R7WC3 Everything Thread

[Kriegiersien]

Schoenwetter News Online



Atlanta is coming

Atlanta Johnson will take one of the vacant positions as reserve for the team. The President, a big fan of her, intervened to get her to the Rugby 7 World Cup.
After a visit of an NS Rugby Board Executive Council member in the palace of the Kriegiersien president, which he left with a fruit basket and new Ferrari, he stated that "[he would] do anything in [his] might to allow the entrance of Mr..Miss.. of Johnson to the World Cup."

During the last Kriegiersien Athletics Championship, a massive controversy arose following the revelation that double gold medalist Atlanta Johnson possesses both male and female sexual organs, despite being entirely female in external appearance.

An Issue followed, opening Kriegiersien Sport further. Even though the debate never ended and man still aren't allowed in womens competition, as well as Members of the church of the Flying Spaghetti Monster aren't allowed to participate in the Cthulhugames, Atlanta got even more famous in Kriegiersien, after winning a local wrestling competion for men.
How will all that develop? We will see in the next days. Stay tuned.

**********************
*contains strong language, if this is against the rules, please inform me, so that I can edit*

Dennis Adenauer and Klaus Heidrich relaxed at the hotels swimming pool, enjoying the free day, when a heavily tattooted person, dressed in black, with a sport bag on her shoulder, arrived. Dennis took of his sunglases and whispered to his buddy:
"Klaus. Klaus, watch the chick."
Klaus turned his head tired, then rising an eyebrow and closing the eyes again.
"I would do her", smirked Dennis.
"Good luck. That's a t****y."
"Are you kidding me?"
"That's our new hooker. Haven't you read the mails?"
"Cool. We get ones?"
"Idiot. Be happy she is no centre. Else you wouldn't play tomorrow."
Dennis shook his head. He grinned distracted.
"What?"
"That's Amanda...no.. Atlanta Johnson. The t****y that won two gold medals. Do you ever read or watch news? She is now in our team."
"For what, the team spirit? Do we get Cheerleaders?"
He watched at Klaus laughing, but his smile vanished.
"You got to be kidding me. Has she ever played Rugby before?"
"Don't know man. Wait for the training."
"I'm waiting for the shower after it."
"Are you gay, or what?"
"She looks good to me. Like wiry wired and if they bite."

An angry shadow struck them down and a voice began to shout in an unpleasant, all to well known tone.

"You both are nailing only your opponents on the field. 100 sit-ups and 1 more for every dirty thought you have! That makes 300. I'll bring the lady to her room and when I come back, you both queers are wet from flexing and not your dreams or the water!! And don't try to f*** with me!!!"

Sgt. Hartman then went over to the grim looking woman, while Adenauer and Heidrich hastily began with the exercises.

[Polar Islandstates]

Polar Islandstates Rugby Sevens Team


Head Coach: Felix Nordby
Assistant Coach: Jan Vengerov

Starting VII
1. Carl Strand, Forward
2. Alexis Brandvold, Forward
3. Carl Teig, Forward
4. Ilya Weilin, Scrum-Half
5. Torre Murer, Back
6. Tomas Jorstad, Back
7. Joni Reini, Back

Subs
8. Dietar Ovsiannikov, Forward
9. Radek Petersen, Forward
10. Olivier Takala, Forward
11. Andriy Hageskog, Scrum Half
12. Matteus Flindt, Back
13. Oleg Luhtanen, Back
14. Luc Boujinsky, Back

Roleplay Permissions:
Go nuts.

[Polar Islandstates]

When dawn arrived, it was sluggish, and useless; the sun hanging slowly on the horizon as it finally appeared to follow the pink tinges through the sky that had heralded its arrival some minutes ago, painting the clouds with their peachy tones and covering up the grey for the time being. There was rain on the way, it was clear to anyone. Carl Teig smiled. He liked the rain. He enjoyed playing in it. There was something just so, manly about slogging it out in a muddy field, getting wet and soaked through and throwing yourself willy-nilly into hard tackles. It made him feel alive, and was the main thing he missed about full union code.

Though, sitting at the top of the table after three wins from three matches, it was hard to think too fondly of what used to be. It was time to focus on the here and now. The here was Yesopalitha. The now was a match against Slembana later that lunchtime. An awkward time for a match if you liked your food as much as Carl. But then, duty called, and that was worth more than a steak baguette any time of day.

[Neu Engollon]

*** NETV SPORTS 7 BROADCAST ****

"Good evening. Bien-welk! I'm Magda Wertauer and this is the NETV Sports 7 Update. Yet again, We are bringing more news from Yesopalitha and the Goats Sevens National squad. This time, the news is not the best, but let's not despair. The Goats put up a great fight, but in the end, they were overwhelmed by Khabarovsk Krai 26-14. The defense was unable to shut down their top scorer, Aaldrik de Wijs. The team has fought to keep up their standings and show that they are not a flash in the night, but this has been a down turn. We hope they will turn it into a lesson and work that much harder to keep the next top team in check, 84733842.
We are still and always in your corner Goats, let's get back on the board and keep showing the world what Neu Engollon is made of. On to the good news, the World Dwile Flonking Champions are the Neu Engollon Stumblin' Goats! The first Potty of Ale Cup was won by the Neu Engollon team and we are very proud of them..."

[Hutanjia]

They stood outside the hotel, as the cold wind blew against them.

"Samson, man, I don't understand, we were rockin'. Then dey knocked us down hard fe dead."

"These things happen, brudder. Monty, ya can't take it peronally, mon. Fideh! We doing the best, mon!" Center Samson Wakala reassured Monty Apegku, the team's scrum half.

"Ya, well tell de rest of de team, mon. Dey are hurtin'. We played so hard, Samson."

"Yaa-eee, I know...It was...good bro, but not our best, eh?..And...we play Babbage Islands? Come on mon. Dey rilly good. Ya know dat now. We knew dat then.
We knew it would be a battle and it was. Dey fast and dey defend like nobody we seen,eh...It's cold out here. Let's go in and get some sleep. We got drills in de morn and a big match wit another big team, Cyborg Holland."

"In't dat where Tony Gjemeru went to play? Frior Islands, yeah?"

"Yeah, bro, think so."

The two Polynesian men trudged back into the Yesopalithan hotel.

[Yesopalitha]

Weather in Freedom's Altar today: Cloudy morning (40 F), sunny afternoon (47 F), cloudy evening (42 F)

Group A Matchday Four
Ko-oren 5–45 Estope
Polar Islandstates 31–7 Slembana
Bongo Johnson 19–21 Timfen
Democratic States of Fenbar 7–35 Thatius
Argentinum 21–19 Northern Fenbar

Group A                                 Pld   W  D  L   PF  PA  PD   Pts 
 1 Polar Islandstates                     4   4  0  0  127  33 +94    12
 2 Estope                                 4   4  0  0  135  57 +78    12
 3 Thatius                                4   4  0  0  126  50 +76    12
 4 Argentinum                             4   2  0  2   66 111 −45     8
 5 Northern Fenbar                        4   2  0  2   91  88  +3     8
 6 Timfen                                 4   1  0  3   73 109 −36     6
 7 Bongo Johnson                          4   1  0  3   76  85  −9     6
 8 Democratic States of Fenbar            4   1  0  3   69 106 −37     6
 9 Ko-oren                                4   1  0  3   38 122 −84     6
10 Slembana                               4   0  0  4   60 100 −40     4

---

Group B Matchday Four
Cantonia Marjora 24–12 Glascovia
Neu Engollon 21–17 84733842
Khabarovsk Krai 35–7 An Cuige Uladh
Megadia & The Bartholomew Islands 19–19 Commune-PDTv2
The Royal Kingdom of Quebec 35–17 Bordurian

Group B                                 Pld   W  D  L   PF  PA  PD   Pts 
 1 Khabarovsk Krai                        4   4  0  0  125  36 +89    12
 2 Neu Engollon                           4   3  0  1   95  57 +38    10
 3 Commune-PDTv2                          4   2  1  1   95  61 +34     9
 4 Megadia & The Bartholomew Islands      4   2  1  1   79  69 +10     9
 5 An Cuige Uladh                         4   2  0  2   92  84  +8     8
 6 Glascovia                              4   2  0  2   78  74  +4     8
 7 The Royal Kingdom of Quebec            4   2  0  2   78  80  −2     8
 8 84733842                               4   1  0  3   65  86 −21     6
 9 Cantonia Marjora                       4   1  0  3   55 105 −50     6
10 Bordurian                              4   0  0  4   34 144 −110    4

---

Group C Matchday Four
Darmen 38–12 Saugeais
Branta Island 33–5 New attika
The Serbian Empire 5–34 Euskirribakondara
Alexandr Land 0–44 Bearded Moose
Triimoria 47–5 Lymantatia

