World Lacrosse Championships VIII Everything Thread

[Sarzonia]

In the coming days, Fanboy's character will have the umbilical cord CUT. I'm going to do the same with tonight's RPs.

Scores and tables up shortly!

Group A Scores
Elemanu 21-11 Sarzonia
Tarrentum 8-10 Cassadaigua
Jhung: BYE

Group A	        W	L	PCT.	PF	PA	PD
Elemanu	        5	2	.714   102	87	15
Jhung	        5	2	.714	90	81	9
Sarzonia	5	3	.625   117	97	20
Tarrentum	1	6	.143	71	99	-28 -E
Cassadaigua	2	5	.286	77	93	-16 -E

Elemanu ahead of Jhung on point differential in head-to-head results as head-to-head is level at 1-1.

Group B Scores
Silver Beach 11-9 Delaclava
TGWTGLand 9-11 Secristan
Cosumar: BYE

Group B	        W	L	PCT.	PF	PA	PD
Delaclava       5	3       .625	87	79	8 -Q
Silver Beach	4	3       .571	82	84	-2
Cosumar	        4	3       .571	83	79	4
Secristan	3	4       .429	83	83	0
TGWTGLand       2	5       .286	68	78	-10 -E

Silver Beach ahead of Cosumar on point differential in head-to-head results as head-to-head is level at 1-1.

Group C Scores
Allamunnic States 13-11 Qazox
Churchma 10-8 Toiletdonia
The New Caribbean: BYE

Group C	        W	L	PCT.	PF	PA	PD
Alla. States	5	2	.714	111	91	20
Qazox	        5	3	.625	103	93	10
Teroi	        4	3	.571	101	91	10
Churchma	2	5	.286	97     114	-17 -E
TNC	        2	5	.286	80     104	-27 E

Churchma ahead of The New Caribbean on head-to-head result.

Going into the final matchday, 10 teams still have a play for one of the eight spots in the knockout rounds. Here's how we're going to break it up:

Group A
Sarzonia has completed its group stage at 5-3. The Stars would win a tiebreaker with Jhung based on overall goal differential in the head-to-head matchups with both teams having won a match. Sarzonia would lose a tiebreaker with Elemanu based on the same tiebreaker. Elemanu also wins the same tiebreaker against Jhung. In this instance, Elemanu would win the group in the event of a three-way tie.

Group B
Delaclava has completed its group stage at 5-3. The Phoenixes would win a tiebreaker with Silver Beach based on overall goal differential in head-to-head matchups as both teams won a match. Delaclava won both matchups against the other team they could conceivably be level with, Cosumar. Thus, the Phoenixes have clinched one of the three group titles. Silver Beach win the tiebreaker over Cosumar due to overall goal differential in head-to-head matchups as both teams won a match. Secristan cannot catch Cosumar due to losing both head-to-head matchups. They currently trail Silver Beach due to head-to-head result, but a three-point victory would give them the advantage over Silver Beach.

Group C
Qazox has completed its group stage at 5-3. The Grizzlies have lost the tiebreaker with Allamunnic States based on overall goal differential in head-to-head matchups as both teams won a match. If Allamunnic States wins, they win the group. If Teroi wins the matchup, here's where it gets interesting. Teroi would then have a 2-0 record over Allamunnic States, giving them the first tiebreaker. However, they would also be level with Qazox. The head-to-head between those teams is 1-1. The goal differential in the head-to-head is level. It would then go to overall goal differential, which would also favour Teroi.

I have not figured out if Secristan is mathematically eliminated right now. The way I'm reading the scenarios, they still have an outside chance if they can defeat Silver Beach by three goals and Teroi loses to Allamunnic States.

And on that note, I think I have a headache.

[Qazox]

LacrosseToday.net

Game ID: 178350 (Allamunnic States v. Qazox @ Federal Steel Field, Allamunnic States)

BOX SCORE:

Qazox             3 3 3 2  11
Allamunnic States 4 2 5 2  13

The Grizzlies' lost to Allamunnic States 11-13, ending their group stage and now the wait begins. We need Allamunnic States to win or else we're done here at the Lacrosse Championships. Perhaps we can still sneak in with one of the 2 best 3rd place finishes. Qazox just couldn't dig themsleves out of an early 3-0 hole, though the game was tied twice at half-time (6-6) and early in the 3rd quarter (8-8); But the hosts just would not allow Qazox a chance to get back into the game.

Qazoxian Scoring Summary:
Kohler- 4
Potamek- 3
Hart- 3
Akinora-

[Cosumar]

Cosumar Sports Digest
TGWTGLand is all that stands in the way of Cosuamr advancing in the WLC 8!

The title says it all. For the 8th matchday, Cosumar stood on the sidelines for their bye day and watched the other teams duke it out knowing that the outcome of each game was critical to their chances of advancing past group stage. These chances were further dashed when Delaclava-who had already qualified-fell to Silver Beach which put the Silver Beach team in front of the Dragons.

Now, with only 1 game left, 10 teams are competing for the 7 remaining spots for knockout stage. At 4-3 with many teams at 5-3 and 5-2, if Cosumar loses their next match against TGWTGLand they are eliminated. On the other hand, if they win there is a very high chance the Dragons will advance in their first World Lacrosse Championship!

Experts all around Cosumar predict a well-earned victory for the Dragons. TGWTGLand has not done well here in the WLC VIII to say the least. Their record stands at 2-5 and they have been stuck in last place for a majority of the event. This troubled team should pose no threat to Cosumar's WLC dreams.

But what you learn after watching sports for many years is that anybody can beat anybody at any time. TGWTGLand is capable of winning-they have done it twice. Cosumar just needs to get fired up and play with confidence and pride and the score will take care of itself as it did last time when Cosumar defeated "Alphabet Soup Land" (as Secristan calls them lol) by a score of 13-9.

With a 5-3 record, Cosumar would most likely be in but a 4-4 record and they'd be packing up to go home. When Team Captain MF Howard Jayson was asked about the upcoming match and Cosumar's chances he replied with the following comment.

