World Lacrosse Championships 32 - Everything Thread

[Bolgano]

Bolgano Lacrosse National Team

Goalkepeers
#1 John Tewids
#11 Lenns Tiveds
#12 Louis Vicks

Defenders
#2 Robert Johnson
#3 Chris Lompsey
#4 Francis Donnes
#13 Patrick Dounalt
#14 Daniels Lindsay
#15 Jake Woodlands
#16 Fran Okebo

Midlefiers
#5 John Thomas
#6 Olen Kibuk
#7 Ross Vendsey
#17 Hileen Fines
#18 Ross Tewids
#19 Louis Pets
#20 Roman Dennis

[/b]Ofensive
#8 Dennis Kirbey
#9 Victor Dollen
#10 Tom Weddind
#21 Kevin Alt
#22 Carl Alt
#23 Peters Blowood
#24 Daniels Gibs-Lants

Manager: Brandon Martins
Formation: 3-4-2
Style: +2.5

RP Permissions
[b]Choose my scorers: Y
Godmod scoring events: N
RP injuries to my players: Tg first
Godmod Injuries to my players: N
Suspend my players: N
Godmod suspension events: N
Godmod other events: Y

[Bolgano]

Bolgano 10-9 Xanneria

The second edition of Bolgano in a WLC, was sent again the same players as in WLC 31, it was rare that not a change, Martins said it was because these players already know how to play in this difficult tournament, last year, Bolgano was eliminated In the Group Stage, the funny thing is that I remain in Group A with the hosts of that year, it is repeated in the same group and the same host.

Xanneria, was not a tough opponent, let's change, it was from the beginning to the end, the most difficult game of Bolgano in a WLC, that in the first part they lost 5-2, they managed to take the time to overcome.

Although the group is still difficult since the next opponent is Abanhfleft.

Abanhfletf 13-6 Bolgano

It had to be said and said, Abanhfletf demonstrated the power of the host of this edition, losing 13-6 was not a mockery but if a bad game, the home team had every chance to score while we looked a little distracted, Without finding spaces, it was a disappointing part.

Volinovia is coming, with a victory there may be a qualifying round to the next round.

[Abanhfleft]

We're just about halfway through this thing so don't make the mistake of thinking you're already in la la land just three games in.
CUTOFF for MD3 of the 32nd World Lacrosse Championships.

---

Group A
Bolgano 8–13 Volinovia
Xanneria 3–7 Abanhfleft

  Group A                 Pld   W  L   GF  GA  GD
1 Abanhfleft                3   3  0   30  18 +12
2 Xanneria                  3   1  2   28  25  +3
3 Volinovia                 3   1  2   30  34  −4
4 Bolgano                   3   1  2   24  35 −11

Group B
PR Xabia 13–10 Hampton Island
Geektopia 3–9 St Saratoga

  Group B                 Pld   W  L   GF  GA  GD
1 St Saratoga               3   3  0   33  24  +9
2 PR Xabia                  3   2  1   30  28  +2
3 Hampton Island            3   1  2   32  31  +1
4 Geektopia                 3   0  3   15  27 −12

Group C
Sarzonia 11–7 HUElavia
Devonta 5–13 Vangaziland

  Group C                 Pld   W  L   GF  GA  GD
1 Vangaziland               3   3  0   38  19 +19
2 Sarzonia                  3   2  1   25  27  −2
3 Devonta                   3   1  2   26  35  −9
4 HUElavia                  3   0  3   29  37  −8

Group D
Baker Park 12–5 The Sarian
Furby Island 8–13 Banija

  Group D                 Pld   W  L   GF  GA  GD
1 Baker Park                3   2  1   32  18 +14
2 The Sarian                3   2  1   31  21 +10
3 Banija                    3   2  1   30  31  −1
4 Furby Island              3   0  3   13  36 −23

Group E
Union of Quincy 7–5 Greater Cebu
Terre Septentrionale 7–4 Qasden

  Group E                 Pld   W  L   GF  GA  GD
1 Terre Septentrionale      3   2  1   32  21 +11
2 Union of Quincy           3   2  1   27  23  +4
3 Qasden                    3   2  1   22  23  −1
4 Greater Cebu              3   0  3   18  32 −14

Group F
Cassadaigua 11–6 Greater Vakolicci Haven
Aimena 1–8 Cosumar

  Group F                 Pld   W  L   GF  GA  GD
1 Cosumar                   3   2  1   29  21  +8
2 Greater Vakolicci Haven   3   2  1   32  31  +1
3 Aimena                    3   1  2   24  27  −3
4 Cassadaigua               3   1  2   24  30  −6

Group G
Lochario 10–5 Sarzoclava
Britonisea 9–16 Wrexwic

  Group G                 Pld   W  L   GF  GA  GD
1 Wrexwic                   3   3  0   34  22 +12
2 Lochario                  3   2  1   23  17  +6
3 Sarzoclava                3   1  2   27  25  +2
4 Britonisea                3   0  3   18  38 −20

Friendly reminder that next day is and off day so you all have 48 hours to catch your breath and get yourselves ready for the second half of the group stage. Good luck to everyone!

[Banija]

Banijans start slowly as the 32nd World Lacrosse Championships start in Abanhfleft


Banijan lacrosse player on Matchday 1 of the World Lacrosse Championships

HARANGUER, SELID PROVINCE, ABANHFLEFT- The 32nd World Lacrosse Championships have launched, and for the 11th consecutive tournament, the Banijans will try to equal what they did in their first ever WLC tournament- reach the final. The goals have always been high for Banijan lacrosse, after our explosive arrival on the scene in this sport, and our general competitiveness ever since. While we are removed from the early glory days, that shapes the perception of the sport in Banija, and Banija's dedication to the sport. The success of Banijan clubs, specifically the Bunyoro Regional Sporting Club, in the IDLO Champions Cup has shown, of course, Banijan ability in this sport. And Banija's goal each time in this tournament, although it has never been realized, has always been the same- winning a championship.

The heyday of Banijan lacrosse, naturally, was at the beginning. A run to the final in WLC 21, our first ever non-Commonwealth Games sporting tournament as a nation, gave this country a taste for what that would feel like. But then- we have not been back. It is WLC 22 where we developed our greatest rivalry in this sport- Abanhfleft. Two group stage losses, and then a semifinal elimination, to the beginning of the Fleftic dynasty is something that will develop a rivalry. Another elimination at the hands of Abanhfleft, this time in the semifinals of the 25th World Lacrosse Championships, cemented the rivalry. It is, like many of Banija's international sporting rivalries, one-sided- see Banija being a moment of triumph for both Abanhfleft and Equestria, whereas those nations have simply caused our fans pain, and leave us wanting more.

Well, the chance for revenge is here. The 32nd World Lacrosse Championships are being held on Fleftic soil. Wouldn't that be quite the story? But don't get too far ahead of ourselves- we are only two games into the group stages of this tournament, and it has been interesting so far. Banija, as the 6th ranked side, were in Pot 1, and found themselves as the highest ranked side in their group. They took on an unranked Sari side in game 1 of the World Lacrosse Championships. And, quite shockingly, the Banijans were upset- the reigning bronze medalists were thoroughly dominated by the newcomers, in a loss that stunned Banijan observers, and perhaps took them by surprise. Ogunsola maybe took them too lightly? But now, it put the Banijans in a bind. A shock loss, but there is time to recover.

And of course, their next game was against the Commonwealth of Baker Park. If we lost to their regional allies and burgeoning lacrosse rivals, we'd be eliminated with a game left. From potential title challengers to an early group stage elimination? Again? After the humiliation of a group stage elimination on home soil that shook the sport's foundation in this country so bad, that we cleaned house entirely, the Lacrosse Federation of Banija was dissolved and the sport brought back to Olympic Committee governance, and nobody associated with that WLC 29 team has associated with the national team since? No, that could not be allowed to happen. And so, the Banijans went to the Baker Park, and approached it with a must win mentality. Ogunsola told us that after that opening loss, 'every game must be played like it is an elimination game for us- because it is. The margin for error is so tight here, that must be recognized.'

Fortunately, the Banijans, after a hard fought battle with Baker Park, won 12-10. It puts the Banijans in a strong place, once again, to keep advancing through the group stages.