Group C                                 Pld   W  D  L   PF  PA  PD   Pts 
 1 Triimoria                              4   4  0  0  161  34 +127   12
 2 Darmen                                 4   4  0  0  136  33 +103   12
 3 Euskirribakondara                      4   3  1  0  117  43 +74    11
 4 Bearded Moose                          4   3  0  1  117  54 +63    10
 5 Branta Island                          4   2  0  2   72  83 −11     8
 6 Lymantatia                             4   1  1  2   59 113 −54     7
 7 Saugeais                               4   1  0  3   76 103 −27     6
 8 New attika                             4   1  0  3   57 114 −57     6
 9 The Serbian Empire                     4   0  0  4   26 128 −102    4
10 Alexandr Land                          4   0  0  4   22 138 −116    4

---

Group D Matchday Four
Western Cuba 38–7 Smernof
Mapletish 45–7 Aquitayne
Kriegiersien 26–12 Nekoni
Hutanjia 19–21 Cyborg Holland
Ibex 5–29 The Babbage Islands

Group D                                 Pld   W  D  L   PF  PA  PD   Pts 
 1 Western Cuba                           4   4  0  0  143  38 +105   12
 2 Cyborg Holland                         4   4  0  0  116  54 +62    12
 3 The Babbage Islands                    4   3  0  1   96  46 +50    10
 4 Ibex                                   4   3  0  1  101  50 +51    10
 5 Hutanjia                               4   2  0  2   85  71 +14     8
 6 Kriegiersien                           4   2  0  2   95  99  −4     8
 7 Nekoni                                 4   1  0  3   62  88 −26     6
 8 Mapletish                              4   1  0  3   73 123 −50     6
 9 Smernof                                4   0  0  4   40 124 −84     4
10 Aquitayne                              4   0  0  4   21 139 −118    4

MD 5 schedule soon.

[Yesopalitha]

Forecast: STORM WARNING Morning: Windy, rain (15 mph, 37 F) Afternoon: Windy, storm (24 mph, 40 F) Evening: Windy, storm (32 mph, 34 F)

MD 5 Schedule

First Game - 10PM, 11PM, 12PM, 1PM - 7 vs 8
Second Game - 12 PM, 1 PM, 2 PM, 3 PM - 3 vs 10
Third Game - 2 PM, 3 PM, 4 PM, 5 PM - 4 vs 2
Fourth Game - 4 PM, 5 PM, 6 PM, 7 PM - 5 vs 1
Fifth Game - 6 PM, 7 PM, 8 PM, 9 PM - 6 vs 9

[Ko-oren]

Ko-orenite Rugby Sevens Team
For R7WC3

Head Coach: Swind Napertshad
Assistant Coaches: Ejor Sarderevin, Xetleo Isenara

Starting 7:
1  Ragnar Esthauan    FB 23y Lyra
2  Dalmo Hiraustiwan  CE 27y Aquila
3  Prederic Timpuyan  FH 25y Aquila
4  Nelson Sipwanshad  SH 24y Lyra
5  Kuard Hewelak      HO 24y Lyra
6  Bard Hewelak       PR 27y Vulpecula
7  Kuswind Stormilsa  PR 22y Vulpecula

Subs:
8  Medukan Rastigun   FB 27y Vulpecula
9  Djulibun Asthalm   CE 30y Lyra
10 Hako Konara        FH 29y Monoceros
11 Gehudrivan As      SH 27y Aquila
12 Storm Swinds       HO 20y Cygnus
13 Kraus Illastanthen PR 26y Monoceros
14 Partau Gerulnid    PR 26y Cassiopeia

(PR: Prop, HO: Hooker, SH: Scrum Half, FH: Fly Half, CE: Centre, FB: Fullback/Winger)

Whatever you want!

[Kriegiersien]

Kriegiersen Sport News begins in 3..2..1...you`re live....

Chad Wilson: Hello there and welcome to KSN, I'm Chad Wilson...
Frank Miller: And I'm Frank Miller. Today we have much to talk about, we are beginning with Rugby.
Chad: But it is hard to decide what is more interesting. Kriegiersien won 26–12 against Nekoni, but what have we seen there? A new couple, the start of a love affair..
Frank: Be careful what you say, Chad...
Chad: A love affair between Rugby and Kriegiersien of course.
Frank: Sure. The Topscorers of todays game. Johnson and Haudels. 10 Points of both. She tries, he converses. Rush & Kick. Amanda & Jobst. Do we have an unstoppable pair here?
Chad: Nah, I wouldn't say so. They are really upgrading the team, but they would be nothing without their teammates. Without players like Adenauer, Bauer, Milosovic, Honig, Friesinger....
Frank: Speaking of Friesinger, the Friesingers against Florians? Who won there?
Chad: Yeah, that would have been a story of its own. What happened? There was a nose breaking Wilhelm Scream...
Frank: You wonder what he said to Adam, or was it Anthony .. to enrage him this way .... *looks on a screen*
Chad: ...that the Nekonian reacted this way. Yeah, but no big harm done I think. These military guys are tough. I would call the duel of the brothers a draw, beside that accident, but you may differ.
Frank: However, a great game. I would say the best in this championship so far, fast, fluent, exciting...
Chad: I wouldn't go so far. There were other good games, in Group C, from the Bearded Mooses for example that I enjoyed more.
Frank: The fans liked Amanda. Much cheering, much posters, some a bit naughty...

*Pictures of the crowd during the game are shown*

Chad: Yeah... oh, that one is hilarious..uh.. are we allowed to show this one?
Frank: They love her.
Chad: Well, naturally. She is a sight, strong, fast, a bit odd looking..
Frank: And don't you think it is hard for the other players who never met a girl on the field?
Chad: Yeah, that is really an interesting subject, that is much discussed everywhere. Some say that professionells have to adapt and that everything is allowed what the rules allow, so no problem here...
Frank: But we know the reality isn't that simple. May that have helped her? And the team? Confusing and frustrating the opponent?
Chad: Could be, but it is really hard to say. We haven't got any interview yet..
Frank: Even none with our players, as they are not talking anymore to us, few are talking with other Reporters, but not with ours, thanks to our Mr. President... *salutes and shakes head in anger*
Chad: On the subject...our dear President said some words to a friendly network, which we are allowed to show...

President: I'm so happy that we won. Now we are back on the route to win the world cup. As I predicted, Amanda and Jobst will make our country proud and bring us success. They should have played earlier...

Frank: Hmm. He also said that Kriegiersen will participate in more other sports. The Soccer World Cup for instance, at least they are starting in the Qualification and BoF for the first time...
Chad: That is great. More fun and more work for us and maybe some of this Sportsmen will be allowed to talk to us. But we are running out of time...
Frank: Now to the best scenes of the game, later to our next opponent, Aquitayne - who are they? After that Soccer, the Semis of the National Cup, who will be the lucky 22 for the BoF, Boxing and ... will our country participate at LaCrosse? After the commercials.

[Bearded Moose]

8th of the Sproutsmonth, year 482 AM, 5.46 PM local time
Eric Stephaigh

“Ok boys, take a seat.”

Contrary to three days ago, an acceptable silence entered the dressing room when Mark Ryanaigh took the floor. Honesty obligates me to tell you that this was not just a sign of authority, but mainly caused by the fact that the atmosphere had changed drastically. At first we had been like a bunch of schoolboys on a trip. Bit anxious, quite nervous and very excited about everything that was new and shiny. Acting tough when possible, but giggling upon every unfamiliar sight. By now, the room no longer appeared like a luxurious royal suite, but as a proper above-standard facility and we started to know what rugby was all about. The Euskirribakondara game had been a hard lesson, but a valuable one. This was a team sport. Not a game, a sport. Such demands concentration and focus.

“If you take a look at the blackboard, you’ll see a few changes in the squad. We’ve made mistakes against Euskirri, and I don’t blame anyone. We faced a skilful opponent and had to bow our heads. But we can be better, as a team. Therefor some guys will take back their position. Brian, you’re our right-wing prop again. No shame, Shay, but we’ll be able to use Brian’s length and power.”

I smiled a bit. ‘Length and power’ was quite an understatement. During the last competition game we played against his team, Gurlough Danger, he single-handedly dragged a scrum for thirty yards.

“Mungo and Séan will be back on the team, with Mungo being our new captain. We have talked through some… ehm… tactical differences, both have received the needed time to think about stuff and I am sure they will both give themselves for one hundred per cent again, isn’t it?”

Séan nodded so hard, we all feared his head would fall off, whilst Mungo just uttered a silenced ‘jup’, confirming what Mark had said. It must have been the first time they agreed this week, but unlike the others, I wasn’t completely surprised by Ryanaigh’s switch.

“The conversions will still be kicked by Mikhailaigh, so you’ll better shine your boots, Séan.”