"Are you serious? You guys actually are considering the possibility that we would lose to...TGWTGLand of all people! No! We've worked too long and too hard to lose that game. We are the better team and we are going to show it! Just you watch! We WILL advance past group stage! It's been my dream when i was a little boy, and you actually think I'd let it SLIP THROUGH MY FINGERS! TGWTGLand is going down!" he said obviously very excited.

Howard Jayson's agent then grabbed his shoulders and said something into Jayson's ear. Jayson then composed himself and spoke softly.
"Thank you to Sarzonia for hosting this wonderful event and good luck to all other teams competing blah blah blah." he said walking away from the cameras.

If the rest of the team is as fired up as their captain, Cosumar will either score a lot of goals or get a lot of penalties...Let's hope this aggression translates into great teamwork and dynamic scoring and not beating up the TGWTGLand athletes.

You can watch the game on csbN2 channel 48 or get live updates at sportsdigest.cos.
Until then, thank you for reading, and go Dragons!


MF Howard Jayson in the Dragons' last victory against TGWTGLand in matchday 5

[The Fanboyists]

And So it Comes Down to This...

The Volunteers will face off against Toiletdonia tonight. And it's arguable that no single qualifying game has ever been more important to them. Ever.

Let's review the past two years:

WLC VI: By their final qualifying game, the Vols had gone undefeated, and went on to actually do so up until the final playoff game against Dancougar.

WLC VII: They had lost one game to Qazox, and they went out and took care of business. They went on to win the championship.

So, it's critical that this game be won; losing to Toiletdonia will mean probable elimination, something none of the Vols even want to contemplate, especially after last night's announcement that Kate Strasbourg will take next year off.

But she's making a mark now, after scoring seven goals in last night's victory over Qazox to help secure the victory. She was complemented by Art Sturgis and Cassie Downing, among others, in the attack, with Joe Sturgis and Cally Tolliver contributing with key turnovers.

[Sarzonia]

Of all the things the Sarzonian national team did not want to happen in their final group stage match against Elemanu, the one thing that did could very well cost them a berth in the knockout rounds.

Elemanu laid the wood to the Stars to the tune of a 21-11 victory. The goals allowed and margin of defeat were the worst totals in Stars history. The result snapped a five-match winning streak that took the Stars from the brink of epic failure to the brink of contending for a championship.

So what happened?

"We shit the bed, plain and simple," said midfielder Carter Whitlock, the only player who came out to address the media during the availability period. "We picked a horrible time to have our worst-ever match. Now we're going to have to wait and see what's going to happen."

Sarzonia (5-3) goes into its bye seething from the loss. The Stars gave up five power play goals, which equaled the total they conceded in the previous seven matches combined. Coach Harold Price walked in with a wan expression on his face after briefly addressing the team.

"I didn't curse and I didn't raise my voice," he said slowly. "We didn't lose this match because of lack of hustle, or because of a lack of want-to. We lost this match because Elemanu was just better than we were tonight."

"I know the playoffs are the last thing you probably want to talk about right now," one reporter began before Price put his hand up.

"You're right," he said. "It may turn out to be elementary if the results don't fall our way. Having said that, we're fortunate that we have a high point differential [plus-20] compared to the other teams in the World Lacrosse Championships, and that's even after tonight's disaster."

In fact, Sarzonia's point differential is level with Allamunnic States for the best in the tournament. The Stars said they would convene at Price's Woodstock home to watch the matches. Jhung will host Tarrentum while Elemanu play away to Cassadaigua in Group A.

In Group B, the Secristan-Silver Beach matchup promises great intrigue. The Millionaires, one time World Lacrosse Championship winners, are fighting to keep their slim knockout stage hopes alive and would need to defeat Silver Beach by at least three goals to have a chance. Cosumar hosts bottom feeders TGWTGLand in the other Group B fixture. Meanwhile, Delaclava (5-3) have clinched the group title by virtue of tiebreakers.

Group C's key match will be between Toiletdonia and Allamunnic States in Toiletdonia. The Volunteers lost their previous meeting at home and would only control their fates with a victory. Qazox completed their schedule with a 5-3 record.

"I hate this," Whitlock said of his team's being forced to watch the scoreboard. "I'd rather have our fate decided by now based on our play. This is a helpless feeling."

It may be a nightmare scenario for the Stars, but for lacrosse fans in countries through the lacrosse-playing world, it's a dream World Lacrosse Championships. Unlike previous tournaments where at least one juggernaut threatened to run away with the title, or the fifth World Lacrosse Championships that saw two unbeaten juggernauts battling it out for ultimate supremacy, this one will likely feature a 1 v. 8 matchup between two teams that will not be separated by more than two games in the standings.

It's led to unprecedented interest in Sarzonian sports bars. The Hot Crosse in downtown Wilmington, a local lacrosse-themed bar, reported it has had more than three times its usual load of customers. Several sports bars in downtown Portland and Woodstock have reported changing channels from football matches to lacrosse matches due to an influx of lacrosse supporters.

"It's been great for growing the sport," Price said. "We may not have the most teams in World Lacrosse Championship history competing to qualify here, but we've seen a lot of spirit by many countries."

[Sarzonia]

We had 15 teams start this competition. After tonight, eight will be left to battle it out in the knockout rounds.

Which eight will it be?

Consider this the last RP cut off of the group stage. Scores and final tables up soon, plus playoff match ups and locations.

Group A Scores
Jhung 16-13 Tarrentum
Cassadaigua 11-17 Elemanu
Sarzonia: BYE

Group A	        W	L	PCT.	PF	PA	PD
Elemanu	        6	2	.750   119	98	21 -G
Jhung	        6	2	.750   106	94	12 -Q
Sarzonia	5	3	.625   117	97	20 -Q
Cassadaigua	2	6	.250	88	110	-22
Tarrentum	1	7	.125	84	115	-31

Elemanu win group based on point differential in head-to-head results as head-to-head is level at 1-1. G stands for group winner; Q stands for qualified for knockout rounds.

