They play in blue, but always feature a secondary colour somewhere in their kit, which is often white, yellow or green. Or two of those, or even all three. Their fanbase hate the Greencaster Shells, which stems from the early days of the KFL. While Aminey always has been the most prolific Ko-orenite team, it was the Shells to take the first championship. Since that loss, the Caspians went on to win 6 championships anyway, including a back to back win in 2014 and 2015.

Their team is built around their star quarterback, and favour a passing offence. They're even a lot more attacking than the typical Ko-orenite team. This team attracts all the stars, at least on offence, however this team is very much allround and can win every game they're in. Winning is part of this team like nothing else.

Their success in Ko-oren attracted a lot of fans within their nation and abroad. Often insulted as being plastic fans, though, and while they haven't been around since when the Thaulandian teams started, they are the arrogant team that pretends like they have.

by **Frenline Delpha** » Mon May 09, 2016 12:32 pm

Will Margaret foil your playoff dreams?

Your three words today are tedious, grate, and log.

Group E
Caball 23–7 Vilemyr
San Llera 6–6 Sarejo (12–6 OT)
Drawkland 13–20 The Fair Republic

Group E                        Pld   W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 San Llera                    10    8   2   208  104 +104
2 Drawkland                    10    8   2   154  122  +32
3 The Fair Republic            10    7   3   174   72 +102
4 Sarejo                       10    4   6   127  106  +21
5 Caball                       10    2   8    59  210 −151
6 Vilemyr                      10    1   9    97  205 −108

Group F
The Republic of Arkan 7–22 Schottia
Kaboomlandia 26–3 HUElavia
Vrai 3–10 Rennidan

Group F                        Pld   W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Schottia                     10    9   1   207   76 +131
2 Kaboomlandia                 10    8   2   238   74 +164
3 Rennidan                     10    6   4   112   73  +39
4 HUElavia                     10    5   5   135  161  −26
5 The Republic of Arkan        10    2   8    66  184 −118
6 Vrai                         10    0  10    23  213 −190

Group G
Abaja 23–16 The Unified Isles
Taeshan 16–6 Nassau-Hessen
Milaris 0–10 Banija

Group G                     Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Banija                       10    9   1   137   36 +101
2 Taeshan                      10    7   3   139   74  +65
3 Abaja                        10    7   3   154  112  +42
4 Nassau-Hessen                10    5   5   119  121   −2
5 Milaris                      10    2   8    87  163  −76
6 The Unified Isles            10    0  10    64  194 −130

Group H
Royal Kingdom of Quebec 27–7 Cosumar
Mccompany 10–30 Zacistania
Chromatika 34–7 Halleconia

Group H                        Pld   W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Chromatika                   10   10   0   222   93 +129
2 Cosumar                      10    7   3   188  109  +79
3 Royal Kingdom of Quebec      10    6   4   203   96 +107
4 Halleconia                   10    3   7   133  221  −88
5 Zacistania                   10    3   7   128  232 −104
6 Mccompany                    10    1   9    49  172 −123

Playoff Matches

FR5: San Llera vs Cosumar
FR6: Schottia vs Taeshan
FR7: Banija vs Kaboomlandia
FR8: Chromatika vs Drawkland

by **Abaja** » Mon May 09, 2016 3:26 pm

World Bowl XXIX

Abaja defeats The Unified Isles, unable to make playoffs

-By Amina Ogwu & Matthew Hedgera

Abaja 23 - 16 The Unified Isles

OOC: This will be much shorter as I am busy with my basketball playoff scores and schedules that are in my factbook

The Lions finished off the tournement without making the playoffs, however, they were within the top 3 BEST unranked teams this World Bowl. They finished off the season strong, with a 23-16 victory over The Unified Isles, but it wasn't enough to qualify for the playoffs. Taeshan defeated Nassau-Hessen 16-6 and had a +65 point difference. Abaja only had a +42 point difference. "It was a good effort. However, just because we have not made the playoffs doesn't mean we give up. You never give up. Besides, we did GREAT for a non ranked team. We fell just short of a playoff birth." Says head coach Josi Tueyuté. In the first quarter, Abaja went on a 45 yard drive before being halted. They then went for a field goal and scored. 3-0 Abaja. The Unified Isles responded with a touchdown. 7-3. Abaja couldn't respond, they punted back. With 3 minutes left in the first, Henry Turusi (CB) caught an interception. After that, Malik Mafausa (RB) ran for a 52 yard touchdown! it was now 10-7 Abaja leads. In the second quarter, Isles couldn't respond, and Abaja went on a 57 yard drive. They were halted again, and settled for a field goal. 13-7 now. Halftime soon came

Halftime scores: Abaja 13 - 7 The Unified Isles. In the third quarter, Isles went on a short 18 yard drive before punting. Abaja couldn't respond either, though Desna Osopno (QB) threw a 32 yard pass to Mohammadu Shepada (TE). They punted back. The Unified Isles then went on a 60 yard drive for another field goal. 29 of those yards came from their HB. 13-10 Abaja. Abaja then goes on a 78 yard drive for a touchdown. The third quarter soon ended and Abaja lead 20-10. In the fourth quarter, it was nothing but field goals. Abaja scored the field goal first, and The Unified Isles scored two unanswered field goals. Abaja's tournament ends in a heart breaker, but they are bound to make it next World Bowl, at least that's what a lot a people say.

GROUP G STANDINGS

Code: Select all: Group G Pld W L PF PA PD 1 Banija 10 9 1 137 36 +101 2 Taeshan 10 7 3 139 74 +65 3 Abaja 10 7 3 154 112 +42 4 Nassau-Hessen 10 5 5 119 121 −2 5 Milaris 10 2 8 87 163 −76 6 The Unified Isles 10 0 10 64 194 −130

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by **United Vietussia** » Mon May 09, 2016 3:38 pm

The Vietussian Inquisitor

Vietussia to battle Gregoryisgodistan for rights to playoffs

The team rallies around coach Nogueras in a pep rally during training.

After a much needed win over Downination at home by a score of 25-10, Vietussia will travel to #2 Gregoryisgodistan in hopes of pulling off an upset to make it into the playoffs. Vietussia has pumped training the past week, giving the final day off for players to rest and get prepared for the game. Only time will tell if the training will make any difference or wither into waste and a missed playoff opportunity.

When asked about the possibility of the playoffs, head coach Xavier Nogueras simply said, "No one expected us to get this far, especially to even be in striking distance of a group title if Abahnfleft can't get their offense going and lose. Although it would be a nice reward for such an amazing season, I am proud of these boys no matter the result, win or lose, and I hope the rest of Vietussia will be as well if they make an early return to Hankow after tomorrow night."

It was well put, but actions will have to speak better than words in this game. The winner will get an extra game, the loser goes home early, cradling Kleenex while rooting against the team that put them on their couch.

The lines opened up at a tossup and closed with the same result. Analysts here in Hankow are split 4-4 on the champion currently, with the UVTV studio divided in a debate over one all important game.

We will see you tonight. I will have the honor of commentating the game, but until then, I wish you a good evening Vietussia. Go Vulcans!

by **Ethane** » Mon May 09, 2016 6:06 pm

ENTV

Explosive News: Sports
More news about the rebrand

As you will have noticed, here at ENTV, we have recently undergone a massive re-brand, which has seen many of our services change from ENTV to Explosive News. The ENTV has now changed from standing for Ethane National Television to Explosive News Television, and as well as offering television to Ethanian citizens, with this change, we have expanded our reach in mediums to include on-line, newspapers and radio, as well as reaching out and offering our services across the multiverse.