The joke was awfully lame but whatever. Going back to my room the other evening, a bit lightheaded from the vodka-game Brian had invented, I saw Mark leaving Mungo’s room. The big boys had talked. One look on Mungo’s face confirmed my knowledge. He’s a good lad, a bit too proud sometimes, but I knew he only wanted the best for this team. Ever since rugby had set foot in Scork, he had always been the number one proponent. Séamus took a lot of credit for that, but it had been Mungo who fixed the fields, searched the press, contacted friends, distributed posters, … When the ball that had been left by the Australian had given its last breath, Mungo had sent letters to everyone he could imagine who was in touch with people outside Bearded Moose. No one believed he would find something, but a few weeks after everyone had lost hope, he came up with a box full of rugby balls and revived the whole thing. Without him we wouldn’t be here, that was for sure. I was daydreaming so hard, I almost missed Mark’s final announcement.

“And last but not least, we will have Eric Stephaigh replacing Loic Emilil on the centre position. During the previous games, we have seen that the Alexandr Land backwards lack speed, so we should be able to use yours, Eric.”

Wait. What? It took a well-meant, “how great, man!” from Darren to wake me up. I think my little brother was more proud of me than anyone else, as I tried to hide my happiness. I felt bad for Loic, though. He had been given a difficult job by the coach which he had tried to accomplish as good as possible. As good as possible hadn’t been good enough, it appeared, but the silent Romainilian didn’t seem to hold any grudges.

……


8th of the Sproutsmonth, year 482 AM, 5.58 PM local time
Darren Stephaigh

Shit. This wasn’t the first time this kind of thing happened to me. My coat was still somewhere in a hotel room in An Cuige Uladh –the staff had promised me to send it back, very friendly people over there- and my scarf might be in Cantonia Marjora or Kriegersien or wherever our flight went after we landed in Yesopalitha. I had to rush through the tunnels below the main gallery of La Jumbotron and almost crashed into the dressing room without knocking, if it weren’t for something at the other side of the door.

“Apparently, that’s the way it goes here when Ryanaigh is in charge,” a soft voice declared.
“It’s ridiculous, Cian, and you know it. Who has been the only one who kept on giving everything he had during the first three games? Me, the other Séamhil Warriors and maybe Francis. Everyone else just was moderate or had to be a little cry-baby,” a second man complained. I recognised him within a blink.
“Your time may come, Damien,” the first voice responded.
“Well, if being a nagger gives you the captain’s ribbon, I might start a row as well,” Damien scorned.
“There, there, Damien. We’ll find a way. You better hurry now, the kick-off is in a minute.”

I stood there, like a snowman on Christmas eve, when Cian opened the door. Since it was unclear who was baffled more, I decided to break the ice.

“I forgot my mouth guard.”
“Oh. But you better hurry now, the kick-off is in a minute,” Cian repeated.

I stood frozen for another minute while the others legged back to the pitch. Finally out of their spell, I turned around and ran. When I got back to the dug-out, the game had already been started.

“Where the hell ‘ve you been, mate,” One-Eyed cursed, “get your ass on that bench.”

It soon became clear that Alexandr Land was no match to our team. Our attacks were acted fluently, the passes were spot-on and it seemed as if the team hadn’t gone through stormy weather the last days. Cillianaigh opened the score with a long run on the left side. Before the referee got to blow for half-time, it was 19-0. Mungo made a try and even Eric managed to score. I yelled from the side line as if I was a madman. How he had hoped for that starting spot, soaked when he was only a replacement against Lymantatia, jubilated after his try against the Serbian Empire. But always with his chin up high to his little brother. “I’ll make it and so will you, Darry.” No one but him called me Darry. No one protected me better than him.

The second half was a copy of the first one. Alexandr Land did what they could but they hardly touched the ball. We played on our highest level, with the passing going swift and Cillianaigh in a glorious mood. All attacks started with his running and he managed to score his fifth and sixth try from the tournament with Séan converting like in his first game: calm and self-assured.

“Darren, Shorty, get on your feet, boys, time for the big one!”

The big one?

“With this score, it’s time for you guys to show something to the crowd.”

Before actually realising what was about to happen, I took of my sweater and stood next to the official with the announcement board, just like Shay Royaigh and Rory Johnsmac. While I was too astonished to react, Shorty was outright jumpy. Waves of applause went across La Jumbotron when Dan, Francis and especially Damien came off. The ‘good luck’ by Francis was sincere, Damien ‘this is just bollocks’ was just as genuine. No time for focusing on that as the play continued at once. It is hard to imagine, but the feeling that the whole world is watching you when you receive a perfect long pass by your brother is incomparable. Ask Wolfram Friesinger or Anthony Florian, I’ld say. They’ll tell you it’s a golden moment. It’s marvellous to play at this level and sharing it with your best friend, your rock in the storm, makes it only better.
The ball in my arms, I ran past the opposite scrum-half, passed it to Séan who cut in to the surprise of the Alexandr Land centre. ‘Heeeeeeere’ shrieked Shorty Johnsmac and while his fragile legs carried him along the line, he received a pass from Séan. Six seconds and fifty yards later, the score was 38 versus nil. Shorty was honestly crying and the crowd would have gone through the roof if there had been one.
Next play and once again I receive the ball. A boulevard appears before my eyes and I run. I run as if the devil is right behind me, waving with his eternal flames and just when I believe I outran him, something hits me in the side like a double-decker bus. The Alexandr Land fullback pushes me down correctly, pushing my waist to the ground, but his force is so strong that we roll around and the moment his boot hits my face, I realise why it hurts so much. It’s the last thing I realise.

“Darren! Darren, wake up!”

Eric and One-Eyed –whose idea of being a medical assisting is holding a bottle of scotch and a few plucks of cotton- are standing above me. The taste of blood makes me sick and I try not to vomit.

“Damnit, Darren, where’s your mouth guard?”

I'll miss the game against Triimoria, I realise and with those words, it all goes black again.

Starting line-up:
1. Brianaigh; 2. Jussiaigh; 3. Sidaigh (C); 4. Louisaigh; 
5. Mikhailaigh; 12. E. Stephaigh; 7. Cillianaigh.

Replacements:
11’ 13. Johnsmac for 7.
11’ 8. Royaigh for 1.
11’ 10. D. Stephaigh for 4.

Scores:
Tries: 2’ Cillianaigh, 5’ Sidaigh, 7’ E. Stephaigh, 9’ Cillianaigh, 10’ Cillianaigh, 12’ Johnsmac
Conversions: Mikhailaigh (4/6)
Penalty: 13’ Mikhailaigh
Dropgoal: 14’ Sidaigh

Bookings:
None

[Neu Engollon]

*** NETV SPORTS 7 BROADCAST ****

"Good evening. Bien-welk! I'm Magda Wertauer and this is the NETV Sports 7 Update. Here we are bringing more news from Yesopalitha and the Goats Rugby Sevens crew. They kept us on the edge of our seats with a tight game, duking it out with the 84733842 team on the pitch.
Alex Renvier, Riazzi and Kriezer shined this time, putting points on the board, which unfortunately, were answered at almost every turn by the strangely numbered squad. Some spectacular tackles by the forwards, especially the hooker, Herzog, kept the game within reach for the Goats. In the end it came down to a lucky dropkick by Horst Emmet to seal the game in Neu Engollon's favor before the whistle.
Way to give us a nail biter, Goats! Let's hope you have an easier time of it against Glascovia, and the famous Abito brothers.
Stay tuned for more Sports 7 Update and the roller derby highlights."

[Yesopalitha]

Weather Today: Stormy morning (42 F, 22 mph), stormy afternoon (42 F, 35 mph), calmer evening (40 F, 10 mph)

Group A Matchday Five
Slembana 0–43 Bongo Johnson
Estope 12–35 Polar Islandstates
Northern Fenbar 10–40 Ko-oren
Thatius 33–7 Argentinum
Timfen 14–28 Democratic States of Fenbar

Group A                                 Pld   W  D  L   PF  PA  PD   Pts 
 1 Polar Islandstates                     5   5  0  0  162  45 +117   15
 2 Thatius                                5   5  0  0  159  57 +102   15
 3 Estope                                 5   4  0  1  147  92 +55    13
 4 Bongo Johnson                          5   2  0  3  119  85 +34     9
 5 Ko-oren                                5   2  0  3   78 132 −54     9
 6 Argentinum                             5   2  0  3   73 144 −71     9
 7 Northern Fenbar                        5   2  0  3  101 128 −27     9
 8 Democratic States of Fenbar            5   2  0  3   97 120 −23     9
 9 Timfen                                 5   1  0  4   87 137 −50     7
10 Slembana                               5   0  0  5   60 143 −83     5

---

Group B Matchday Five
84733842 21–31 Khabarovsk Krai
Glascovia 25–12 Neu Engollon
Bordurian 0–39 Cantonia Marjora
Commune-PDTv2 48–0 The Royal Kingdom of Quebec
An Cuige Uladh 10–26 Megadia & The Bartholomew Islands