Group B Scores
Cosumar 16-10 TGWTGLand
Secristan 13-15 Silver Beach
Delaclava: BYE

Group B	        W	L	PCT.	PF	PA	PD
Delaclava       5	3       .625	87	79	8 -G
Silver Beach	5	3       .625	97	97	0 -Q
Cosumar	        5	3       .625	99	89	10
Secristan	3	5       .375	96	98	-2
TGWTGLand       2	6       .250	78	94	-16

Delaclava win the group based on tiebreaker advantages over both Silver Beach and Cosumar. Silver Beach ahead of Cosumar on point differential in head-to-head results as head-to-head is level at 1-1. G stands for group winner; Q stands for qualified for knockout rounds.

Group C Scores
Teroi 14-9 Allamunnic States
The New Caribbean 12-8 Churchma
Qazox: BYE

Group C	        W	L	PCT.	PF	PA	PD
Teroi	        5	3	.625	115	100	15 -G
Alla. States	5	3	.625	120	105	15 -Q
Qazox	        5	3	.625	103	93	10 -Q
TNC	        3	5	.375	92     112	-20
Churchma	2	6	.250	105     126	-21

Teroi win group based on tiebreakers against both Allamunnic States and Qazox. Allamunnic States ahead of Qazox on point differential in head-to-head as both teams have won a match against the other. G stands for group winner; Q stands for qualified for knockout rounds.

Here are the playoff seedings:
1. Elemanu (6-2) Group A champions; best overall record of group winners.
2. Teroi (5-3) Group C champions; higher goal differential than Delaclava.
3. Delaclava (5-3) Group B champions.
4. Jhung (6-2) Group A runners up; best record among non-group winners.
5. Sarzonia (5-3) Group A third place; highest goal differential among non-group winners.
6. Allamunnic States (5-3) Group C runners up; higher point differential in head-to-head matchups over Qazox.
7. Qazox (5-3) Group C third place; higher overall point differential than Silver Beach.
8. Silver Beach (5-3) Group B runners up; higher point differential in head-to-head matchups over Cosumar (5-3).

The match ups (Note that the teams on the left are considered the "home" side for purposes of seeding and RP ONLY):
1 Elemanu v. 8 Silver Beach @ Portsmouth War Memorial Stadium (capacity 21,730)
2 Teroi v. 7 Qazox @ Wilmington Municipal Stadium (capacity 22,400)
3 Delaclava v. 6 Allamunnic States @ Portland Lacrosse Centre (capacity 20,910)
4 Jhung v. 5 Sarzonia @ Franz Braddock Stadium, Woodstock (capacity 35,000)

[Qazox]

LacrosseToday.net

Qazox Team going to Sarzonia

No thanks to Allamunnic States, but Qazox still managed to qualify for the playoffs in Sarzonia. The Grizzlies, once again; will have to face a team from their group for a third time in the quarterfinals. The good news this time is we are not facing the Allamunnic States, but Toiletdonia @ Wilmington Municipal Stadium.

Sarzonia, the hosts, will face Jhung @ Franz Braddock Stadium, Woodstock; while Allamunnic States will face Delaclava @ Portland Lacrosse Centre. The final quarterfinal will take place @ Portsmouth War Memorial Stadium and will feature the #1 seed Elemanu vs. Silver Beach.

Can Qazox overcome yet another team that they have faced multiple times, or will they once again fail to live up to expectations? Our guess, the latter, again.

[Sarzonia]

[OOC: Wiki page updated!]

Even on a bye day, Sarzonian players and coaches admitted to feeling more than a bit tired by the day's events.

After sweating out whether or not the Stars would even qualify for the knockout rounds, Margaret gave her verdict: The Stars would face Jhung for the third time, with the rubber match taking place at Franz Braddock Stadium in Woodstock.

Even though the Stars would technically be the underdog, facing one of only two teams with a better record in the group stage, they would have to feel as though they were favourites. After all, the Stars responded to their 17-12 away loss to Jhung by beating the newcomers 12-6 at Braddock.

"It's not going to be easy by any stretch of the imagination," coach Harold Price said. "We know it's going to be a dogfight. There's a reason [Jhung] went 6-2. That's a quality lacrosse side. I doubt the venue is going to have much of an effect on them."

Perhaps not, but the permutations and calculations involved prior to the night's matches were enough to exhaust any Sarzonian. Scenarios existed that could result in teams finishing anywhere from first to eighth, while some teams wondered if late cycle swoons could cost them a trip to Sarzonia or late surges could book their tickets.

As it was, a tiebreaker over Jhung resulted in Elemanu earning the top overall seed, but with the best record in the World Lacrosse Championships only 6-2, many teams have to believe the field is wide open. Unlike previous editions where it seemed as though one team could run away with the title, this tournament more closely resembles the third World Lacrosse Championships. In that tournament, then-defending champions Taeshan went 8-0 while four teams were 7-1. The sixth seed was debutant Cassadaigua, which ended up winning the third place match.

For Sarzonians, that tournament gives them fond memories, since the then-nascent Sarzonia Slash ran the table in the postseason by edging the late nation Dancougar, routing Taeshan, then edging Newmanistan in the final.

"There's no clear favourite," midfielder Carter Whitlock said of this year's knockout round bracket. "There's a bunch of scrappy equals. It's anyone's guess who's going to end up on top. Not only that, but each of the teams in this bracket is coming in with question marks. You could make a case for just about anybody to win this whole thing."

Here's our effort to determine why any of the eight teams will or won't win the World Lacrosse Championships:

Elemanu (6-2, Group A champions)
Why they'll win: They finished with the best record and the biggest goal differential of any team in this field. Their destruction of Sarzonia in the midst of that team's five-match winning streak sends a powerful message that they'll be reckoned with in their debut tournament.
Why they won't win: They stumbled a bit against a Cassadaigua side that had nothing but pride to play for. In addition, they've got the target painted squarely on their backs following their group stage performance. Not only that, but they may be exhausted from a tough run.
Teroi (5-3, Group C champions)
Why they'll win: They defeated the defending champions Allamunnic States twice. They responded to a decimation at the hands of Qazox by routing them the same way in the return leg. They showed remarkable resolve for a team without much of a lacrosse pedigree.
Why they won't win: They're facing their group rivals from Qazox for the third time, and the Grizzlies are likely smarting from the beat down issued to them on Matchday 6. In addition, Qazox is very familiar with a team they've already met twice.
Delaclava (5-3, Group B champions)
Why they'll win: A stingy defence and being in a nation that will likely give them as close to home field advantage as any team not named Sarzonia in this field. Their programme has also shown gradual progress from their 1-7 debut in the fifth World Lacrosse Championships.
Why they won't win: They're facing the defending champions, who are likely going to come in feeling like wounded animals after another loss to Teroi. That, and the fact their match is in Portland, which is in the north of Sarzonia, instead of Nicksia, which is the closest major Sarzonian city to Delaclava, may well negate any prospect of home field advantage.
Jhung (6-2, Group A runners up)
Why they'll win: After a two-match stumble, the newcomers regained the form that saw them go undefeated through the first half of qualifying. In addition, they are going to be familiar with a Sarzonia team they're facing for the third time.
Why they won't win: The rubber match against Sarzonia will be in Franz Braddock Stadium. Even though they're the higher seed and will wear their home colours, Sarzonia will have the backing of 35,000 full-throated supporters in Woodstock. The Stars won the previous match in Woodstock.
Sarzonia (5-3, Group A third place)
Why they'll win: The Stars reflect their country's strength and determination. After losing their first two matches, the Stars played five of the most dominant matches in their history to rally to the fifth seed. They will also have the backing of a loud, lacrosse knowledgeable crowd through their journey.
Why they won't win: Their loss to Elemanu exposed some serious holes that Jhung will know how to exploit having faced the Stars twice already. In addition, the team looked as though the five-match winning streak took a lot out of them. The two-day break between the end of the group stage and the start of the knockouts may not be enough rest.
Allamunnic States (5-3, Group C runners up)
Why they'll win: They're the defending champions. They've been the dominant team of the past two World Lacrosse Championships after their unbeaten run through their debut in the sixth World Lacrosse Championships ended with a 19-18 defeat to Dancougar. They will approach their match against Delaclava with all the aggression of a team that still has something to prove.
Why they won't win: They lost two matches to Teroi, so if they were to defeat Delaclava and face Teroi, their opponents will know how to beat them in a way no other nation can claim. In addition, their status as defending champions ensures that every team they face will take their best shot. Winning as an underdog will be especially tough for the Volunteers.
Qazox (5-3, Group C third place)
Why they'll win: On their best days, the Grizzlies have shown they belong on the field with anyone. They destroyed Teroi in the first meeting between the clubs and demonstrated some offensive and defensive toughness through their run in Group C. In addition, they're facing Teroi for the third time after the 19-9 spanking on Matchday 6.
Why they won't win: They've been too inconsistent. A victory over Teroi was a reason they felt they could win this tournament, but then Teroi smacked them down even more easily in the second meeting between the clubs. The third meeting at least will not lack for intrigue.
Silver Beach (5-3, Group B runners up)
Why they'll win: They may have been fortunate to win a tiebreaker against Cosumar for the eighth and final playoff spot, but there's an old adage that it's sometimes better to be lucky than good. In addition, the overall strength of all three groups ensures that there's no weak group in this competition. One lucky bounce could be all it takes to see Silver Beach through.
Why they won't win: They're the only team remaining in the World Lacrosse Championships without a plus-goal differential. In addition, their road to lifting the trophy at Franz Braddock Stadium would have to go through three very tough teams, and that would be even if the favourites lost each match.

Prediction: We don't dare predict who's going to win the bloody thing. The only thing we'll predict is that the knockouts will end up just as crazy as the group stage has been.

Have fun!

[Elemanu]

Islanders On Fire

Elemanu's Lacrosse Team, a group of hurlers that had never played a single game until last year, have racked up their fifth win in a row last night with an impressive 17 goal to 11 win over Cassadaigua. This put the Islanders on top of their group with the best record and they have finished the group stage as the top seed as the only team with six wins and the best goal difference of any team in the competition. Part of this success was thanks to Elemanu capitalising on Sarzonia's bad luck when they visited Amori Football Stadium last week and handed the Islanders their biggest win and goal haul ever. The Islanders head into the quarterfinals playing Silver Beach, who only made it through on head-to-head results, and raises the possibility of a semifinal meeting against the Stars who will be out for revenge.

Goal Scorers

Ted Buttram        51
Darcy Oberlander   21
Katy Drakes        14
Penelope Orrick    13
Allan Rosengarten   8
Althea Whitesel     5
Edwina Eadie        3
Erik Wimbish        2
Esmeralda Barreiro  1
Nelson Mayeda       1

Foxes Keep Cup

In the grandfinal of the Blake Cup held at the beginning of the week, the players backing up from the Sarzonia game were obviously tiring. In the end, the match finished as the first ever draw in the Blake Cup, with a Darcy Oberlander goal in the last minute breaking the Bears' hearts. The result meant that the final series was drawn and the Foxes keep the cup, though they did win on point difference technically. Bear's Ted Buttram, leading goal scorer for the Islanders as well as his domestic hurling team, was names person of the series, with a total of 3-50 over his seven games.

Amori City Bears 0-13 (13) VS Damasa City Foxes 1-10 (13)

Round   Team            Result
 1      Jhung           Loss (16-14)
 2      Tarrentum       Win  (16-13)
 3      BYE
 4      Sarzonia        Loss (21-13)
 5      Cassadaigua     Win  (12-8 ) 
 6      Jhung           Win  (12-9 )
 7      Tarrentum       Win  ( 9-14)
 8      BYE
 9      Sarzonia        Win  (21-11)
10      Cassadaigua     Win  (11-17)

QF      Silver Beach

[Toiletdonia]

The two monks sat in the garden looking out at the wider world. bout half a mile away was the Lacrosse stadium where Teroi were playing their final group match against Allamunnic States. There were only a few minutes to go and the score was unbearable. Teroi only lead by one point and it was currently 10-9. A win here would win the group and put Teroi in a great position in the next match. Then suddenly a rush at goal saw one of the Teroian players smash it into the goal for a a point. He ran off to celebrate but with 3 minutes still to go the tension was there. Instead of causing tension for Teroi it caused another attack. The monks couldn't make his face out but Marshall got the ball and past it to Gu-Jak. He slammed it in to loosen tensions further. Now with one minute to go Teroi had a three point lead and knew this was a lead to hold onto. The final goal came with seconds left. Marshall got the ball right in front of the goal and buried it to end the game on a high for Teroi.