The rebrand to Explosive News marks a remarkable change in the organisation of the company, with a top down reorganisation, and a completely fresh new image. This all coincided with the timing of the creation of our new online sporting newswire, which can be found on the website, which brings extensive coverage of all sporting events in Ethane and around the world.

There are also further plans for the umbrella that Explosive News covers to expand into the creation of a news thread for Ethane on the website, although this is not something that has been planned or worked on quite yet, and is still an idea in the barrel.

Any feedback is welcome about the changes in question, please send them to the government of Ethane through Telegram. If anyone would like Explosive News to cover any news or events, sporting or not, for the distribution to the nation in question, as well as the multiverse, then please contact the ENTV through the same medium, and your requests will be transferred over to us from where they are delivered to.

So, what has actually changed?

Better quality news and sport coverage of international events
A website dedicated to the coverage of all sports in Ethane
Plans to create a new thread which covers all news in Ethane
Limited coverage on overseas sports in other nations
New schemes to held increase content
Plans to diversify ENTV coverage
More feedback chances, so you can help shape ENTV
Funding for local sporting initiatives.

Do not panic though, ENTV channels on the TV will not be changing, and the quality of the coverage you receive will not diminish, it is just that new channels are being added for the benefit of having specific channels for each type of show, such as politics, news, dramas, documentaries, sports.

Some key things that will be focused on our websites is breaking news abroad. With the growing threat of terrorism and extremism abroad, which is affecting extremism in this country, we will be providing breaking news and advice on this sort of news abroad, such as terrorist attacks, and where not to go on holiday. We will be creating a service which allows you to look where the most extremism is, advice for going on holiday there, and where to avoid. This tool is likely to also help police in tracking down extremist areas, so it is a win win for everyone.

Another key area which we will be focusing on parts of our website with is satrical news. We will be looking at things going on around the world, for example in Ethanian politics, and then create some fake news, which will be humourous, for people to read, and great entertainment.

Finally, we will be looking at nature as a key area, with the beauty of Ethane's environment being a great place to start to focus on this. We will be looking at things like habitats, how changes in habitats help the creatures living there, and we will be doing specific podcasts and articles on certain animals, and their current situation in the wild, such as the beavers in Ethane, which currently have a problem, in that they are being hunted and killed, and are beginning to go extinct. We will look at things like how these beavers are dying, why they are dying, how to help the beavers, and how people are working towards making sure that these beavers can continue to live in Ethane's wilderness for a long long time, preventing Ethanian beavers from becoming extinct.

by **Drawkland** » Mon May 09, 2016 6:20 pm

Cutoff! Is your team Stayin' Alive and going to the playoffs?
Celebratory GIFs with video if necessary.

Your Words: Peace, Forest, Bionic. GG to Abanhfleft and Ethane, too.

Group A
The united states of Saints 36–0 Mareut
Allamunic States 17–21 Shytysle
Frenline Delpha 24–24 United States of Devonta (27–24 OT)

# Group A                      Pld    W   L    GF   GA   GD 
1 Allamunic States              10    8   2   178   62 +116
2 The united states of Saints   10    8   2   170  128  +42
3 Frenline Delpha               10    7   3   181  117  +64
4 Shytysle                      10    4   6   150  182  −32
5 United States of Devonta      10    3   7   128  160  −32
6 Mareut                        10    0  10    40  198 −158

Group B
Anglatia 11–7 Holy Philippine Empire
Ko-oren 13–7 Falatulu
Ethane 24–0 The Orion Islands

# Group B                      Pld    W   L    GF   GA   GD
1 Anglatia                      10   10   0   164   55 +109
2 Ethane                        10    7   3   115   57  +58
3 Ko-oren                       10    6   4   174   80  +94
4 Falatulu                      10    5   5   104   75  +29
5 The Orion Islands             10    1   9    63  204 −141
6 Holy Philippine Empire        10    1   9    47  196 −149

Group C
Texasa 6–7 Barunia
West Phoencia 7–17 Equestrian States
Cuatro 7–31 San Jose Guayabal

# Group C                      Pld    W   L    GF   GA   GD
1 Equestrian States             10   10   0   149   25 +124
2 San Jose Guayabal             10    7   3   124  131   −7
3 Barunia                       10    6   4   145   76  +69
4 West Phoencia                 10    3   7    67  128  −61
5 Texasa                        10    3   7    66   88  −22
6 Cuatro                        10    1   9    49  152 −103

Group D
The Nation of Downination 6–24 Abanhfleft
The Sword Bloke 28–3 Leaf Kingdom
Gregoryisgodistan 31–3 United Vietussia

# Group D                      Pld    W   L    GF   GA   GD
1 Abanhfleft                    10    8   2   192   94  +98
2 Gregoryisgodistan             10    7   3   140   47  +93
3 United Vietussia              10    6   4   131  136   −5
4 The Sword Bloke               10    6   4   146  118  +28
5 The Nation of Downination     10    2   8   103  172  −69
6 Leaf Kingdom                  10    1   9    54  199 −145

Seeded #1
Seeded #2

PLAYOFF MATCHES

M1: Allamunic States vs. Gregoryisgodistan
M2: Anglatia vs. San Jose Guayabal
M3: Equestrian States vs. Ethane
M4: Abanhfleft vs. The united states of Saints

QF9: W1 vs. W2
QF10: W3 vs. W4

SF13: W9 vs. W10

Third Place: L13 vs. L14 (Scorinated by ME!)
Final: W13 vs. W14 (Scorinated by Frenline)

Team travel to Drawkland in preparation for the Drawk-side Playoff has begun.
OOC: This means you can RP team travel/stays in Drawkland and such. Check my first post on the thread for stadium and IC info. TG me with questions.

EDIT: Clarified match names.

by **Anglatia** » Tue May 10, 2016 10:54 am

OOC: This is the second to last part before the dramatic finale of the series. Get ready for more drama and some plot big twists...
ETID - Part Seven

The two teams were on opposite ends of the spectrum. Scarborough State was experiencing a lost season, an underachieving season, one where they had suffered injuries and had three losses by now, putting them out of the title hunt. Loftus College, their arch rivals, were the opposite. They were a one loss team that was on the road to the national semis and maybe another national championship. If they could escape from Knights Park, of course, where 100,000 State fans were standing and waiting to see if their team could pull out some magic at the end of this game that was deadlocked at 14-14 in the rain. The rain had made both teams commit errors on both offense and defense, and both teams had missed potential winning field goals. It would be up to the running game to win, and Storm Staford was ready to take on the job of winning the game for his team.

Third and twenty three was the down, after the State QB had slipped and fell down for a sack after scrambling backwards, and there were fifty or so yards to the goal line. The Blues defense was backing up as if they were expecting a pass, but the Knights had a different idea; Storm Staford received the ball on a shotgun draw play and trucked through the first linebacker, cutting around the other linebacker that was barrelling towards him and taking off into the open field. Nobody with the kind of size that he had should be able to run that fast, but that was his specialty. Speed and strength. He shoved down the safety that was coming from his left side with a hard stiff-arm to the helmet, and the cornerback who was running from his other side slipped in the rain and tripped the second safety. Storm was free to finish his run for a touchdown after the clock hit zero, celebrating by climbing the field goal crossbar as the State fans rushed the field, still in shock from their surprise win against their crosstown rivals to keep them out of the playoffs. It was a surprising win indeed, and it would go down as Storm's greatest moment.