[Union of Quincy]

Perennial Underachievers
Quincy looking to get over the hump this time around

Demonym: Kwang-tzu

Key Personnel:
Collin Lewis - HC
Most likely to (in order):
(Suggestions only, if you're stuck for a
name to go with a particular incident)

Score goals:
Grant, Oliver, Robles
Defend well:
Hunter, Ellis, Carters
Create a moment of magic:
Elliot, Sherman, Grant
Change the game as a LSM:
Reyes
Receive a penalty:
Reyes, Ellis, Sanford

QUINCY NATIONAL LACROSSE TEAM — The Lwóng
Preferred Formation: 1-4-1
Style Modifier: most offensive
Playstyle: Its not really new, after all the QLA has envisioned for the team to play this way from the get-go, it primarily relies on “maxing the crease”, putting 4 players around the goalie crease in a line, with the two midfielders, “middies” setting picks for the outside attack man, allowing for a LSM — that’s a long-stick midfielder to operate at the restraining line and maintain position while X make set up screens and look for places to dodge from to find an open shot for the Kwangtzu.
Captain: Mekhi Grant
Nickname: The Lóng _(Dragons)
Adopting to the new league that was put in place to foster lacrosse, the Quincy Lacrosse Association formed the Lung Lien Sai — Dragon Lacrosse League last year in order to foster and encourage competition amongst the various lacrosse clubs within the nation. Now, these various teams have pooled their players to produce the newest edition of the Kwangtzu national lacrosse team, with new faces as the Dragons or Lóng look to make a deep run at the WLCs.

I Give My Opponent Permission To:
=================================
Choose My Goalscorers:        Y
Godmod Goalscoring Events:    Y
Injure Players:               Y*
Godmod Injury Events:         N
Penalize Players:             Y**
Godmod Other Events:          N***
=================================
* I'll have the final say on severity.
** 3 per match.
*** I'll determine if it affects my team.

Staff
Head Coach - Collin Lewis - 54
Assistant Coach - Harper Fowler - 49
Offensive Coach - Eli Bell - 39
Defensive Coach - Heaven Guerra - 60

A comical act on the sidelines and former head coach of Dragons L.C., Collin Lewis has played lacrosse since starring at Peasulung Gaozhong in Asulungching, the capital of the Fire Isles, excelling for his senior middle school as they marched their way to a regional championship. He played amateur lacrosse for years awaiting Quincy to form a domestic league, however, here we are as it finally seems one has been founded. His brief time with Dragons L.C. lead to the Dragons lifting the first championship of the LLS.

Goalkeepers
1 – Tyler Russell (Omashu Metalworks Outlaws L.C.) - Age 27
11 – Kiran Feltcher (Cabbage Corp. Apollo L.C.) - Age 23

Two keepers for two teams who looked poised for a finals run, Russell started for a ragtag team with Outlaws L.C., keeping them in games en route to their crashout in the semifinals while on the other hand, Kiran Feltcher really established himself as a keeper to watch for the Arrowhead, Apollo L.C. supporter definitely feel like Feltcher should win GOTY.

Defenders
2 - LD – Killian Carters (Dragon L.C.) - Age 24
3 - CD – Travis King (Royal L.C.) - Age 28
4 - RD – Benjamin Ellis (Dragon L.C.) - Age 33
12 – L/CD - Dallas Sanford (Omashu Metalworks Outlaws L.C.) - Age 21
13 – R/CD – Tommy Hunter (United Lions L.C.) - Age 26

The back line relies on the proven players from last season with Dragon L.C. and Royal L.C., both sponsored by major family; one being the ex-royal family of the Fire Isles and the other by the Northern Water Tribe’s tribal leadership; the backline brings these two teams together with the three starters hailing from here. Sanford and Hunter are added as worthy additions.

Midfielders
5 - MF – Patrick Murphy (United Lions L.C.) - Age 29
6 - MF – Ben Elliott (Dragons L.C.) - Age 26
7 - MF – Isai Neal (Omashu Metalworks Outlaws L.C.) - Age 24
15 - FO – Mell Sherman (Royal L.C.) - Age 25
16 - LSM – Aubrey Reyes* (Dragon L.C.) - Age 30
17 – FO/LSM – Gale Ruiz (Cabbage Corp. Apollo L.C.) - Age 22

This is a midfield dominated by different players and for good reason too, Ben Elliott is hands down the best middie in the league for Dragons L.C., his skill and poise is unmatched and its reflected with him being the main middie who’ll operate from crease the majority of the tournament. Patrick Murphy an add-on from the Lions is also a good choice, completing the trinity will be Isai Neal out from Outlaws L.C. who’s long-shot range might be helpful to distract the goalie. Faceoff specialist, Mell Sherman won 68.5% of his faceoffs this year, a tall, dominating figure, his game is really unmatched and his 13 goals were nothing short of light work, he’ll look to improve this cycle.

Forwards
8 - ATK – Jayden Robles (United Lions L.C.) - Age 24
9 - ATK - Mekhi Grant (Dragon L.C., c) - Age 25
10 - ATK – Kian Oliver (Dragon L.C.) - Age 23
18 - ATK – Harrison Marshall (Royal L.C.) - Age 21

The attacking power in this room is unmatched, combined they scored 90 goals this season, and that’s just the start of it, all come from high-powered teams, with Mekhi Grant picking up 18 goals and his buddy, Oliver having 24 himself. The attack looks to be in good hands, as long as the transition is smooth and the team can learn the 1-4-1, mainly the non-Dragon L.C. players, the offense can hum at its own, quick pace.

[Terre Septentrionale]

Équipe nationale de crosse en enclos de Terre Septentrionale
Reprezentacja Nordycki w Rodzaj gry w hokeja
Northern Land National Box Lacrosse Team

The Fédération Septentrionale de Crosse (FSC) understands that this is a field lacrosse competition but we only practice box lacrosse in our nation, so we will send a team of box lacrosse players who will try to adapt to field lacrosse.

Nation Name in French: République de Terre Septentrionale
Nation Name in English Republic of Northern Land
Short Nation names: Terre Septentrionale, Northern Land
Trigramme:
Demonym: Septentrional (plural: Septentrionaux)
Nicknames: Nordiques, Reprezentacja Nordycki, Northmen
Style Mod: +2

Coach: Chuck McGowan	51
Assistant coach: Isabelle Sanschagrin	39
Assistant coach: Jim Blackburn	57
Assistant Coach: Kimberly Cole	44

Starting X

GK	34	Nick Bartkowski	23	Raiders Szentgyörgyvölgy	Port Bolivar, TX
D	21	Keegan MacEachern 24	Shelburne Black Wolves	        Upper Washabuck, SH
D	2	Brandon Hanigan	30	Shelburne Black Wolves	        Fox Harbour, SH
D	15	Julie Béliveau	27	Saints de Baie-Sainte-Catherine	Pointe-Michaud, FR
M	61	Mason O'Rourke	28	Krzczonow Thunder	        Upper Woodstock, SH
M	16	Rowan McKinney	25	Saints de Baie-Sainte-Catherine	Port Shoreham, SH
M	8	Roxanne Gregerson 22	Raiders Szentgyörgyvölgy	South Rawdon, SH
F	25	Carson Maloney	28	El Perro Knighthawks	        Shelburne, SH
F	7	Alison Blackwolf 29	Shelburne Black Wolves	        Mooseland, SH
F	89	Alyssa Smelker	24	Raiders Szentgyörgyvölgy	Bear Cove, SH

Bench

GK	35	Seth Matheson	29	Rock de Jacques-Cartier	        Noel Shore, SH
GK	33	Colt Kowalczyk	25	Shelburne Black Wolves	        Buffalo Springs, TX
D	6	Parker Johnston	24	El Perro Knighthawks	        Coyote Corner, TX
D	4	Tyler Whiteeagle 32	Bandits d'Oujé-Bougoumou	Whapmagoostui, CN
D	3	Tyler Pizzano	25	El Perro Knighthawks	        Woodstock, SH
D	44	Zach Plawecki	23	Raiders Szentgyörgyvölgy	North San Pedro, TX
M	17	Logan Ottawa	23	Saints de Baie-Sainte-Catherine	Lac-Akonapwehikan, CH
M/F	11	Laurianne Perron 23	El Perro Knighthawks	        Pointe-Calumet, CN
M	10	Zach Wilkins	31	Raiders Szentgyörgyvölgy	Buffalo Springs, TX
M	13	Francis Gagné	24	Saints de Baie-Sainte-Catherine	L'Île-du-Grand-Calumet, PA
F	26	Jake Richards	33	Rock de Jacques-Cartier	        Holiday Beach, TX
F	27	Kyle Richards	33	Rock de Jacques-Cartier	        Holiday Beach, TX
F	9	Sarah Davis	31	Krzczonow Thunder	
F	77	Mélanie Charbonneau 25	Krzczonow Thunder	        Rivière-Bleue, HY

I Give My Opponent Permission To:
===========================================
    Choose my goal scorers: Y 
    Godmod scoring events: Y
    RP injuries to my players: Y 
    Godmod Injuries to my players: N 
    Suspend my players: Y 
    Godmod suspension events: Y
    Godmod other events: Y 

Note: Fighting is allowed in the domestic 
Terre Septentrionale box lacrosse league so feel free to 
RP my players losing their tempers, starting fights, 
and being ejected!
===========================================

[Abanhfleft]

DISCLAIMER: Gaelic Gamers is an independent sports blogging website created by four cousins with a common liking and passion for sports of all kinds and is in no way or form affiliated with or organized by any official news organization in the Democratic Republic of Abanhfleft. All statements and opinions posted here are our own and not anyone else's.