Group B                                 Pld   W  D  L   PF  PA  PD   Pts 
 1 Khabarovsk Krai                        5   5  0  0  156  57 +99    15
 2 Commune-PDTv2                          5   3  1  1  143  61 +82    12
 3 Megadia & The Bartholomew Islands      5   3  1  1  105  79  +26   12
 4 Glascovia                              5   3  0  2  103  86 +17    11
 5 Neu Engollon                           5   3  0  2  107  82 +25    11
 6 An Cuige Uladh                         5   2  0  3  102 110  −8     9
 7 Cantonia Marjora                       5   2  0  3   94 105 −11     9
 8 The Royal Kingdom of Quebec            5   2  0  3   78 128 −50     9
 9 84733842                               5   1  0  4   86 117 −31     7
10 Bordurian                              5   0  0  5   34 183 −149    5

---

Group C Matchday Five
New attika 14–24 The Serbian Empire
Saugeais 28–14 Branta Island
Lymantatia 10–40 Darmen
Bearded Moose 19–19 Triimoria
Euskirribakondara 40–0 Alexandr Land

Group C                                 Pld   W  D  L   PF  PA  PD   Pts 
 1 Darmen                                 5   5  0  0  176  43 +133   15
 2 Triimoria                              5   4  1  0  180  53 +127   14
 3 Euskirribakondara                      5   4  1  0  157  43 +114   14
 4 Bearded Moose                          5   3  1  1  136  73 +63    12
 5 Saugeais                               5   2  0  3  104 117 −13     9
 6 Branta Island                          5   2  0  3   86 111 −25     9
 7 Lymantatia                             5   1  1  3   69 153 −84     8
 8 The Serbian Empire                     5   1  0  4   50 142 −92     7
 9 New attika                             5   1  0  4   71 138 −67     7
10 Alexandr Land                          5   0  0  5   22 178 −156    5

---

Group D Matchday Five
Aquitayne 14–24 Kriegiersien
Smernof 0–40 Mapletish
The Babbage Islands 14–22 Western Cuba
Cyborg Holland 39–5 Ibex
Nekoni 36–12 Hutanjia

Group D                                 Pld   W  D  L   PF  PA  PD   Pts 
 1 Western Cuba                           5   5  0  0  165  52 +113   15
 2 Cyborg Holland                         5   5  0  0  155  59 +96    15
 3 The Babbage Islands                    5   3  0  2  110  68 +42    11
 4 Ibex                                   5   3  0  2  106  89 +17    11
 5 Kriegiersien                           5   3  0  2  119 113  +6    11
 6 Nekoni                                 5   2  0  3   98 100  −2     9
 7 Mapletish                              5   2  0  3  113 123 −10     9
 8 Hutanjia                               5   2  0  3   97 107 −10     9
 9 Smernof                                5   0  0  5   40 164 −124    5
10 Aquitayne                              5   0  0  5   35 163 −128    5

Schedule for tomorrow is the same as written in the OP.

Forecast: Chilly morning (37 F), brisk afternoon (38 F, 23 mph), chilly evening (35 F)

[Commune-PDTv2]

Leviathan exited the pitch a national hero. 6 tries had firmly asserted their authority over RK Quebec.

This was an odd feeling for Leviathan, as he was hardly a posterchild for Communadi sports, in fact, quite the opposite. Aesthetically, he wasn't much to look at. A stereotypical thug with a chest as wide as his torso was tall. Bold elaborate tattoos graced his arms, chest, neck and even ventured onto his face. Tattoos were frowned upon in the Commune. Defacing one's skin deemed an insult to fellow nationals, regardless of the vibrant jingoistic symbology.

He loved the Commune. It's technology had allowed him to genetically alter his body to just how he wanted it, A towering bulk of throbbing muscle. This muscle allowing him to effortlessly carve through the Quebecois, one time practically dragging one of their backs the final ten yards to the try line.

The Mogd-Sydusha Ravens had reluctantly signed him earlier that year. His immense power and skill outweighing the negative press which had followed him throughout his time with the Muskul'dhva Ospreys and now he was a member of the Sevens squad, keenly chasing Khabarovsk Krai in Group B.

Years of being the 'Bad Boy' of Communadi Rugby had prepared him for ridicule, but praise? Never. He was confused as to how other players, who before had refused to even communicate with him now wanted to shake his hand and proudly exclaimed they were a good friend of his. Communadi journalists had before shunned him and written derogatory articles on him. Now they wanted to express what an amazing example he was for the various youth sports programmes.

Amidst the tribal-esque patterns upon his arms were emblazoned the words 'For the Glory of the Commune'. He had never done anything except attempt to further the glory of the Commune. Why was it only now that people were beginning to realise this?

[Kriegiersien]

Aquitayne 14–24 Kriegiersien.

The Game against Aquitayne was one of the most violent and unpleasant ones in the tournament. Tensions between the fascist Aquitayne and Kriegiersien had arose, after a TV Report had shown the sad story about Dennis Adenauers Ancestors, who had once fled Aquitayne, losing their home.
Starting as favorites, the Kriegiersien team had massive problems, the crowd went nuts after a foul against Johnson. Utz Bauer got injured after a tackle and only 3 Minutes into the game there were already two brawls, from finaly four. Bauer will miss the next game, same as Alexander Tuttwitz for a kick in the crotch to his opponent.
Aquitayne was leading 7:0, before Kriegiersien finaly found into the game. Even after Haudels, who had a bad day and a black eye, missed three kicks because of the strong wind, they came back again. Milosevic took the matter in hand after an interruption - because umbrellas, dead ravens and kites had to be removed from the field - intercepting a ball, leading to the 14-20. In the end, even without making points, he was the man of the match, guiding, reorganizing on the field, motivating, calming down the team and as it seemed, the weather, when Haudels made the last conversion in dead calm and with it the last (and his first) points.

The next game will be even harder. The "spiders" from Hutanjia are challenging the Kriegiersiens. More of them later.

[Hutanjia]

DOWNTOWN FREEDOM'S ALTAR
YESOPALITHA

Samson Wakala, Center and Team Captain for the Spiders, walked down the street in Freedom's Altar and ruminated on their last two matches. Both had been hard fought, but ultimate losses. The one against Cyborg Holland had especially stung as they lost by a dropkick to a top ranked team. The squad was not doing as well as they'd hoped, but was it really just the cold non-tropical weather and their being new in the International Sevens game, or was there something else at work? He stopped in to get a smoothie and watched as a little girl played in and out of her mother's skirt. Maybe we're just playing a little too seriously? We need to take a kind of child-like spirit and just have fun.

They'd already done better than hoped before the last two matches. Their chances were looking less likely, especially if they lost this next one to Kriegiersien. They would be more than likely done after that. Hutanjians didn't know how to take things less seriously, so in reality, he was just musing for nothing. They also came from a drastically conservative nation. Even though the monarchy was gone now, and things were loosening up in the new Republic everyday; conservative mores were still very much in effect with his teammates. Kriegiersien reportedly had women on their team, or something close to women...the guys would not take a loss to them very well, especially if they'd not buckled down.

Samson walked back to the hotel with his smoothie to strategize with the team. Pizza was off the menu from now on, they were eating as healthy as they could and turning in early. Especially for tomorrow. Some warm up drills and then the big match. They had to stay in this a little longer, at least.

[Neu Engollon]

*** NETV SPORTS 7 BROADCAST ****

"Good evening. Magda Wertauer here on NETV Sports 7 Update. We go to Pietro Mazzala, who is live from Freedom's Altar, Yesopalitha at the Third Rugby Sevens World Cup...Pietro, can you hear me?"

"Yes, Magda, I'm here with Alex Renvier from the Goats National squad. It finally stopped raining, but it's still chilly and wet out here. Alex, we took a big loss today. What do you think happened out there?"

"Well, Pietro, we could make excuses...we were sliding around in the rain, the scrum couldn't get good purchase on the pitch, balls slipping through fingers...but, ultimately, we fought against a team at the top of their game."

"So weather was not a factor, Alex?"

"Yes, but we're from Neu Engollon. We should be able to overcome that. Hell, we've played in the snow before. Cold and wet? We should be beyond this. The Abitos and Antonius from Glascovia are good, but it's nothing we haven't seen before. We should be able to shut that down and we didn't. Andre flubbed an easy tackle and he knows it...and that play where Manius Abito ghosted right by us..."

"He practically strutted. That was a low moment. So, it's going to be a tough talk tonight?"

"No...no, we need to put it behind us. [Bleep] I'm just ventin'. The guys know I love 'em. We played hard. We are going to be positive and buckle down for this next match tomorrow even more. We may still have some tricks up our sleeves yet."

"Very good. Thank you for taking the time out to talk to us, Alex Renvier."

"Thanks for letting me vent."

"Back to you, Magda."

"Thank you, Pietro. We will bring you coverage of the next match, against Bordurian...with some highlights of the Cup so far preceding it starting at 1630 CT tomorrow.
Stay tuned for more Sports 7 Update with Biathlon and snowmobiling coverage."

[Bearded Moose]

9th of the Sproutsmonth, year 482 AM, 7.55 PM local time
Mark Ryanaigh

“Ok boys, time to take on Triimoria now. We know they are a fierce squad, with an excellent fullback Colin Dorrins, possibly the best guy on the pitch today. So we keep the field closed, no need for a high score-line. Also, try to avoid penalties, Nathan Dagmont has a pretty kick up his sleeve.”