"Don't even think of blaming yourself for the loss. You're the one who gave this city and team something to believe in for four years, and even if you don't finish your career here with a ring, you've helped this program more than you'll ever know," Taesha Kendrick's coach told her on the sideline, as she held her head in her hands and crouched next to him during the closing seconds of the national championship game during her senior year. Bastille Tech was up 24-20 thanks to a touchdown caused by her fumble of a snap when she stepped in as a wildcat quarterback. "They were better this year... The loss stings now, but in time you'll see that we were lucky just to get here."

"Bullshit!" Taesha screamed, loudly enough to get the others on the sideline to look. There were tears in her eyes, which caused her eye black to run down her face in black streaks. "I could have won the game for us, it is my fault. If I didn't fucking fumble, we would still be leading. This is my own damn fault," she snapped, removing her helmet and letting her dreads fall over her face. "Everything goes wrong around me... Sometimes I wish that I hadn't been born, because I bring bad luck to everyone... My family, my friends, my team... Just leave me alone, Coach. Let me sulk in peace."

Kris Berksson hated knives. It probably had to do with that one fateful day where she walked home from school to find something that she wasn't supposed to see. That day when she got out early from classes, when she was nine or ten years old, and walked in on her father stabbing her mother after yet another argument between the two. Her father would run away after that day to evade getting in trouble for what he did, and she would never see him again. Maybe he fled west to Armeia, leaving their home in the Keystone Islands, or maybe he got on one of those cargo ships that entered and exited the islands all the time, and never looked back. Her mother would die in the hospital a week later from her wounds, leaving her to live with her aunt who she had only met one or two times before. And so ever since that day, the sight of a knife had terrified Kris. It was hard for her to hold one without imagining all the bad things that could be caused by the knife. But over the years, her fear of knives had gotten smaller, maybe because she couldn't avoid seeing them all the time. There was one fear that remained, though. Her own blood. Something about seeing her blood made Kris feel sick, enough to faint even.

And yet, on that day after Armeia finished the group stage in their first World Bowl and beat out Free Republics for a playoff spot, Kris didn't just hold a knife in her hand... She intended to use it for an old Armeian tradition. And she managed to even smile while held it there in her hand. "Hold up, I'm not taking a blood oath. What are you doing? Don't cut your hand-" the girl standing across from her said, but that didn't stop her from sliding the blade across her palm, deep enough to send a stream of blood dripping into the fireplace. Kris ignored both the pain and the sick feeling, forcing a weak smile.

"Too late. It only hurts a bit. It's your turn now..." she said, looking at Trista Prust and handing her the knife.

"You know I don't like sharp things. Are you really making me do this? I don't need to take a blood oath to prove that I'm not going to forget about you."

"Yes, you do. And hopefully you'll do it and drop your blood into the fire before I get lightheaded from the sight of my own. I'm not bandaging the cut until you do what I just did."

"Fine. You're crazy sometimes, you know that right?" sighed Trista, staring at the knife for what seemed like a minute before sliding it across her palm and squeezing her hand into a tight fist, letting the blood drip into the flames.

"Whatever. And see, that didn't hurt too bad, did it?" asked Kris, looking away from the blood.

"Maybe not for you. It was pretty terrible for me since I have a phobia of getting cut... You're lucky that I care enough to do it anyway," chuckled Trista, moving to find bandages for Kris. "Isn't it kind of weird that we did this? I mean, the only ones who take blood oaths for stuff like this are usually couples. I've heard of it being done as an engagement ritual in the Keystone Islands, also."

"Huh? No, no, no, I didn't mean it like that, I wouldn't want to get engaged with you, I mean I would if you asked first but I wasn't asking you to do that now, I was just... Uh... Reaffirming our friendship?" Kris blurted out, stuttering as she rapidly tried to think of a way to change the subject.

"I know, Kris. I was just messing with you with that last bit... It wouldn't even be legal for us to marry so I'm assuming that isn't what you were trying to do. Now... Let's go get some bandages for you. I wouldn't want you to pass out."

Taesha Kendrick carried bad luck around, and it was like a dark cloud that followed her throughout her life and career. So when she had a chance to help fix something that she had messed up for one of her best friends, she jumped at that chance. Even though it hurt someone else on the team, and possibly the team's hopes at advancing in the tournament. However, in her efforts to make things right for a change, she caused a situation that at best could be described as messy. The plan was to take Storm Staford out of the team by paying his backup to pay the team's number one backup safety to throw a bad tackle at him and injure his knees, but that backfired. Storm saw the low hits coming and evaded them easily with his signature jump cut move, but there was something worse; some of the players had seen Konu receiving money from Ciar, and the rumor mill was full of rumors about him trying to win the starting job through eliminating the competition. And if Ciar was suspended and didn't want to take all the blame for himself, there was a chance that he would tell that he had received the money from somewhere else, Taesha.

"Kris! I know you couldn't watch so you skipped practice, but the plan got fucked up by Konu. He couldn't make a low tackle to save his life, and everyone thinks that Ciar is behind this. And if they suspend him, there's no guarantee that he won't tell the team about us and what we were planning," Taesha said, bursting into Kris' hotel room. There was something in her eyes that wasn't seen often, fear. Fear that her reputation might be ruined and that her career would come crashing down.

"Jesus Christ, Taesha. I told you it was stupid to risk ending Storm's career just because I don't want him to marry Trista. It's fucking stupid that we thought this was going to work anyway... That if Storm left the team with injuries, I would be able to confess that stupid crush that I had. I tried to warn you, tried to stop you, but would you listen? No," snapped Kris, sitting on the edge of her bed and trying to keep from hyperventilating. "You went on and on about how it would work for sure and how you bet your life on it, and now look where that got you. You fucked everything up, all because I didn't listen to your advice to never crush on a teammate."

"I know, stop rubbing it in! I get it that you were right... I can fix things. I just need to make some calls and see just how badly I messed up. Let's focus on getting on the flight to Drawkland for now. I might be able to get everything fixed before we get there..."

"And if you screw up more and we get kicked off the team and our reputations are ruined?"

"In that case, I have either two plane tickets or two bullets. Your choice, really."

by **Banija** » Tue May 10, 2016 7:03 pm

The All-Banija Sports Magazine
The only nationwide publication that is all sports, all the time!

Banijans take care of business in 10-0 victory over Milaris; begin preparations for Kaboomlandia

Myles Debaba scrambles for six points on the game's opening possession

MILARIS- Head Coach Ezekiel Daniachew told us that his starters would see a few possessions. On offense, even that proved to be too large of an estimate, as the starters were in for only one drive. That drive, however, was a touchdown on the game's opening possession, and from that point onward, Daniachew had seen enough of his offense hitting the field. He obviously did not want to risk any injuries in this meaningless game, and the 2nd team offense, now led by original starting quarterback Slawomir Kovach, did not do much against the Milaris starters. However, the Banijan 1st team defense played 3 full possessions, forcing 3 & outs on each possession, before the second team defense came in, played most of the game, and pitched the shutout.