---

Gaelic Gamers
Presents...

The Lacrosse Lamentations
with Aisling Keane

Well, looks like we're now halfway through the group stage of World Lacrosse Championships 32. That didn't take long now, did it? I'm not used to things going this fast. Okay, maybe there are some things, but let's not get into that. Three games in and who are the winners and the losers? So far, Abanhfleft is one of four nations still with a perfect 3-0 record. Guys such as St Saratoga, Vangaziland, and Wrexwic are the other ones still undefeated. And out of those four, Vangaziland are the ones currently on top of the overall table (if there was one) with their +19 goal difference. 38 goals scored, 19 conceded. Insert something about a purple man with ten chins speaking about balance or something like it.

Some other teams haven't had the same luck we had though. Notable among them are newbies HUElavia, Geektopia and Greater Cebu, while there have also been some top teams who are currently going through some not-so-top form. Among them are the pink-clad team of Cassadaigua, who suffered a shocking loss to debutants Aimena on their first match of the current WLC. And then there's our lacrosse rivals, Banija. Man, those guys have really been through some ups and downs, but now they're on a mission for redemption, and all the more better if they can win the title right where we live, right? Of course, we're going to make sure that they don't do that, but so far we don't even know if we're going to meet them.

All this of course has just shown that the tournament organizers made the right choice with going for a double round-robin group stage. Imagine if the group stage had ended right here and now. There would be absolute chaos as teams who should have gone through won't on account of their poor records. But that's why there are three more games remaining, so we can sort out the wheat and the chaff and make sure that the best, most deserving teams go through to the next stage.

You know, speaking of top teams, you just know that everyone was looking forward to seeing Group D play after the draw had been made because, honestly speaking, we've got a very tasty matchup in there between Banija and Baker Park. I'm a bit sketchy on the details so don't quote me on this but if I recall correctly, there was some sort of revolution that happened in Banija which saw the Busoga Islands secede from them, and I think Equestria and Baker Park supported the Busogans against the Banijans. There is of course some bad blood lingering between these three sides (I think) but hey, how else can we safely relieve that tension except with a good game of sport? Banijan and Baker Park fans have so far been civil and amicable towards each other, and Haranguer hasn't been burned down to the ground yet by either of these two sides, so it's probably fair to say that these fans are currently on their best behavior. The first game between Banija and Baker Park ended in favor of the boys in green and orange, and although there was a heated moment or two on the field it was pretty much a good clean game. Props to both of these countries for that. I know we Flefts can get rowdy just between ourselves so nice to see that we're not rubbing off on these guys.

But I'm not hearing such good news from the folks from Aimena though. There are already reports of Geektopian fans on their way to Suwkpel coming to blows with Aimenan fans staying in Riuwiee. They say that if Aimena and Geektopia get drawn with each other, a riot will break out. Oh, well. At least we have experience in taking care of riots, what with our history. The only thing that's letting me sleep at night is the fact that based on their current form, the chances of both Geektopia and Aimena getting out of the groups are slim to none. But hey, you never know. This is lacrosse, after all. The only constant in this sport is that 90 percent of the time, the Suwkpel Rush will win every time. Of course, that's only applicable in Abanhfleft. I don't know if that applies to the Rush if they're playing anywhere else.

[Abanhfleft]

The first half is done; it's now time for the second half of the group stage. If you want to make it out then it's time to make the climb.
CUTOFF for MD4 of the 32nd World Lacrosse Championships.

---

Group A
Volinovia 6–13 Abanhfleft
Xanneria 13–4 Bolgano

  Group A                 Pld   W  L   GF  GA  GD
1 Abanhfleft                4   4  0   43  24 +19
2 Xanneria                  4   2  2   41  29 +12
3 Volinovia                 4   1  3   36  47 −11
4 Bolgano                   4   1  3   28  48 −20

Group B
Hampton Island 7–18 St Saratoga
Geektopia 11–12 PR Xabia

  Group B                 Pld   W  L   GF  GA  GD
1 St Saratoga               4   4  0   51  31 +20
2 PR Xabia                  4   3  1   42  39  +3
3 Hampton Island            4   1  3   39  49 −10
4 Geektopia                 4   0  4   26  39 −13

Group C
HUElavia 7–18 Vangaziland
Devonta 2–9 Sarzonia

  Group C                 Pld   W  L   GF  GA  GD
1 Vangaziland               4   4  0   56  26 +30
2 Sarzonia                  4   3  1   34  29  +5
3 Devonta                   4   1  3   28  44 −16
4 HUElavia                  4   0  4   36  55 −19

Group D
The Sarian 9–8 Banija
Furby Island 10–16 Baker Park

  Group D                 Pld   W  L   GF  GA  GD
1 Baker Park                4   3  1   48  28 +20
2 The Sarian                4   3  1   40  29 +11
3 Banija                    4   2  2   38  40  −2
4 Furby Island              4   0  4   23  52 −29

Group E
Greater Cebu 14–16 Qasden
Terre Septentrionale 3–9 Union of Quincy

  Group E                 Pld   W  L   GF  GA  GD
1 Union of Quincy           4   3  1   36  26 +10
2 Qasden                    4   3  1   38  37  +1
3 Terre Septentrionale      4   2  2   35  30  +5
4 Greater Cebu              4   0  4   32  48 −16

Group F
Greater Vakolicci Haven 10–20 Cosumar
Aimena 5–10 Cassadaigua

  Group F                 Pld   W  L   GF  GA  GD
1 Cosumar                   4   3  1   49  31 +18
2 Cassadaigua               4   2  2   34  35  −1
3 Greater Vakolicci Haven   4   2  2   42  51  −9
4 Aimena                    4   1  3   29  37  −8

Group G
Sarzoclava 10–7 Wrexwic
Britonisea 2–9 Lochario

  Group G                 Pld   W  L   GF  GA  GD
1 Lochario                  4   3  1   32  19 +13
2 Wrexwic                   4   3  1   41  32  +9
3 Sarzoclava                4   2  2   37  32  +5
4 Britonisea                4   0  4   20  47 −27

[Banija]

.500 start to World Lacrosse Championships leave Banijans battling for spot in WLC knockout stages


Banijan lacrosse player on Matchday 1 of the World Lacrosse Championships

HARANGUER, SELID PROVINCE, ABANHFLEFT- The 32nd World Lacrosse Championships were always going to be a challenge for a team trying to get back to the top, and this tournament has been the shining, beaming example of just that. A group that, coming in, seemed to be a fairly straightforward one, where Banija and Baker Park woudl finish easily ahead of The Sarian and Furby Island, has not proven to be true, even slightly. While Furby Island, most unfortunately for them, seems on track to go winless in the group stages, it is The Sarian who has come on, as quite a surprise, and put themselves on the verge of making the knockout stages. The Sarian defeated the Banijans for the second consecutive game here in Matchday 4, a closely fought, 9-8 victory over the Banijans that put our WLC campaign in peril and, once again, ensured a must win game against the Commonwealth of Baker Park to even hope of a chance of making the knockout stages.