"Have they won it then?"

"I think so. Wait... yes, yes they have."

"Wahoo! this was much better than the last world championship wasn't it?"

"I agree but next we have a tough match."

"Who then. Because Cassadaigua are out and The Fanboyists quit so?"

"Qazox."

"Oh come on we beat them last time what going to stop us doing that again?"

"Nothing I'm just saying this could be tough. And are those Cassadaiguans really out?"

"Yes they finished 4th in the group with only 2 wins. They got absolutely pummelled."

"Well that's one threat down and what is this about the Fanboyists?"

"They quit for good."

"This is looking good then isn't it!"

"Well apart from Sarzonia, Delaclava, Qazox and Jhung."

"Well first Delaclava and Qazox are beatable and secondly who are Jhung?"

"Don't you remember the DBC?"

"Oh yes them. The people that pulled out."

"Well they finished second in the group on a 6-2 record."

"Gees! Really? I don't want to play them."

"Oh well we can only play one of them in the final."

"Okay that, okay then."

"If we win this match which team will we play next?"

"Elemanu or Silver Beach."

"The new kids on the block or the rivals? That should be a good game."

"Hey lets get tickets to the Qazox game!"

"No we must look after the house and I'm broke."

"Oh well TV will have to suffice then."

They then began drinking the Pimms that was on the table and talking into the night.

Toi Sports

A rivalry in the making

After the group stage with Teroi winning the final game against the Allamunnic States they now are through to the knock-out stage. Then shocking news came through. We would be facing Qazox for the third time this cup and a lot of people agree this game could create our first Lacrosse rivalry. In the past games between Qazox and Teroi have seen goals and more goals. The first game between the two sides was a 20-11 victory in favour of Qazox, but the next time the two teams met Teroi managed to thump Qazox 19-9. Because of this Lacrosse world championships there has been a rise in popularity for the sport. It is now the 4th highest funded sport in the United Territories.

Predictions

Elemanu v Silver Beach
Well this game would be a hard one for Silver beach to navigate. They will have to play number one seeds and they are the only team in the knock-out stage with negative goal difference. Although they are a more experienced side we still think a comfortable win for Elemanu is on the cards.
Toiletdonia v Qazox
This game always seems to bring a big win for one team or the other. We think that with a win on our back we have the advantage but that could just be plain wrong. We know both teams want to win this but only one can and I have a feeling that team will go on to win it. So I guess we favour our home country Teroi.
Delaclava v Allamunnic States
I don't really care about what people say about Delaclava's defence. They have only made it to the knock-outs twice and they have never made it past the quarter finals (This counts as the second time.) Meanwhile the Allamunnic states won the previous edition and came second the time before. Some people may view them as a prodigy but we can only stare in awe. We predict an easy win for Allamunnic states.
Jhung v Sarzonia
Jhung are new and strong. Sarzonia old and wise. This is a battle of opposites. Jhung may have the better record but Sarzonia have experience and home turf. Really anything could happen here but I think we will go with Sarzonia. Both teams are in with a decent chance though.

Elemanu v Sarzonia
A game that has made me think. Both teams are good, but one new and one old. Sarzonia have the home turf advantage but Elemanu have the shock advantage. I will watch this game because it will be worth it, but I feel sorry for the fans who are going to have one of the tensest game of their lives. But being someone who favours the most well-know team I have to say Sarzonia.
Toiletdonia v Allamunnic States
Well this game has me as nervous as anything. The ex champions taking on us the minor shocks. Well we have beaten them before and we have proven our worthiness before so we could win. But we underestimate the ex champions and maybe we just a bit jealous. I still think we will win though, but it will be as close as the game above.

Elemanu v Allamunnic States
Only the bronze to play for here. By now I imagine both teams are tired and not that bothered about it. But I think that Elemanu will still have the surge of adrenaline to drift on so they probably will come out on top. Although the ex-champions will still be looking for pride so they will push as well. Expect it to be close and don't expect a quite game either.

Sarzonia v Toiletdonia
Well this really is an unpredictable game. Sarzonia have won it twice and have made two other appearances in the Semi-Finals. While Teroi have only played in this once before and struggled. And yet at the minute we are playing like a winning side. We also have had a good group stage but really that is just stats. Sarzonia will be on home turf but being expected to win does put a lot of pressure on you so the underdogs just might do it this time. Yes I think Teroi will win this cup for the first time!

[Sarzonia]

"Not fast enough, dammit! Not fast enough! All right! That's it!"

The piercing sound of the whistle put an abrupt end to the Sarzonian lacrosse team's practice session. Harold Price paced the collection of players with his arms folded as a scowl creased his face.

All the while Price was pacing, he was trying to collect his thoughts.

"They took it to us in the first match because we weren't ready for them," Price said. "We played better the next time against them, but we're going to have to be even better than that."

The implication was clear. The Stars were a step slow as a unit against Jhung the first time out at Kim Jong-Un Arena. It didn't matter to Price that they were a step faster than Jhung in the return leg at Franz Braddock Stadium. It didn't matter that they were getting the third meeting back at Braddock. They looked like utter crap in this training session.

Finally, Price and defensive coordinator Rob Davies were convening after Price dismissed the players. Price noted the perturbed look on Davies's face as the two men sat down in Price's office.

"The lads are exhausted. Mentally, physically, emotionally," Davies said. "It's not you driving them that's the problem. The thing is, they've played eight pressure-packed matches, each one with their spot in the knockouts in doubt. This team needs a breather."

Price raised an eyebrow. He knew Davies was right. He also knew Davies had his finger on the pulse of the team.

"Driving them harder isn't going to solve anything," he said. "They're already worked to the bone. Cancel tomorrow morning's training session. Tell them to sleep in."

"No," Price said. "I've got another idea. Get them together. Have the pre-training breakfast, then send them on their way."

"Better yet," goaltenders coach Dave Peeters said. "Have them go on some fun activity together. Have it be another team bonding exercise."

"Like we did during the fifth World Lacrosse Championships," Davies said.