With the game over, Ezekiel Daniachew could not be happier. Obviously, he wanted a win to carry some momentum over to Frenline Delpha. Of course, the bigger risk was no major injuries, and he pulled that off as nobody on the team sustained any serious injuries, and nobody on the first team sustained any kind of injury at all. He told reporters as much during his post game press conference. He was glad to see nobody was hurt, and probably because it was the 2nd team playing and Banija's opponent was already figured out, there were very few questions asked today about the actual game played, and a lot of questions asked about how the game would be played. The good thing about this game is that it brings Banija's overall World Bowl record to .500(13-13).

What comes next, of course, is the big game against Kaboomlandia. No Banijan football team has ever made it this far in the World Bowl before, to the knockout stages. This portion of the Round of 16, of course, is being played in Frenline Delpha, who are Banija's neighbors in United Valhaven. There will be a great opportunity for a lot of Banijans to make the trip to Frenline Delpha, and you can bet your money that a good majority of the fans will have made that trip. They are a familiar opponent, as Banija defeated them in the last World Bowl, but this is a very different Kaboomlandian team.

They have had one mission this time around, and that has been redemption. They were embarrassed with their World Bowl 28 performance. Even though they were in the tournament's "group of death", they were extremely disappointed with their finish in that tournament, and went about making some changes to have some different results. They revamped the entire coaching staff, including the head coach at the very top, Kevin Nivek. The strategy worked to some success, as instead of being knocked out of the group stage with a game to play, they had clinched a playoff spot with a game left, and already knew their opponent. Winning the group would be a tall order, with top ranked Schottia in their group. But they comfortably clinched a playoff spot with an 8-2 record, and both came to, of course, top ranked Schottia.

While Banija did go 9-1 and win its group, with Kaboomlandia going 8-2 and getting second in their own group, the two teams do have very different situations. For one, Kaboomlandia has been in these stages of the World Bowl before. They have experience going deep, while the Banijans have not faced this kind of pressure before. Secondly, Kaboomlandia is ranked 13 spots ahead of the Banijans. That's mostly because Banija is still being held back due to its 0-10 showing at World Bowl 27, but still, there is a reason that Kaboomlandia is ranked so high. Banija, especially their defense, has played extremely well, so we say this game is a tossup, at least on paper.

What do the Banijans have to do to defeat the Kaboomlandians, and land a spot in the quarterfinal? We asked the Head Coach. "Of course, we have to control the line of scrimmage. What did we do well throughout the group stage in this tournament, where we went 9-1 and won our group with a game remaining? We controlled the line of scrimmage on both sides of the ball, but especially on the defensive side of the ball. Kaboomlandia has an old school football team- they like to pound the rock. They have some very talented offensive linemen, and they are a very talented team- remember, they did win 8 games and are ranked #13 in the world. This will, easily, be the best team we have faced so far in this tournament. If we want to win this game, our front 7 will have to play the game of their lives. I believe in them, however. While this is the best team we have faced in this tournament, our team is playing extremely well right now. We could play with anybody. We are built extremely well defensively, and if we can stop the run on the early downs and force them into 3rd & long, passing down situations, we'll be in good shape."

We then also asked Daniachew what the offense has to do to score. "Well, we can't just say our offensive strategy out loud, now can we? But, we obviously have to get Myles going. He's a veteran quarterback, he knows what he's doing, and he has a ton of talent and one heck of an arm. He's played extremely well for us over the last few weeks, and he is going to lead this team for the rest of the tournament. Of course, we can't be throwing the ball 35 times a game, so both Kahsu and Dvorak will be getting their fair share of carries. But we have a ton of talent on this offense, and we're showing progress, especially from the first half of the group stage. We need to keep taking those steps as a unit, and I think they will surprise some people when they show the world what they are really capable of in Frenline Delpha."

There you have it. We have an extremely confident coach at the helm, who has an extremely confident team behind him. Of course, this could be said about the Kaboomlandians as well. We're expecting a tight, low-scoring game, considering the skills of the Banijan defense and the pound the rock style of the Kaboomlandia offense, so we project a 13-10 victory for Banija. It'll be a tight one, but a late field goal will decide, and hopefully, at that point the Banijans will be making their first ever trip to the quarterfinals of the World Bowl.

by **Kaboomlandia** » Tue May 10, 2016 7:34 pm

Playoff Preview: Kaboomlandia vs. Banija

After a one-year absence from World Bowl playoff action, the Phoenix are back in it and searching for redemption. Making it more special for Kaboomlandia is the opponent: Banija, as the #97-ranked team last year, shockingly defeated the Phoenix to eliminate them in a middling year. After a complete house-cleaning at the top, the team fought back to an 8-2 record and their third playoff berth in their four World Bowls. Here's the down-low on the two teams.

Kaboomlandia

How they win: Except for the two games against Schottia, the Phoenix were an offensive juggernaut. They were the highest-scoring and highest-differential team in the entire field, and outscored their opponents 238-74 - a differential of +164. Eliminating the two games against Schottia, you have a team that scored 208 points in 8 games while allowing 30 - a differential of +178. If the Phoenix can get their run offensive going, they'll have a great chance. In addition, Caleb McCallum is an all-world kicker who can be counted on to deliver if the game becomes a kicking contest.

How they lose: If Kaboomlandia can't beat Banija with their straight power game, the team is in trouble. Tyler Martin is a very strong threat, but he had a middling tournament and didn't seem like the threat he was in World Bowls 26 and 27. A bad throw leading to an interception could swing the tide, and if Andrew Michaels gets hurt, the Phoenix are doomed.

Banija

How they win: This team only gave up 36 points in the entire group stage, which speaks volumes about their defense. Only Equestrian States allowed fewer points with 25. The defensive line didn't crack against Milaris, allowing zero points and very few yards. The Banijans are ranked at #26 only because their 0-10 record in World Bowl 27 is still on their records (World Bowl rankings are calculated by the last three World Bowls). The defense is a rock wall, and Myles Debaba is a bona fide No. 1 at quarterback.

How they lose: The Phoenix have a reputation for playing a very hard-nosed game of football that usually involves giving the ball to Andrew Michaels, who is nicknamed "Tank" for a reason. He can get several yards on most possessions with his size to bull through the defense. The defense of Banija will have to watch out for this guy, as well as offensive threats in Tyler Martin, wide receiver Manny Hayes, and tight end Jack White. In addition, Kaboomlandia's lifetime 28-11 record, including playoffs, could definitely be intimidating to a Banijan team that's never made the playoffs.

The conclusion? This game has all the makings of a low-scoring classic. The juggernaut offense of the Phoenix will face off against the second-lowest scoring defense in this tournament. My prediction is a 10-7 Kaboomlandian win.

Viewers wishing to watch this game on television can tune in to KBMSN at 12:00 PM local time. Kickoff is at 1:30 PM KST, but we will be providing coverage before and after the game.

by **Chromatika** » Tue May 10, 2016 8:30 pm

The Iron Legion: Playoffs Edition

After winning their last two games by a combined score of 70-17, The Iron Legion finished the Group Stage undefeated, with a point difference of +129. Their first opponent will be Drawkland, one of the hosts, who finished second in Group E after losing the last game of the Group Stage to The Fair Republic, and having San Llera finish ahead of them. Drawkland finished with a record of 8 wins and 2 losses, with 154 points scored and 122 points allowed for a points differential of 32. All the statistics are showing that The Iron Legion should prevail, but the squad lacks any sort of playoff experience.