So what's going on in this tournament? Well, the normally strong Banijans are getting eviscerated, especially in the back. WE've allowed 40 goals so far through just four games, a far cry from the normally stout Banijan defense. WE have a -2 overall goal differential, mostly thanks to being strongly dominated by The Sarian in the first game of this tournament. But maybe we're thinking way too far ahead, in general? The knockout stages are not guaranteed to anybody, even to a side that, in 11 editions of participating in this tournament, has only missed it once. It has to be earned every tournament, and we cannot rely on past 'successes'(the irony of a team without any championships relying on past successes is beyond me) to take us there. The Sarian hit us in the mouth not once, but twice, and has showed that their first game was not a fluke. Now, we face a challenge against Baker Park to even reach the knockouts.

Fortunately, it's not simply top two go to the knockout stages, or else Banija would still be in serious trouble. The top four third place sides will also make the knockout stages, giving the Banijans a lifeline to get to knockout play. 4-2 will all but get Banija there, even if it is via a third place spot. Not ideal of course, but it shows we are still in control of our own destiny. And this game against the Commonwealth is up in the air. So far, Baker Park has been the class of our group, and it will be a serious challenge for us to go out there and get a win against them, again, with the stakes rising. Presently, the Banijans would rank among the top 4 third place sides. A problem for the Banijans, however, is the goal differential. There are four 2-2 third place sides, and if group play ended today, we'd face off against rivals Abanhfleft in the Round of 16, as our goal differential is -2. That is not something we want to happen.

That is what makes this game against Baker Park so important. If we lose to the Commonwealth and beat Furby Island, we would go 3-3, but unless we can keep it extremely close against the Commonwealth and run up the score against Furby Island, a 3-3 record, by itself, may not be enough to get in. We'll have to be reliant on the goal differential tiebreaker, and our goal differential has been quite poor so far in this tournament. But a win here woudl go a long way. It could put us in the top two, and even if there are a trio of 4-2 teams when this is said and done in our group, and the Banijans are last in that tiebreaker, we'll still be one of the strongest third place sides, therefore being able to potentially avoid a matchup in the Round of 16 with the hosts, or with a nation like Wrexwic, or the defending champions, St. Saratoga. Follow this game closely against Baker Park- a victory will mean that there are real hopes for Banijan progress in this tournament. A loss here, however, and the chances of being more than a footnote for a true contender in the Round of 16 are remote.

[Abanhfleft]

There's only two matchdays left before the playoffs? Tell me something I don't know.
CUTOFF for MD5 of the 32nd World Lacrosse Championships.

---

Group A
Xanneria 20–8 Volinovia
Bolgano 4–9 Abanhfleft

  Group A                 Pld   W  L   GF  GA  GD
1 Abanhfleft                5   5  0   52  28 +24
2 Xanneria                  5   3  2   61  37 +24
3 Volinovia                 5   1  4   44  67 −23
4 Bolgano                   5   1  4   32  57 −25

Group B
Geektopia 18–9 Hampton Island
PR Xabia 5–12 St Saratoga

  Group B                 Pld   W  L   GF  GA  GD
1 St Saratoga               5   5  0   63  36 +27
2 PR Xabia                  5   3  2   47  51  −4
3 Geektopia                 5   1  4   44  48  −4
4 Hampton Island            5   1  4   48  67 −19

Group C
Devonta 13–9 HUElavia
Sarzonia 9–10 Vangaziland

  Group C                 Pld   W  L   GF  GA  GD
1 Vangaziland               5   5  0   66  35 +31
2 Sarzonia                  5   3  2   43  39  +4
3 Devonta                   5   2  3   41  53 −12
4 HUElavia                  5   0  5   45  68 −23

Group D
Furby Island 9–4 The Sarian
Baker Park 10–6 Banija

  Group D                 Pld   W  L   GF  GA  GD
1 Baker Park                5   4  1   58  34 +24
2 The Sarian                5   3  2   44  38  +6
3 Banija                    5   2  3   44  50  −6
4 Furby Island              5   1  4   32  56 −24

Group E
Terre Septentrionale 8–9 Greater Cebu
Union of Quincy 17–10 Qasden

  Group E                 Pld   W  L   GF  GA  GD
1 Union of Quincy           5   4  1   53  36 +17
2 Qasden                    5   3  2   48  54  −6
3 Terre Septentrionale      5   2  3   43  39  +4
4 Greater Cebu              5   1  4   41  56 −15

Group F
Aimena 14–9 Greater Vakolicci Haven
Cassadaigua 8–12 Cosumar

  Group F                 Pld   W  L   GF  GA  GD 
1 Cosumar                   5   4  1   61  39 +22
2 Aimena                    5   2  3   43  46  −3
3 Cassadaigua               5   2  3   42  47  −5
4 Greater Vakolicci Haven   5   2  3   51  65 −14

Group G
Britonisea 9–25 Sarzoclava
Lochario 8–13 Wrexwic

  Group G                 Pld   W  L   GF  GA  GD
1 Wrexwic                   5   4  1   54  40 +14
2 Sarzoclava                5   3  2   62  41 +21
3 Lochario                  5   3  2   40  32  +8
4 Britonisea                5   0  5   29  72 −43

[Banija]

Banija drop big game against the Commonwealth of Baker Park to set up win-or-go-home match with Furby Island


Melissa Farenby of Baker Park(#3, Carolina blue) and Ali Trefe(#11, white) of Banija battle for the ball

HARANGUER, SELID PROVINCE, ABANHFLEFT- The 32nd World Lacrosse Championships just seem to be going from bad to worse for the Banijans. A pair of losses to an unranked The Sarian squad have seemingly put Banija on the brink of elimination, in the home of their lacrosse archrivals. It would be an embarassment for the national team once again, and it would bring big questions from the lacrosse community- how could a community in the country with so much talent and potential, shown time and time again at the club level in the IDLO, continually underperform at the international level? How can a squad that made it to the final in their first ever WLCs, 11 tournaments later, not once have found its way back? There are many important questions that the lacrosse community in general needs to be able to answer, and right now, these are some deep, serious questions they have to ponder. The loss to Baker Park in this stage could be expected- but the unexpected rise put Banija on the brink of a group stage elimination from this tournament for just the second time in team history.

What are the answers? Who knows? Right now, if the group stages ended, Banija would find themselves just barely in, being the #16 and final seed to make the knockout stages. The reward? Would be either a matchup with the defending champions, St. Saratoga, the hosts and Banijan archrivals, Abanhfleft, or an interesting matchup with former champions Vangaziland. Banija's terribly goal differential, at -6 presently and having been in the negatives for the entirety of the tournament, is not helping matters when it comes to tiebreakers. None of those, of course, are appealing. This team is better than a #16 seed, and it was shown at the last tournament. But maybe, of course, the expectations of lacrosse need to change. We've been to one semifinal since WLC 25- maybe last tournament's semifinal run was an abberation, rather than the start of the return of Banijan lacrosse to the top tier of international lacrosse?

First, of course, let's go over the rematch with Baker Park. Looking back, thank the heavens that we somehow beat the Commonwealth on Matchday 2, even though they've clearly been a better team than us for the duration of this tournament. If we didn't, then we'd be 1-4 right now and already eliminated. Even though we won that tough game, the Commonwealth showed their class in beating us 10-6 on the penultimate matchday of the group stage. They dominated the early stages of this game, taking a 7-0 lead into halftime that proved insurmountable. I'm not sure what prompted such a poor start from the Banijans, but the Commonwealth was basically significantly better than our squad from the word go. Morgan Bohmenstiehl, in particular, gave the Banijan defense fits, as Bohmenstiehl was essentially unstoppable on the day. The Bohmenstiehl-Moyer combination found all kinds of space and holes in the Banijan defense, as they could not stay in front of the Baker Park attack. The Commonwealth of Baker Park, of course, is ascending in this sport, and considering the close relationship between Baker Park and Banija, are quickly emerging as a burgeoning rival for Banija in this sport.

The ending was not ideal. However, that is how it goes sometimes. What will we do then? Well, it is a must win against Furby Island. Now, while Furby Island has struggled for much of this tournament, the unranked side pulled off a large upset against The Sarian, who had already beaten the Banijans twice. No wins at guaranteed at this level, and if the Banijans are not fully focused, we will have another embarassing group stage knockout, and not even make the Round of 16. How is the rest of the tournament field doing? A number of sides have already punched their tickets to the Round of 16, with just a game left in the group stages. Abanhfleft, Xanneria, St. Saratoga, PR Xabia, Vangaziland, Sarzonia, Baker Park, The Sarian, Union of Quincy, Cosumar, and Wrexwic are guaranteed spots in the Round of 16. That is 11 out of 16 teams who know that they have at least two matches left. Furthermore, Lochario and Sarzoclava both seem likely to make it, considering the goal differentials of each side. That's 11 wrapped up, with 2 more functionally wrapped up. That leaves, realistically, 3 spots left.