Price smirked at the memory. His smirk turned to a chuckle when he remembered midfielder Carter Whitlock botching his turn at karaoke.

"Perhaps we could host a mock version of Sarzonia's got talent?" Price asked.

Now they were onto something. The 6 a.m. meeting time would be far more interesting than a simple two-hour training session in the early morning hours before the summer heat slammed into the valley where Woodstock sat in the Lorber Mountains.

"I've got an idea that might amuse our female players," Davies said.

"What's that?"

"Call Khalil [Dennis, the manager of the national baseball team] and Calen [McSuthern, a Delaclav actor and Dennis's partner] and see if we can do an impromptu Queer Eye for the Sarzonian Guy episode. Might be worth a few laughs."

Price hesitated. "I don't know. After all, that's how QSPN got into all that hot water."

"That was one homophobic prick."

"Yeah, one homophobic prick whom QSPN gave a forum to vent his fucking spleen to."

"Yeah, but I don't want us to get ourselves into that kind of situation. I want this to be humourous."

"I think if we approach it that way, they'll at least see where we're going with it. Otherwise, do you know anyone who might be interested in helping us out with this?"

"Hmm, well, Carter does have a rather interesting sense of humour..."

[Qazox]

LacrosseToday.net

PLAYOFF PREVIEW

Everyone done them, and almost no one ever gets it right, but we can try!
(Our winners in Bold)
QUARTERS
1 Elemanu v. 8 Silver Beach (17-13)
2 Teroi v. 7 Qazox (16-15 OT)
3 Delaclava v. 6 Allamunnic States (16-14)
4 Jhung v. 5 Sarzonia (18-14)
SEMIFINALS
1 Elemanu v. 5 Sarzonia (16-14)
3 Delaclava v. 7 Qazox (15-14)
3RD PLACE
1 Elemanu v. 3 Delaclava (17-14)
CHAMPIONSHIP
5 Sarzonia v. 7 Qazox (18-15)

[Sarzonia]

KNOCKOUT ROUND SCHEDULE (note: this is also added to the OP)

Tuesday 27 July
1 Elemanu (6-2) v. 8 Silver Beach (5-3), Portsmouth War Memorial Stadium (capacity 21,730)
2 Teroi (5-3) v. 7 Qazox (5-3), Wilmington Municipal Stadium (capacity 22,400)
3 Delaclava (5-3) v. 6 Allamunnic States (5-3), Portland Lacrosse Centre (capacity 20,910)
4 Jhung (6-2) v. Sarzonia (5-3), Franz Braddock Stadium, Woodstock (capacity 35,000)

Wednesday 28 July
Elemanu-Silver Beach winner v. Jhung-Sarzonia winner @ Franz Braddock Stadium
Teroi-Qazox winner v. Delaclava-Allamunnic States winner @ Portland Lacrosse Centre

Thursday 28 July
Semifinal losers @ Portland Lacrosse Centre

Friday 29 July
Semifinal winners @ Franz Braddock Stadium
Note: Match may move to Hendrix Stadium in Woodstock (capacity, 57,900) if Sarzonia is playing

[Sarzonia]

All right. Ready to see who's going to the semifinals?

RP cutoff for the quarterfinals is NOW!

Scores and pairings up shortly!

(1) Elemanu 18-11 (8) Silver Beach
(2) Toiletdonia 11-15 (7) Qazox
(3) Delaclava 6-17 (6) Allamunnic States
(4) Jhung 6-21 (5) Sarzonia

SEMIFINALS
(1) Elemanu v. (5) Sarzonia @ Franz Braddock Stadium, Woodstock
(6) Allamunnic States v. (7) Qazox @ Portland Lacrosse Centre

[Qazox]

LacrosseToday.net

Game ID: 178360 (Teroi v. Qazox @ Wilmington Municipal Stadium, Sarzonia)

Qazox  4 2 3 6  15
Teroi  2 2 4 3  11

In the closest quarterfinal game of the tourney, Qazox held off a 3rd quarter charge by Teroi to pull away in the 4th quarter thanks to 3 goals in that period from Thoimas Potamek. The victory puts Qazox into the WLC semi-finals against... <drumroll please...> Allamunnic States. Of course. for the 6th time in the last 2 Lacrosse championships, it all comes down to a 3rd meeting vs. our lacrosse rivals.

Back to the game vs. Teroi, after a rather close 1st half and having a 8-4 lead just 3 minutes into the 3rd quarter, 4 consecutive goals by Teroi tied the match up before a Vance Kohler goal put the Grizzlies back into the lead for good. A quick goal, just 8 seconds into the 4th quarter by Potamek upped the lead to 10-8 and Teroi just could not get a goal to cut into the lead. Xavier Jackson managed to score a goal as he was switched to forward due to a line-up mistake.

As for our next oppenents, Allammunic States defeat Delacalva 17-6; No need to re-hash the past between these two teams. The winner goes to the finals, the loser to a 3rd place game.

Qazoxian Scoring Summary:
Kohler-5
Potamek- 5
Hart- 2
Akinora- 2
Jackson-

[Sarzonia]

So much has been made of debutant lacrosse nation Jhung in this eighth World Lacrosse Championships. They finished level with Elemanu for the best overall record in the tournament, losing out only on tiebreakers. They dominated the first four matches of qualifying. And now, they were facing a team they spanked on Matchday 2.

Their opponents were questioned by many and derided by some as being past their primes. They were considered cursed by whichever lacrosse ghosts didn't want them to host the World Lacrosse Championships.

Carter Whitlock can perhaps add exorcism to his many talents. The Sarzonian midfielder scored a national record nine goals and added five assists as Sarzonia destroyed Jhung 21-6 in front of an overflow crowd of 35,214 at Franz Braddock Stadium.

The Stars will face yet another Group A side in the semifinals as Elemanu travels to Woodstock following their 18-11 win over Silver Beach. The Islanders improved to 7-2, becoming the only team with as many as seven wins in the tournament. Besides Elemanu, tonight was a night for the upset with the other three matches going to the lower seeds.