"It's an entirely new game now," admitted Coach Von Schroeder, "Drawkish players are genetically superior and taller to being with, and they play a mean game. We'll need to be able to change on the fly from our spread formation to the one that leans on McDonald more, and allow Baas to make the freeform plays that he is so great at. Chromatika ended up scoring the second most points overall, behind Kaboomlandia; The spread is working, and our speedy guys are getting the space that they need. We'll need to outrun them if we are to defeat them. I think we have a shot, but it'll be tough."

Quarterback Nathaniel Mercado is looking forward to the challenge. "This is what we live for," he stated, "The moments that determine whether you're a contender or a pretender. I believe in this team and how we've jelled together, and think that we have what it takes to make a serious run in these playoffs. I can't wait to prove that we belong out there."

For such a squad that was put together from the inaugural season of Chromatik Gridiron, one could say that their goal has already been met since they made it to the Playoffs in the first time as a team. The players, though, are hungry for more, and it seems like they'll have a legitimate shot of at least making it to the Quarterfinals.

works? · by **Abanhfleft** » Tue May 10, 2016 11:52 pm

Part One Part Two Part Three Part Four Part Five Part Six Part Seven Part Eight Part Nine Part Ten Part Eleven Part Twelve Part Thirteen Part Fourteen Part Fifteen Part Sixteen Part Seventeen Part Eighteen Part Nineteen Part Twenty Part Twenty-one

No Place For Heroes, Part Twenty-two

The Foreign Quarter
Al Jawal, Gharbambiyah

The Foreign Quarter in Al Jawal dated back to the days when there was still no single Gharbambiyan state spanning the territory of the modern-day Socialist Democratic Federated Republic. The Foreign Quarter was a place where all the foreign merchants and emissaries trading and representing their respective nations to the historical Emirate of Al Jawal were allowed to sell their wares and construct their embassies, respectively. The Foreign Quarter remained even as the Emirate of Al Jawal was absorbed into the Gharbambiyan state in its numerous iterations, from the Caliphate to the Socialist Democratic Federated Republic to the transitional Republic and back to the Socialist Democratic Federated Republic.

Throughout most of Gharbambiyah's history, the Foreign Quarter had been one of the few areas in the country which were left untouched by any and all sides fighting against each other in their numerous wars. Even in times of peace, the Foreign Quarter was a place where little if any crime happened at all; the Emir of Al Jawal's personal garrison saw to that. Even through the chaos of Isaiah Cabulovowino's coup, the Foreign Quarter hadn't been entered by Edward Eskalumbuye's rebel militias; the respect for the Foreign Quarter was that deep.

It is an accepted fact that Al Jawal's Foreign Quarter is the most habitable area in the city. The place was a microcosm of Gharbambiyah City, and inside the quarter, both foreigners and Gharbambiyans lucky enough to live and work there lived in relative luxury, at least compared to the rest of Al Jawal. People of numerous nationalities worked various jobs inside the quarter, and they were paid well for their jobs, as even though the Foreign Quarter was basically a safe haven for all the chaos going on in Gharbambiyah, it was still a high-risk assignment, and the people in there had to be well-compensated so that they would keep working in there.

Two of the foreigners working in the quarter were Elena Suarez and Joanna Cosme. They were just two of the many Filipinos who were working in Gharbambiyah on various jobs so that they could send money back to their families in the Philippines. Elena was an engineer attached to a multinational construction firm with a number of construction and reconstruction contracts in Gharbambiyah while Joanna was a nurse in Al Jawal National Hospital.

They were also members of Fernando Tarrasco's "organization".

They weren't members in the sense that they were heavily involved in Fernando's "business dealings"; their main job was to work, provide for their families back in the Philippines, and provide information to the organization once told. But that hadn't happened until very recently when they had received a call from Señor Tarrasco himself telling them to be on the lookout for two foreign women who were on the run from Eskalumbuye's rebels, and that if they see the women, then they should tell someone within the organization as soon as possible.

That was last night. Now, as afternoon began to settle over Gharbambiyah, and Elena and Joanna were back in the apartment in which they were staying after finishing their respective shifts at an under-renovation ministry building and the hospital respectively when they happened to look outside of their window. Their apartment building was right next to the wall separating the Foreign Quarter from the rest of Al Jawal, and their fifth-floor apartment gave them a good view of the road leading up to the quarter. And what they saw on the road wasn't good.

"Joanna, come over here!" Elena called out. Joanna walked over to the window and looked out. "What is it?" she asked,

There were two women in the middle of the street. They were noticeably white and wearing clothes worn by those people who acted like they were soldiers but weren't really part of the army; like private military contractors. But they didn't have any guns on them, not even a small revolver pistol. Behind the women were a number of Edward Eskalumbuye's rebel militias, and they were heavily armed with Kalashnikov rifles and machetes. There seemed to be some kind of dispute going on between the militiamen, as some of the rebels were averting their eyes from the women and holding out cloth veils. Those rebels who weren't as fundamentalist as the others handed over the veils to the women, who reluctantly bound them around their heads, and then the rebels dragged the women to a fallen lamp post which appeared to have been used as an execution place a fair few times, if the red and brown stains on the rusting metal were indeed blood.

"We have to do something!" Joanna said. "If those are the women that Señor Tarrasco is looking for, then we have to save them!"

"But how are we going to do that?" Elena asked. "We can't just go out there and ask them nicely to let those girls go!"

"Wait," Joanna said, raising a finger. "Didn't the last guy who lived here say that there was something in the closet for emergencies?"

"Do you think that this is an emergency?" Elena asked in reply.

Joanna walked over to the closet, opened it, removed some of the stuff and junk that had been forced into the back, and revealed a small arsenal of weapons hidden behind a false panel. "How did you find that?" Elena asked her teammate.

"I was cleaning out some of the junk when I stumbled upon this," Joanna replied. "What? I can clean too, you know!"

"I really hope that this is enough," Elena muttered as she took one of the two M16 assault rifles in the hidden compartment. Joanna settled for a Colt M1911 pistol, but both of them felt strange and awkward holding the weapons. Never in their lives had they imagined having to use a gun, but now here they were.

Elena and Joanna went up to the roof of their apartment building before going down the fire exit, which led them outside of the walls of the Foreign Quarter. The rebels had done some kind of ritual so the two foreigner women hadn't been beheaded yet, but it sounded as if the rebels were getting closer to chopping the women's heads off. Elena and Joanna hid behind a forest of steel girders, all that remained of a condominium that had been destroyed by shelling in the immediate aftermath of Cabulovowino's coup, before stepping out into the street and confronting the rebels. Elena braced herself and pulled the trigger of the M16. She was nearly knocked back by the recoil of the gun, and even though she knew what to expect, she was still surprised at how strongly the rifle kicked in her hands.

"Hey!" Elena shouted. "Let the women go or I'll shoot all of you!" she continued in Filipino. Joanna looked at Elena and shook her head, but then she saw the burning fire of defiance in her roommate's eyes, and she turned back to the rebels and kept her pistol aimed at them.