Banija will be hoping to claim one of them. A win for Banija, plus a loss for Devonta, will clinch our own berth among the top four third place teams. But if Devonta wins? Well, then it's anyone's guess. Banija's goal differential, even at -6, is still 6 goals better than Devonta. Devonta, of course, has to play a tough game against Vangaziland. The betting money is still on Banija getting one of those last three berths, but like we said, it's anyone's best guess to see where we land. And that, of course, assumes we can take care of business- but seeing Furby Island against The Sarian, we know that anything can happen. Let's hope the Banijan team goes out and takes care of business, and rounds into their most capable form while, of course, also hoping that the other results we need fall in the right direction.

Best of luck to our boys in Abanhfleft!

[Terre Septentrionale]

Terre Septentrionale loses two in a row after a good start

Releinthi, Abanhfleft - Terre Septentrionale started off the World Lacrosse Championships on the good foot with a 2-1 record after 3 games. However the Nordiques lost 9-3 against Quincy and 9-8 against Greater Cebu on the last two games.

Terre Septentrionale was the first team to score against the Union of Quincy when Alison Blackwolf threw the ball in the top corner of the net. However, Quincy scored two unanswered goals in the 1st quarter to take a 2-1 lead. Quincy scored another goal early in the 2nd quarter when Mekhi Grant threw the ball between Nick Bartkowski's leg. Julie Béliveau showed some frustration and tried to engage in a fight with Mekhi Grant after he scored but he didn't drop his gloves. Béliveau was penalised for unnecessary roughness and she had to go to the penalty box. Quincy scored during the power play and scored another goal before the end of the 2nd quarter. The Lóng were leading 5-1 at the halftime.

Terre Septentrionale scored early in the 3rd quarter but Quincy answered back with two goals in a row. Then the Reprezentacja Nordycki scored before the end of the 3rd quarter and the score was 7-3 after 3 quarters. Quincy scored two goals in the 4th quarter and won 9-3.

On the next day, Terre Septentrionale played against Greater Cebu, which are unranked like us. The Northmen were leading 6-3 at the halftime and 8-5 after the 3rd quarter but Greater Cebu scored 4 unanswered goals in the 4th period and won 9-8. It was an heartbreaking loss for the Nordiques.

The next and final game is against Qasden, the top ranked team in this group. If Terre Septentrionale wins, we advance to the playoffs but if Qasden wins, they makes the playoffs.

[Bolgano]

The Curse of Group A

Xanneria 13-4 Bolgano

The match left hope for all the people in Bolgano but it was not like that, they received 5 scores in the first 10 minutes, the defense was horrifying and we could only see how they humiliated us, the coach saw his mistake, bring the same team 2 times can get us out of the game, well, returning to the game, our player settled a little before the end of the first part and finished 5-3, in a second half with possibilities we saw more humiliation of Xanneria, several goals made us to be with a horrible score of 13-4, why? The mistake of the same team.

Abanhfletf 9-4 Bolgano

This game was good, several goals in the first part, the locals made 3 goals to be already securing a victory, but Bolgano did not allow it and I overcome it with goals from his best attackers, 4-3 and perhaps his worst first half for Abanhfletf, but everything that goes up should go down, that they make you 5 goals in a few minutes, I leave this team in ruin.

The next game will be for the honor, Volinovia another team ensuring his departure but we, two years ago (in Bolgano 1 year is the world cup and then next year AOCAF, CE, WLC etc.) this team almost left out St. Sataroga in group stage, the current champions and we will continue forward for next year.

[Abanhfleft]

Whether you advance to the playoffs or get knocked out of the group stage, one thing you will say for certain is "here we go again".
CUTOFF for MD6 of the 32nd World Lacrosse Championships.

---

Group A
Volinovia 9–15 Bolgano @ Stadium of the Old Forester, Markovsky
Abanhfleft 14–8 Xanneria @ National Book Store Stadium, Haranguer

  Group A                 Pld   W  L   GF  GA  GD
1 Abanhfleft                6   6  0   66  36 +30   Advances to playoffs
2 Xanneria                  6   3  3   69  51 +18   Advances to playoffs
3 Bolgano                   6   2  4   47  66 −19
4 Volinovia                 6   1  5   53  82 −29   Eliminated

Group B
Hampton Island 18–9 PR Xabia @ NLighten Arena, Suwkpel
St Saratoga 9–9 Geektopia (11–10 OT) @ D'Cruze Memorial Stadium, Jasvirabad, Trendstart Colony

  Group B                 Pld   W  L   GF  GA  GD
1 St Saratoga               6   6  0   74  46 +28   Advances to playoffs
2 PR Xabia                  6   3  3   56  69 −13   Advances to playoffs
3 Hampton Island            6   2  4   66  76 −10
4 Geektopia                 6   1  5   54  59  −5   Eliminated

Group C
HUElavia 2–9 Sarzonia @ November 30 Stadium, Marble Arch, Fhulghamous Peninsula Colony
Vangaziland 15–8 Devonta @ Stadium of the Old Forester, Markovsky

  Group C                 Pld   W  L   GF  GA  GD
1 Vangaziland               6   6  0   81  43 +38   Advances to playoffs
2 Sarzonia                  6   4  2   52  41 +11   Advances to playoffs
3 Devonta                   6   2  4   49  68 −19
4 HUElavia                  6   0  6   47  77 −30   Eliminated

Group D
The Sarian 9–7 Baker Park @ National Book Store Stadium, Haranguer
Banija 13–5 Furby Island @ November 30 Stadium, Marble Arch, Fhulghamous Peninsula Colony

  Group D                 Pld   W  L   GF  GA  GD
1 Baker Park                6   4  2   65  43 +22   Advances to playoffs
2 The Sarian                6   4  2   53  45  +8   Advances to playoffs
3 Banija                    6   3  3   57  55  +2   Advances to playoffs
4 Furby Island              6   1  5   37  69 −32   Eliminated

Baker Park ahead of The Sarian on H2H goals for (CBP 19-14 SAR)

Group E
Greater Cebu 12–11 Union of Quincy @ McNaughton Park, Releinthi
Qasden 12–12 Terre Septentrionale (14–13 OT) @ Police Field, Riuwiee

  Group E                 Pld   W  L   GF  GA  GD
1 Union of Quincy           6   4  2   64  48 +16   Advances to playoffs
2 Qasden                    6   4  2   62  67  −5   Advances to playoffs
3 Terre Septentrionale      6   2  4   56  53  +3
4 Greater Cebu              6   2  4   53  67 −14

Union of Quincy ahead of Qasden on H2H goals for (QCY 24-17 QAS)
Terre Septentrionale ahead of Greater Cebu on H2H goals for (TRS 23-13 CEB)

Group F
Greater Vakolicci Haven 9–9 Cassadaigua (11–10 OT) @ Police Field, Riuwiee
Cosumar 9–9 Aimena (9–10 OT) @ NLighten Arena, Suwkpel

  Group F                 Pld   W  L   GF  GA  GD
1 Cosumar                   6   4  2   70  49 +21   Advances to playoffs
2 Aimena                    6   3  3   53  55  −2   Advances to playoffs
3 Greater Vakolicci Haven   6   3  3   62  75 −13
4 Cassadaigua               6   2  4   52  58  −6   Eliminated

Aimena ahead of Greater Vakolicci Haven on H2H goals for (AIM 24-20 GVH)

Group G
Sarzoclava 7–9 Lochario @ D'Cruze Memorial Stadium, Jasvirabad, Trendstart Colony
Wrexwic 14–5 Britonisea @ McNaughton Park, Releinthi

  Group G                 Pld   W  L   GF  GA  GD
1 Wrexwic                   6   5  1   68  45 +23   Advances to playoffs
2 Lochario                  6   4  2   49  39 +10   Advances to playoffs
3 Sarzoclava                6   3  3   69  50 +19   Advances to playoffs
4 Britonisea                6   0  6   34  86 −52   Eliminated