One-Eyed told me in the morning that I come across a lot more self-confident when giving an explication in front of the group. In fact I just have gotten better in seeming more self-confident. I stopped my mouth from shivering whilst speaking and my hands from trembling when pointing to the blackboard, but inside my head you could still see the red lights doing over-time. Danger! Danger! They shouted it after each only moderately satisfied glance from a player.

“Eric, your direct opponent is slower then you. He’s usually covered by his teammate Violet but that guy is suspended, so it is…”

Nervously flipping through pages… Where is goddam…

“… Hamish D’Eau at the fly half. It weakens their backwards, Eric, there are opportunities there.”

Eric was already in the zone, that zone in which concentration is painted in big letters on the inside of your skull. He doesn’t show it, but I knew the injury of his little brother is hurting him more than he would ever reveal. Darren was in a dark room in the hospital, healing from a concussion after that horrible smack he received yesterday. He already got some flowers from the Alexandr Land player and a very nice ‘Get better soon’-card from the hotel staff, but it seemed improbable that he would reappear at the field during the tournament.

“Ok, everyone knows what to do?”

A collective of nods showed all noses were in the same direction. Almost. Damien Cillianaigh didn’t appear very excited at all. While everyone checked their laces and garments for the last time, I went through the clipboard one last time. Did I say something negative about our fullback? He had been vital so far and even impressed the officials of a few more traditional rugby nations.
Trying to stage a gesture, I patted him on the back.

“Good luck, Damien, you’ll do great.”
“We’ll see. Whatever.”

Not exactly the reaction I had prepared for. Lost for words, I decided to lead the team through the tunnels of La Jumbotron. Once again, the stadium was packed. Whilst you couldn’t find a piece of red or black during the first matchday, the crowd welcomed us with enthusiasm now. As always, I took my seat at the extreme left of the dug-out. Probably just superstition, my head declared. But it worked so far, my heart responded. The opponents, white shirts with black and yellow decorations, were shining in the sun. Their confidence was peaking after four consecutive victories. Recalling our performance against Euskirri, another ranked team, I held low hopes.

“Closer Dan, closer!”

The Triimorians started off furiously and Danny Lightfoot caused the first panic amongst our team. Francis couldn’t close the gap, Mikhailaigh didn’t manage to stop the pass and before we actually knew what was going on, the Triimorians were rejoicing: 7-0. The try smacked in our face like a bucket of water –or just the hit of an empty bucket- and we were hardly capable to get back up on our feet.

“Com’on boys, keep the field small, keep the field small!”

Cillianaigh was having a match inside the match with his direct opponent Colin Dorrins. I should’ve told him he was the better man, I realised, but it was too late for that. Damien focused on not letting the East Coast Jaguars-player score and Dorrins tried to get out of Damien’s embrace. The duel turned to Dorrins’ advantage when he got away on the left side and scored his umpteenth try of the competition.

“Still a lot of time to go, no worries. Damien. Damien!”

But Damien couldn’t care less. Usually, he wasn’t the type that would shout and yell around the pitch, but now he demanded the ball with a loud growl. Excellent catch and off he was, up to a diagonal run. The opponent centre and fly half were guessing he would give a pass to Sidaigh, who was given a lot of liberty by Dagmont, but Damian just stormed through the opposing defence in one big effort to the other side of the field. Fourteen against seven –Séan was accurate- and the game could swing to both sides again.

“Keep up the effort, all is still possible guys!”

His try didn’t exactly calm Damien’s mood. Au contraire, I would say. Three minutes into the second half, Colin Dorrins managed to dodge past Damien. Completely furious, Cillianaigh tackled Dorrins foot first and the crowd held its breath. Yellow card, attack by the Triimorians and 19-7. Would this be game-over? I couldn’t dream of another comeback anymore. Sigh.

“Come on guys.”

Who was I kidding. I didn’t believe it myself, turned around and decided to sit it out in the dug-out. Six against seven, our guys were uncertain how to deal with this situation. But Triimoria got over-confident. The experienced forward Farmer decided to give a very long pass to Arubay, but it missed direction. Brianaigh snatched the ball and somehow succeeded to give it to Jussiaigh whilst being tackled viciously. Brian “the Danger” Jussiaigh went for a run. He will never be the quickest of the pack, but he could knock off every attack from a Triimorian and made the try. Séan’s miss in the conversion was only a moderate problem.

And then I saw it. Dorrins was limping a bit, trying to hide it from his own coach Dehn-Nichter.

“Rory. Rory! Get your ass up, we’re going for the big prize today!”

Taking the opportunity at the first line-out, I replaced Damien by Rory. Damien’s eyes were shooting fire, but I knew I was doing the right thing. Only thirty seconds later, Johnsmac received a long pass, dodged Dorrins’ tackle and moved up in the field. Pennyworth decided to hit the communication-cord but the ball was already to be found in Eric Stephaigh’s hands. He crossed the last ten meters to the end zone, grounded the ball and screamed like a maniac. This was one for Darren, that’s for sure. While all the guys jumped off the bench, going nuts over this marvellous score, I realised that the pressure was on Séan. Should I make Mungo shoot or…
The boys decided for me. Mungo took up the ball, walked towards Séan and pushed it in his arms. Séan glanced at the sky and put the ball at the correct position. Two, three, four, five steps back… Run and shoot! A perfect curve marked the equalizer, high-fives and rejoice. The Triimoria guys were simply baffled.
In all his enthusiasm, Johnsmac asked the ball and tried to make the winner. His run was smooth but his pass was garbage. With the field left completely open, Colin Dorrins forgot his pain and started to run. Only Francis Louisaigh had kept his head cool and didn’t join the previous run to the other side. Dorrins never managed to get to full speed but Francis was exhausted as well after a tough game and came too late for a correct tackle. Ten seconds later, Dorrins was brought of the pitch on a stretcher and Francis had collected a red card. When Dagmont missed the penalty, the relief was massive, but we knew it had been close. The last whistle was celebrated like a victory. We had equalized against a ranked side! Loic poked my side.

“I’ve been calculating, coach.”
“What do you mean?”
“We could be able to compete for the Shield if we keep up this level.”

The Shield? The Shield!

Starting line-up:
1. Brianaigh; 2. Jussiaigh; 3. Sidaigh (C); 4. Louisaigh; 
5. Mikhailaigh; 12. E. Stephaigh; 7. Cillianaigh.

Replacements:
12’ 13. Johnsmac for 7.

Scores:
Tries: 6’ Cillianaigh, 11’ Jussiaigh, 13’ E. Stephaigh
Conversions: Mikhailaigh (2/3)

Bookings:
10’ Yellow Cillianaigh
14’ Red Louisaigh

Thanks to Yesopalitha for his advice, hints and permissions for the following part.

9th of the Sproutsmonth, year 482 AM, 10.14 PM local time
Gunnar Jones

“How much time we’ve got left?”
“Ten seconds,” my assistant responded.

I licked my lips one last time and checked if my tail shined.

“Welcome back in our Rugby Sevens Special at the Yesopalitha Sports Network. Up next is an exclusive interview with Kriegersiens Atlanta Johnson, the sensation of the tournament so far, but first we’re going to Gunnar Jones, who as always is catching up the atmosphere in Freedom’s Altar. Where are you today, Gunnar?”, the female voice blasted in my ear.

“Hello, Lindsay, well, today I’m standing outside the Amber Oak. Usually, this small and cosy pub is the meeting point for everyone who wants to catch a beer or a gin after their daily tasks but these days, the bar is transformed into a Bearded Moose supporters café!”

I opened the saloon doors and entered the surprisingly tiny salon. The place was crowded and the atmosphere was upbeat, but civilised. As if it was agreed upon –it actually was-, the barkeeper turned away from a nearby table and joined me. He was a giant, who had to stoop in order to not hit his head to the low ceiling.

“Hello, mister Duval, you own this pub?”
“That’s right, Gunnar. Since three generations, this is an open and friendly place to drink a beer with friends and colleagues, and to follow the sports of course!”

Three television screens in all corners of the smoking hot café, all tuned in to YSN formed prove that this was really a live report.

“And since this week, this is also a Bearded Moose pub?”
“Indeed, Gunnar. As is common during each international sport event that is held in Freedom’s Altar, we try to be the host for one specific nation, to make their supporters feel at home a bit and to be a gathering point for local fans of said nation.”

Mister Duval clearly wasn’t used to speak in front of camera, judging from how he rushed every word and how he cleaned his leaves with his soaked towel. He was literally a giant tree, after all.

“And this year, you have chosen for Bearded Moose?”
“Well, you could say Bearded Moose chose for us,” the titan smiled. “Five days ago, the complete supporters squad entered our pub and so far, they’ve only left their spots to watch their team’s matches.”