Still, lacrosse observers could argue that the underdog teams who won should have won their matches. Seventh seeded Qazox has prior success in the World Lacrosse Championships and held off Teroi in their match by a 15-11 score. Third seed Delaclava were sent back on the short trip home by the defending champions Allamunnic States 17-6 despite a crowd of 18,294 overwhelmingly supporting Sarzonia's southern neighbours.

"It really was like a home field advantage for the Phoenixes," colour analyst Matt Houlder said in an interview after the Volunteers victory. "The Volunteers soon adapted and treated it as a true away fixture."

Now, they'll be considered the home side in their third meeting with Qazox. The first meeting in this World Lacrosse Championships went to overtime with the Grizzlies prevailing. The Volunteers took the most recent encounter by two goals, so many wags are predicting yet another close one.

As for Sarzonia against Elemanu, the Stars won the first meeting 21-13, which evened their record to 2-2 after an 0-2 beginning. The Islanders then ripped the Stars 21-11 in Sarzonia's group stage finale, which brought questions about the team's heart, its age, even its manhood.

"I don't think anyone's going to question us now," said goaltender Mark Tomscik, who made six saves, but was scarcely threatened all night. "We're going to give it all we've got."

When asked if the extra day off helped the Stars, coach Harold Price shook his head.

"It didn't do Delaclava any good," he said. "I think it just made us a bit antsy to get back out there and prove ourselves. We have to go right back at it again tomorrow night against a tough lacrosse side. It doesn't get any easier from here on out."

[Elemanu]

Thomas Tomato: And let's talk about Lacrosse now!
Zach Zucchini: Well, who would've thought that our hurlers could transition into this game so easily, and make it through to the semis of the World Lacrosse Championships, amongst the best in the world, on their maiden try?
Thom: We have to remember that there was only one professional lacrosse player in all of Elemanu until last year, and that was our coach Christian Modesto.
Zach: And he has proved to be an amazing force, a great teacher to our top notch hurlers.
Thom: Let's look at what's happened this tournament! The first two games were pretty good - we lost our first and won our second, against a very experienced team.
Zach: It was a good start, really, considering everything. But then we came up against the hosts and one of the top lacrosse playing nations of all time.
Thom: Yes, and we were spanked! A massive 21-13 loss, and we were lucky it wasn't more than that.
Zach: Of course, Thom, that was what turned it for us.
Thom: Indeed! That was the start of an incredible six game winning streak that has brought us to the semifinals.
Zach: And we all know the highlight was that rort against Sarzonia three games ago. We really put ourselves on the world stage with that one.
Thom: 21-11. Who would've guessed that that was possible? Of course, you have to remember, when it comes to hurling, we are probably one of the top nations in the world.
Zach: Only because so few people play it!
Thom: Despite that, we were probably not a bad team to start with, we just needed the right coach.
Zach: That's true. What about our last game?
Thom: It was a big win, that's for sure! 18-11, it was our biggest win since that game against Sarzonia.
Zach: Do you think we've peaked too early? That we've tired ourselves out?
Thom: Well, that's always the problem in these sort of competitions. You have to remember hurling is a brutal and tiring sport, so our stamina is probably better than average. But since our next game is against Sarzonia, it would've been nicer to be a bit fresher.
Zach: Especially since they have the home advantage?
Thom: Certainly there, Zach. Look, these Sarzonians will be out for blood. This is their home turf, they're looking great, and they want revenge for what we did to them last time we met.
Zach: Speaking of looking great, their last match was incredible!
Thom: I know! They made those Jhungites look like a bunch of backward school children. Especially with all the complaining they do!
Zach: There's no excuse for that sort of poor sportsmanship at this level, Thom.
Thom: None whatsoever. And complaining about biased refereeing would never account for a fifteen point thrashing. They didn't even score in the second half of the game!
Zach: I think that those Jhungians just went too hard, too early in the competition, didn't focus on the game, didn't put enough into it, and it shows. They were lucky to even get into the quarters.
Thom: Well, we don't have to worry about them anymore. So, what's your pick of the score?
Zach: I'm sorry, I love our team, but I think we'll go down and down hard. A 21-14 loss from me.
Thom: Well, I have to say, I'd be putting money on Sarzonia too if I wasn't Elemanuese, and all this nonsense about us being the top seed is just confusing everything. I think it will be tight, but 17-15 to Sarzonia.
Zach: Fair scores. Now, how about that other semi? The Allamunnic States versus Qazox?
Thom: I'd love to say Qazox, but the Allamunnic States are just looking too strong, and they could go all the way. 15-11 to the States?
Zach: Well, I'm not one to discount Qazox, but it should be a fantastic game, so I'm saying 16-15 to Qazox.
Thom: Well folks, will go to the break now, and be back with the National Kitten Kicking Kontest!

Round   Team            Result
 1      Jhung           Loss (16-14)
 2      Tarrentum       Win  (16-13)
 3      BYE
 4      Sarzonia        Loss (21-13)
 5      Cassadaigua     Win  (12-8 ) 
 6      Jhung           Win  (12-9 )
 7      Tarrentum       Win  ( 9-14)
 8      BYE
 9      Sarzonia        Win  (21-11)
10      Cassadaigua     Win  (11-17)

QF      Silver Beach    Win  (18-11)
SF      Sarzonia

[Qazox]

LacrosseToday.net

Semifinal Preview
1 Elemanu v. 5 Sarzonia: Sarzonia 17-15
6 Allammunic States v. 7 Qazox Qazox 14-13

We correctly predicted 3 of the 4 quarterfinal matches. And yes we think that Qazox can finally get the Allammunic States' bug off our shoulder. We also think that Sarzonia will manage to make the final at home as well.

But then again we are probably wrong, and It will be Elemanu v Allammunic States or Sarzonia v Allammunic States or even, dare we hopeish, Elemanu v. Qazox? No matter the actual final these 4 teams are clearly the best in Lacrosse.

[Sarzonia]

A major power failure throughout the Incorporated States has resulted in the semifinals being postponed until Thursday.

[OOC: My apologies: We'll be resuming Wednesday's schedule tomorrow.]

[Sarzonia]

RP cutoff for the semifinals!

Find out who's going to Woodstock ... and who's getting relegated to Portland!