Third placed teams ranking table

1 Sarzoclava                6   3  3   69  50 +19   Advances to playoffs
2 Banija                    6   3  3   57  55  +2   Advances to playoffs
3 Greater Vakolicci Haven   6   3  3   62  75 −13
4 Terre Septentrionale      6   2  4   56  53  +3
5 Hampton Island            6   2  4   66  76 −10
6 Devonta                   6   2  4   49  68 −19
7 Bolgano                   6   2  4   47  66 −19

Playoffs seedings

.1 Vangaziland               6   6  0   81  43 +38
 2 Abanhfleft                6   6  0   66  36 +30
 3 St Saratoga               6   6  0   74  46 +28
 4 Wrexwic                   6   5  1   68  45 +23
 5 Baker Park                6   4  2   65  43 +22
 6 Cosumar                   6   4  2   70  49 +21
 7 Union of Quincy           6   4  2   64  48 +16
 8 Sarzonia                  6   4  2   52  41 +11
 9 Lochario                  6   4  2   49  39 +10
10 The Sarian                6   4  2   53  45  +8
11 Qasden                    6   4  2   62  67  −5
12 Xanneria                  6   3  3   69  51 +18
13 Aimena                    6   3  3   53  55  −2
14 PR Xabia                  6   3  3   56  69 −13
15 Sarzoclava                6   3  3   69  50 +19
16 Banija                    6   3  3   57  55  +2

[Abanhfleft]

32nd WORLD LACROSSE CHAMPIONSHIPS
ROUND OF 16 MATCHES

---

(1) Vangaziland vs. (16) Banija
@ Stadium of the Old Forester, Markovsky

(2) Abanhfleft vs. (15) Sarzoclava
@ NLighten Arena, Suwkpel

(3) St Saratoga vs. (14) PR Xabia
@ November 30 Stadium, Marble Arch, Fhulghamous Peninsula Colony

(4) Wrexwic vs. (13) Aimena
@ National Book Store Stadium, Haranguer

(5) Baker Park vs. (12) Xanneria
@ McNaughton Park, Releinthi

(6) Cosumar vs. (11) Qasden
@ Police Field, Riuwiee

(7) Union of Quincy vs. (10) The Sarian
@ D'Cruze Memorial Stadium, Jasvirabad, Trendstart Colony

(8) Sarzonia vs. (9) Lochario
@ Lacrosse Field, University College–Markovsky, Markovsky

[Abanhfleft]

DISCLAIMER: Gaelic Gamers is an independent sports blogging website created by four cousins with a common liking and passion for sports of all kinds and is in no way or form affiliated with or organized by any official news organization in the Democratic Republic of Abanhfleft. All statements and opinions posted here are our own and not anyone else's.

---

Gaelic Gamers
Presents...

The Lacrosse Lamentations
with Aisling Keane

Here it is. The playoffs of the World Lacrosse Championships. It's finally here, and I am now finally nervous. There's no telling how any of this is gonna end. We've had many teams expected to move on actually moving on to the next round, and we've also had a fair few new faces adding themselves to the mix. There's also a handful of teams there whom I wouldn't have expected to end up on their side of the bracket, but there's time to talk about them a little bit later.

For us, Abanhfleft I mean, it was a very nice group stage. Probably helped by the fact that it was easily one of the easier draws in this tournament. I'd hazard to say that Bolgano, despite ending up outside the realm of possible qualification, were actually our greatest challengers in the group, and nowhere was that more obvious than in our Matchday Five clash against the White-Blues. The first quarter was all Abanhfleft, and then the second quarter was all Bolgano as they cut down what had been a 3-0 lead into just 4-3 going into halftime. But then our team exploded into action once again and scored 5 goals in the third quarter to really let the Bolgano team know who's boss, and that was how they were able to rest and not really push for more goals in the fourth quarter. Sure, Bolgano squeezed in one goal (one goal!) but that was perhaps a testament to their overall form; that they can do it in bursts and fits but not over the course of an entire game. I mean, like with all things it's all just a matter of training and general improvement but unfortunately for some teams, they just require more of that than other teams. I've gone a bit rambly there but it's all right.

Now let's move on to the surprises of the tournament. Remember when I said that there's little if any chance of Aimena getting into the playoffs with their form? Well, look who's eating her words now. Sometimes it's not about being absolutely consistent all throughout; sometimes, you just have to be more consistent than the other teams around you in order to distinguish yourself from the rest. Still, I don't expect them to put up much of a fight against Wrexwic.

What about the curious case of Banija though? Abanhfleft has not been a happy hunting ground for the Orange-and-Greens, what with them getting only three wins out of six games in a group where they were expected to be competitive. Maybe the Haranguer heat got to them, but then again, on that logic neither Baker Park nor The Sarian should have been competitive in their group as well. I guess it's all a big mystery. At least Banija were consistent. Consistently inconsistent, I mean. But honestly, it would be a real shame to see them get knocked out this early. Because that's where real rivalry lies, in defeating your rival in a game where everything matters and not just watching them get knocked out in a stage without doing anything about it. I don't know if this is coming across, but even as rivals I kind of like Banija. I mean, lacrosse just wouldn't be the same without them.

Some other shocks: Cassadaigua didn't make it through. I know the Pinks have some history in lacrosse so seeing them bottom of their group is quite a shock to me, to be completely honest. I'm also surprised to see Qasden so low on the playoff rankings. Like, they have the worst record out of all the 4-2 teams; they're the only ones to dip into the negative GD. I honestly feel for the Vans (or the Cats, or the Qads, or whatever they're called). Also, Sarzoclava managed to sneak into the playoffs, and now they're up against us. Oh, you'll be sure that I'm gonna watch this game. I'm cautiously optimistic but also a bit nervous. I mean, wouldn't it just be the most Abanhfleft thing ever to go undefeated in the group stage and then get knocked out by a team that just snuck into the playoffs and won't ever get there again in the near future? I am absolutely puckering up just thinking about it. And now I am going to shut up before I say anything more.

[Banija]

Last team in- 16 seeded Banijans set to face off with top seeded Vangaziland at the World Lacrosse Championships


Banijan lacrosse team celebrating against Furby Island

MARKOVSKY, MEZALADBYI, ABANHFLEFT- The Banijans, just barely snuck their way into the Round of 16 as one of the top two third place sides remaining. This publication, in error talked about the top four third place sides as our statistical people got it wrong- we needed to be a top two third place side. Fortunately, thanks to a big win on Matchday 6 of the group stages, we were a top two third place side, and punched our ticket to the knockout stages, just barely. Right behind Sarzoclava, we finally pushed our goal differential above +/- 0 for the first time all tournament, and that was enough. 3-3, +2 goal differential, good enough to be exactly the last team into the knockouts.

But it doesn't matter how you got here, exactly- all that matters is that you're here. Of course, that means the road for Banija from this point forward in this tournament will be both long and treacherous, filled with loads of extremely high-quality opponents. Ogunsola said, of course, that the seeding does not matter. "Our goal in this sport, despite our noted struggles in the group stages, is to be the best." He told reporters. "And if you want to be the best, you have to beat the best. We are playing against the team that has had the most dominant tournament so far, in Vangaziland. No matter if you have to play contenders from the Round of 16 on, or the quarterfinals on, these are the type of matchups that excite. At least we aren't playing Abanhfleft this early, right?"

And he is correct. But a matchup against Vangaziland will not exactly warm the hearts of Banijan fans. A top seeded Vangaziland in the last IBCs, of course, absolutely crushed a quality Banijan side that was in the midst of pursuing championship dreams. But Banija has looked out of sorts all tournament, and needed quite a bit of help from other groups to even be here. But now that we're here- can we stun the world and pull off the 16 v. 1 upset? Or will we simply be forgotten about, another third place team that ran into the buzzsaw of a true contender, while we are left contemplating yet another early elimination?

It will be tough. Who knows how the game will go? But Banija, hopefully at least, will put up quite a fight against Vannish. We'll either pull off one of the greatest upsets this tournament has seen, a 16 beating a 1, or we'll, at the very least, make Vangaziland work quite hard to stave us off, as they send us home with a losing record in this tournament if they beat us today. But of course, as always, go Banija!

[Abanhfleft]

This is it. This is the moment where 16 become 8. No matter the result, promise me you won't get a heart attack.
CUTOFF for the Round of 16 of the 32nd World Lacrosse Championships.