The camera turned towards the bar. One guy, carrying around a giant antler on his head, was humming the national anthem whilst trying to make a pyramid with his glasses. Considering the fact that he had recreated a scale model of the Gizeh complex, it wasn’t his first beer. The second one was trying to seduce Miss Duval, the innkeeper’s daughter, with a nonsensical story about flaming cars and secret agencies. Miss Duval smiled and nodded, knowing that this man provided half an income for her family.

“Hello Dave, you are a real Bearded Moose supporter, aren’t you?”
“Yessiyam, mate!”

The drunk stood up and started to sing ‘For Moose we stand, with Moose we unite’ in an awful baritone. The crowd in the bar joined his singing, which made it a lot more bearable in fact. Realising I wouldn’t receive a lot of sensible answers of him, I turned towards the second lad.

“Then you must be Micky, the cult icon from Bearded Moose?”
“Who? Me? Oh, yes, yes!”
“Did you expect your team to do so well?”
“Oh, lad, who could’ve dreamt of this? No one! No one! Our lads are great, just great. They can beat everyone, lad!”
“Even Darmen?”
“Ho, ho! Watch out there, lad. Darmen, well, that’s another level. But all the others, we’ve got them at their balls, lad.”
“How do you feel about the host country?”
“Yesopalaithiana? They’re great lads, lad. And great lasses as well. How you doing, lady, can I buy you a beer?”

It took me a few seconds before I realised he was trying to pick up my assistant. While she was having a drink, I heard the voice in my ear screaming again. ‘One more minute, Gunnar, the Johnson interview isn’t rolling yet!’ In a reaction, I decided to interview a beastling with a painted face and a cap in red and black.

“Hello, you are a Yesopalithan?”
“Born and raised, Gunnar, born and raised!”
“But you are supporting Bearded Moose for this tournament?”
“With our nation stepping back in a chivalrous way, I wanted to support someone else. I’ve always been a passionate follower of rugby, you know. Most nations have been joined by fine supporters, but a lot have carried along hooligans as well and if there is one thing I can’t stand, it is that!”

His fist slammed the wooden table to support his words.

“But not so with Bearded Moose. Dave and Micky may be two… ehm… notable lads, they enjoy a drink, but they carry no evil. Always open and friendly, well, whenever they’re still capable of that, of course. They would make a good dwile flonking squad, in fact.”
“So you’ve decided to join them in their supporting effort.”
“Well, they surely could use some extra voice, isn’t it,” the beastling grins, while Dave starts the third couplet of the anthem.

Almost overwhelmed by the noise, I decide to cut the report there.

“You see, Lindsay, the city is really thrilled about this tournament and even absorbs the smaller nations in their welcoming arms.”

[Kriegiersien]

Chad Wilson: *smiling* And the ponies are kicking.
Frank Miller: Now to rugby. Our team is 5th now in Group D at the World Cup, but the last game was a hard fight.
Chad: In every aspect. Next opponent. Hutanjia. What do we know?
Frank: After getting rid of their former leader a republic now. A new spirit is forming in the nation from small Zalakia. They play a similar style as our navyboys. They started great, beeing first after matchday one, then it went down a bit for them. But they had less problems with Aquitayne.
Chad: And something changed. We haven't seen the team in a Pizzeria yesterday.
Frank: *laughs* Oh my, what are they plotting? I hope Hartman knows the answer.
Chad: Or Milosevic.
Frank: Speaking of great players. What is your favorite player from Hutanjia?
Chad: I would say Samson Wakala. I like his attitude and power.
Frank: We will see who will be victorious in this duel. I cross my fingers for Kriegiersien.
Chad: So do I. After the break: What is LaCrosse? Soccer, a review of the Cup Semis. Will there be a squad left for the United Dutch World League of Rugby Union? Is Kriegiersien too strong for Balder? How much of an amateur is the average Kriegiersien Footballplayer? And what sports are yet to come? Don't go away.

[Catonia Majora]

CATONIAN NEWS AND SPORTS NETWORK

Good evening, I'm Daniel Ver Danielsson, and welcome to Sportsline, and what a lead story we have tonight. Fresh off the upset win over Glascovia, the Lynx of the Rugby sevens took on Bordurian, and although they were winless they still presented a challenge to the inexperienced Lynx squad. The Bordurians opened playing strong defense, but the Lynx broke through late in the first half, running off 19-0 unanswered points to lead at the half. By the time the dust settled, the Lynx left the pitch with a 39-0 victory. The Lynx have now run off 2 straight victories to pull to 2-3 on the tournament, within reach of the upper half of the bracket.

[Nekoni]

NTR News Network

Nekoni Back to Winning Ways

Code: Select all

Nekoni          36–12       Hutanjia

Tries:                      Tries:
Ad. Florian     2, 13       ???     6
Novak           7           ???     13
An. Florian     8, 11
                            Cons:
Drops:                      ???
Parker          14

Cons:
Fulton
Edwards (3)



NTR News Network apologise for not reporting the last match to Kriegiersien as coverage was directed on the 2013 500km of Varea Street Circuit event of the first ever Nekoni Touring Car Championship.

Nekoni spent the last few matches in a state of decline. From the initial sparks at Smernof, they lost form and lost three on the bounce. They faced a strong Hutanjia side with something to prove, and they did just that. Within two minutes, an offensive charge by the opposition broke down, the ball was dropped, and Adam Florian was there to take it and secure an early lead. The conversion failed, but that was OK: Nekoni were ahead. Unlike their last few games, they had to keep that.

They almost fell back into all-too-familiar territory when Hutanjia scored a converted try at the six minute mark, but moments before the whistle, Michael Novak was too quick for them, and the kick sailed through. Half time, 12-7.

Nekoni have a tendency to let their lead get the better of them, but today was different. Soon into the second half Anthony Florian's evasive manouveures were awarded with five points, which went well with a further two from the new kicker, Martin Edwards replacing the tired Fulton. Edwards was in his prime for the half, scoring all three of his conversion attempts, including both Florians' seconds to make the Cat Boys a near-unassailable 33-7 up. Hutanjia got a quick consolatory fiver just after Adam Florian's second, but it was all sealed when with ten seconds to go, the usually quiet Alex Parker chanced on a drop kick attempt at the halfway line and punched the air in delight as his shot made the goal. 36-12, game over, and Nekoni's losing streak is finally vanquished. They go into their next game against Ibex (who struggled against Cyber Holland with a 39-5 defeat) confident that their fortunes may be changing.

NTR Sports Interviewer: "Fantastic result today, are you expecting this performance against Ibex?"
Peter Dawson: "I hope so, as I expect this kind of performance against every team. This is exactly the sort of scoreline our boys needed to bring their spirits up, and at the halfway stage, it's high time we got these kind of results."
Interviewer: "How do you view your position in the table?"
Peter: "We're in a decent position at the moment, but everyone above us has a far superior point difference. We need to win, and we need to win big. It's our first competition but there's no reason that we can't get top 4 if we go for the wins and don't make silly errors. I know I make this point all the time, but silly errors change scores. An error got us our first try today. An error cost us some points against the Babbagians."

[Yesopalitha]

Weather: Mild as can be.

Group A Matchday Six
Bongo Johnson 36–14 Democratic States of Fenbar
Argentinum 33–19 Timfen
Ko-oren 7–35 Thatius
Polar Islandstates 36–7 Northern Fenbar
Slembana 0–42 Estope

Group A                                 Pld   W  D  L   PF  PA  PD   Pts 
 1 Polar Islandstates                     6   6  0  0  198  52 +146   18
 2 Thatius                                6   6  0  0  194  64 +130   18
 3 Estope                                 6   5  0  1  189  92 +97    16
 4 Bongo Johnson                          6   3  0  3  155  99 +56    12
 5 Argentinum                             6   3  0  3  106 163 −57    12
 6 Ko-oren                                6   2  0  4   85 167 −82    10
 7 Northern Fenbar                        6   2  0  4  108 164 −56    10
 8 Democratic States of Fenbar            6   2  0  4  111 156 −45    10
 9 Timfen                                 6   1  0  5  106 170 −64     8
10 Slembana                               6   0  0  6   60 185 −125    6

---

Group B Matchday Six
Khabarovsk Krai 21–21 Megadia & The Bartholomew Islands
The Royal Kingdom of Quebec 5–40 An Cuige Uladh
Cantonia Marjora 21–24 Commune-PDTv2
Neu Engollon 26–19 Bordurian
84733842 33–21 Glascovia

---

Group B                                 Pld   W  D  L   PF  PA  PD   Pts 
 1 Khabarovsk Krai                        6   5  1  0  177  78 +99    17
 2 Commune-PDTv2                          6   4  1  1  167  82 +85    15
 3 Neu Engollon                           6   4  0  2  133 101 +32    14
 4 Megadia & The Bartholomew Islands      6   3  2  1  126 100 +26    14
 5 An Cuige Uladh                         6   3  0  3  142 115 +27    12
 6 Glascovia                              6   3  0  3  124 119  +5    12
 7 The Royal Kingdom of Quebec            6   2  0  4   83 168 −85    10
 8 84733842                               6   2  0  4  119 138 −19    10
 9 Cantonia Marjora                       6   2  0  4  115 129 −14    10
10 Bordurian                              6   0  0  6   53 209 −156    6