(1) Elemanu 10-18 (5) Sarzonia @ Franz Braddock Stadium, Woodstock
(6) Allamunnic States 9-15 (7) Qazox @ Portland Lacrosse Centre

Thus, tomorrow's third place playoff will be:

(1) Elemanu v. (6) Allamunnic States (at the Portland Lacrosse Centre)

Saturday's final will be:

(5) Sarzonia v. (7) Qazox (at Hendrix Stadium in Woodstock, capacity 58,250)

[Qazox]

LacrosseToday.net

Game ID: 178362 (Allamunnic States v. Qazox @ Portland Lacrosse Centre)

Qazox              2 3 5 5  15
Allamunnic States  2 1 3 3   9

I think we got the bug off our backs. A 5-3 halftime score saw both teams' defenses in control. But somehow in the 2nd half, the Grizzlies' offense exploded for 10 goals and advanced to Qazox' first final in lacrosse. 4 goals each from Thoimas Potamek & David Akinora in the 2nd half lead the way, as the Volunteers' defense just could not stop them. When asked why Qazox could dominate the defending champions, Akinora had this to say:

It just seemed to me that they were not interested playing defense out there. I don't know why, but I'm glad they kinda gave up.

In the other semifinal, Sarzonia defeated Elemanu 18-10; so Qazox will face the Hosts at Hendrix Stadium in Woodstock. Can the Grizzlies win their first title, or will Sarzonia win a 3rd title in front of their home fans?

Qazoxian Scoring Summary:
Potamek- 4
Akinora- 4
Kohler- 3
Hart- 2
Chapman- 2
Mattheiu- 2

[Sarzonia]

Anyone who was worried about a possible hangover after Elemanu issued Sarzonia the worst beatdown in national lacrosse team history needn't have worried.

Playing in front of a packed Franz Braddock Stadium crowd, the Stars avenged their historic loss by defeating the Islanders 18-10, sending the Stars across town to Hendrix Stadium for the final. They will face Qazox, which continued its Cinderfella run with a 15-9 victory over defending champions Allamunnic States.

But at present, Sarzonia finds itself back in the championship game for the third time in its relatively short history as a lacrosse programme. They do because Carter Whitlock once again put the team on his back and carried them. Whitlock scored four goals and added seven assists. He was also all over the field defensively, disrupting the Islanders on offence by not giving their playmaking midfielders space.

"We knew what happened last time out," Whitlock said. "We weren't going to let them just walk over us." Case in point: Sarzonia was whistled for a programme-record 23 fouls to Elemanu's 28. The combined total of 51 fouls for both teams was also the most for a match involving Sarzonia.

"They play real aggressive lacrosse," said goaltender Mark Tomscik. "The lads all decided if we were going to take their best shot that we'd have to dish it back out at them."

Elemanu (7-3) may have won Group A as one of just two teams with a 6-2 record, but the Stars made them look like the lacrosse neophytes they were. Several shots sailed over Tomscik's shoulder and harmlessly behind the cage.

"It's probably their hurling background that caught up to them a bit," said coach Harold Price. For Price, the victory finally puts to bed the concerns the team had about not doing well the previous time they hosted the World Lacrosse Championships. It also marked another step in the stunning turnaround from an 0-2 beginning to the group phase.

As for Qazox, the Grizzlies will play the match against Sarzonia in Hendrix Stadium just two World Lacrosse Championships after the team played all its "home" matches at the Portland Lacrosse Complex because Estrella Motor Cars Field at Grizzlies Park hadn't been built yet. The Sarzonian automobile manufacturer put up $25 million to build the stadium and infrastructure around the park.

All of that is merely prolougue, however, as the Grizzlies will compete in the title match in the World Lacrosse Championships for the first time. Whitlock said the team's experience would help, but "isn't a panacea.

"All the experience in the world doesn't help you if you don't play your game to the best of your ability," Whitlock said. "Newmanistan were playing in their third straight final when we beat them in the third World Lacrosse Championships final. Dancougar were playing their second consecutive final against us when we beat them. We've still got to play our game."

[Elemanu]

[Sarzonia]

[OOC: Just a note to those of you still following along. Tonight's scorination may be a bit late, but it WILL happen, either at the normal time or in the early morning hours EDT.]

Stadium organisers at the Portland Lacrosse Centre have reported strong interest on the part of Islanders supporters for tickets, causing the allotment of 7,500 tickets to be exhausted in less than 10 hours. The 7,500 ticket allotment for Allamunnic States supporters has also been exhausted.

"We're actually dipping into the 5,000 ticket allotment for our own supporters," said stadium vice president for ticket sales Ed Goranovski. "Er, wait. We've only got 1,000 of those tickets left. Fans of both teams have been snapping them up."

Stadium vice president for operations Chris James said the stadium's top brass "has the city council's office on speed dial" when asked if the stadium would consider moving in temporary bleachers to increase capacity.

"We can probably expand capacity to 29,000 if we open a couple of sections we have cordoned off," he said. "[The Portland Lacrosse Centre] used to be the Iron Bowl before ShinyPlaces built the new stadium. To increase the capacity, we have to get a permit from the City Council, and they don't move too fast sometimes."

However, a spokesman for the Portland City Council said stadium officials have not approached them about the required permits.

"We have not been contacted in any way," said Lowell George, the chief press information officer for the Portland City Council. "We fully understand the nature of the need. If they contact us, we can get them an answer quickly." Right then, another phone rang. "Excuse me for a second." A few minutes later, he came back.

"My apologies. That was the stadium. They just contacted us, and I've forwarded their message to the Council Chairman." A few minutes later, George came back on the line.

"It's been approved. I just spoke with the stadium staff. They're moving to add capacity as we speak."

So therefore, the Portland Lacrosse Centre will seat 29,310 for the third place playoff.

[Sarzonia]

And, on cue, RP cutoff for the third place playoff!

Find out who takes the bronze and who wins pewter next!

Third-Place Playoff

in front of 29,278 at the Portland Lacrosse Centre

Elemanu 13-6 Allamunnic States

Congratulations to Elemanu on capturing the bronze! Commisserations to Allamunnic States on having to settle for pewter medals.