---

Vangziland 5–5 Banija (7–6 OT)

Abanhfleft 10–5 Sarzoclava
(Scorinated by Equestrian States)

St Saratoga 12–3 PR Xabia

Wrexwic 13–5 Aimena

Baker Park 17–4 Xanneria

Cosumar 12–13 Qasden

Union of Quincy 15–12 The Sarian

Sarzonia 11–7 Lochario

---

32nd WORLD LACROSSE CHAMPIONSHIPS
QUARTERFINALS MATCHES

(1) Vangaziland vs. (11) Qasden
@ Police Field, Riuwiee

(2) Abanhfleft vs. (8) Sarzonia
@ McNaughton Park, Releinthi

(3) St Saratoga vs. (7) Union of Quincy
@ D'Cruze Memorial Stadium, Jasvirabad, Trendstart Colony

(4) Wrexwic vs. (5) Baker Park
@ NLighten Arena, Suwkpel

[Aimena]

Miraculous Aimenan run in WLC cut by Wrexwric

- My name is Enna-tethriterator and I think the title of the cut-off mainly was sent to us to warn not get a heart attack if we won against Wrexwric because of the impossibility of getting to the knockout stages in such a state where you're three losses down and one win up stacked on top of the notion that we're debutants might just do the trick. Well, for critics and Aimenan fans alike.

- Let's summarize the games, then.

- As the Aimenan press didn't realize Cassadaigua were pink-clad and likely to kick our ass, they made short of the match in a commentary denoting Aimena's youthful attacking three making something out of nothing. The forward three passed back, often confusing and spreading out opposition and upper midfield with it. The upper three were also the most youthful, reflexive, and physical out of Aimenan youth squads picked out at the call-up locating before WLC32.

- I don't know if we were either really good in our strategies and tactics, or if the other competitors were out of their own league. Either ways, let's move on to the heart-canning but also morally sound R16 match between Aimena and Wrexwic. Pierre de Fermat was out of the line-up on that match as the leading attackman and replaced by Guppy. Possession was dominant but Guppy was short handedly absent in usual Aimenan tactics of passing or shaking up the opposition. The only try was scored by Icodillion in this match. What I can gather from this amazing debut is that every woman wants to cuddle with de Fermat and every man wants to send a Geektopian mercenary after Guppy.

[Union of Quincy]

Quincy's WLC Prayer: Deliver Us Past the Quarterfinals
Quincy looks to conquer the 5th game

ASULUNCHING — — It’s a common sight in the Fire Isles for parents to give thanks to the Fire Sages for the life of their youth. During Sozin’s Comet, the entirety of the Fire Isles is called to pay homage to the ancient ancestry of the Fire Isles and repent of their sins through the leadership of the council of the Fire Sages; also during this time it has become a light-hearted tradition to pay for the national lacrosse team to succeed. What started off as a joke forty years ago has become an ongoing tradition for Li Quing and family, who spoke to the reporter following Quincy’s close victory to advance once more to the quarterfinals, “yes, yes, I pray each night, and especially during Sozin’s Comet that the gods above will give us the strength to reach the semifinals, the nation has yet to do it and the national team must take the first leaps towards greatness.” That was the quote of Quing, a self-described ‘avid’ supporter of Dragons L.C. who of course won the first season of the LLS and sees a big chunk of their team being called up for international service. Of course, for the national team there’s much more at stake than a national title, an advancement to the semifinals, the nation’s first appearance in 3 attempts would be a great nod for the squad and prove to boost lacrosse within the nation to record levels.

“Fire Lord Sozin was a strong man,” said Eli Convisant, curator at the National Lacrosse Museum in Omashu, Earth Kingdom, he continues, “the national team? Not as much, of course we’ve come close but never once hit the top and the QLA hasn’t done shit about it.” The Kwangtzu squad has hit the lacrosse stage many times, even co-hosting it once; in the past six tournaments, in three bids it has crashed out in the quarterfinals or worse yet the round of 16, often going out in agonizing fashion. Leaving many of the so-called ‘golden generations’ to wander into the abyss, unwanted, unneeded, and questionable. It seems Kwangtzu lacrosse just seemed destined for failures, on matter the terms, four head coaches have tried to solve the hidden puzzle, each time, a situation worse than before is created; something that cannot be stopped. “Clearly, the gods ignore us and laugh,” says one bystander we interviewed for this article, “what do we expect to change? Quincy lacrosse is just not at the stage that it needs to be and it takes a long time to shake that curse off, something that will likely remain for a long time.” And clearly, the sentiment is some people are fine with that, but ask many member of the Kwangtzu national lacrosse team and you’ll hear each and every time, an strong ‘no.’ “We want to change the narrative,” said head coach Collin Lewis, “it took us awhile to get the ball rolling, — they’ve struggled at times to get to this point including some stumbles in the group stage — “we’ve had to reinvent the wheel a few times, but what matters now is that we’re here and we’re not looking to bow out just yet.”

Things aren’t looking to bright for the national team though, the Lóng are looking at a 3rd ranked St. Saratoga who in the tournament were able to walk over an incredibly weak group stage and along the way put past 74 goals in their job. In a lopsided rematch against Xabia, they dispatched them with easy with a 12-3 destruction, setting up a key quarterfinals matchup between a former heavyweight and a perennial underachiever; will let you figure out who’s who in this edition of Where’s Waldo. On paper, Quincy looks reasonable to stay in this game but as we all know, things can get tricky for this team as rough history points to in matches such as these. A spot in the semifinals looks to be an interesting possibility, hopes aren’t too high but there is hope, Quincy emerge victorious from a group in which its only competition was Qasden, the 5th rank side who edged out Cosumar earlier and look to stave off Vangaziland. “It’s a simple matter here,” Topic: SportsTV analyst, Jim Bentley covered it earlier, “If they get over the hump this will be the dreamt team, the media will celebrate them, give them awards; everything.” Likely on the other side, “If they don’t, it’s going to be the same old-same old and it will be a massive failure for the team, the coach, the organization. A hard reset will again be asked for and the media will descend on the scene.”

But, Lewis has backers — the Quincy Lacrosse Association and his players. “It looks like a strong team, once that can withstand harm”, said Vu Xjiong, lacrosse reporter for the Southern Weekly, “common in lacrosse, most of the players — actually all are domestic based and this is their first time as a team together, but their combined assets should give us hope.” Of course, as fans we should be worried, but per usual one group looking to capitalize continues to show support — the politicians. “You will unite the nations, the peoples, the cities into one, a way in which no councilmen can”, spoke Councilor Wu Gheng, representing the Earth Kingdom.

[Commonwealth of Baker Park]

BP into last Eight; face Wasps
by Sandra Gerrard
The Post Staff Correspondent

Despite the final group stage defeat to The Sarian, the Baker Park National Lacrosse Team advanced to the knockout stage for the 4th time in four appearances, finishing atop the Group D table, and having the 5th best overall record of the final 16 sides.

The Bees earned their spot with carefully balanced play; the defense tied with top seeds Vangaziland for 5th in fewest goals allowed, and the team had the fifth best goal difference (+22), which was the best out of the seven teams that came out of the group stage with a 4-2 record.

Drawn against Xanneria in the First Round, BP showed their firepower once again here in Abanhfleft, as they cruised to a comfortable 17-4 victory. Once again it was the forwards leading the way--Mary McEnerny (4), Sydney Moyer (2), Morgan Bohmenstiehl (4) & Hayley Magditch (2) providing the bulk of the scoring.

The match was the only double digit margin of the round, with close affairs the rule; if you also exclude defending champions St Saratoga's 9 goal victory, the average margin for the other 6 games was 3.5, with Banija pushing the top seeds to OT before falling by a single goal, and Qasden springing the only upset, defeating Cosumar by the same one goal edge.

The quarterfinals will see the Commonwealth square off against the nation they faced in their debut at the WLC, Wrexwic; the once beaten Wasps skipped the last edition of the tourney, but won the previous two championships and were the runners-up in WLC 28.
They remain one of the most formidable teams in the multiverse, and the match will serve as something of litmus test for BP. The team are excited to measure how far they have progressed in the interval between that day in Soruku, Razenthuria and tomorrow at the NLighten Arena in Suwkpel, site of the SWC 5 Final.
15 players who dressed for that first match will take the field, and another--Shannon Fries--will be on the bench as an assistant.