---

Group C Matchday Six
The Serbian Empire 19–21 Alexandr Land
Triimoria 14–28 Euskirribakondara
Darmen 19–21 Bearded Moose
Branta Island 32–0 Lymantatia
New attika 0–49 Saugeais

Group C                                 Pld   W  D  L   PF  PA  PD   Pts 
 1 Euskirribakondara                      6   5  1  0  185  57 +128   17
 2 Darmen                                 6   5  0  1  195  64 +131   16
 3 Triimoria                              6   4  1  1  194  81 +113   15
 4 Bearded Moose                          6   4  1  1  157  92 +65    15
 5 Saugeais                               6   3  0  3  153 117 +36    12
 6 Branta Island                          6   3  0  3  118 111  +7    12
 7 Lymantatia                             6   1  1  4   69 185 −116    9
 8 The Serbian Empire                     6   1  0  5   69 163 −94     8
 9 New attika                             6   1  0  5   71 187 −116    8
10 Alexandr Land                          6   1  0  5   43 197 −154    8

---

Group D Matchday Six
Kriegiersien 33–21 Hutanjia
Ibex 14–36 Nekoni
Western Cuba 19–21 Cyborg Holland
Mapletish 5–29 The Babbage Islands
Aquitayne 34–0 Smernof

Group D                                 Pld   W  D  L   PF  PA  PD   Pts 
 1 Cyborg Holland                         6   6  0  0  176  78 +98    18
 2 Western Cuba                           6   5  0  1  184  73 +111   16
 3 The Babbage Islands                    6   4  0  2  139  73 +66    14
 4 Kriegiersien                           6   4  0  2  152 134 +18    14
 5 Nekoni                                 6   3  0  3  134 114 +20    12
 6 Ibex                                   6   3  0  3  120 125  −5    12
 7 Hutanjia                               6   2  0  4  118 140 −22    10
 8 Mapletish                              6   2  0  4  118 152 −34    10
 9 Aquitayne                              6   1  0  5   69 163 −94     8
10 Smernof                                6   0  0  6   40 198 −158    6

[Kriegiersien]

Schoenwetter News

Kriegiersien 33–21 Hutanjia

A great match unfolded between the two nations from the start. An early lead from Kriegiersen was equalized in no time and after Bar Honig slipping in an awkward fashion, it was 7:12 after only 4 minutes. Haudels in a better shape scored again and Johnson ripped big holes into the defense of Hutanjia with some sprints, leading to open spaces for the others, which she exploited with (often back-) passes.
Hartman was still unhappy, insulted and shouted at his own defense, as they allowed Hutanjia to come back again and again, until he was send away from the referee. But in the end, the hard trained endurance seemed to give his team the decisve factor to win the game. Bar Honig scored the last point, to make up for his mishap at the beginning.

Commentary from our reporter in Yesopalitha

First 2 losses, now 4 wins in a row. Suddenly many things change. The fans are proud at once and people at home are beginning to watch and engage in Rugby.
The president is still boasting about his influence and ignored, but the people begin to love the team and especially Atlanta Johnson.
Even the people in Yesopalitha are changing their attitude to the team.
At the start there were jokes about the Militarysquad "At ease, Kriegiersia" and fans singing "In the navy" while they were crushed. That changed when Atlanta came.
Suddenly they played better, unpredictable, sometimes even beautiful and the team had a face.
Just yesterday the taxidriver turned around when I told him that I`m from Kriegiersien.
"Amanda!", he suddenly cried, nearly crashing into a bus. He then started talking of her for the rest of the ride.

The next opponet is the until now helpless playing team of Smernof. They embraced the attitude of their heraldic animal, the tortoise and couldn`t get rid of it. And it seems unlikely, that with Hartman as coach, that will change after the game. Underestimating or holding back isn`t his thing. And neither that of the great Atlanta Johnson.

[Ko-oren]

The Meteorologists' Approach to R7WC3

Chapter 1

Introduction

These are the notes I took during R7WC3. As the tournament was still ongoing while collecting the data, it is far from complete and one should look forward to the eventual report after the tournament is finished. This is not a way for me to do research and earn some money while watching Rugby Sevens. I repeat, this is not a way to profit off the R7WC3.

Chapter 2

Simple data

[MD1] 10AM Cloudy (54) - 31-7 loss
(Note to self: 54 is very hot. Ehm, that is, it isn't. It's 12 degrees Celsius. I should really see Mr. Fahrenheit for this.)
[MD2] 4PM Gusty (40) - 29-7 loss
[MD3] 6PM Chilly (46) - 19-17 win
[MD4] 10AM Cloudy (40) - 45-5 loss
[MD5] 4PM Storm (40) - 40-10 win
[MD6] 10AM Mild (54) - 35-7 loss

Chapter 3

Evaluation

Results are inconclusive. Both wins were late in the day, at 40F. Another 40F game resulted in the biggest loss so far. Morning games are losses. Evening games are wins. Everything in between is a win as long as the wind is hard enough. More data is needed to ...
[Nonsense, peer reviewed research shows that high temperatures equal losses. -Mr. Fahrenheit]

[Bearded Moose]

10th of the Sproutsmonth, year 482 AM, 3.49 PM local time
Liam Darrenaigh

Ouch…. I had to rush to the stadium but I had made it in time. My chest went up and down like the female lead character of a low quality adult movie. I necked a bottle of water and tried to look as fresh as possible. It had been a rough night yesterday. After finishing my report on the Triimoria game, I wanted to take a look in the Amber Oaks, a place of which I had heard only promising things. Fairly honest, everything after the sing-along and the submarine contest –drinking as much beers with a portion of gin underneath as you can, fyi- was kind of a blur. Micky had left a few minutes before with some good-looking lady –she said she worked for television or something like that– and Dave was probably still lying on that floor, covered in his own drool. The Yesopalithans had looked at our mischief with a combination of interest and disgust, as if they were anthropologists who were confronted with a new species. A rather intoxicated species, to be correct.

If it hadn’t been for One-Eyed John, I would probably be next to Dave, trying not to drawn in my own headache. The room has been spinning like a rollercoaster this morning, but I still recalled some of John’s sores. Who would play on the hooker position tomorrow? And if it wasn’t a big enough problem, our adversaries would be the feared nation of Darmen, a country that was the second ranked team of the tournament. Poor Darren was still recovering from his monumental injury, probably receiving tooth injury this afternoon. And Francis was stuck to the sin bin.
We had gone over the replacements still available. A good hooker was strong (we scratched Ewry Nickaigh), with good stamina (Shay Royaigh is off the list), a terrific pass (Fabricick will be a no) and a good tactical view of the game (Rory Johnsmac was crossed out, again). Putting someone from the current team at the hooker position would only be worse for him (Mikhailaigh, Stephaigh, Brianaigh, …) or too great a loss at other positions (Sidaigh, Cillianaigh, Jussiaigh, …). Time and time we went over it but when we walked home, or better, when John carried me home, we still hadn’t found the solution.

Something still appeared to be eating my skull when I saw the selection taking the field. The opponents looked confident, their green shirts blinking. Five victories, and most of those with superb numbers, backed their claim to the first position in the group. Our guys came out of the tunnel a lot later, with Sidaigh in first position. Following were Damien, Dan, Brian, Séan and Eric. Although it didn’t take a few instants more, it seemed to be ages until our seventh guy treaded the field. Shay Royaigh would be the second prop, with Brian moving a row back. I shook my head. This couldn’t work out well against one of the tournament favourites…

……

10th of the Sproutsmonth, year 482 AM, 3.59 PM local time
Brian Jussiaigh

“You know what you have to do, I have faith in you, Brian.”

I’m still not sure if he tried to convince me or himself. I spend the morning with looking at the tapes from our previous game, focusing on the impact by Francis Louisaigh on the team. While Francis hadn’t the most remarkable appearance off the field, he could make or break our game. Each time again, he instructed his props to keep enough space in between, just not too much. I never really realised it, but whenever I got in trouble the previous games, if I feared to be overrun, he was there: calm and strong. He used the big gap between me and Dan to seduce attackers to run his way. ‘Open, lads.’ he simply said. Said, not shouted, not yelled. Francis only spoke, he never roared and we would follow the command. By the time the opponents knew they had been tricked, he had nailed them to the ground, gained the ball and given one of his well-known crosspasses. Francis could hit an egg fifty yards out, I believe. But there was no Francis today. It was me who had to it. And I couldn’t hit an obese elephant that far out.

The whistle and off we were. Darmen made clear from the first second onwards why they were at the top of the ranking. Their scrum half, Michael Taccione, overlooked the pitch like a general and made poor Mungo look like a simple sergeant, a lieutenant at best. Despite the fact that the Darmenians held the ball most of the time, we managed to close most gaps. But in minute three, they showed they had no mercy. One small mistake by Séan and the scoreline looked a lot worse.