One of the Gharbambiyans shouted back in his own language. Having been in the country for all of six months, Joanna understood only the basic and most important terms like greetings, numbers, and curse words. And there were a lot of curse words in what the rebel had just told Elena.

Elena understood what she had been told so she raised her M16 into the air again and fired another short burst. The smell of cordite and hot metal burned into their nostrils.

"I'm serious!" Elena shouted. "This isn't fake! They're very real guns, they are!" And then she began to take a step towards the two women on the lamp post. Joanna followed her, pistol firmly gripped in her hands.

It must have seemed a strange scene to any observers watching: two women, one dressed in construction overalls and the other one in hospital scrubs, both holding guns, were keeping a large number of heavily armed rebels at day while the women took hold of the other two women who were about to be executed on a lamp post in a deserted street in a godforsaken city. It was too strange for either fiction or reality, but it was happening right now.

Joanna and Elena took hold of the two captured women and helped them up to their feet. The two Filipinas kept their eyes and their weapons on the rebels until they were out of sight behind the destroyed condominium. "Thank you," one of the women said. She had a recognizable British accent. "Who are you?" she asked.

"We are friends of Señor Tarrasco," Elena replied.

"Oh, thank God for that!" the other woman muttered. Her accent sounded like a fellow Filipino to Elena's ears. "I mean, you have to give credit to Fernando," the second woman continued. "We banged up his chopper, and yet he still has his people looking out for us!"

"So, are you two from the Foreign Quarter?" the British-accented woman asked. Elena nodded her head. "Any chance you have some more of that?" she asked, pointing at the M16.

"We have some weapons in our apartment," Elena said.

"Good, good, that's good," the woman muttered. She then held out her hand and introduced herself. "Ellie Quest," she said. "And that's Liz Glenn," she said as she jerked her thumb at the other woman.

"Elena Suarez," Elena said, shaking Ellie's hand. "Joanna Cosme. Look, we have to move quick before the wall guards realize that something's up."

"Wall guards? Something's up? What are you talking about?" Ellie asked.

"Since that World Assembly aid worker got kidnapped, the guards at the quarter have been strict with who goes in and out," Elena replied. "They're not taking any chances anymore, not with Eskalumbuye escalating his attacks against the government."

The four women reached the fire exit from which Elena and Joanna had come from. Joanna jumped up and used her weight (at least what little weight she had) to bring the ladder down to the ground. They climbed up the fire exit ladder up to the roof of the apartment building, and then they went down the stairs and into the Filipinos' apartment. Lizzie gratefully sank into the couch in front of a large flat-screen television and sighed. Meanwhile, Joanna went with Ellie to look out of the apartment's only window while Elena called a number. "Hello?" a male voice asked.

"Hello, this is Elena from SMDC calling for Señor Carrasco," Elena said.

"This is Señor Carrasco," the man replied. "What is this about?"

"We've found what you were looking for, Señor."

"Señor Carrasco" took a deep breath. "That is wonderful news," he finally said. "Thank you for calling me." He then hung up. At around the same time, Ellie received a call on her phone.

"Word on the street is that you and Lizzie are safe and sound in the Foreign Quarter now," Gerry Anthony said from the other end of the line.

"Word certainly does travel fast in this country," Ellie quipped. "Does your source happen to have the first name Fernando and the last name Tarrasco?"

"Indeed, he does," Gerry replied. "So how are you coping with your Filipino hosts?"

"Pretty well, actually," Ellie admitted. "I mean, Lizzie's already turned the telly on and watching The Bionic Woman. The original series, not the remake. Not that it matters anyway because it's dubbed in Gharbambiyan."

"Well, I think it would be a good move if all of you stuck around inside the Foreign Quarter for now," Gerry said. "The JTF is preparing to move into Al Jawal within the next few hours, so just hang tight and wait it out."

"Will do, Ger."

"Guys!" Joanna called out. "Look outside!"

The other women did as Joanna told them. Outside the window, they saw a large formation of trucks, pickups and technicals making their way down the street leading to the Foreign Quarter. "Oh, my God," Ellie muttered.

"What? What is it, Ellie?" Gerry asked.

"I think we've just upset the natural order," Ellie replied.

"What? What are you talking about?"

"We've got militia encircling the Foreign Quarter. I think we're about to be invaded."

by **Frenline Delpha** » Wed May 11, 2016 12:47 pm

It's that time again. The Play-off begin today. And it's winner takes all.

Your Words: Kings, Times, and Grapes

First Round 5 @ Blue Horse Coliseum
San Llera 23–20 Cosumar

First Round 6 @ Astrological Stadium
Schottia 17–7 Taeshan

First Round 7 @ Cornell Kilpings Stadium
Banija 6–3 Kaboomlandia

First Round 8 @ Palkins Field
Chromatika 31–0 Drawkland

Quarter-Finals

San Llera vs Schottia @ Blue Horse Coliseum

Banija vs Chromatika @ Astrological Stadium

by **The united states of Saints** » Wed May 11, 2016 2:38 pm

Paladins shut out Mareut 36-0, clinch playoff spot!

Aprilian Times -- The Paladins got redemption for the poor performance they had the first game they had against Mareut. The score of that game was a Paladins' 6-3 win. In this game the Paladins clicked on all cylinders offensively and defensively winning 36-0. The Paladins offense was led well by Matt Whelan and Miguel Black but the defense stole the show. Because of them Mareut could not answer to any scores the offense put on the board. With that win the Paladins have clinched a playoff spot.

The Offense transitioned well, they looked cool, calm, and actually knew what to do every play. The Line knew who they had to block, who would pull, no matter what protection or play was called. Matt Whelan led the team for most of the game throwing 20-30 passing for 186 yards, 2 TD's, 0 interceptions, and thanks to the protection 0 sacks. Starting late in the third Parker rogers came in and did better than most would expect him to play. He went 10-17 for 89 yards, rushed for 15, 1 touchdown, and also 0 interceptions. He was not sacked either. However, it was reported that on his lone touchdown pass he told his teammates do a pass play on a two-point conversion. This was in the middle of the fourth so Coach Agresta most likely did not care at this point, but did tell Parker to ask him first after the play was successful. Miguel Black had an excellent night he rushed for 150 yards, 1 TD, 0 fumbles. His touchdown was in the beginning of the third quarter where he burst through the defense for a 76 yard TD run.

The defense was phenomenal. They sacked the QB 3 times, hitting him a total of ten times. They caused 2 fumbles, an interception returned 33 yards for a touchdown, and deflected the ball 8 times. This was the first pick six the team has had throughout this tournament. The secondary were all over the field showing arguably their best performance. Overall, the defense completely shut out Mareut only letting them to their side of the field three times and never getting past the 34 yard line.

In the final matches of Group A, Allamunic states fell to Shytysle 17-21, while Frenline Delpha won an exciting and entertaining match in Overtime 27-24 against United States of Devonta. If The Paladins had lost against Mareut then Frenline Delpha would've advanced to the playoffs. Here is the final standings of Group A:

Group A
The united states of Saints 36–0 Mareut
Allamunic States 17–21 Shytysle
Frenline Delpha 24–24 United States of Devonta (27–24 OT)

# Group A                      Pld    W   L    GF   GA   GD 
1 Allamunic States              10    8   2   178   62 +116
2 The united states of Saints   10    8   2   170  128  +42
3 Frenline Delpha               10    7   3   181  117  +64
4 Shytysle                      10    4   6   150  182  −32
5 United States of Devonta      10    3   7   128  160  −32
6 Mareut                        10    0  10    40  198 −158

The Paldins will be traveling to Sadeg, Drawkland to play against Abanhfleft in Spartan Veteran Arena for the first round of the playoffs. Abnhfleft has been a very successful team throughout the tournament, winning their group with an 8-2 record.