[Abanhfleft]

DISCLAIMER: Gaelic Gamers is an independent sports blogging website created by four cousins with a common liking and passion for sports of all kinds and is in no way or form affiliated with or organized by any official news organization in the Democratic Republic of Abanhfleft. All statements and opinions posted here are our own and not anyone else's.

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Gaelic Gamers
Presents...

The Lacrosse Lamentations
with Aisling Keane

This thing only gets more difficult with each passing stage. I'm getting so nervous about this WLC that I'm actually dreaming about entire obstacle courses. I kid you not. Just last night I dreamed that I was running this 500-meter race and all over the track there were lacrosse sticks. It was so strange, but I know why it's happening. It's the bloody quarterfinals of WLC 32, all right.

I think I know why I've been feeling like this since the start. It's because this is happening on our home turf. We're the hosts and we're the home team all the way. Everyone is expecting the team to do well thanks to the home court advantage. And so far, surprisingly, they've been holding up under the pressure. But how long can this last? We know that the team isn't invulnerable; Bolgano and most recently Sarzoclava have shown that they can peg us back to playing the slow game. Not that it did them any good in the end but now everyone knows they can peg us back. And knowledge could very well mean the difference between winning and losing in this game.

Aside from us though, who's left in the game? Definitely not Banija, though they did give the Vangs a real run for their money and pushed that contest all the way to overtime (the only one of these games to go to overtime, mind). It's really sad to see such a big competitor go, but I have to admit that they've been really out of sorts in this tournament. Oh, well. There's always the next one. But goddamn if Vangaziland isn't gonna be a tough son of a gun to crack. And also Sarzonia. Remember when they beat us on home soil during the latest Arena Bowl? Yeah, Cousin Dara's got extensive coverage of that event so if you want to know more about what happened there, go check out his Gabbing on Gridiron series. There, I plugged that in for you, Dara. Happy now?

Baker Park's still in there. You all remember Baker Park. They're the ones who won the Under-18 World Cup when it was hosted here as well. There's the plug to Cousin Graham's Football Fallacies right there. They're still in the running for another title win on our turf. And there's the Union of Quincy, the nation formerly known as Velestria, itself the nation formerly known as Razenthuria. I don't know what it is about this nation and their apparent need to rebrand themselves every few years, but to each their own I guess. St Saratoga are also still in the game. They almost didn't make it until a last-gasp qualification playoff win over Pridnestrovia (Pridnestrovia! Imagine the scenes here if they were the ones that got through.) but now that they're in, St Saratoga are really giving other teams a run for their money. World number one Wrexwic are still in there as well. Boy, wouldn't it be nice if we got some revenge on them for the last WLC?

Boy, is that a tight field or what? There's no telling how any of this is going to go down. Anything really can happen in this tournament. Abanhfleft versus Sarzonia. Oh, boy. Will we finally avenge our arena football friends or is it all going to go tits up in front of our home crowd? I'm both very curious and very afraid to know the answer. But we can be sure that one side is going to go away unsatisfied with said answer.

[Abanhfleft]

There are eight teams still in the competition, but only four spots for the semifinals.
Do you really want it? Then you have to come and get it.
CUTOFF for the Quarterfinals of the 32nd World Lacrosse Championships.

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Vangaziland 14–6 Qasden

Abanhfleft 13–5 Sarzonia
(scorinated by Union of Quincy)

St Saratoga 9–25 Union of Quincy

Wrexwic 9–3 Baker Park

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32nd WORLD LACROSSE CHAMPIONSHIPS
SEMIFINALS

(1) Vangaziland vs. (7) Union of Quincy
@ Lacrosse Field, University College-Markovsky, Markovsky

(2) Abanhfleft vs. (4) Wrexwic
@ November 30 Stadium, Marble Arch, Fhulghamous Peninsula Colony

[Union of Quincy]

Mekhi Grant, Tyler Russell Propel the Lóng past St. Saratoga to the WLC Final
Quincy takes down the defending champion

ASULUNCHING — Euphoria. That’s how one person described it, and were they wrong? No one thought it was possible but Quincy not only gave up a fight but delivered a thorough beatdown on the defending WLC champions. Certainly, the game was hard to understand for some, and for others…it was exactly what Quincy had been looking for, a team that was truly capable, championship-driven even. Mekhi Grant and co. came speeding out the gate to start it off early, finding 7 goals in the first, Grant would take 4 including a stunning play on man down, outmuscling a defender and slicing through the net to put the team up 6-1 late in the first quarter. For the team this play was truly a synopsis of the game; it had came out running and rearing its head, suffered from some minor mistakes that cost them for second but were able to fight back and see out the convincing victory. For a team that was billed to struggle heavily and not be able to match the output of Qasden, the Kwangtzu national lacrosse team dazzled, Tyler Russell really looked like a convincing keeper out there; outdueling everyone at each opportunity he was able to take; after it was all said and done he has 21 saves, and many of these shots were from far out as the defense, organized under the watchful eye of Heaven Guerra proved to be a solid wall which while it did bend was keenly able to push St. Saratoga to the end, completely a masterful disestablishment of the former defending champions.

A postgame conference like no other, I don’t really know the proper way to describe the atmosphere; the electric-charged vibe that happened in the press room after the game, it felt like a World Cup final, at least for a Kwangtzu used to underachieving in lacrosse Even Mekhi Grant who had every reason and more to laugh was taken aback, “I honestly don’t know how to feel, of course I’m happy we won but damn…this feeling is so different compared to anything else I’ve felt before, I really felt like…like we’ve accomplished something.” Media from lacrosse the multiverse has been sparse on this competition, perhaps because not as many big names have thrown their name to this competition, but it hasn’t shied away the Kwangtzu ren from taking advantage and delivering a semifinals appearance to the nation, assuring at the very worse, the Lóng will finish in fourth place and that of course should be the aim said Lewis, “We’re definitely shooing hire than anything fourth place could offer, unfortunately we’re stuck with some of the best lacrosse teams in the world but that doesn’t mean anything if we come in, play our game and get out. All we have to do is play our game and stick to the system that got us here; its too late for deviation.” Of course, he wasn’t the only one who spoke on sticking with the system, goalie, Tyler Russell who’s dominating game in net won him man of the match after the game told the media, “For me its really simple, don’t deviate. We don’t deviate we get results, and we’ve seen that over the past two games, we’ve gotten this far working together so something is working. Why we fin change now? We have all we need to do ahead of us, two more games remain and if we keep playing how we played, I say we’re good against the odds.”

Looking to what we face next, it’s hard to say, the remaining nations outside Sarzonia and Quincy are all pot 1 nations, Vangaziland, the 3rd ranked nation dispatched 5th place Qasden handily, completed a 14-6 successive beat down to the hopes of the cat-loving nation who was looking to find a way to a second title. On the other hand, Wrexic, a breakoff of sorts from Vangaziland won a low-scoring affair, despite being the first ranked nation, they struggled heavily against 10th place Baker Park who’s supporters must be seething, it seems they’re beginning to inherit the knockout curse; successive outs in the Round of 12 and two quarterfinals appearance exits coupled with this latest exit has to have left a really bad taste in the BP fan base, change looks imminent for them and it might be time for Hal Covington to return once more to the BP domestic game because, man, has he looked lost out there for their national team this at the World Lacrosse Championships. Even if all this goes according to script, there’s still the small problem that the Abanhfleft v. Sarzonia game hasn’t happened yet due to scheduling conflicts; while there is a slim chance Sarzonia can deliver the victory, Abanhfleft is heavily favored to tip the encounter in favor of the home side, coupled with the homefield advantage, they would be a tough team to play in the semifinals.

But that’s all for us to say, Quincy has come here and done what it was told it couldn’t – they conquered the fifth game and now the goal is to conquer the sixth. And the seventh. And go home with a big shiny trophy, because ‘yay, we did it.’ But the goal was to reestablish Quincy in the WLCs, a team that didn’t even make it last edition, a Cinderella story perhaps, a team that shouldn’t have a chance. It all hangs in the balance next Wednesday, will they win it all? Will they fall? Regardless, be proud of the boys for making it this far…it was never possible.

[Abanhfleft]

HOST ANNOUNCEMENT: Due to the delay in third-party scorination, I will be moving the schedule forward by one day in order to let the remaining teams prepare for their semifinals games. The schedule in the OP will be amended to reflect the change as well.

Cutoff for the semifinals will now be on 9 November 2019 14:00 UTC.