“Keep our chins up and our heads clear, Mooses!”

Mungo still believed in it while I did everything I could to withstand my direct opponent, Adam Masteroni. He looked like a buffalo on steroids, so physically I could handle it. But he was clever as well and I got outplayed time and time again.

“Shite!”

And again. I had to give more, more! Although we still were the weaker side, we managed to make them tremble as well. Or maybe their center-half just left a whole side open by boredom, also possible. Either way, Damien managed to get rid of his opposing fullback Lars and to score the equalizer. We’re back in it!

And there goes Masteroni once more. Three yards, two yards and… Too late. While Masteroni rolls over the pitch, I know I was too late and therefor too high. I try to look away but the referee is strict and fair. Yellow card. I’m leaving the guys alone at such an important moment. The Darmen boys scored immediately afterwards but fail to convert: 12-7.

Everything rolls through my mind during those sixty seconds on the most-hated bench in rugby history. How I left home ten years ago. The disappointment of my dad, for not following his steps. Living in the streets for a year of two. How I was at the porch of my home, but how my pride told me to try it alone, one more time. ‘I never want to see you in my eyesight, you worthless drunk.’ Leaving the state of Pettakill, roaming through the hills. And finally, finding an open spot at the Padraigh National Gardens. I had hated wiping leaves and cleaning benches over and over –and still did–, but there was no way back. And here I sat. Brian Jussiaigh, born Brian Jussikill. Twenty-five years of age, no place to call his own, hardly a dime in his pocket, no girl who waited back home, no family who waved him away at the airport and having let down your best mates… I swallowed away the tears when re-entering the field.

“Aye, Brianyboy, don’t worry, lad.”
“Back on full force, we’ll catch them again, Brian!”
A high five, a pat. Maybe I’m not that poor, I thought, and I smiled.

The second half started with Fabricick at Séan’s position, he seemed injured. The Darmenians kept on bashing at our doors, the locks hardly withstood but we somehow managed to keep it an interesting game. Christian LeMond could make a try for Darmen, but Mungo served them right back and converted single-han… footed. With 19-14 on the board, everything was still possible. But we were tired, so tired. The high pace of games had brought us to the edge and Darmen tried to push us further, inch by inch. I felt completely wasted and Damien appeared to be limping. God knew why Ryanaigh wasn’t bringing on Johnsmac or at least someone else?

One glance at the clock. Fifty seconds and here they come again. Darmen wants the cherry on the pie with a fourth try and I, I could only run. Until they made their first mistake of the half. Taccione wanted to launch Martis for a run, but they had left to much space. Tyree Martis drops the ball and there it is, right in my hands. “39 seconds” shouts the neon-light above my head and I follow its command. I push Martis away with my shoulder and run. Run. Hell, I’ve never run like that. I taste my sweat, I hear my heart pound, oh god, I’m getting a Tom-Hanks-On-The-Beach-In-Saving-Private-Ryan-moment. Step by step, I get closer to the line. Mungo is covered, Eméric is too far away and the props are already happy they’re still able to breath. Greg Ciconi, the opponent prop catches me, but he cannot bring me down. I must stand up! And then, in the corner of my eye, I see Damien limping along the sideline. His direct opponent forgot all about him, I guess, thinking he was toasted. But there he goes, I can see him biting away the pain in his calf. Thirty-five metres. Ciconi tries to strangle my legs, but I’m still up and with all the force in my right arm, I dare the throw…

Far from perfect, but Damien catches and finishes the final yards. We celebrate the equalizer like it’s the Cup itself, until we realise… There’s still the conversion. I think I’m more nervous than Mungo. Heck, everyone seems more nervous than Mungo! Or he’s better in hiding it, of course. He places the ball correctly, sighs one time and goes for it. Only two steps and then his makes the swing. Score!

“Victory foooooooor Bearded Moose,” the speaker bellows. Whilst the guys go celebrate I sit down and look around. Thirty thousand people, shouting at the top of their lungs, celebrating the triumph from David over Goliath. Tears drop down of my face and I bury it in my hands. Seeing no one, nothing, I’m weeping softly. Until a hand touches my shoulder.

“You wouldn’t think we’re celebrating without you?”, Dan grins and the rest of the team can only laugh in approval.

“No,” I smile. “Someone up for a beer?!”

Starting line-up:
1. Brianaigh; 2. Royaigh; 3. Sidaigh (C); 4. Jussiaigh; 
5. Mikhailaigh; 12. E. Stephaigh; 7. Cillianaigh.

Replacements:
8’ 11. Fabricick for 5.

Scores:
Tries: 5’ Cillianaigh, 11’ Sidaigh, 14’ Cillianaigh
Conversions: Mikhailaigh (1/1), Sidaigh (2/2)

Bookings:
6’ Yellow Jussiaigh

[Yesopalitha]

Weather: 40 F - 56 F - 47 F

Group A MD 7
Estope 19–27 Bongo Johnson
Northern Fenbar 19–21 Slembana
Thatius 45–7 Polar Islandstates
Timfen 5–29 Ko-oren
Democratic States of Fenbar 26–21 Argentinum

Group A                                 Pld   W  D  L   PF  PA  PD   Pts 
 1 Thatius                                7   7  0  0  239  71 +168   21
 2 Polar Islandstates                     7   6  0  1  205  97 +108   19
 3 Estope                                 7   5  0  2  208 119 +89    17
 4 Bongo Johnson                          7   4  0  3  182 118 +64    15
 5 Democratic States of Fenbar            7   3  0  4  137 177 −40    13
 6 Ko-oren                                7   3  0  4  114 172 −58    13
 7 Argentinum                             7   3  0  4  127 189 −62    13
 8 Northern Fenbar                        7   2  0  5  127 185 −58    11
 9 Timfen                                 7   1  0  6  111 199 −88     9
10 Slembana                               7   1  0  6   81 204 −123    9

---

Group B MD 7
Glascovia 7–40 Khabarovsk Krai
Bordurian 0–42 84733842
Commune-PDTv2 21–21 Neu Engollon
An Cuige Uladh 21–31 Cantonia Marjora
Megadia & The Bartholomew Islands 40–0 The Royal Kingdom of Quebec

Group B                                 Pld   W  D  L   PF  PA  PD   Pts 
 1 Khabarovsk Krai                        7   6  1  0  217  85 +132   20
 2 Commune-PDTv2                          7   4  2  1  188 103 +85    17
 3 Megadia & The Bartholomew Islands      7   4  2  1  166 100 +66    17
 4 Neu Engollon                           7   4  1  2  154 122 +32    16
 5 84733842                               7   3  0  4  161 138 +23    13
 6 Cantonia Marjora                       7   3  0  4  146 150  −4    13
 7 An Cuige Uladh                         7   3  0  4  163 146 +17    13
 8 Glascovia                              7   3  0  4  131 159 −28    13
 9 The Royal Kingdom of Quebec            7   2  0  5   83 208 −125   11
10 Bordurian                              7   0  0  7   53 251 −198    7

---

Group C MD 7
Saugeais 12–26 The Serbian Empire
Lymantatia 38–14 New attika
Bearded Moose 24–14 Branta Island
Euskirribakondara 7–40 Darmen
Alexandr Land 7–43 Triimoria

Group C                                 Pld   W  D  L   PF  PA  PD   Pts 
 1 Darmen                                 7   6  0  1  235  71 +164   19
 2 Euskirribakondara                      7   5  1  1  192  97 +95    18
 3 Triimoria                              7   5  1  1  237  88 +149   18
 4 Bearded Moose                          7   5  1  1  181 106 +75    18
 5 Saugeais                               7   3  0  4  165 143 +22    13
 6 Branta Island                          7   3  0  4  132 135  −3    13
 7 Lymantatia                             7   2  1  4  107 199 −92    12
 8 The Serbian Empire                     7   2  0  5   95 175 −80    11
 9 New attika                             7   1  0  6   85 225 −140    9
10 Alexandr Land                          7   1  0  6   50 240 −190    9

Group D MD 7
Smernof 0–34 Kriegiersien
The Babbage Islands 19–15 Aquitayne
Cyborg Holland 41–7 Mapletish
Nekoni 26–14 Western Cuba
Hutanjia 36–0 Ibex

Group D                                 Pld   W  D  L   PF  PA  PD   Pts 
 1 Cyborg Holland                         7   7  0  0  217  85 +132   21
 2 Western Cuba                           7   5  0  2  198  99 +99    17
 3 The Babbage Islands                    7   5  0  2  158  88 +70    17
 4 Kriegiersien                           7   5  0  2  186 134 +52    17
 5 Nekoni                                 7   4  0  3  160 128 +32    15
 6 Hutanjia                               7   3  0  4  154 140 +14    13
 7 Ibex                                   7   3  0  4  120 161 −41    13
 8 Mapletish                              7   2  0  5  125 193 −68    11
 9 Aquitayne                              7   1  0  6   84 182 −98     9
10 Smernof                                7   0  0  7   40 232 −192    7

Times of games were the same as they were for MD 2.