In the Locker room after the game Coach Agresta praised his team:

"Boys, you did it. You won and with that win comes the guarantee that we are heading to the playoffs."

Immediately the room became so loud from the yelling and cheering of the players Coach had to cover his ears. It took him about a minute to calm them down. He continued to speak saying, "However, we are not done yet so don't go around celebrating like you just won the whole stinkin' tournament. Save that for when we actually do. Now I want you know now that we'll be travellong to the city of Sadeg in Drawkland, to play against a team that has been very exceptional. They are highly ranked, and have won their group. I want to tell you now that that doesn't matter, because if we play the same way we just did today we will surely kick their buts. Heck I want you to play better than today. We have already impressed so many by making it this far as the ONLY unranked team in the playoffs. Can we continue to impress people by winning? Can we? Sure we can, you just gotta have some motivation. Now we leave for Drawkland tomorrow morning, so rest up and make sure you have all of your stuff. Dismissed!"

*The Next Morning*

All the players were at the airport with their equipment and any other needs they had in duffel bags slung over there shoulder or held in one hand while having passports in their other hand. Coach Agresta gathered all of them together to do a quick equipment check so as to make sure everyone had everything.

"Helmet?"

"Check."

"Mouthpiece?"

"Check."

"Shoulder pads?"

"Check."

"Jersey?"

"Check."

"Game pants, socks and cleats?"

"Check."

"Alright now listen up Our President, Pastor Gains will be showing up and riding with us in a few minutes because he will be at the game to watch us play. Show him the utmost respect. Oh and when he gets here he will lead us in a word of prayer, so if you don't want to pray then you won't play. Understood?"

"Yes Sir."

About ten minutes had gone by with half an hour left until their flight leaves, when The President of The united states of Saints, Pastor Gains, had finally shown up. Coach Agresta welcomed him and brought him to the players. Pastor Gainsthen spoke, "Gentlemen, I'm glad to have the opportunity to speak with you today. You have done a great thing for our people you have given them something else I could not. You made them proud with your performance in this World Bowl so far and I know you will continue to do so in the future even if you lose against your opponent in this round of the playoffs. As your Nation's leader I on behalf of The Holy People of The united states of Saints, thank you for representing our nation well. Now before we hop aboard the plane let us pray for safe travel and a good performance in this match."

Every player knelt and repeated after the President while he prayed. When he finished they all stood up and he went up to each player shaking their hand as they all climbed aboard the plane to leave with him following in last. Only 5 minutes later the plane lifted off to fly toward Sadeg, Drawkland.

by **Chromatika** » Wed May 11, 2016 4:28 pm

The Iron Legion, Playoffs Part 1

What a clinic put on by The Iron Legion against Drawkland. There was Nathaniel Mercado, he of the four touchdowns and three hundred sixty-four yards, in the zone early and often against Drawkland. Next to him was his favorite target, Brandon Bridges, who had caught two of those touchdowns, one of them a brilliant one-handed grab over the outstretched hands of his man. Getting his foot looked at was David McDonald, who had run for over a hundred, caught passes for around forty, and added to the ridiculous over five hundred yards of offense for The Iron Legion. He had suffered a sprained left ankle late in the win, but his face was all smiles. Standing over him was Earl Baas, who had two interceptions, eleven tackles, and three of those for loss. It had been a total team win for The Iron Legion, dominating in all phases of the game, perhaps the one hiccup being a three-and-out after an interception in the third quarter that resulted in the game's only Field Goal.

Next up for The Iron Legion? A match against Banija, a defensive juggernaut that prevailed over Kaboomlandia, the only team to score more points than The Iron Legion in the Group Stage. The Banijan defense has been suffocating. The match will once again pitch the question of whether defense or offense wins championships. "They're a tough bunch who play old-school football, who try to get you into later downs with long yardage situations. We're going to have to learn to play smart, and play well. Punting is not a loss, giving up stupid turnovers are, and that will be what we are focusing on. To play hard, and play smart, because that's what the Banijans are likely to do."

As a team already walking on cloud nine already, The Iron Legion are playing like a team possessed, a team with nothing to lose. How far can they go?

by **Ethane** » Wed May 11, 2016 4:52 pm

Explosive News: Sports
World Bowl XXIX

[Football] [Cricket] [Rugby] [Hockey] [Tennis] [Baseball] [Basketball] [Gaelic Football] [Other Sports]

True fan spirit gives hero dream

The true Ethanian fan spirit has shone through tonight, in amongst all the celebrations, as they help an Ethanian hero fulfil his dream of meeting the American football team.

Ethane has progressed to the next round of the World Bowl XXIX, after a shutout victory against The Orion Islands. Their position as second in the group would not have been possible however if it wasn't for the narrow 14 to 13 win against Ko-oren, which left the Ko-orenites a game behind the Ethanian team, always trying to play catch-up.

The celebrations went on for hours after the emotionally charged game, which sees the Ethanese players progress in the World Bowl in only their second attempt, an achievement that seems to be replicated across many sports. These emotional celebrations were overshadowed by one thing however, and that was the gesture of goodwill that the fans did towards this one hero.

This hero was a man in his mid-thirties. He was a hero, because he had joined the army at 22, and fought in wars for his nation, fighting for peace in Ethane, peace from threats from abroad, from people invading the nation, much like the Great War in 1969-71, and from threats inside the country.

He was a hero, because he sacrificed himself for the cause of peace and stability in Ethane. He put his life on the line because he wanted a better, free, peaceful country for his kids, his grandkids, and everyone else's kids and grandkid's to live in.

He lost a lot from the sacrifices he made. He lost his wife, who could not deal with him being away from home for so long. He lost his home, because the landlord kicked him out for never being in the house. He lost his leg because he was shot while fighting in the Great War, fighting against the enemy that seemed to triumph at every corner, in the hope that one day, they could be defeated.

He had to have a bionic leg attached to him when he got home so he could walk again. Even then, it took him years to be able to learn to walk properly, and he is still sometimes wobbly on his bionic leg today.

But it was not this that covered the news everywhere, it was the actions the fans took, the compassion they had for him, as he could not get down the stairs towards where the team were, that moved everyone around Ethane, and the multiverse.

The fans surrounded him, like a forest full of trees, picking him up to help him get down the stairs with their branches on the trees, carrying him towards the team. They took him to see the team, when many other fans would have just ignored him in favour of meeting the team themselves.

He got to go through the tunnel with the team. They gave him one of their shirts, and they allowed him to come to their changing rooms. And finally, the team gave him a free entry ticket into the Ethanian American football stadium for life. He was the happiest man in the world, meeting who he saw as heroes.

But they were not the true heroes. The true hero was Dave Hannings. He was the true hero, and the fans and players all treated him as such.

The best of my word challenge attempts yet.

by **Drawkland** » Wed May 11, 2016 6:47 pm

Late Cutoff, Later Results! I can't find a song and I'm busy as heck tonight. So no song.
But I've decided to wear a Seahawks Jersey to my finals in a few weeks, so I'll pass even though I know I shouldn't.
Still too soon.

Your Words: Libertarian, Seven, Miscommunication. Keep doing what you're doing, y'all.

Playoff Match 1, @ Metro Arena
Allamunic States 10–3 Gregoryisgodistan

Playoff Match 2, @ Hellenmack Stadium
Anglatia 21–14 San Jose Guayabal

Playoff Match 3, @ Lookout Stadium
Equestrian States 7–10 Ethane

Playoff Match 4, @ Spartan Veteran Arena
Abanhfleft 6–20 The united states of Saints

QF9: Allamunic States vs. Anglatia @ Metro Arena
QF10: Ethane vs. The united states of Saints @ Hellenmack Stadium

SF13: W9 vs. W10

Third Place: L13 vs. L14 (Scorinated by ME!)
Final: W13 vs. W14 (Scorinated by Frenline)

by **Banija** » Wed May 11, 2016 7:49 pm

The All-Banija Sports Magazine
The only nationwide publication that is all sports, all the time!

Banijan defense forces 5 turnover in 6-3 victory over Kaboomlanda; advance to first ever World Bowl Quarterfinals

Cornerback Dragutin Tomikj celebrates game-clinching 4th quarter interception

FRENLINE DELPHA- This was always going to be a very close strength vs. strength matchup in the Round of 16. Two teams that played in the same group in the last World Bowl, both feeling that they were deserving of going further than they did, and then both teams going further than they did by taking care of business in this tournament during the group stage, and clinching a matchup against each other with one game left in the group stages. Of course, both Banija and Kaboomlandia took very different paths to navigate their way through the group stages.

Kaboomlandia earned their automatic spot in the Round of 16 by going undefeated teams that were not #1 in the overall rankings during the group stages. They completely revamped their coaching staff, and it paid dividends, as the team came out much more focused and much more prepared than they did in World Bowl 28. Kaboomlandia had a fantastic offense, as they scored more points than every single team in any group in the group stage of this tournament. They scored 101 more points over the course of 10 games than Banija did, even though Banija went 9-1 during the group stages. Banija, of course, got here on the strength of their defense. They had the second best scoring defense throughout the tournament, allowing an average of 3.6 points per game during the group stages. When the Kaboomlandia offense hit the field, it would be strength vs. strength. Banijans were hoping that their defense could pull through, and boy, they had one heck of a game.

Even though they did not pitch another shutout, this defense had the game of their lives. They completely shut down the highest scoring and most potent offense in the entirety of World Bowl 29. The key to the game, for this Banijan defense, was whether or not they'd be able to control the line of scrimmage. Kaboomlandia likes to run the football, and have some very talented runners in the backfield, as well as some great run blocking offensive linemen. However, the Banijan defensive line was ready to control the game. Frequent substitutions kept the line fresh, and their ability to force passing down situations is what caused them to wreak havoc on the potent Kaboomlandian offense.

The Banijan defense created the team's first scoring opportunity in the 2nd quarter. Neither offense was doing much at that point. Kaboomlandia had a decent punt return, so they had a 1st & 10 at the Banijan 44 yard line. On the first two plays they were stuffed at the line of scrimmage, creating a 3rd & 9 at the Banijan 43. A blitz by young outside linebacker Techomir Sendula immediately behind star defensive end Momir Litvinov confused the protection, and Litvinov ended up with a free path to the quarterback. He got to the quarterback and stripped away the football, which was recovered by Defensive Tackle Ejigu Johnson III. Myles Debaba got two first downs on the ensuing possesion, one with his feet, and Banija, after a 38 yard field goal, led 3-0. They got an interception in the quarter, courtesy of free safety and captain Chirkos Gazaee, and they led 3-0 at halftime.

In the 3rd quarter, the Banijan special teams did most of the heavy lifting. While the teams each exchanged 2 three & outs, a punt was fielded by Lemuel Yafet on his own 27 yard line. After making a man miss, he ran down the sideline with plenty of green grass in front of him. He was brought down on a shoestring tackle by Kaboomlandia punter Scott Schmitt at his team's own 17. Banija could not punch the ball into the end zone, so they had to settle for a 30 yard field goal to give their team a 6-0 lead. To respond to that score, Kaboomlandia was finally able to put a drive together, and one 51 yard field goal later, it was a 3 point ball game again, with Banija leading 6-3.

Of course, the Banijan defense was forcing turnovers throughout this entire time. As the defensive line continued to dominate the line of scrimmage, Kaboomlandia was forced to move away from their favored run game and forced to toss around the pigskin a little bit more often than they would like to do in a game like this. The story of the 3rd quarter was Banija's inability to capitalize on these opportunities. A forced fumble by Momir Litvinov, which he recovered, resulted in a missed 40 yard field goal attempt by Beyne Yemane. Late in the 3rd quarter, with less than one minute left to go, an interception by Strong Safety Urian Panagos netted Banija good field position, but for the 2nd time in the quarter, Beyne Yemane missed from 40 yards, and the teams went into the 4th quarter with Banija leading 6-3.

Of course, neither team was able to mount much offense until the last drive of the game by Kaboomlandia. They got the ball with 58 seconds left on the clock, and only one timeout at their own 22 yard line. They got 3 first downs, and had the ball at the Banijan 39 yard line with 14 seconds left. They were knocking on the door of field goal, as just one more first down would give their kicker a realistic chance of hitting the field goal. However, a double outside linebacker blitz put the Kaboomlandian quarterback under heavy pressure, and he threw the ball in a panic right to Banijan cornerback Dragutin Tomikj. He immediately fell down, and then Banija assumed the victory formation and then celebrated their Round of 16 victory over Kaboomlandia.

Head Coach Ezekiel Daniachew discussed the victory with this magazine in his post-game press conference. "Am I excited after this victory? Of course I am! We continue to raise the bar for this program. We are now above .500 as an all time program, and that is something I am extremely proud of. But more importantly, we are going to our first ever quarterfinal. Though some might say this game was ugly, to me, I loved this game. Our offense was not playing well, but our defense stepped up big time to win this game. We forced 5 turnovers, and continuously forced turnovers in key moments of the game, including on Kaboomlandia's last drive. We had contributions from our special teams, and while I'm not happy we missed 2 field goals, it was always going to take a lot to win this game. We faced the adversity head on, we won, and now we are off to fight another day. I celebrate tonight, but tomorrow we get right back to work. This tournament is far from over, and it will require great preparation to beat a team as talented as Chromatika."

Of course, the Banijans will be staying in Frenline Delpha for the Chromatika game. There will be a full preview tomorrow, but this game also promises to be an instant classic, with these two evenly matched teams battling for a birth in the semifinals of this prestigious tournament.

by **Frenline Delpha** » Thu May 12, 2016 3:45 pm

When you can't think of any songs.

You three words today are ram, truck, and mountain. That'd make for an interesting story.

Quarter-Final 3 @ Blue Horse Coliseum
San Llera 23–9 Schottia

Quarter-Final 4 @ Astrological Stadium
Banija 17–0 Chromatika

Semi-Final

San Llera vs Banija @ Cornell Kilpings Field

World Bowl XXIX- Everything Thread (IC-Only)

Matchday 9

Matchday 10

Round of 16

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